All 5 Patek Philippe Advanced Research Limited Editions – Reprise
Silicon, long in use as a material in the electronics industry, has many advantages for mechanical watchmaking: it is 60 percent harder and 70 percent lighter than steel; non-magnetic; resistant to corrosion and shock; and generally needs no lubrication. These qualities motivated Patek Philippe to declare in 2005 that, “Silicon is the fabric of the future” and to found its Advanced Research department. Meet all five limited edition Advanced Research pieces released thus far right here.
Wind & Water By Rick Hale: Wood, Wheels, And Wonderful Horology
American clockmaker Rick Hale’s new Wind & Water has a lot of nerdy mechanical and horological tidbits to geek out over, not to mention some fun woodworking details that add another level like a timber grasshopper escapement (with wooden pallets, naturally). But it’s the fluid design and immersible craftsmanship that is bound to take your the breath away.
Abraham-Louis Breguet Souscription Pocket Watch No. 1836, dated 1807: Touched (Perhaps) By The Hand Of The Horological God – I’m Jaded No Longer
This Breguet souscription pocket watch number 1836 was created just after the French Revolution in 1796 and was sold in 1807 for £600. A testament to the quality of the movement’s design and the skill of its watchmaker, after more than 200 years it still runs perfectly today, which makes it the perfect role model for Breguet’s modern Tradition line. But what relationship does Ian have to it?
5 Champagnes Introduced In 2020 Featuring Cristal, Pol Roger, Bollinger, Pierre Peters, And Pommery. Cheers!
In honor of the end of this (for many horrific) year, let’s take a look at five of the great champagnes our nose-to-the-glass wine and spirits writer Ken Gargett highlighted in 2020 – and toast the start of a fresh year. Many watch enthusiasts often enjoy fine timepieces with a glass of great bubbly. And as Ken has considerable expertise in champagne, we can happily recommend some of the best tipples in existence.
Henriot Cuvée Hemera 2005: 100% Grand Cru Vineyards Make For A Seamless New Prestige Champagne
Henriot is an interesting winemaker that often sneaks in under the radar, which is surprising as it produces champagnes of exquisite quality. The Henriot range comprises the NV Brut Souverain, an NV Blanc de Blancs, a Rosé, a vintage Brut, a vintage Rosé, the prestige champagne Hemera, and an outlier, Cuve 38. Ken Gargett pours himself a few glasses, reports here, and calls it a job well done.
5 High-Jewelry Bulgari Serpenti Viper And Incantati Rainbow And Colour Wave Models Shimmer In Technicolor
One of the things Martin Green enjoys about ladies’ watches is their more abundant use of colored gemstones. And Bulgari’s Serpenti Viper And Incantati Rainbow And Colour Wave provide all the color your dreams can imagine.
Grand Seiko T0 Constant Force Tourbillon: I Couldn’t Believe My Eyes
As Joshua Munchow swiped through posts on Instagram one day earlier this year, he was stopped in his tracks, toothbrush dangling from his gaping mouth, eyes wide, and one singular thought running through his head as he stared at his phone: Grand Seiko doesn’t make movements like this. This is an avant-garde tourbillon movement with a constant force escapement and incredible, exposed mechanics! What in the world . . .?! Meet the T0.
You Know You’re A Watch Guy Or Gal If . . . – Reprise
Horophiles are pretty unique people and have some pretty unique traits and habits. In the theme of Jeff Foxworthy and his “you might be a redneck if” routine, John Keil pokes a little fun at our WIS brothers and sisters as well as ourselves. So without further ado, you know you’re a watch guy if . . .
Many Independent Watchmakers Struggle: Why It’s So Hard And What They Can Do – Reprise
GaryG loves independent watchmaking and independent watchmakers; one of his great joys as a collector is having the feeling that, in a small way, he is supporting their efforts. So he put some thought into why many independent watchmakers struggle in a business sense and how they can remain relevant in changing market situations.
Lessons Learned Free Ranging Peacocks (Peafowl): A Colorful Christmas ‘Tail’ (With Videos)
Peacocks on Quill & Pad? Well, if luxury is defined as an inessential, desirable item that is expensive or difficult to obtain, then peafowl surely fit the bill as well as any fine mechanical watch. Here Ian Skellern shares more than you are likely to ever need to know about free-ranging peacocks/peafowl, recounting his colorful journey to sharing a garden with Bonnie and Clyde along the way.