1. 10 WATCHES THAT CHANGED WHAT’S ON YOUR WRIST
Many watch-lovers and collectors believe that the golden age of watches was in the fifties, sixties, and seventies. After all, the Speedmaster was launched in ’57, the earliest Daytona dates back to 1963, while the Royal Oak and Nautilus were children of the seventies. But the past 20 or so years were equally important for watches. Here are 10 of the most seminal watch designs of the past two-and-a-half decades. Interestingly, a good number of the watches on this list are from independents. But more importantly, do you agree with this list?
Source: The New York Times
2. JEAN-CLAUDE BIVER: A RETROSPECTIVE
Jean-Claude Biver is one of the watch industry’s largest characters. His career spans more than four decades, and his achievements are too numerous to list here. First, with the resurrection of Blancpain, followed by the revival of Omega, and then Hublot. But apart from being a giant of the watch industry, Mr Biver is also an avid and passionate collector of vintage and new watches. He is a watch collector of the highest standards, always seeking interesting pieces of the highest integrity and quality. Here are some of the watches in his amazing collection.
Source: Phillips
3. THE RISE AND FALL OF ASPREY OF LONDON
Unless you are in a dyed-in-the-wool watch lover, you might not be familiar with the name Asprey. Established in 1781, it’s even older than brands like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. And the truth is, over 25 years ago, Asprey was one of the largest names in luxury retail. In fact, it’s one of a handful of retailers to have its name on a dial of Patek Philippe. Going further back, it even supplied crowns, coronets, and scepters to royal families around the world. Sadly, the Asprey of today is a shadow of its former self. This is the story of Asprey’s rise and fall.
Source: Watches by SJX
4. THE STRENGTH AND MIGHT OF THE PANERISTI
I won’t beat around the bush. Of all the watch stories and videos I have heard and seen, this is possibly the most amazing and heartwarming. I don’t want to give away too much, but this story wholly demonstrates the generosity and open-heartedness of the Paneristi. For those unfamiliar, the Paneristis are so-called because of their devotion to Panerai. They are a close-knit community and just all-around great people. This is one video you don’t want to miss. There’s also a part two here.
Source: Revolution
5. WHICH ROLEX MOVEMENT TAKES THE TOP SPOT? A WATCHMAKER’S COMPARISON OF ROLEX CALIBERS 3135 AND 3235, AND WHICH IS BETTER?
Rolex movements are widely regarded to be among the best-designed and well-made in the world. They are accurate and have been known to tick for years without issues. Rolex also doesn’t change its movements often, so when a new caliber is announced, it’s big news. Recently, it introduced the new Caliber 3235, which replaces the venerable Caliber 3135 (in service for more than three decades). The new Caliber 3235 has numerous improvements, most notably the Chronergy escapement and a larger barrel, both of which contribute to a longer power reserve. But how does it really compare to the old Caliber 3135? A watchmaker shares his thoughts.
Source: Quill & Pad