Searching for something you will likely never see on another wrist? Peter Speake-Marin may have just the watch for you. The luxury watchmaker has announced a re-imagining of their Spirit Pioneer, nicely named the Spirit Mark 2. The Spirit Mark 2 is a redesign of the original Spirit Pioneer in that is follows the same form, but does so via a new movement, case, and dial which present a gorgeous three-hand display that is instantly recognizable as being a Speake-Marin design.
The Spirit Mark 2 features the Speake-Marin signature Piccadilly three piece case, lending a 42 x 12mm sizing that is perfect for this design. I have seen a Peter Speake-Marin Piccadilly in person and the proportions are spot-on and make for a gorgeous watch with strong lugs and a detailed case design that is both unobtrusive and thoughtful. The Spirit Mark 2 features a circular ground finishing on the fixed and sterile bezel that surrounds an anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal. Timekeeping is managed by the TT738 automatic movement which incorporates twin barrels to offer 120 hours of power reserve. Unlike many other Speake-Marin models which feature a display case back, the Spirit Mark 2 is fitted with a low-profile solid case back which means owners will not be allowed a view of the custom rotor that has become a signature element within Peter Speake-Marin designs (though the shape is seen on the dial above the 6 o’clock marker).
With a US price tag of $9980, the Spirit Mark 2 is a decidedly exclusive watch with a refreshing design which will stand out against the usual suspects from Rolex, Omega and Panerai. I think this new model looks stunning and should prove to be just as successful as the Spirit Pioneer. While a Speake-Marin may not be for everyone, well-heeled collectors should take note of their individualistic styling, very low production numbers, and a production process which incorporates almost exclusively bespoke parts.