In anticipation of Baselworld 2016, Raymond Weil is announcing the release of a Beatles limited edition watch in the larger Maestro collection to commemorate the brand’s 40th anniversary, as well as pay tribute to one of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll groups of all time. Those familiar with Raymond Weil will know that the brand has a history of honoring musicians and composers, starting with their Amadeus collection in 1983. This time, they chose The Beatles, and the way they have managed to bring it together is something that not only the most avid Beatles fan can appreciate, but the watch collector as well, with the Raymond Weil Maestro Beatles Limited Edition watch.
One of the first aspects that you will notice is the album titles that are placed around the silver galvanic dial. Starting with Please Please Me, the dial takes you on a journey through the band’s recording history culminating with Let It Be. No doubt, most Beatles fans will note that although Let It Be was released afterward, Abbey Road was actually the last to be recorded. We think most collectors will not be bothered by this, and there is a lot to admire with this limited edition piece. An added little bonus is the Help album logo index located at 4 o’clock, right below the date window. With a limited release of 3,000 pieces, the style is that of Raymond Weil’s Maestro and comes in a 39.5mm polished stainless steel case that sits a sleek 9mm high on the wrist with a water resistance of 50m. On the back, there is a smoked sapphire crystal featuring the official Beatles logo and an engraving with the limited edition number.
This beauty is powered by the 26-jewel RW4200 that is a modified ETA2824 with a 38-hour power reserve. This movement is often found in the Maestro line and should suit this piece just fine. Plus, if you are buying this watch, you are probably doing so for the collectability rather than the movement.
One thing I wanted to see with this watch is the guilloche that is usually associated with the Maestro dials. I might have preferred that to the matte silver, but there is enough extra detailing with the album titles to make up for it. It is The Beatles, after all. The Raymond Weil Maestro Beatles Limited Edition watch is placed in special commemorative packaging with a dedicated case, is paired with a stainless steel bracelet, and is priced at $1,395. raymond-weil.com