TheClocker

The Clocker
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11 months ago
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Sooke, BC
7.25” / 18.42 cm Wrist
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Q: How did you get into watch collecting?

My Grandfather always had a fascination with watches, and we used to talk about new ones he would add to his collection together. He got me interested in horology, and from there I started my on collecting when I was about 10 years old.

Q: What was the first watch you ever owned?

A Swiss made Oberon Diver, with a silver sunburst dial, date complication at 6 o'clock, and half dome shaped brushed steel case. I'd never seen a case like it at the time and fell for it straightaway. I purchased in St. Peter's Port on Guernsey, with my Grandfather when I was 10 years old, and I still have the watch in my collection.

Q: Do you have a watch with a particularly interesting story behind it?

I have a particular watch in my collection that I was incredibly lucky to come by. I'd seen this watchmaker launch this particular watch, which had a number of remarkable horological features at a reasonable price, and it was beautiful. I desperately wanted to buy one, but at the time the price was beyond my means. So I wrote to the watchmaker and explained why I so wanted the watch and what I loved about it, asking if there was anyway I could pay for the watch in instalments. The watchmaker replied with an incredibly generous offer, to give me one of his final prototype models entirely for free; from one passionate watch enthusiast to another. I was utterly astounded by his generosity, as this was far from an inexpensive watch. I subsequently made a great connection with him as a result. I have since always tried to pass on that good karma and kindness in my life, as such generosity is rare and should not be taken lightly; it is part of what makes this hobby so special.

Q: What is one piece of advice you have for someone just getting into watches?

Firstly, don't be tempted to acquire a watch just because of the make, only buy a watch because you feel passionate about it, because it speaks to you, because it offers something unique and special that appeals to you. Often it is very much about the dial. Secondly, you don't need to spend a fortune to get a beautifully made watch anymore, or a good quality, well made, accurate watch. I've been collecting for decades and I have never really needed to spend more than around $500 maximum, with many watches coming in at much less, yet still stunning, well made, and incredibly accurate. Finally, always do your homework, check reviews first, research background and history, check the website is legitimate, and read the reviews before buying. Thoroughly check any photos, ask questions, make offers, read the feedback if available on the seller. If anything looks too good to be true (especially with watches from India, Vietnam, Bulgaria, Hungry, and Egypt, for example) avoid! There are a lot of fakes and Frankenstein watches out there (watches made from bits of other watches cobbled together as something they are not).

Q: What brands have been getting your attention lately?

Rado, Yema, Radcliffe, Akrone, Sherwood, Vanbanner, Citizen Independent, J.Springs, and Ikepod.

Q: What is your grail watch and why?

A Visitor Duneshore or Linden. Visitor was the microbrand that introduced me to the world of microbrands. I was enthralled by the incredible attention to detail with them, the exquisitely unique designs were like nothing else I had ever seen, nor have I since. I love unusual hand designs that seem almost art deco elegant. The dials are simple, elegant, and unlike anything else. The cases are very beautifully designed and incredibly distinctive. The rotors are beautifully customized, and the watches exude an air of quality. Sadly, they have alway been way beyond my budget or means (they seem to be even more expensive on the used market), as the exchange rate makes them very expensive here in Canada, especially with taxes and customs added. I know there are far more exotic watches out there, but I love watches that are unique in design from everything else, with an elegant style that is reminiscent of art deco: The Visitor watches are definitely that, and I would dearly love to own one.

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