Friday, February 29, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
This evening I was invited to photograph this watch by the local authorised dealer - The Hour Glass - that was already earmarked for a collector. I missed the chance of photographing the Observatoire at TEMPUS II so this time round I made sure I photographed one of the watches that made an impact on me at TEMPUS II last year.
The photomontage will be released soon but for now, here is a teaser poster for you to enjoy. Kari's work impressed me some years ago when he released his first watch - a chronograph that he completed at a very high level. Many collectors feel that only the Dufour watches are finished better. For me the draw is not just the finishing but the character of the watch that Kari has successfully created for his watches. Unfortunately the prices for a Voutilainen has reached near stratospheric levels and as much as I like them, it will be a long time before I am able to see one in my collection.
Click on the above image to see the full size version of the image.
- HT
The photomontage will be released soon but for now, here is a teaser poster for you to enjoy. Kari's work impressed me some years ago when he released his first watch - a chronograph that he completed at a very high level. Many collectors feel that only the Dufour watches are finished better. For me the draw is not just the finishing but the character of the watch that Kari has successfully created for his watches. Unfortunately the prices for a Voutilainen has reached near stratospheric levels and as much as I like them, it will be a long time before I am able to see one in my collection.
Click on the above image to see the full size version of the image.
- HT
Some weeks ago I was invited by a collector to photograph a pair of highly desirable Pateks - the 5070 and the 5980. The 5070 has reached legendary status with Patek collectors for how it has become one of the most sought after Patek chronograph. This watch is also one of those that fuels the belief that investing in the right pieces can reap high rewards.
While I prefer the 5070 and acknowledge that these are handsome watches and very well made, I personally do not feel the same level desire for both watches as the Patek collectors do despite having handled and photographed them. This is probably due to the very high premium placed on these pieces.
The images below can be freely downloaded for your use as desktop wallpapers. Please note that your downloading reflects your agreement to the condition that it will be for your own personal use and for your computer wallpaper only. Its not to be altered or edited in any manner.
While I prefer the 5070 and acknowledge that these are handsome watches and very well made, I personally do not feel the same level desire for both watches as the Patek collectors do despite having handled and photographed them. This is probably due to the very high premium placed on these pieces.
The images below can be freely downloaded for your use as desktop wallpapers. Please note that your downloading reflects your agreement to the condition that it will be for your own personal use and for your computer wallpaper only. Its not to be altered or edited in any manner.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 2 Comments
It was quite a surprise for me but I felt very honoured when the British watch magazine QP asked me to contribute my images for their article on Roger Smith Series 2 watch. The magazine selected the dial image used on the front and two movement captures which featured the quality of the RS watches. The article is now available free online but requires registration. To read the article, CLICK HERE. I am sure you will enjoy reading the report about the watchmaker and his watches.
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
Late last year I was invited by four intrepid collectors to photograph the four Patek Fish Series watches.
Clearly these are extremely rare dress watches and publicly available images were previously non existent. I wanted to capture the glory of the timepieces and possibly render them with interesting coral backgrounds.
What surprised me about the watches was how difficult it was to photograph these relatively simple dress watches digitally as it appears that the dial colours and material caused some focusing issues - possibly due to how the lighting was reflected. Also, it's unfortunate that the watches have plain solid backs. Nevertheless, here are a selection of images that I felt represented the quality and finish of the watches.
CLICK HERE to view the remaining images of the four watches.
- HT
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
Photo courtesy of flowtrHarry published his excellent photomontage of the Gerald Genta Gefica some time ago, furthering the considerable interest in this long awaited watch. Finally the first few Gefica watches have begun to trickle into authorised dealers. A Purist in Hong Kong was fortunate to acquire one, thus becoming one of the first owners of the Gefica in the world. He shares with us some photos of the watch - click here to see the photos.
- SJX
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
posted by SJX 1 Comments
From left: Patek Philippe Grande Sonnerie, Audemars Piguet Star Wheel Two Faces, Patek Philippe Triple ComplicationThis sounds immodest, but I have seen many, many watches over the course of the past decade. But once in a while I encounter a watch, or a collection, that truly stupendous and jaw dropping, like the trio of pocket watches shown above. The owner of this amazing collection has kindly agreed to share his thoughts with us. Click here to read the interview.
- SJX
Sunday, February 17, 2008
posted by SJX 3 Comments
I mentioned sometime ago when I posted about the Gefica that Gerald Genta is now getting more progressive and starting to groove into its own market niche where they are focussing their strengths in a different manner. Collectors used to recall the brand's claim to fame is its jumping hour Mickey Mouse watches which are still quite collectable but not valued as mainstream as other brands. Rather than reinventing themselves completely, they have taken the unusual tack of slowly but surely making an evolutionary change and in the Arena Biretro, it follows the progressive change as that was started by the new Gefica.
The tantalum bezel and dial makes for a nice contrast - as well as for a strong luxury watch designed to withstand bumps dents and scratches without any evidence of such wear and tear. Oddly enough in total contrast to the Gefica with its soft bronze will show off every single bump and ding it suffers.
What I found especially endearing of this timepiece is that the retrograde minute indicator reminds me of car speedometers of the sixties. For some reason, I keep seeing my father's old Opel Kadett and hence in my eyes, its very retro. Its a lot handsomer on the wrist than my images can portray.
To view the Photomontage of this watch, CLICK HERE.
- HT
Saturday, February 16, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 1 Comments
The Biretro is a watch that one could easily pass for it being another Genta watch. But closer inspection you will notice that it is a combination of tantalum and rose gold that draws the eyes to this watch. A typical Genta jumping hour watch but the details of the watch will show its a very well made watch.
Come back soon to see the close details in my photomontage. Meanwhile this wallpaper should whet your interest a little.
- HT
Thursday, February 14, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
Finally from the many images I took of this watch, I am reasonably happy with the selected images I have put together for this photomontage. It has always been a problem to photograph curved crystals and this Patek is no different. Due to the curvature of the face of the watch, the crystal picks up the reflection of everything within the vicinity of the watch. Despite all my efforts to avoid it, I managed only a handful of images that are barely able to pass my acceptable standards.
Notwithstanding, the images of both the front and back of this watch manages to show off why this is such a desirable timepiece. Unique colour combination of dial and strap, stealth dial that belies the movement - save for the text "10 days" and "Tourbillon" in very small print.
The three quarter plate immaculately finished and the bridges clearly handled with extreme care. While some may prefer to admire the tourbillon on the dial, I think having it on the movement side is much more gentlemanly and understated to reflect the sophistication of its owner.
A watch with a retail tag of over a quarter of a million Singapore dollars - only the very well heeled and patient (waiting time of over 2 years) will be able to own one. For the rest, do enjoy the photomontage... - CLICK HERE.
- HT
Notwithstanding, the images of both the front and back of this watch manages to show off why this is such a desirable timepiece. Unique colour combination of dial and strap, stealth dial that belies the movement - save for the text "10 days" and "Tourbillon" in very small print.
The three quarter plate immaculately finished and the bridges clearly handled with extreme care. While some may prefer to admire the tourbillon on the dial, I think having it on the movement side is much more gentlemanly and understated to reflect the sophistication of its owner.
A watch with a retail tag of over a quarter of a million Singapore dollars - only the very well heeled and patient (waiting time of over 2 years) will be able to own one. For the rest, do enjoy the photomontage... - CLICK HERE.
- HT
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
This very understated timepiece belies two revered complications - the tourbillon and a 10 day power reserve movement. A watch with an astronomical price tag but with an even larger following, this watch is quite a beautiful classic looking timepiece on the wrist. Having photographed it, I can understand why this particular model has such a strong following of collectors who have to wait for an very long time upon ordering. Hopefully for those who have a yearning for this watch, with this downloadable (1600x1050 - just click the image and download it) wallpaper and the forthcoming montage, it would suffice for the time being. Come back soon to see the photomontage.
- HT
- HT
Sunday, February 10, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
I am not sure why this watch looks this good. On paper, Sinn watches are considered workhorses or described at best - tool watches. Watches for the working man designed and made to withstand the daily grind and punishment. While the Regulator is not a new model, this rose gold model, just released this year is quite photogenic. The combination of machine guiloche silver dial with the tan crocodile strap simply works. On the wrist, this watch looks like it came from the well known watch marques. Unfortunately, the price of this Sinn - and it appears as well for the new models coming out this year - is getting prohibitive. Almost to a point where collectors are forced to consider much more carefully of the alternative choices available. This is especially so when the movement on this watch is what I would consider pedestrian and the level of finish is not anywhere near the quality luxury Swiss watches.
Every successful brand goes through an evolutionary process and Sinn is no different. With the success of several of its models, Sinn has gotten bolder and more ambitious but I hope it does not speed along too fast ahead in its pricing as it could prove detrimental.
To view how much Sinn has progressed in its watch making quality, CLICK HERE to see the Sinn Regulator. Consider for yourself, whether Sinn has indeed moved up in the ranks of watchmaking and whether this watch deserves the price tag it asks for.
- HT
Friday, February 08, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
It never ceases to amaze me how much attention my watch blog has garnered in just over 2 years. I was amazed back when I reported the site had 20k hits in six months.
Just this week, sitemeter reports that my site has passed the 300k hits mark. What is more interesting is that out of that sum, there were 167k visitors, so I do have regulars returning to my blog. While this numbers pale by comparison to the top blogs of the world, I am nevertheless encouraged and proud that the site has the interest of those who are interested in high horology.
While I do not have any plans to ramp up the blog in any manner, I am glad to say that small changes to the blog to make it look fresh is under way. I will continue to develop my style of blogging with watch photography and hope that it continues to enrich the watch community at large.
Thank you for your kind support and a Very Happy Lunar New Year!
- HT
Thursday, February 07, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 2 Comments
Alain Silberstein is a non-conformist. He makes radically stylised watches that the artsy community could only appreciate. With tuna can cases - tall and cylindrical, he succeeds in making them funky and funny as in this model. He uses the smileys to reflect the day of the week. The images above reflects Monday to Sunday. Check out my images of the watch I published on ThePurists forum.
(Postscript - made a small amendment due to a kind reminder post that I mispelt Silberstein as Silverstein)
Monday, February 04, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 2 Comments
I was clearing out my old files when I chanced upon this review that I put online but had not publicised it. Its of a watch that I have since parted ways with - unfortunately due to its relatively large gold dimensions which makes it uncomfortably distracting. Nevertheless, it was a great watch with wonderful presence and pedigree.
For those who are into perpetuals - especially since this is a leap year, check out the review.
There is one caveat though, this report was filed quite some years ago where I just began in earnest to learn how to perfect digital watch photography thus the images are not as good as I would like them to be today. I am however amazed that the images were captured by a Canon G3 point and shoot camera.
IWC PORTUGUESE PERPETUAL CALENDAR REVIEW
- HT
IWC PORTUGUESE PERPETUAL CALENDAR REVIEW
- HT
Sunday, February 03, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 2 Comments
SBGM003
SBGW001It has been for some time that I received regular requests for wallpapers of the watches I photographed. I tried out a few formats and only now have I managed to come up with a reasonable means to resize and layout desktop quality images for wall papering computers. The post below is the Sinn Regulator and here are the two Grand Seikos I recently photographed.
Click on the images to download the full sized ones. When you see the full sized images, right click to download.
- HT
Saturday, February 02, 2008
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
I first saw this watch on the wrist of Herr Lothar Schmidt (CEO of Sinn) when he was in town for Tempus II. He kindly granted me an opportunity to interview him on the first and only day he was at the event. All through the interview I could not help noticing his gold regulator. Sinn is not a company that is in the business of making fine quality finished watches but this one comes close. I liked it so much that I asked Mr Schmidt to arrange for one for me to photograph when it is available. He and Hour Glass kindly made arrangements just this week for me to photograph this watch.
This is a huge 44mm watch that looks a lot bigger due to the very thin bezel. The colour combination works wonderfully and the machine turned dial is quite entertaining - esp to see the light effects on the guilloche.
I have several images which I will be publishing a photomontage - so do come back to see it.
Meanwhile, feel free to download this image as a desktop wallpaper (1600 x1050). Please note that your download of this image is subject to your agreement to respect and comply with my copyrights over the image.
-HT
posted by Harry SK Tan 0 Comments
Welcome to
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