Thoughts and Non Thoughts

The Nomos catalogue states: "Although an anti-reflective coating will reduce light reflection, it changes the appearance of the watch, making it look duller, and can also change the colour effect of the hands. For these reasons NOMOS does not use anti-reflection coating on glass." In subdued warm lighting the Orion 38 Datum White indeed has that classic vintage dress watch look; the dial looks more beige than white, and the domed crystal is visible. I actually like it if this is what Nomos means in their catalogue. A chameleon of a watch.

The Seiko Presage SARW011 is one heck of an accurate watch. It comes with Seiko's 6r27 movement with 28,800 bph. In my experience it stays within +3/-2 seconds per day. Pretty impressive! It also can be self-regulated like Rolex, ie, To gain a few seconds rest it at night with dial up. To lose a few seconds rest it with winding button down. To lose a few more seconds rest it with winding button up. It really works, but again within the above-mentioned range, typically 1-2 seconds per day. Great watch!

If watches had personalities, then these two JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) watches would represent two opposites. While the SARB065 immediately grabs your attention with its sunburst dial and contrasting second hand, the SARW011 is more subtle in its appeal. Only by looking closely at the enamel dial, the blued hands, and the power reserve and date complications will you begin to appreciate the depth of its character. One is an extrovert and the other one is more introspective. Like girlfriends, it really depends on what you prefer. You can have one that is lots of fun and one that is looking for a more lasting relationship but has a lot to offer. Fortunately for us, with watches we can have both.

In black croc. In brown cordovan strap.

  The Nomos brand has been gaining popularity in the horological world. Though a young company, its pedigree as a manufactury is impeccable, making its movements in-house in the watchmaking town of Glashutte. Combining this watchmaking tradition with sleek, simple, classic designs, Nomos Glashutte was one of the watch collector's best kept secrets, a small independent making significantly fewer watches than the big names. Recently, Nomos has introduced new designs, including slightly bigger versions of the original 35 mm Orion range. The 38 mm Orion White Datum has a dial size that keeps to current trends, though still clearly within the dress watch category. It also has a date window which is easy to read, consistent with the design concept of the brand. The white dial and silver plated hands add a touch of elegance and class. The 38 mm Orion White Datum is attuned to the times, while retaining the essence that quintessentially Nomos. A modern classic indeed.   ...

My first Omega, a Constellation Chronometer from 14 years ago. It has developed quite a nice patina.

My wife's mom gave this to her when she was in grade school. A Seiko Solar from the 60's. The manual wind mechanism still works. The dial and bracelet need some work but it's a beautiful vintage piece. Can't wait to see how this turns out after servicing.

Got this beat up Ogival from my father over Christmas. Here's how it looks after servicing. Not much info about this 100-year old Swiss-made brand, but I like the jumping fish. Those markers are thick!

One of the best value for money divers out there. Classic design.

Beautiful! Speedmaster Pro Alaska Project

Is it to prove existence? ownership? Is it simply to show how it looks like on the wrist? But why always a simple frontal? Is there no room for some photography?

A Swatch Irony, close to twenty years old. Strap has been replaced but still is in good shape.

The Seiko 5 Sports SNK031K (7S26-01G0). It has a 7S26a movement which is used in new production divers. Very nice bracelet, akin to the Omega Bond Seamaster's. No wonder it is called a Seiko Seamaster.

All that watches do is tell time. Or is it? To some it is a fashion statement. Like clothes, they can be an expression of personality. There are dress watches and sports watches and designer watches. Others collect watches like paintings, cars, or girlfriends. These are prized (and pricey) possessions, each one an object of desire. Others are fascinated by the mechanical qualities of movements and complications, marveling at the engineering and workmanship that go into such a small package. And there are watches designed for diving, racing and landing on the moon. And of course watches tell time. Not the time "as the clock strikes" but the time that a watch marks in your life. The graduation gift from your parents. The gift from the ex-girlfriend who is now your wife (or you wish is your wife). The watch you bought with your first paycheck. The watch the company gave you after a decade of employment. The watch you bought (or should have bought) on your first trip to Europe. T...