Vacheron Constantin Classic Ad.

Someone say Elitist? I'm not sure if this what we would call politically correct, regardless. This is still an interesting Ad.

This makes me miss my 4961, still not sure what I was thinking when I sold that piece. Let me think, oh yes now  remember why :) $$$$

-JKS

100 Superlative Chronometers.

Alright Swiss Monsters, if you haven't purchased this for your Ipad yet, do so!  This has amazing quality photos and offers excellent reference material.

By the way, I realize I have been posting mainly Rolex related material lately. Sorry, it's one of my favorite brands. As per several emails received, I will begin to post more Patek,Omega,Panerai, Ap etc.

itunes Link below.

http://itunes.apple.com/en/app/vintage-rolex-hd/id419569696?mt=8&ls=1

-JKS

It's Bay Watch Tuesday!!

(Cancelled)

Sorry guys, it's the Holidays season it's too cold with too many sharks out.

-JKS

Hmmm. They may be on to something.

 

-JKS

Rolex Red Daytona Confirmed As Authentic!

So, apparently Singer (one of the manufacturers that made Rolex dials) has confirmed that they did in fact make a Red dial for the Rolex Daytona. This dial has been called a fake by many well-known collectors and supposed authorities for years. Interesting, I guess just because you write a book doesn't make you infallible.

For more information visit HERE!

-JKS

Elegance Defined.

Well, maybe not but definitely the good life illustrated.
Fine Burgundy and fine timepieces go hand and hand.

 

-JKS

It's Monday , So How About Another Act Of Bling !!!

Alright Swiss Monster's, 

$1 million dollar Patek.

No punch line.

Patek ref. 2499

2499 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

Produced from 1951 until 1985, the 2499 is a cult item among Patek collectors, says Schaerer. He estimates that in yellow gold, the watch could sell for up to $400,000 today, while a rare model in pink gold might fetch $1 million or more. 

LINK: 

-JKS

(P.S I'm saving up for one. I accept donations )

It's Monday , So How About An Act Of Bling !!!

Want Bling? How about an-

Officially Certified Warlock Superlative Chronometer.

-No, Seriously-

Patek Philippe 2438

Wrist belongs to Charlie Sheen. 

Patek Philippe 2438 approximate cost $700,000.00 

-JKS

Rolex Commercial 2011.

Great Video.

 

-JKS

Forum Find: A Charming Post.

While going through the forums, I ran across a lovely post.

Sunny Arizona

"TRF" Member

Came home this morning from running and found the wife in the kitchen making our turkey day feast. I went upstairs to get cleaned up agonizing over all the people coming over, who year after year seem to get on my nerves. Maybe I'll slam a couple drinks before they come over I was thinking.

Went to put on my Explorer I (114270) and it was not where I left it this morning. Maybe I left it in my safe...nope not there. Maybe in my desk drawer...nope not there.
I was just getting ready to blame my five year old...after all I came home one day to find him wearing my Sub (c) when I spotted my lovely wife peeling potatoes with something different on her wrist. Looking over spotted my V Serial Explorer I. Knowing that I better not say a word I said, "that looks nice on you." She said that it was a "cute little watch, do you mind if I keep it for a while?" Of course not I said

Wisdom is the art of knowing when to shut up and when to talk. This is the woman who never complains about anything, doesn't care when the FEDEX guy shows up with something in a box for me, and worried herself to death while I did two tours in Iraq. All she ever has asked for was a new kitchen remodel and a baby when i finished the last tour. She got both.

I am very thankful for her, our 24 year old, 18 year old, 17 year old, and 5 year old but yet silently mourn what may be a permanant loss of my favorite watch-:} (she wore the same timex for going on 10 years)  

Amazing Custom Engraving!

Kindler & Thorpe.

This company does some of the most amazing engraving I've seen! They customize cases from every brand from Officini Panerai, Hamilton to Rolex. Below is the companies profile from their official website.

K&T was established in 2010 by two long standing business associates Herman Kindler and Paul Thorpe.

Herman Kindler was born in 1937 and lives in Munich along with his family. He is a keen collector of modern, sports and vintage Rolex watches and his collection is believed to be one of the finest in Europe.

Herman is a retired civil pilot and businessman and still flies his own light aircraft when time permits. He has studied Bavarian history, art and architecture.

"Having collected and studied Rolex watches for more than 50 years I consider that what we are about to achieve will go down in horological history".

Paul Thorpe has been in the fine watch business since 1975 after being introduced to the business by his parents.

Born in 1961, Paul lives with his family in Sussex and spends much of his time in London around the horology scene. He is vastly experienced with most high end watch brands.

He has a keen eye for rare antiquities and has studied British Heraldry, early English engravings, silversmithing and British hallmarks.

His ambition is to leave a horological legacy that survives for hundreds of years, just like many of the fine objects that he has owned, admired and studied.

"It is my sincere hope that collectors will be holding our watches in a hundred years time, admiring them, in the same manner in which we admire the fine work of previous generations."

 

VISIT HERE! 

 

 

-JKS

Rolex Rosewood Table.

This is one of the coolest things I've seen on the bay (ebay) in a while. This is a dealer promotional given by Rolex to their top dealers. This piece features a quartz clock (not by the company themselves, instead by  the company who makes all of the dealer clocks for such brands as Patek,Audemars,Rolex-"Jurgen Bolsche") This table is killer. I already asked the girlfriend, she said no! So, I can't own it.  But, that doesn't mean I can't get a vicarious thrill from one of you buying it!

Buy It Here!

If one of you buy it send me an email!

-JKS

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy-Thanksgiving!!
-JKS, The Head Swiss Monster

New logo?

Or maybe not.  I've already received negative feedback.

-JKS

Rolex 16750 w/ Patina Dial (2)

I can't stop staring at this piece.

 

-JKS

Vacheron Constantin.

It's good to be Facebook friends with VC.  Here's a new video they uploaded. Amazing!

 

-JKS

Spring Bars = Pain in the A$$ !

Geez! These little buggers are hard to deal with.

Good thing I know where to buy more!  Ofrei

-JKS

Bizarre But Beautiful! Rado

 Rado.

So, yesterday I was hanging out with a buddy of mine and the subject of vintage watches came up. He pulled out an interesting blast from the past. The piece was acquired by his father in Saudi Arabia in the late 70's. It was truly bizarre!It seems the name of Swiss timepiece maker Rado is not held in as high esteem these days as Rolex,Omega, Longines, or even Tag Heur, however, the Swiss brand has had an interesting history and some bizarre but beautiful pieces. Rado's designs (like that of Doxa's), were perhaps most relevant in the late 1960's and 70's. In certain areas of the world (U.A.E) Rado's designs were preferred over what are now the top brands. The companies insistence on being cutting edge and adoption of contemporary 70's oblong and distorted shapes led to their now, outdated legacy. It's interesting that when I see a 70s era Rado Diastar, I am instantly transported to Disneyland's classic Tommorowland area of the Magic Kingdom. It is interesting to ponder that these designs were once seen as futuristic and cutting edge. They now appear to be a failed idealistic perceptions of  "now". In any case, Rado is an interesting brand with some very bizarre but beautiful pieces. It is important to remember that every era has a second hoorah. So, maybe in a year or ten the classic 70's futuristic designs will be in vogue.

Unfortunately, the photos above were taken in less than ideal lighting settings.Example below for further illustration oddity/novelty factors associated with Rado. 

Below are some photo's of where Rado's are most likely most appropriate J/K.

-JKS

Tritium & It's Many Colors or What is Patina on Rolex etc.

 Hello Swiss Monsters, today I am going to attempt to offer a bit of insight and information on "Tritium & It's Many Colors."

Tritium: is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. The nucleus of tritium (sometimes called a triton) contains one proton and two neutrons, whereas the nucleus of protium (by far the most abundant hydrogen isotope) contains one proton and no neutrons. Naturally occurring tritium is extremely rare on Earth, where trace amounts are formed by the interaction of the atmosphere with cosmic rays. The name of this isotope is formed from the Greek word "tritos" meaning "third."

Layman's definition : The luminescent (glowing) material (paint) on watch dials (face).

After reading forty pages of forum materials, I have come away with the following:

1. Tritium marker watches that were well worn incur less colorization. In some cases the dial's markers are completely pale white.

2. Tritium marker watches in humid environments are not necessarily overly colored or affected at all. 

3. Tritium marker watches used for diving (diver's watches, Submariners etc.) that were submerged are not exempt from patina colorization despite being exposed to countless hours in direct sunlight, whilst aboard etc.

4. Tritium marker watches worn daily with very little patina  still have the ability to change to a darker color once stored away (In the case of a rare Comex model Rolex discussed on a forum).

5. Tritium marker watches with dark patina (amber etc.) can lighten once exposed to continues sunlight.

In short, my findings (according to the testimony of many forum members) are that light is the most significant cause of Tritium patina. Timepieces that were stored away and not exposed to UV rays developed as a whole more patina. Owners who wore their watch on daily or regular basis enjoy a less patina/colored dial transformation...

Some of the more interesting pages I visited concerning the above topic: 

http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&goto=3176010&rid=0

http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=msg&goto=2949560&rid=25611#msg_2949560
Awesome site with loads of insight: http://doubleredseadweller.com/redsubdialsno2.html

A few photos: left ref. 1680 with heavy patina while piece on right is seemingly factory new.

Above photo owned by forum member: junerai of TZ.com

Below: photo of two ref. 6542s both with variant degrees of patina.

Above photo owned by forum member: nbtimes of TZ.com

 Below: 16750 with new old stock dial! This dial has heavy patina and is essentially new.

Above photo owned by Keeperoftime of TZ.com

-JKS

Random Act Of Beauty!

Here is another beautiful photograph by the Italian Collector Stefano Mazzariol. If you haven't visited his blog yet, do so! It is filled with interesting and amazing history as well as some of the best photographs I have ever seen. Visit Here!

Below is a extraordinarily rare black dial 6234. The patina on this dial is magical!

-JKS

Photo by Stefano Mazzariol

Vacheron Constantin Ladies Patrimony.

 Just received an email from Vacheron:

With its discreet elegance that is the hallmark of Vacheron Constantin, the new Ladies Diamond-Set Patrimony Contemporaine timepiece is the latest feminine addition to our iconic Patrimony collection.
Created in 18k white gold or 18k rose gold, this watch features an original and subtle setting of 62 brilliant-cut diamonds on its sides. Underscoring the delicate beauty of such a refined timepiece, these precious jewels add a touch of sparkle to any wrist.
Distinctive. Precious. Timeless. The Ladies Diamond-Set Patrimony marks the progression of time as moments of pure luxury.

Vacheron Constantin

-JKS

Rolex 16750 w/ Patina Dial

16750 Beautiful Patina On Dial.

I call this my 16750 w/ Area 51 dial!

It looks other worldly!

I love this dial's Patina. Now, I need to find original tritium hands.

-JKS

R.I.P Rolex Yatchmaster(Possibly a Rumor) & Thunderbird/Turn-O-Graph.

Alright Swiss Monsters, I may be speaking prematurely here but many sources are confirming the Yachtmaster I & The Thunderbird/Turn-O-Graph Models have been discontinued.  It seems there is a lot of controversy over this. Mainly, if the YM has been discontinued, the general consensus is that the yellow gold version has definitely been discontinued. So, for now the other YMI's live. The Turn-O-Graph, also known as the Thunderbird has also definitely been discontinued.

So... 

1992-2011

1955-2011

Update: The YM Lives!!!

-JKS

It's Bay Watch Tuesday!!

Alright, Swiss Monsters there are two pieces available on the bay that I think are super cool.

P.S Stop staring at the photo above.

First up on the bay is a rare
Hamilton chronograph w/Omani Crest!

Love it or hate it, if an Omani crest is on the dial of a watch, collector's will come out the woodwork to collect. All of these timepieces with Omani or Arabic crest were given as gift from the royal family to a deserving member. I have several post with these rare dials, these families have so much power companies like Rolex, Patek have made custom one of a kind pieces for these royals.

For more information Oman visit HERE.

For More Swiss Monster Post Here & Here.

The Second notable lot is a Blingy Rolex Day-Date at an amazing price! This is a classic 18k President with custom diamonds galore. Please note this seller does not ship outside the United States of America.

 Seller's Description:

Hello again, Up for you bidding consideration is a gorgeous Rolex Day-Date "President". This piece has recently undergone a 100% service (not just a standard servicing). This service was a complete overhaul and cleaning/polishing. This was conducted by a certified Watchmaker. This service cost was around $500 + and was done less than 4 moths ago! This watch is a stunner available at THE BEST VALUE ON EBAY! This beauty is a classic non-quickset model that is working wonderfully and is ready for a new home. I am an independent collector and take ebay extremely seriously. This watch as well as all of my vintage pieces are Sold-As-Is, with that being said, this piece is working properly. Please check my feedback. This will be a smooth and enjoyable transaction. Please note I will ship this item fully insured and pack it with the utmost care.

• Condition: Great, only minimal signs of wear, typical with age. The bracelet is a Rolex style (not overly stretched, may be after-market, 18K solid yellow gold band, I have taken many photos for your consideration).
• The watch keeps perfect time. Just serviced less than 4 months ago!
• Dial: gold colored dial with 10 diamond hour markers.
• Date: magnified at the 3 o'clock mark. * This is a non-quickest classic watch*
• Bezel: After market diamond bezel (Beautiful!!!!, notice the diamonds are concentric without the ugly grout on many lesser examples)
• Material: case, backing, bracelet are made of solid 18k gold.
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Screw down crown and case-back
• Case size: 36mm
• Approx. length: should fit about a 5 1/2-6" wrist.
• Approx Year: 1977
• Rolex Model Ref. 1807
• Auction includes: Rolex Day-Date President Watch, Suede pouch holder, A copy of the service receipt.

I accept PayPal only (SHIP ONLY TO PAYPAL CONFIRMED ADDRESSES)
I ship only within The Mainland U.S.A
I expect payment within 48hrs of auction close.
I ship ASAP and package with great care.

-JKS

Random Act Of Beauty!

Rolex 1956 ref.1625

-JKS

Rolex GMT Kick: Transparent/Exhibition Rolex Caseback

So, it's no secret that I am on a Rolex GMT kick. I recently added a 16750 to my collection and have been reading extensively on the Rolex GMT history. I was combing the forums and coincidentally came across this post by a fellow forum buddy, Directioneng. 

Most Swiss Monsters, know that Rolex watches typically (almost never!) come with exhibition or transparent casebacks. This is of course, because glass reduces and compromises the ability for a timepiece's water resistance. Up to today, I was only aware of one Rolex watch with exhibition back. This model would be a modern homage to their classic Prince "Doctor's watch". While, I have seen countless aftermarket and fake exhibition casebacks. This one is a first!

Click on pictures below to enlarge.

P.S For future reference if one sees an exhibition caseback on a Rolex, it is most likely a fake. Now, with that being said, some enthusiast do buy aftermarket casebacks to show off their Rolex movements. These are pretty obviously authentic to those who are somewhat familiar with Rolex movements.

 Below is a genuine Rolex Prince (Re-issue) w/exhibition back (the only I was aware to exist until today).

 Below is an example of genuine Rolex with custom sapphire caseback.

Photo above borrowed from Here, where more info on custom casebacks is and the Rare GMT w/custom-factory caseback.

-JKS