Watch Goodies: The Rolex Wimbledon Tie. For Attendees Only.

This rare green Rolex tie was released as a gift to the attendees of the 125th edition of the Wimbledon championship back in 2011. This green tie comes with a beautiful gold silk thread embroidered Rolex crown on the front around the center of the tie. The small end of the tie has a Rolex logo with crown embroidered with the same gold silk thread.

The back of the tie features a purple label with the Rolex brand and the writing commemorating the 125th edition of the Wimbledon championship dated 2011. This tie looks superb with a Navy Blazer with gold buttons, a light blue shirt and a full-Windsor knot as the tie is quite thick. 

Posted on April 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex, Watch Goodies and tagged Rolex Rolex Wimbledon Tie 2013.

Experience: Driving a Ferrari California in Maranello

The experience of driving a Ferrari gets amplified when you get to drive it in the place it was born. After visiting the Ferrari factory and Galleria Ferrari in the small town of Maranello—just south of Modena and northwest of Bologna—, we had the exhilarating pleasure of driving a Ferrari California around the streets of this picturesque town, house to the Ferrari dynasty.    

Our companion during this adventure, a Rolex GMT Master ref. 16753. No other watch could've been better suited for this experience.  As you all know, Italian watch collectors are extremely passionate for vintage Rolexes and especially for the 'occhio di tigre' as the GMT Rootbeer is commonly known in Italy.

After driving all the way to Reggio Emilia —the capital for Reggiano located northwest of Maranello— we decided to treat ourselves to the best Parmigiano Reggiano we've had in a very long time, some cold Lambrusco and Crescentinas di Modena.   

Posted on April 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Automobiles and tagged Ferrari Maranello Ferrari California.

50th Anniversary Rolex Submariner: The Maldives. Enchanted Paradise.

Back in 2003 in order to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner, Rolex launched the ref. 16610LV with its unmistakeable green bezel and maxi dial with larger luminous markers and thicker hands. This beautiful watch is no longer produced by Rolex and has become an iconic piece within the long history of the Submariner. 

The Maldives, officially the Republic of the Maldives and also referred to as the Maldive Islands, is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean. Consisting of a double chain of 26 atolls is one of the greatest destinations for beach travelers. About 700 kilometers southwest of Sri Lanka and 400 kilometers southwest of India you can find the Coco Budu Hithi resort where watch lifestyler Ham went on his honeymoon. 

At $1900 a night the Coco Budu Hithi resort can guarantee you will have the trip of a lifetime. A destination where the only limit is your imagination, discover tailor-made experiences that will inspire you.

Without a doubt the Rolex Submariner 50th Anniversary is the perfect companion for a beach trip. Whether you are a serious diver or you just enjoy snorkeling in the shallow waters, there's one thing you can be pretty sure about,  your Rolex Sub will stay dry inside as its movement is securely protected with its hermetic oyster case to a depth of up to 300m/1000ft.  

As you can see by the pictures this place is just a fantastic oasis. The views, the service, the accommodations and the experience are just as posh as it gets. Not to mention that during our friend's trip they had the opportunity to see a beautiful sea turtle while swimming right outside of their bungalow.   

Additionally, while in the Maldives rest assure that food will be spectacular and if you are a sushi lover, you will enjoy one of the best sashimis you've ever had and almost as good as if you had been in the middle of Ginza in Tokyo.

Posted on April 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Travel and tagged The Maldives Budu Hithi 50th Anniversary Submariner Coco Budu Hithi Rolex ref. 16610LV.

Rare Bird: An Unmarked Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01 a.k.a 'The Beast'. One Amazing Grail of Only 100 Pieces Without the Offshore Engraving.

Last year almost around this time, we received an email from a friend and watchlifestyler that lives in London asking for our advice on whether he should purchase or not an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01 fitted with the very same blue dial just as the very first original Royal Oak Offshore ever launched.

The seller, a very reputable store in Germany. The watch, in like new condition with box and papers but with no 'Offshore', 'AP' nor 'Automatic' markings on the case back —the last digits on the serials have been blurred for security reasons. Additionally, the No. engraving is missing the underline on the superscript o.

Once we received the pictures of the watch and checked the serial numbers against our early Royal Oak Offshore example—under the 200 serial range—we knew the watch was legit. The D-serial sequence on both watches had the right chronological order. Our watch pictured below —we have also blurred the last digits on the the serial numbers— was the one used for comparison purposes and to authenticate this situation.

However, we will admit that the lack of the 'Offshore', 'AP' and 'Automatic' engravings as well as the difference in the way the No. engraving is presented on the case back were somewhat confusing. Nevertheless, we've heard that the first 50 Offshores ever made, were missing these engravings. Were we looking at one of those collector's pieces? Could this one be one of them?

Based on the pictures we received, we followed our watch collector's instinct and our gut feeling and told our friend and watchlifestyler to move forward with the deal. We are so glad he followed our advice and purchased this rare example.

A few weeks after purchasing the watch, our friend and watchlifestyler reached out to Audemars Piguet, who has confirmed the authenticity of this piece. Additionally, he also reached out directly to Emmanuel Gueit —the creator of the Royal Oak Offshore—in order to confirm the situation regarding the lack of engravings. Based on all accounts previously mentioned, we can now confirm that this is one of the first 100 pieces ever made of the iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore.

Seems that the reason why the first 100 pieces of this reference don't bear the 'Offshore' engraving on it, it's because Audemars Piguet wasn't sure at the time whether this reference should've been called 'Offshore' or not. Interesting enough, the other early example of the Offshore—the one we used for authentication purposes of this 'rare' example—is exactly 115 pieces apart from this 'rarity'. The D-serial and Royal Oak No. consecutive numbers can attest it. 

When it comes to hunting down that one grail piece, sometimes going with your gut feeling is the best way to go. You don't want to end up regretting not getting that one grail you've always wanted.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.

Posted on April 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Royal Oak Offshore 25721 Unmarked Royal Oak Offshore Unmarked Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Rare Find AP Royal Oak Offshore Unmarked Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph. A Great Facelift to an Amazing Classic Watch.

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The Speedmaster is one of the most iconic watches from the Omega line-up. The Speedmaster was originally launched in 1957 and since its landing on the moon it has been awarded the title of moonwatch. This newly launched Speedmaster Moonwatch has been given a facelift as of last year. The reference number on this piece is 311.30.44.51.01.002. This iconic piece belongs to one of our watchlifestylers.

The case on this reference is 44.25mm wide, the chronograph function only includes one register for minutes and hours and the chrono seconds hand has been placed in the central pinion. The sapphire crystal has been treated with an anti-glare coating on both sides and the case back is transparent featuring a sapphire crystal that almost looks like a thick plexi glass. The watch features the newly designed automatic in-house Omega caliber 9300 with a power reserve of 60 hours and date aperture at 6 o'clock. 

This new Speedmaster is like an original Speedmaster but on steroids. The case is massive, solid and quite heavy. The bracelet has been upgraded and the clasp is very comfortable. The single hour-minute register is very convenient and easy to read and the super luminova is quite bright at night.  

This reference is also available in stainless steel, yellow gold and platinum on leather strap.

Watch lifestyler James can attest that after wearing this watch for three months, he thinks that the watch is definitely worth the sticker price of $8,700. For more info on this watch click here.

A bargain, for a truly revamped classic.  

Posted on April 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Omega and tagged Omega Moonwatch Speedmaster Speedmaster Moonwatch Omega Chrono 2013.

Upcoming: Madison Avenue Watch Week. April 8-13, 2013.

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For its third consecutive year, the Madison Avenue Watch Week is catching the attention of watch lifestylers and collectors in the New York City area. The fascinating week will take place from April 8th thru the 13th, along boutiques located on Madison Avenue.

Madison Avenue Watch Week is the largest fine watch marketplace in North America, and home to the world’s premier timepiece flagship boutiques. It is a celebration of haute horology for collectors and connoisseurs, featuring artisan demonstrations; new watch previews and launches; discussions with watchmakers; presentations regarding trends in design, manufacturing and mechanism technology; and private VIP sales appointments.            

Participating brands include Blancpain, Breguet, de Grisogono, Girard-Perregaux and Hublot. For more info click here.  

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Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Events.

Insider: Rolex Datejust ref. 116200. As Classic as a Negroni.

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This particular Rolex Datejust has been the daily watch of our friend and watch lifestyler Carlo. After 7 years of ownership we share with you his own personal journey with this watch. Today, a Rolex Datejust with white roman numeral dial is as classic as a Negroni. The Negroni originated in Firenze, Italy in 1919 by Count Camillo Negroni. The story tells that one afternoon he asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite cocktail— the Americano— by replacing the soda water with gin. The bartender also replaced the lemon garnish with an orange wedge to signify that it was a different drink and that's how one of the most classic cocktails was born.

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Just like the Negroni, the Rolex Datejust was also launched many decades ago back in 1945. The Datejust was the first wristwatch with a date function. The Datejust is offered with two options of bracelets—the jubilee and the oyster— and also several different bezel and dial variations. Its 36mm case is just perfect for men or women and every day wear, whether dressed up or down. Today, most Rolex Men's watches are being worn by women fashionistas that appreciate fine watches. In 2009, the Datejust II was released with a 41mm case. The ref. 116200 is fitted with caliber 3135 with a power reserve of 48 hours. Sticker price: $6,600.

As wear marks and battle scars are already prevalent on the case, bezel and bracelet, one can tell that this watch has been much loved and enjoyed. Carlo purchased this Rolex Datejust as his first Rolex back in 2006. Carlo, a restauranteur by trade and also a Paneari lover, mentions that he will wear this watch over his Panerais all the time. The reason why, in his own words: "It's the most comfortable watch I've ever owned and the best suited or any occasion". 

For more info on this watch click here.  

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex, Food Wine & Cigars and tagged Rolex Datejust Datejust 116200 Negroni Hendrick's Gin Campari Martini Rossi 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix. Only 1750 Out There.

The Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix Limited Edition ref. 26290 is a serious collector's grail. This Forged Carbon beauty is definitely one that will make a statement anywhere you wear it. Dressed up or dressed down, those who know will recognize it immediately.

Audemars Piguet has always been in the forefront when it comes to using materials that are rarely used by other watchmaking companies. Audemars Piguet started using these type of materials long before any other watchmaking company would do so back in the 1980's with the introduction of Tantalum and Rose Gold watches. Today, Audemars Piguet makes a statement with Forged Carbon and Ceramic.

The Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix embodies the powerful ties between watchmaking and automobiles. The same passion for design and the same incessant quest for mechanical performance. The sub-dials evoke dashboard instruments, the crown a gear, and the bezel a ventilated brake disc. Issued in limited edition series featuring meticulously executed details & cutting-edge materials. Whether viewed from the front, the side, or through the sapphire crystal back, all angles provide the same clear-cut impression of dynamic, aggressive, taut and complex shapes that are undeniably reminiscent of gleaming automobile bodywork.

This watch is so light that sometimes one can forget it is on the wrist. The attention to detail and craftsmanship is just at another level. This watch shows very clearly why Audemars Piguet is considered one of the three companies that conform the 'Holy Trinity of Watchmaking'. It is also well known by collectors and watch enthusiasts that forged carbon cases never look the same. All Forged Carbon pieces have their own unique character and finish, typical of handmade goods. The Grand Prix Limited Edition is available in Rose Gold and Forged Carbon in limited quantities of 650 and 1750 respectively.

This watch comes with a case made out of forged carbon fibers and a bezel made of forged carbon and black ceramic with eight titanium hex-head screws fastening the bezel to the case as well as the case back. The Grand Prix houses an Audemars Piguet Caliber 3126/3840, composed of 365 parts and a power reserve of 60 hours.

The strap on the Grand Prix is one of the most unique looking Audemars Piguet straps out there. Black calfskin and red alcantara, hand-sewn with red alcantara inserts and edges. Comfortable and beautiful at the same time. This strap exudes class.

The crown is made of blackened titanium with the AP logo in red, the chronograph pushers are made of titanium and black ceramic and comes with a sapphire crystal display case back. The plots that connect the case to the strap are made of titanium just like the tang buckle on the strap. The dial evokes different parts of auto super machines. The bronze flange is reminiscent of the magnesium alloy wheels on a race car. Running seconds at 12 o 'clock, 30-minute register at 9 o'clock and 12-hour register at 12 o'clock.

All in all, this is a wonderful reference suited for every day wear and one that will make a statement wherever you go.   

Sticker Price $45,000 USD. For more info click here.

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Royal Oak Offshore Grand Prix Post 2013 2013.

Experience: Partagas No.4 Serie D. Two Divers Over Cigars.

Two watchlifestylers decided to meet up for drinks and cigars in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The location, the exclusive Grand Velas resort in Riviera Maya. One of the collectors, a longtime fellow Montecristo cigar aficionado, the other one, a Cohiba and Partagas lover. Talking about watches while enjoying an 'Habano' is very common in our watch collecting lifestyle, coming to terms on which of the two watches —or cigars— is better is definitely a challenging thing.

Having the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver and the two-tone Rolex Submariner Date side-by-side helped us understand how these two watches are magnificent with their own individual pros and cons. Watch collecting and watch talk is not about proving who is wearing a better watch. It is about enjoying life and making friends —sometimes even overseas— with people that enjoy our lifestyle.

Watch collecting, just like smoking a fine cigar or sipping a glass of your favorite port, is really about the enjoyment you get out of that particular timepiece sitting on your wrist and the memories you build while wearing it.

Partagas No.4 is a strong, rich cigar with leather and cocoa notes. Intense, yet smooth at the same time. Strong in smell but soft to the palate.  

I once heard that the best wine in the world is not necessarily a Petrus or a Château Lafite Rothschild, but the one that you enjoy the most.

Same goes to watches, don't you think?

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars and tagged Partagas Partagas No. 4 Audemars Piguet Diver Royal Oak Offshore Rolex Subm Rolex Submariner 2013.

Experience: A Full Week at The Peninsula Beijing. It Doesn't Get Any Better.

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Traveling to China is one of the most fascinating experiences anyone can have. Staying at The Peninsula in Beijing is bringing the experience to another level.

The Peninsula Beijing is located in the heart of the city within walking distance from Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.  A few blocks down the street you can shop at the exclusive Jinbao Place mall.

Just like at any other Peninsula hotel, VIP transportation is no problem as they have a very nice assortment of vehicles to choose from, including several Rolls Royce Phantoms, BMW 7 Series and Audi A6. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by their iconic white-suited porters. Spending eight nights at this majestic hotel made us feel like we were home and not homesick at all. The linens, the amenities, our room and every detail inside the hotel has been carefully taken care of.

Inside the hotel there's an atrium with several stories of very high-end shopping including Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Piaget, Tom Ford, Brioni, Burberry and Armani amongst others.

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There are three fantastic food options inside the hotel. Huang Ting a traditional Chinese cuisine place meant to replicate the look of a 'hutong', Jing an international cuisine restaurant/buffet and the Lobby Lounge where high-tea is served.  

After a few days of sightseeing and walking around the city and the Great Wall, we decided to check their spa and receive some well deserved pampering. The spa facilities are impeccably designed with serenity, peace and harmony in mind.

For more info on this hotel click here.

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Travel and tagged Audemars Piguet 25721 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore The Peninsula Beijing.

Insider: Rolex Sea-Dweller Ref. 16600. A Discontinued Classic.

By far one of the most iconic Rolex references in conjunction with the Submariner. The Sea-Dweller originally launched in 1967 was developed as a sturdier and deeper rated Submariner for the french industrial deep-sea diving company COMEX S.A.

Back in 1967 the reference number for the Sea-Dweller was ref. 1665 and it had a depth rating of 610m/2,000ft. The Sea-Dweller also incorporated a helium release escape valve for gas decompression chambers. This model also lacks of a cyclops —date loupe— providing a cleaner and more simple look in comparison with its sibling the Submariner Date.

The Sea-Dweller Submariner 2000 watches also known as Double-Red Sea-Dwellers are highly collectible and very coveted by vintage Rolex collectors around the world. The DRSD as it is commonly known in the watch collecting world, had 2 red text lines on the watch dial which led to an unofficial "Double Red" designation under watch collectors for these watches.

Picture courtesy of www.doubleredseadweller.com

The Sea-Dweller Submariner 2000 models were displaced by the Sea-Dweller 4000 model ref. 16600 rated to a depth of 4,000ft/1,220m. The last Comex Sea-Dweller 4000 Rolex reference number is 16600 and this watch was issued to Comex divers since 1992. Today, the ref. 16600 is now discontinued after the launch in 2008 of the DeepSea Sea-Dweller ref. 116660 with a depth rating of 12,800ft/3,900m. 

This wonderful diver's watch is very solid with a glossy raised white gold surround minute markers, a decompression times uni-directional rotating bezel, date aperture, triple-lock screwdown crown, oyster bracelet with divers extension and a flip-lock clasp. The case and bezel setup construction is definitely thicker than that on the Rolex Submariner and the HRV —Helium Release Valve— is located at the 9 o'clock position. This reference has no lug holes as of the early 2000s and is fitted with a solid-link oyster bracelet.

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex and tagged Rolex Sea-Dweller Rolex Sea-Dweller Sea-Dweller 16600 Rolex 16600 2013.

Watch Shopping Guide: Las Vegas. Watchlifestylers Paradise.

The city of Las Vegas, offers one of the most amazing watch shopping experiences in the U.S. and the world. In less than 2.5 miles of the Las Vegas Strip and located within the casinos and their shoppes, you will be able to find more than 25 dedicated brand watch boutiques and authorized dealers. Heading North on the strip, our first stop is at Aria and Crystals at City Center. Located inside the Aria hotel and casino is Radiance offering a wide variety of brands including Richard Mille, Bell & Ross, Corum and Cuervo y Sobrinos amongst others.

Next door at Crystals shopping center, you'll find Tourbillon—large selection of Blancpain, Omega, Breguet, Jacquet Droz and Glashütte and dedicated boutiques for Cartier, Bulgari, De Grisogono, Harry Winston, Van Cleef & Arpels and TAG Heuer. Tourbillon is in the process of building a larger store in the same location, scheduled to open late 2013.

Next stop heading North is the Bellagio. Besides the wonderful water fountain show every hour and the delicious Bellinis served at the casino, watch shopping can also be a great experience. Omega has a beautiful boutique here and at Tesorini you will find a very large selection of Rolex and Patek Philippe watches, amongst others.

If you keep heading North on the strip, you'll come across Caesar's Palace and the Forum shops at Caesar's. Inside the Forum shops you'll find Tourneau, Roman Times —large authorized dealer for IWC, Piaget and Hublot—, Vicci —one of the largest selections of Audemars Piguet—, the Panerai and Breitling boutiques and a couple of Rolex smaller boutiques. 

Almost across from Caesars, on the opposite side of the strip, you'll find the Venetian and the shoppes at The Palazzo where several authorized dealers and a few brand boutiques are located. At the Venetian you will find Horologio and Venetzia Jewelers and at the shoppes at the Palazzo you will find the boutiques for IWC, Bulgari, Blancpain, Harry Winston and Vacheron Constantin. Additionally, you will run into Bellusso specializing in vintage and pre-owned pieces as well as another Venetzia Jewelers at Palazzo with the largest selection of Audemars Piguet and Richard Mille watches in Las Vegas.

Our last stop is at the esplanade of the Wynn Casino, where Rolex will be opening its flagship Rolex Experience Boutique for North America at the end of May. At the Wynn, you will find a very refined selection of boutiques and authorized dealers. A brand new IWC boutique was opened back in November of 2012. You will also find Chopard, Piaget, Jaeger LeCoultre and Cartier boutiques in this area. The well-known Rolex boutique that was located at the esplanade, is where the new Rolex Experience will open. Temporarily, there's a small Rolex boutique by Tableau restaurant on the other end where the Wynn suites are located. Wynn & Company Watches offers a wide selection of Patek Philippe, Panerai and Vacheron Constantin timepieces amongst others.  This store no longer carries Audemars Piguet watches.

Without a doubt Vegas is a watch shopping oasis with some of the best brands and a really wide selection. After shopping around and if you still have time while you finish your round at the Wynn, we recommend you stop by Sinatra or Red 8 for a great meal.

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Watch Shopping and tagged Las Vegas Watches IWC Vicci Radiance at Aria Bellagio Venetian Forum Shops Audemars Piguet Top Watch Shopping 2013.

Insider: Chanel J12 ref. H0970. An Iconic Women's Watch.

The Chanel J12 has turned into an iconic watch when it comes to female watch collectors. Originally intended to be a unisex watch, this reference was launched several years ago and immediately became a hot watch among women. Today, it's still one of the favorite watches for women looking to make a fashion statement. Crafted in white high-tech ceramic that is highly scratch-resistant, this piece comes in three different sizes. The 33mm is fitted with a quartz movement and the 38mm and 42mm that come with a self-winding automatic movement.

The J12 is a watch well suited for every occasion, whether you are just relaxing at the beach, scuba diving or getting ready for a night-gala, this watch goes well with all types of outfits due to its simple look yet refined character.

 With a 42-hour power reserve, date aperture, unidirectional rotating bezel, screw-down crown, waterproof to a depth of 200m/600ft and a steel triple-folding buckle, the Chanel J12 is definitely a watch that can be enjoyed anywhere. In all is a very comfortable watch, not very heavy and with a superb finish.

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Other Brands and tagged Chanel J12 Chanel H0970 J12 Automatic Chanel Louis Vuitton Damier Graphite Porte-Documents Posts 2013.

Encounter: Jaguar MKII at The Ritz Paris

The Hôtel Ritz is a grand palatial hotel in the heart of Paris, located in the 1st arrondissement of the city. It overlooks the octagonal border of the Place Vendôme at number 15. The hotel is ranked highly among the most prestigious and luxurious hotels in the world. Outside the hotel we ran into a beautiful Jaguar MK II from the 1960s getting ready for the Tour Optic Auto 2012 race that Audemars Piguet sponsors.

The Tour Optic Auto 2ooo 2012 race was held from April 16th thru the 21st and is Organized by Peter Auto for the the Fédération Française du Sport Automobile (FFSA) with licenses from ASA Tour Auto. For an entry fee of €8,300 entrants get five days of competition driving all the way from Paris to a southern destination in France. The rally race is open to 200 cars which (or the model of which) have participated between 1951 and 1973 in the Tour Optic Auto race. This year's race —22nd Tour Auto Optic 2ooo— will take place from April 22nd thru the 27th. For the first time, the finish line will be in the southwestern city of La Rochelle. 

The 22nd Tour Auto Optic 2ooo guest stars, besides the official partner BMW, will be Porsche and Aston Martin. The Porsche prototypes as a tribute to Ferdinand Alexander Porsche who passed away last year, just two weeks before the start of the rally: Porsches 550 and of course the long lineage -904 (his creation), 906, 907, 910 - which raced in Tour de France Automobile. The 'Tour' will also celebrate the hundredth anniversary of Aston Martin and will honour the four models which raced at the time.

As you can see in the pictures, the car was still showing the old decals from the 'Carrera Panamericana' in which the owner had participated before. The car was supposed to get the Tour Optic decals for the race that weekend.   

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Automobiles and tagged Jaguar MKII Audemars Piguet Tour Optic 2000.

Watch Shopping Guide: Beijing. More Upscale than What You Would've Imagined.

One of the most amazing cities for watch shopping in the world without a doubt is Beijing. The number of dedicated boutiques in the Wangfujing area dwarfs those around other metropolises including Las Vegas, London or New York City. A wide availability of brands is found throughout the city but specially on Wangfujing street, right between the APM Mall and the Grand Hyatt. Additionally, there is a second beautiful Piaget boutique located inside The Peninsula Hotel atrium and a Richard Mille at The Legendale Hotel next to Jinbao Place mall.

During our trip to Beijing we visited the boutiques for Rolex, Tudor, Tag Heuer, Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Hublot, Omega, Glashütte, Piaget, Vacheron Constantin, Chanel, Ulysse Nardin and Jaeger LeCoultre.  

The boutiques for Rolex and Tudor were fully integrated into one big boutique with inventory for both brands throughout the whole sales floor. A few blocks up, another Rolex standalone boutique is located.

The only boutique with signage in Chinese.  

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Watch Shopping and tagged Beijing Watches Wangfujing IWC Glashütte Audemars Piguet Peninsula Beijing Tudor Rolex Jaeger LeCoultre Top Watch Shopping 2013.

Watch Goodies: Patek Philippe Limoges Limited Edition Bonbonniere

Not very long ago, we came across this beautiful limited edition Patek Philippe box made out of Limoges porcelain from the 2000 collection. The box features a Patek Philippe pocket watch from 1928 that is currently situated at the Patek Philippe Museum collection. The pocket watch is made out of 18 carat yellow gold and is finely decorated with roses and other motifs.  

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Patek Philippe, Watch Goodies and tagged Patek Philippe Bonbonniere Limoges Patek 2013.

Insider: GMT Master ref. 1675. Over a Cup of Espresso.

Yesterday I decided to have a cup of espresso with a close watchlifestyler and friend of mine and talk about his GMT with black bezel insert. As most of us know, the GMT Master ref. 1675 was traditionally sold with two options of bezel inserts. The now called pepsi—blue and red— and the black one. While the black insert is less coveted among most savvy vintage Rolex watch collectors, we believe that a vintage GMT sporting one of this black bezel inserts is not only less common and rarely seen in the wild but also makes the watch look more sophisticated and easier to wear with any outfit or any occasion. 

This beautiful specimen is a mid 70's watch with a great creamy patina, silver date wheel with open nines and sixes, original oyster bracelet and a sharp solid black bezel insert. After 35 years of life, this watch is still very accurate and losing only 2 seconds a day. The dial is what experts consider to be a MK IV tritium dial correct for the time period with no visible blemishes or unstable lume. The tritium does not glow any more and the hands are in perfect condition with no corrosion or pitting. This watch has only seen two different owners in over 35 years that have kept it in great condition, regardless of being a daily wearer.

After close review of the watch, we can say that the black bezel insert is definitely more visually appealing to me than the classic coveted pepsi insert. When it comes to the GMT Master with black insert, we have seen that most collectors would prefer a faded black bezel—usually referred to as ghost insert— over one that is scratch-free or free of fading or discoloration. We actually prefer the solid jet black look of this one.

Now, are you a pepsi, black or ghost insert type of watchlifestyler?

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex and tagged Rolex GMT Master 1675 Rolex GMT Master Vintage 2013.