Dress chronograph is an acquired taste, a love that takes time to develop. I have never seen somebody who initiated his/her collection with a dress chronograph. A "normal" chronograph (I'm looking at you, Daytona)? Sure, that's common. But, say, a Patek Ref. 5170? No, that's never a "first serious watch" candidate. Nothing to do with affordability here but rather, people only tend to slowly, if they ever do, gravitate towards the more delicate, sophisticated pieces after spending some time with their more versatile counterparts as they mature as collectors. And for many, to own a serious dress chronograph is to gain an instant badge of approval in the eyes of fellow aficionados. They're some of the most elegant and romantic timepieces one could possess. And there's nothing quite like the experience of looking at a well finished chronograph movement (if the watch comes with a display case back). For all these reasons, dress chronographs from across eras are categorically going up in value. Well, except perhaps one. The sole subject of today's article, from none other than one of the Swiss "Holy Trinity" manufactures - Vacheron Constantin. And today, we go deep on the Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques Chronograph Ref. 47101/47111.
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Overview, and a Little Journey of Personal SentimentsEver since A. Lange & Söhne released the first ever 1815 Chronograph in white gold and with a black dial in early June this year, my feeling towards the piece has been on what could be niftily described as a roller coaster ride. My first reaction to the piece when my friend showed its picture to me was something like, "oh, that's a first generation 1815 Chronograph. Beautiful, no doubt. What about it?". Completely ignorant of the true identity of the watch in my friend's picture, my somewhat nonchalant remark was shut down instantly. "Dude, this literally just came out 30 minutes ago. It's a new release!", said my friend in a fierce manner, as if I've committed some sort of blasphemy. Let's just say the pulsation meter totally fooled me.
Yup it's that time of the year again that sees flocks of visitors, business executives, bloggers and pretty much anybody with a tangential interest in the watch business heading to Basel for the biggest, baddest watch show in the world, aptly dubbed the Baselworld. For those who might not be familiar with this world class trade show, it helps to understand that a trip to Baselworld is kind of like the horology equivalent to a pilgrimage to Mecca. You will get to go hands-on with the newest creations from watch brands - from Patek Philippe to Edifice - from all over the world. You will get to see legendary industry figures and collectors whom you though only exist on Instagram. You get the idea.
And just like any previous Baselworld showing, Baselworld 2017 has proven to be a blast. With the dust well settled, it's about time we recount our memories of the event. Of the slew of new pieces unveiled, here are Lengbeau's top 5 picks (not in any particular order), and we can't wait to explain to you why these watches in particular speak to us. What's more, we'll also name new pieces that made us go "meh." for a myriad of reasons, be it a sheer creative laziness, or simply a head-scratching idea. Let's check them out. In this episode of Weekend Brunch Report we are back with a good variety of market finds, ranging from a bad ass diver to some dress watches in precious metal and of course, our seldom affordable, always jaw-droppingly beautiful Unicorn Find.
Yes, you know what I'm gonna say next: let's check them out! Over the past week, Lengbeau has come across a couple of watches that are interesting, beautiful and representing good value. Since sharing is caring and Christmas is around the corner, it's only correct we share what have amazed us in the hope of amazing you too. It's the weekend again which means Lengbeau's very own Weekend Brunch Report is LIVE! Let's check it out.
It is truly an exciting time of the year to be in Hong Kong if you happen to be a watch enthusiast.
For the third time, Hong Kong is the host to the haute holorgerie (high horology) exhibition Watches & Wonders, which is to take place in Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 30 September to 3 October. A strong lineup of 12 renowned watchmakers (mostly under the Richemond Group) would be flexing their engineering muscles to showcase their best products to the keen eyes of the visitors. Amongst the exhibitors stands one lone watchmaker from Saxony, Germany: A. Lange & Söhne ("A.Lange"). For readers new to this brand, Lengbeau will cover its history in our Legend 12 series (spoilerrr!). Today we will be focusing on a specific brand new model to be released by the German company in this year's Watches & Wonder: The 1815 Chronograph. |
About LengbeauLengbeau cultivates appreciation for the eternal beauty of mechanical watches, for our everyday dudes and ladies. Archives
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