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A QAD comparison of the Medicus and the Saltarello Limited Editions
Feb 17, 2003,02:14 AM - (view entire thread)


Feb 17 03:

I did not previously like the Medicus very much, based only on pictures and the fact that the base movement used is not Lemania's most highly regarded chronograph movement.

However, after getting to know two versions intimately well - a platinum skeleton version, and a rg solid dial version - my feelings have changed completely. The dial finishing and design carry the day, and the case, which I didn't like so much in pictures, actually works quite well on my wrist (boney 6 1/2" circumference)








Here is one of the platinum skeleton version - quite rare, LE 30 pieces -






The movement is robust, and finished to VC standards, should be reliable with decent precision.

Funny thing is, I also did not like the Saltarello at first either, in pictures or on static display. But get one into your hands, though, and try it on your wrist, and the feelings change COMPLETELY. The case design and finish are incredible, with lots of subtlety and detail that are lost on casual observation or in pictures. And again, it fits my wrist very well.

From a movement standpoint, the base movement is the 1120, widely considered the greatest full rotor automatic ever created, and one of the all time great movements, period. On this wonderful base is fit the retrograde minute and jump hour complication, which are really cool and in the way both complications are laid out on the dial, are very legible and easy to use, AND add to the aesthetics of the design.










For me personally, I would pick the Saltarello for (to me)


  • a superior case design,
  • a superior movement base,
  • more interesting complications (though not as practical as a chronograph)


However, I would warn you that retrograde and jump hour complications generally are more fragile and finicky than a chronograph complication, especially if you plan to use one EVERY day. It is fine for daily office wear, for example, but I would be hesitant to wear one during exercise or strenuous physical activity.

Regards,

TM
ThomasM@ThePuristS.com

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