The joy of going Independent

Two years ago when I first laid my eyes on my friends Kari Voutilainen Observatoire I vowed that it would be mine one day. This day has come and I simply cannot express the joy of finally owning this wonderful creative work. I’ve always felt that independent watches exude a magnetic presence that draw me to them. It is also a feeling that I get from vintage watches, but only from a very few modern watches (and it fades after a few months of ownership).

I’m equally not surprised why this watch won the 2007 the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in the Men's Watch category. Part of the appeal of owning an Independent watch is that you get to share and understand the values of the watchmaker. Kari Voutilainen has always appealed to me as he is a perfectionist and one of the true custodians of Haute Horologerie. Production is always limited and now with around 13 staff he aims to produce a maximum of 40 pieces per year. Owning a vintage observatory grade chronometer is an added bonus.

I’ve only had this watch for a few days and its certainly is one of my favourite wearers. The platinum case gives this 38mm Observatoire a feeling of substance and elegance.

This watch has taken me back to the passion and excitement of my early collecting days.

Regards
Rene

💰9 Marketplace Listings for Kari Voutilainen›

Congrats

By: Quan : April 8th, 2012-16:51

and thanks for sharing nice pix and your thought on KV......am still waiting for the D day Cheers Mate

Congratulations! Is this to say...

By: pplater : April 8th, 2012-17:09

...that the watch will stay 'down under'? Enjoy (as if you need to be told!). Cheers, pplater.

Congrats Rene! ne of the signature indies

By: ArthurSG : April 8th, 2012-17:30

to have!

Congratulations on fulfilling your dream.

By: grigo : April 8th, 2012-23:07

I admire that stuck to your guns and were able to convince your friend to part with such a beautiful watch. Wear in good health. Best regards, George

Fantabulous!

By: Gary G : April 9th, 2012-00:38

Many, many congratulations! So wonderful to see a splendid piece like this find what is obviously a very, very good home with someone who admires the watch, the maker, and the craft. The other thing that really strikes me is that sometimes you need to tru...

Congrats Rene!!

By: sidneyc : April 9th, 2012-02:39

Big big congrats on getting the KV and having it stay Down Under!! Enjoy the beauty! Hope to see it in person one day! The brown dial is gorgeous!!! I'm normally not particularly attracted to brown dials but only two watches make the exception. One is Hab...

Certainly one that stands out! Congratulation

By: ztirual : April 9th, 2012-04:23

I am one of those that have tried keeping an eye one all the various Obesrvatoires published on tjis and other fora and this one is one of the most remarkable for being platinum and exhibiting this rare copper gold dial. I only know of one other of Voutil...

Big congratualtions to you. (nt)

By: Ronald Held : April 9th, 2012-04:45

Never tire of seeing that one....

By: Darren : April 9th, 2012-06:59

Congratulations on acquiring such a masterpiece. I'd have a hard time getting that KV off my wrist. Wear it in good health. Darren

CONGRATS!! DO share more pictures! Its BEAUTIFUL! [nt]

By: Ancienne Le Brassus : April 9th, 2012-11:12

No message body

Congratulations

By: Mostel : April 9th, 2012-12:18

This is a very, very special watch, among the most fine a collector can ever own, and to be cherished and quietly admired and held for generations. Kari really has his own style.

Huge congratulations..

By: hans_jorgen_1968 : April 9th, 2012-13:51

... so modern and still a big vintage touch with the dial, hands and case Nice "killer" Best Hans

Very nice dial color...

By: Jacky : April 9th, 2012-21:16

Congratulations on such a masterpiece. Very nicely detailed and that blue circle on the hands is just superb...

Well done

By: RJW : April 10th, 2012-03:27

So glad to see this one in your possession now. As its from a friend, its all the more special. Its a stunning combination. Regards, Richard.

A little bit hard to read all the comments...

By: tony p : April 10th, 2012-04:19

...but I'm still convinced that it really was time to move on, and I'm very glad that the watch went to a good owner and that I will most likely still get to see it again from time to time. Congrats Rene! Cheers Tony P

Only you can judge

By: Gary G : April 10th, 2012-18:52

...when it is time to move on! I've sold a few (the RG PSM Shimoda #1 comes to mind) where I've had second thoughts, but all in all if your gut is telling you that it's time it's probably a good idea to listen. Onward to new treasures, I hope! Best, Gary ...

Independents