I remember when I first became aware of AP about 15 years ago, I just graduated college and started my career, at the time the watches I had been saving for where in the realm of a Rolex sub, a Navitimer, maybe a PAM Logo, but as I got deeper into the hobby I became obsessed with two pieces outside my price range, the PAM 233 with its perfect proportions, super domes crystal and fantastic 8 day manual wind movement, and the beast offshore, the black dial offshore on a bracelet, they both cost about 15k at the time, or about 6 months salary for me. I couldn’t fathom who would spend that much on a single watch, and tried in vain to put them out of my head.
As time went on the allure of these watches was so strong I decided to just go for it, I remember my shock when I first for this offshore, the combination of bewilderment, joy, and guilt that I can relive every time I put it on to this day.
I have been fortunate to acquire a few more special pieces since then as I advanced in life, but that feeling really can’t be replicated once the barrier has been broken.
As we approach the new year, I hope 2022 brings me and you all much joy and wonderful memories.