Independents
Walidk's reflective post delves into the profound connections forged within the luxury watch community, particularly through the lens of independent watchmaking. He highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie that define WatchProSite, exemplified by his decade-old memory of meeting Aaron Becsei and fellow collector Ant. Walidk's narrative underscores how these relationships elevate the hobby beyond mere acquisition, transforming it into a shared journey of passion and discovery.
I rarely post, but I was just reading an online interview with a wonderful purist and kindred spirit whom a lot of us know here as Ant talking about his Bexei. It got me to think about the relationships we make along the way in this mad hobby of ours and the trust and mutual respect many of us have here for each other, which is why this place continues to be a home to many of us - even the lurkers like myself.
The interview took me more than a decade back to when I first met Aaron Becsei at a gtg where Aaron was planning to deliver one of his watches to Ant in person - coincidentally it was also the first time I met Ant. That day remains fresh in my mind not only because I met a number of members here in person for the first time but also because I had such a wonderful and passionate conversation with Aaron talking me through how he collaborated with Ant on this watch: it was truly a labor of love for both gentlemen. Although Aaron’s designs may not be for everyone, the workmanship is certainly top-notch and is a reminder that there is always something for everyone if you patiently look hard enough for something off the beaten path.
I am very excited for Ant on his upcoming project with Aaron - Ant, if you are reading this please post pictures when possible! I guess its that kind excitement of being brought along for the journey and being happy for what a friend is getting, which is something that we see a lot here and can relate to.
Ultimately, its Ant’s parting words in that interview that really hit home about this lovely community of ours: “we have convivial get-togethers where we ogle each other’s watches and enjoy different viewpoints and life experiences. I always leave with a warm feeling of good fellowship and an evening well spent.”
With this pandemic more or less (hopefully!) behind us, here’s to many more of these convivial and in-person get-togethers where wonderful conversation, magnificent food, and lovely watches abound such as the below:
Best,
Walid
Note to mods: wasn’t sure if this was more of an independents or horological meandering post, but figured with the independent angle it may have a good place here but please feel free to move it as appropriate.
That journey and to communicate with them is why i love these indies a lot .
Wonderful. Ant’s watch was the one that inspired me to commission a piece from Bexei. We are currently working on a very exciting project.
It is very personal with indies and you feel like you are on a journey together. I am also so happy to see some of the indies getting the recognition they deserve. Its been a long time coming. All the best, Walid
Based on the pieces I have handled, Bexei's work is nothing short of impressive. The attention to detail and skill is, to me at least, pretty amazing and at the top of the game. His design aesthetic is admittedly not for everyone (including myself), but his movements and their finishing are sure to please many of us here. Congratulations on getting a commission underway! Hopefully you can share more with us here as it progresses. All the best, Walid
That is what I’m having done for myself. It’s a gorgeous stepped case design. I’m also having it made in 38mm, which in my opinion, is a timeless proportion.
I am craving a shaped case and movement combo that is a bit off the beaten path. L&H’s Georg was something I thought about but in person didn’t get that feeling. Maybe this might do the trick. Thanks for the suggestion! All the best, Walid
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