Antony, a respected member of the WatchProSite community, shares his personal journey acquiring the Ferdinand Berthoud FB3. His candid account offers a rare glimpse into the emotional and intellectual process behind investing in a haute horlogerie masterpiece. This article delves into why the FB3 stands out, not just as a technical marvel but as a watch that forms a unique bond with its owner.
My dear friends,
First, an apology, I received this masterpiece last November and have only just got round to making a posting. Sorry!
I first clapped eyes on it at the 2022 W&W. Oh God! I thought, how am I going to afford this one, how am I going to tell the Mrs, ,,to lie or tough it out and tell the truth. Decisions, decisions!
Naturally she asked..."Well, why this one, why do you need another watch, how many do you need, and what is so special about this one?" Well, at least one answerable question. I waxed lyrical about the flawless finish, the exquisite aesthetics, its rarity and, of course, the cylindrical hair spring. I got away with it!! She acquiesced and I placed the order.
Finally, last November, I took delivery. I was
deeply honoured that KFS presented it to me himself. Where does he get the energy to run the LUC biz (and others), do all the shows, sponsorship events, and find the time and patience to deal with plebeian civilian punters? He is one of the most extraordinary humans that I have ever had the privilege of meeting. Never mind how the other half (more like 0.05%) live, it's how they
are that is so breathtaking.
So, it's a great piece then. But it has more than that, there's a sort of alchemical magic about it. On the wrist it sort of 'attaches' itself to you, rather lie in the film Mask. Its not an unpleasant sensation.
You just get the feeling that it belongs there,,,,,permanently. Weird!
It raises the serious question of why one
needs any other watch. Good question!!
But then one has a look at them and remembers just why they are so special, but somehow, the FB3 is
extra special, if you get my drift.
Why did nobody warn me that watches are dangerously addictive?
Thanks for reading!
Antony
