Grail Watch Acquisition: Collector's Story

Cozmopak · 2023-07-24T20:01:57Z

Explore Cozmopak's journey to acquiring the Kari Voutilainen Chronomètre 27, a true independent horology masterpiece. Discover collector insights.

Cozmopak, a respected voice in the independent watch collecting community, shares a deeply personal acquisition story that challenges the very notion of a 'grail watch.' His journey to acquiring the Kari Voutilainen Chronomètre 27 offers a rare glimpse into the discerning choices collectors make, often diverging from mainstream hype to pursue horological artistry that truly resonates. This article explores the nuanced reasons behind his decision and synthesizes the community's insights on this exceptional timepiece.

I don't believe in "grail" watches, as tastes are capricious and what one day the heart covets, the next day it rejects. But the Chronometre 27 by Kari Voutilainen has been a watch that my heart has coveted for years, and I have finally added it to my collection. It is the closest thing to a grail that I have yet attained.

Originally, I was going to pursue a Roger Smith timepiece and am currently still on his waitlist, but his prices have risen beyond my comfort level. I also find the brand's focus on auction results very distasteful.

And so, by rejecting a Smith, new opportunities became possible.

Hence, the Chronometre 27, an absolutely exquisite example of high independent horology, in my very humble opinion.

Key Points from the Discussion

The acquisition of Cozmopak's Chronomètre 27 was facilitated by a fellow collector who saw his 'want to buy' post and connected him with a friend looking to sell, highlighting the power of community in independent watch collecting.
The Chronomètre 27 is highly regarded among collectors for its unique sapphire dial and represents one of Kari Voutilainen's most interesting creations, with its value often appreciated over time.
The Chronomètre 27 utilizes true Longines caliber 360 movements, not merely ébauches, which are competition-grade calibers. The exact production numbers of both the caliber 360 and Kari Voutilainen's Chronomètre 27 are known to a select group of passionate collectors, with online information often being inaccurate.
Several collectors share Cozmopak's sentiment regarding Roger W. Smith, expressing distaste for the brand's perceived focus on auction results and monetary value over horological craftsmanship, leading some to reconsider their pursuit of a Smith timepiece.
The scarcity of the Chronomètre 27 makes finding one for sale a rare occurrence, underscoring the significance of Cozmopak's swift acquisition.

The Discussion

VinnieD

Jul 24, 2023

congrats on a very special piece!

but it is a sin to post its dial without a shot of the movement ! Is it still in production?

Cozmopak

Jul 24, 2023

No it is not!

I'll take some photos of the movement soon. Kari used new old stock Longines 360 ebauches, which are competition grade calibres. There are very few to begin with. I believe he made a total of around 20 examples circa 2008.

ztirual

Jul 31, 2023

Congratulations. I am also a huge fan.

Not really ébauches, Rather true cal. 360 in their double casing. The vast majority of those cased in by Voutilainen have not been presented to observatory competitions. The exact production number of cal. 360 is known. So is the total number of chronometer 27 made by Kari. You are not far off but it is not 20 pieces. For further in depth information you will need to read the article published on SJX- a must read.

Cozmopak

Jul 31, 2023

How many 360s were made?

ztirual

Aug 15, 2023

I think it is good to keep that information secret. It is good that these wonderful pieces keep some of their secrets. I can assure you that it is a very rare caliber, not as rare as a cal. 30GD but very rare none-the-less.

And its production number is only known by a handful of passionate collectors of Observatory chronometers. As far as the numbers of Kari's chronometer 27. Do not trust information posted on the net. Not even specialised sellers... I hope you will enjoy your newly acquired beautiful chronometer 27.

Cozmopak

Aug 15, 2023

I’m curious how you have come to attain this knowledge

That you purport to hold secret.

Key Points from the Discussion

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