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Bernard Cheong shares a unique narrative, juxtaposing the high horology of Greubel Forsey with the rugged utility of Luminox, all tied to a deep-sea submersible expedition. His post delves into the passion behind watch collecting and the unexpected journeys a timepiece can undertake. This article offers a distinctive perspective on the emotional connection collectors have with their watches, regardless of price point or complexity.
YES...surely you will not be comparing a tool watch with another watch, made to demonstrate what is now possible.
With computers.
CNC cutters.
Sophisticated programmes to aid calculations.
All and more.
But HANDWORK is unavoidable, even if one tried.
ie using hands free work to make a watch that is worthy of culture or any form of art or the best of what is possible.
I sat next to both Greubel and Forsey in 2011 as we three discussed the contestants of the GPHH.
They did not know me as well as Max or Vianney...but I did keep my word in 2006, when I told them I would buy the Invention 1.
This watch has EVERYTHING to do with the humble Luminox watch, because of passion.
Scott Cassel is passionate about the sea.
So passionate, that this expert in conservation had invited me, a total mad man of passion, to ride in his submersible.
Little did anyone know...but I chose a watch to accompany me.
I was wearing a SEIKO diver, but the REAL watch I wanted to bring, and did bring...was the Greubel Forsey invention piece 1.
Because I know, that this incredible machine..the Greubel Forsey, will NEVER ever ride in a submersible again.
Not in history.
I just had to combine these two passionate items together.
Luminox had sponsored a submarine.
I admire them for that.
In fact, I bought a Luminox Scott Cassell to remind me of this trip.
But enough of the sea.
I am sure you are wondering why I have gone into classical looking watches.
Err...no.
I have simply taken out an old friend, the GF Invention 1 from 2007 for a ride.
In the course of that, I also saw my old friends...my old Patek 5059 was one.
But although made in the same era, Patek was not up to the level of the mighty GF yet.
Anyway, this was an entry level Patek to be fair.
My Greubel Forsey was worn and used VERY often.
Being in platinum, it showed no wear.
After 7 years, the watch looks brand new.
It still draws attention.
It is still possibly the best watch I own.
I actually bought the watch because of the engraving on the back!!!
How silly can a consumer be?
In 2007, I was also writing about Dufour.
And GF is the ONLY brand, besides DeBethune and Parmigiani that I felt was a bargain in 2007 even at that price.
The finish is comparable or even better than a Dufour's to my humble, under trained eyes..chuckles.
But I love big watches.
The weight alone is awesome...and my typical serial number.
Bought under an assumed identity.
The beauty of the Mrc Newson is there, and it was not about watchmaking.
It could be an investment...I already enjoy it.
GF is all about top end finish.
It is a shame that not many will be seen on wrists, let alone forums.
Now..this is VALUE for money!!!!!
After you think of the IP1.
These are the current watches that I feel are simply investment grade.
No matter how silly it sounds.
I use them.
I wear them.
I have enjoyed them.
I hope to share my other watches too...and I also hope I am not offending anyone. These are simply too ostentatious.
Trust me, I buy SEIKOS and CASIOS.
De Bethune DB28 Reference DB28
The DB28 represents De Bethune's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie, featuring the brand's distinctive floating lug design within a 42.6mm case format. This reference showcases the manufacture's technical capabilities through its extended power reserve specification and proprietary movement caliber.
The 42.6mm titanium case houses the manual-winding caliber DB2115, delivering a 120-hour power reserve. The silver dial is protected by sapphire crystal, while the characteristic floating lugs define the case architecture. Water resistance extends to 30 meters, and the watch is completed with a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors focused on independent Swiss manufacture capabilities and contemporary case design. The DB28 represents De Bethune's technical approach to manual-winding movements, particularly notable for collectors interested in extended power reserve complications. Production commenced in 2010, positioning this reference within the brand's modern catalog offerings.
Ur collection is like treasure bro ! :)
On a submarine voyage.
Thamks Jeff, The most amazing thing is that I managed to build that stash over 30 years just by saving and spemding very carefully. I guess it came down to a fact that I always seemed to buy the LEAST loved watches, that became loved later.
Ronald, I must have been crazy!! The inside was full of sharp corners!!! And I had to jump from one boat to the sub!!! But I think it will be the worlds first n only tourbillon to travel in a sub!
and I must admit the IP1 is one of my favourite GF's of all time. They have now become more and more complicated but this one just focuses on one thing, the stunning double tourbillon... beautiful! I like the red strap too, looks really cool. I know of a few tourbillons (non GF's) that have actually already gone down in mini-subs... as they were on my wrist! Haven't decided yet which watch it will be in a few weeks time but am open to loans or gifts of a GF to test one to 1,000 feet? ;-) Thanks
A story per watch you could write a massive tome that would be desirable to own.
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