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sham1 · 2022-06-15T23:57:34Z

Explore sham1's journey to acquiring the Charles Frodsham Double Impulse. Discover why this independent watchmaker's timepiece is a collector's grail, with insights on its design, wearability, and the unique appeal of its long waiting list.

sham1

WPS member · Independents forum

105 replies18045 views4 photos

In this insightful post, sham1 shares his journey to acquiring the Charles Frodsham Double Impulse watch, highlighting the brand's unique appeal and his personal connection to the timepiece. His reflections on the extended waiting period and the watch's design elements offer a compelling look into the world of independent haute horology. sham1's perspective on the Frodsham as a potential 'exit watch' sparks a broader discussion among collectors about the pursuit of horological grails.

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I am actually quite happy and content with my current small collection but last year I decided to finally place an order for the Charles Frodsham Double Impulse watch. When I say 'finally', that is because I had first dropped by at the world's only Frodsham shop at St James in London in 2018 when the watch was just launched and the waiting list was no more than nine months. Fast forward 2022, the waiting list is now 8 years! Well, that may sound like a long time but with a current annual production of 12 watches, that simply equates to an order book of just under 100 watches. My order last year is scheduled to be fulfilled in 2027, a time frame that does not bother me because waiting for a watch makes me appreciate it that much more when I finally receive it. In addtion, it allows me time to save for it!

I am currently in the UK and decided to drop by yesterday to meet the ever pleasant Richard Stenning, co owner of Frodsham. Perhaps my wrist has grown but the 42.2mm watch definitely felt a lot better than it did 4 years ago, The thickness of the case at 10mm makes it more wearable in my opinion than its rivals from Voutilainen and Smith. Many buy a Frodsham due to its movement and I will not deny that the movement is breathtaking. But for me, it is the dial that wins me over - the combination of the arabic numerals, the blued hands which are of equal length and the recessed seconds counter makes this dial something quite special.

Is there such a thing as an exit watch? Could this be my exist watch?! Well, this watch would be a worthy contender ifb there ever was one. Thank you for reading!

I will probably opt for a blue strap on mine

Just right thickness wise

The movement fills up the case back well

all 4 metals on display

Key Points from the Discussion

The Frodsham Double Impulse, despite its 42.2mm case, wears exceptionally well due to its short lugs and 10mm thickness, making it elegant and comfortable even for those who typically prefer smaller watches.
The brand's understated aesthetic, combined with its historical significance and the provenance of its work, makes the Charles Frodsham Double Impulse a compelling choice for collectors who value substance over overt pomp.
The extended waiting period for a highly sought-after, special timepiece can enhance the appreciation and enjoyment of the ownership journey, transforming the wait into a cherished part of the experience.
The concept of an 'exit watch' is often debated among collectors, with many finding that the pursuit of new timepieces, whether vintage or contemporary, is an ongoing journey rather than a finite destination.
When considering the Charles Frodsham Double Impulse, collectors face a choice between Roman and Arabic numerals, with the decision often influenced by whether the watch is intended for dressier occasions or a more versatile aesthetic.
For some collectors, achieving an 'exit watch' means reaching a point where they can appreciate other watches without feeling the need to acquire them, finding contentment within their existing collection.

The Discussion

sham1

Jun 16, 2022

Thank you for saying so!

I could not agree more.

Mr.Gatsby

Jun 16, 2022

Sham I’m with you

I ordered one and THIS, is my exit watch. I can safely say enough is enough. This is a special watch and will go down in the history pages. Best Gatsby

jp884

Jun 16, 2022

I have an expected delivery date of 2027/2028 as well. Really looking forward to this one.

sham1

Jun 16, 2022

Well done!

This will be a test of our patience and resolve but it will be well worth it.

sham1

Jun 16, 2022

I am glad I am in good company Gatsby!

I think also the fact thtat this watch is likely to be the costliest watch in my collection would also warrant it to be my exit watch. There would be nothing left for anything else!

Mr.Gatsby

Jun 16, 2022

Likewise, the costliest watch I will ever buy

But as you say Stenning is a really cool fella. When one truly understands the provenance of their work and the historical significance of the watch I think departing with this much money would make sense lol. Also, in a time where aesthetics are overly stated, I’ve truly come to appreciate Frodsham for not being pompous in what they do. It’s deceiving simple, but we know it’s not. Best Gatsby

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