Ming 17.03 Ultra Blue: Vintage Archive Shot

Key Points from the Discussion

• The Ming 17.03 Ultra Blue, despite its accessible price point, featured a heat-blued titanium case, a finishing technique typically found in much higher-end independent brands like De Bethune at the time.
• The absence of a second hand on certain Ming 17.06 models, leaving a visible rotating arbor, can be a significant aesthetic detractor for some collectors, impacting their long-term enthusiasm for the watch.
• Despite owning multiple Ming timepieces, some collectors find they don't wear them as frequently as other watches in their collection, suggesting that even highly sought-after independent pieces may not always achieve daily wear status.
• The 17.03 Ultra Blue was a highly limited edition of only 25 pieces, showcasing Ming Theon's early experimentation with unique case finishing techniques.
• The discussion highlights the diversity within Ming's 17.XX series, with collectors sharing various models, including a burgundy piece, demonstrating the brand's range in dial and case treatments.