Kari Voutilainen Observatoire vs. Philippe Dufour Simplicity
Independents

Kari Voutilainen Observatoire vs. Philippe Dufour Simplicity

By Gary G · Mar 24, 2012 · 38 replies
Gary G
WPS member · Independents forum
38 replies4042 views1 photos
f 𝕏 in πŸ’¬ βœ‰ πŸ”—

Gary G's 2012 post offers a rare dual wrist shot featuring two titans of independent watchmaking: a Kari Voutilainen Observatoire and a Philippe Dufour Simplicity. This article not only showcases these exceptional timepieces but also initiates a compelling discussion on their comparative merits and the nuances of high-horology finishing.

38 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

What to say about these two and their relative merits?  To quote pplater's classic 1000th post comparo of the Simplicity against the Observatoire:

"...KV would be to PD what Picasso is to Rembrandt; what Usain Bolt is to Jesse Owens; what Koeniggggssssseeegggggg is to Ferrari; what Stag's Leap is to Ch. Latour; what Gehry is to Lloyd Wright."

Well put!  At a more prosaic level we have the eternal dilemmas such as Coke vs. Pepsi (of course we all know the answer to this one: Pepsi is for losers and always will be smile), fries vs. onion rings, and so on. 

Tough to decide!  Unless, of course, in keeping with the "Mad Friday" theme of this week's Wrist Scan (but one day late), you look down at your wrist and see that you have avoided the choice:


This photo also shows that it is possible to violate the old rule that he who owns two watches is never sure exactly what time it is.  A happy coincidence in this instance -- when things are going well, I guess it's best just to go with it.

Life could be worse!

Best,

Gary G



 

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
SI
sidneyc
Mar 24, 2012

You're a lucky man! If only you would pull that shirt sleeve up a little more and fit the Antiqua into the shot! I'm actually very interested to know from an owner's point of view, and not many have the priviledge to answer this, if you have the choice of one and only one of these, which will it be? (Probably one of the most commonly asked questions in general here). And I know it's a difficult question! Again congrats on the dynamic duo (or trio including the VH). Just these 3 are already a dre

PO
poseidon1964
Mar 24, 2012

it is time Gary to tell us your thoughts about the finishing .Remember Kari had to deal with pure brass much harder to work and finish than the german silver regards poseidon

TF
tfeldstein
Mar 24, 2012

That pair is what I want! You too are in the Bay Area?

MO
Mostel
Mar 24, 2012

I can't get enough of this stuff. Now that's a wrist shot, sir.

EN
Enriguf
Mar 24, 2012

As you probably know, I'm picking up my jaw from the ground after seeing your Observotoire, such a beautiful piece and it wears beautifully on your wrist! Although, I must say, the Dufour is absolutely dashing as well! I love the classical feel of the watch Wear them in the best of health! Best Regards, Enrique

GR
grigo
Mar 24, 2012

Thanks for sharing a picture of these two splendid watches. Best regards, George

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Independents forum with 38 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →