Psychotic offers a unique and entertaining mini-review, meticulously weighing and examining the presentation cases of various luxury watches. This unconventional approach provides a fascinating look into an often-overlooked aspect of watch ownership, sparking a discussion among collectors about the perceived value and quality of these accessories.
Sorry folks, my 5712 still isn't back yet.
Instead of releasing the conclusion to my 4 part study prematurely (I'm still missing a few pics from my PP), I've decided to have a little fun with my scales.
So here's a mini-review of watch cases that came with each piece!
All weightings are case and cushion only. No manuals or other materials are included.
Cases are ordered from lightest to heaviest.
Rolex Datejust
Measurements: 14 cm x 10 cm
Outside material: green Rolex leather
Inside material: light, plywood-like material
Weight: 191 g
The case is rather light and cheap feeling. The cushion doesn't even fit the watch. The included card holder is a nice touch though.
Rolex GMT Master II
Measurements: 15.1 cm x 11.2 cm
Outside material: plastic and plastic simulated wood
Inside material: soft mint green felt
Weight: 427 g
Now this Rolex case feels more substantial. The quality feels more in line with expectancy levels. The cushion has a thoughtful design that can cater to the length of the watch bracelet and still feel snug.
Bvlgari Diagono Calibro 303
Measurements: 13 cm x 13.2 cm
Outside material: cushioned plastic
Inside material: soft beige felt
Weight: 454 g
Compared to the Rolex GMT Master II case, the insides of the Bvlgari case is softer. The insides of the latter's case is cushioned as well. While the housing of the case can be removed on the GMT's, no such exploration can be had from the Bvlgari's case.
The outside of the case is a large version of Bvlgari's jewelry boxes.
Mont Blanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph MB R200
Measurements: 15.8 cm x 15.6 cm
Outside material: smooth layer of cushioned plastic
Inside material: soft white felt
Weight: 669 g
Wow, I love the feel of this case! The outside feels so good to the touch and the insides are very soft - like a fluffy white pillow! Grime and dust is unfortunately magnified on the white, however. If only the watch itself felt this good...
Porsche Design Flat 6 P6340 Chronograph
Measurements: 22.4 cm x 14 cm
Outside material: hard plastic
Inside material: lightly cushioned black plastic
Weight: 799 g
A futuristic design much in line with the sporty nature of the watch itself.
Sharp corners and a felt bottom.
Disappointed by the poor wear of this case.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Measurements: 15.4 cm x 15.2 cm
Outside material: solid wood
Inside material: beige plastic cushion
Weight: 929 g
Ah, now we get to the solid wood heavy-weights. The quality of the case is what you would expect from a watch of such high calibre. Like the Rolex GMT's case, the carriage of the case can be taken apart and spare links can be hidden underneath.
The case has a felt bottom.
Patek Philippe Nautilus Moonphase (5712)
Measurements: 23.4 cm x 14.7 cm
Outside material: dark solid wood
Inside material: soft cream felt
Weight: 1600 g
Now this is what I'm talkin' about! The PP cases just ooze luxury. Even the insides have a particular smell to it that is not shared by any of my other watch cases.
The cream coloured felt inside is of particularly high quality.
The PP cases have 3 hinges at the back compared to the 2 of the AP's. Also, notice that the AP's case is slightly taller.
Patek Philippe Aquanaut (5167)
Measurements: 23.2 cm x 15,2 cm
Outside material: brown solid wood
Inside material: soft cream felt
Weight: 1823 g
Interesting, the lighter watch yields a heavier case than the Nautilus'.
The Aquanaut's case is on the right. Slightly larger and lighter in colour.
The feet design on the Nautilus case is rounded in angles...
...while the Aquanaut's case is at right angles.
Another difference is the logo on the metal buckle. This one is on the outside of the Nautilus' case...
...while the Aquanaut's case has no such logo.
=========================================
I would be interested to know the name of the wood used in both the PP and AP watch cases. Anyone know?
=========================================
This message has been edited by psychotic on 2014-03-15 04:21:22 
