Mostel
4358
Independents under 10K (or thereabouts)
Gents and ladies,
I've been fortunate enough to own a couple really fine (i.e. expensive truly worth it) independent watches, which for the moment I won't mention so as to not color the thread too much...
Anyway, the appreciation and deepening interest in the Independent Spirit continues to flourish.
Now I'm fantasizing about the daily wearer in Independent form.
Some candidates are the obvious: Habring. Except for me, I am not quite as enamored as many are here with Habring--yet at the same time can easily appreciate what draws so many here to the House.
Nomos Tangomat. Inexpensive (relatively) and SO minimalist. (is this an Independent brand? Feels like.)
Sarpeneva. The KO is a fascinating watch. I do not know what it costs... is it in this realm?
the Ochs and Junior Tinta... so minimalist, original-ist and cool.
the MIH annual calendar.... so cool.... truly minimalist.
Did I mention I like minimalism? But I also love classic Swiss designs.
So what say you?
The 10K (ish) or less or slightly more independent watch? Which would you like to wear or --do you wear--daily?
In this case, I am especially interested in the best kept secret brand that may cost very little relatively. Do you know this brand that I don't?
I'm very open on this subject and feel I do not have a full grasp of what is available.
BELOW, IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE: HABRING, NOMOS, SARPANEVA, OCHS AND JUNIOR, MIH.
CREDITS: Nomos: Karl. MIH: Steve. Others, noted or from brand site. This message has been edited by Mostel on 2012-07-27 17:45:03
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Independents under 10K (or thereabouts)
Gents and ladies, I've been fortunate enough to own a couple really fine (i.e. expensive truly worth it) independent watches, which for the moment I won't mention so as to not color the thread too much... Anyway, the appreciation and deepening interest in...
Dornbluth and Sohn and PITA?
Not Swiss, but does it really matter these days? Wonderful collection of Indies you have. Best, and HAGWE Horo
That is a lovely strap you have with the MIH
May I inquire as to where you got it, material and color? As for Indies, Shauer (spelling) comes to mind. They have a one hand watch as well.
Grand Seiko Special Editions or Credor...
Understated, elegant, excellent quality of finish and definitely wearable every day. S
With all due respect ...
... but I don't think one can call World's second largest watch-producing company (topped only by Citizen) an "independent watchmaker" ... Regards, Marcus
Hi Marcus
I understand where you are coming from if you use the AHCI definition of an independent as in the words of Philippe Wurtz, President of the AHCI: "As an Académie, we want to pass along our knowledge and skills. We are Créateurs because our creative spirit...
Thought or two
Good suggestions above. As to Habring2/Sarpaneva: with Habring2 that you can bespoke your watch. Make it look more "classic" if you want (or not). For more "minimalist" consider a titanium case (see below). Whatever you want your dial to look like -- colo...
Thanks all
I hadn't thought of Credor. Interesting choice. BTW, none of the above watches are mine! Just visual examples.
Dornblueth and Sohn for sure....
Superlative watchmaking within your price parameters. For example, this 04.0 in RG... Or this 99.2... And so many others.... Good luck with the hunt. tempusfugit ...
Rainer Nienaber
Personally, I would not include Nomos with the "independents" that are subject of this forum. Being independent from one of the big luxury groups alone is certainly not a criterium, otherwise we would have to add Patek, Audemars Piguet, Ulysse Nardin, Rol...
Thanks Marcus
Marcus, Thanks for clarifying the segment Nomos occupies--I wan't sure. I was especially interested in the lower priced segment, in the service of 'the best kept secret' Independent watchmaker. Independent Spirit --outside of the best known, most revered ...
Habring or Dornbluth would be my choice......
I am really impressed with the craftsmanship and style of these makers. :) Though, I can only base these thoughts are photos and reports, as I have never had the pleasure of seeing in the flesh. Regards Tony PS loved the drag race...............but which ...