Horological Meandering

Park
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Linde Werdelin Spidolite: Preliminary Impressions

A long-awaited Linde Werdelin Spidolite arrived yesterday, and I am pleased to share some prelimary observations and photographs.  44 numbered examples of this watch are to be produced.

Impression #1:  The watch is awesome!  Every aspect of the case and buckle is angular, modern, masculine, and cool-looking.

Impression #2:  It fits beautifully.  The lugs span a slightly shorter distance than a standard-sized Offshore, and the case is not nearly as thick as that of an Offshore.  It will fit wrists on which an Offshore hangs over the sides.  The rubber strap is flexible and beautifuly integrated with the bracelet.

Impression  #3:  It is light as a feather.  The skeletonized  titanium case and buckle, the skeletonized dial, and the rubber strap all contribute to this remarkable lightness.

Impression #4:  While I am not competent to comment on the finish of a movement, particularly one touched by Svend Andersen, I do see that the blue gold rotor is an eye-catching and special touch.

Impression #5:  Linde Werdelin may be based in the U.K., but the case of this watch is in the tradition of the great Danish designers.  It is functional, light, great-looking, and austere. 

Impression #6:  If the bead-blasted finish of the titanium is like others I have owned, this is not a watch one will want to have come into contact with metal or other hard surfaces.  In my experience with other brands, it is all too easy to remove the surface texture, leaving a shiny scratch that can only be removed by refinishing the entire part.

I'll let the photos do the rest of the communicating on this great piece, and I'd refer anyone who wants to learn more or see better photographs to the Baselworld 2009 post by Marcus Hanke.

I can't wait for Linde Werdelin to make a 12-hour chronograph in a similar case!

Park