Independents

I’m fairly certain that I’ve narrowed it down between these two for my next large acquisition. Although it won’t happen for many months, maybe a year from now, it’s fun to think about. There is obviously no right answer. I love both of these makers and I’...  

I'm not as familiar with Bexei, but I love that gothic-cathedral look that some of the ones with floral engravings on the dial have. Make sure to avoid having that "where unique solutions are born" slogan written on the movement though. Finishing quality ... 

..I know that doesn't make sense. Besides, for me, a dress watch (and they are dress watches) should be thinner. If you don't mind me throwing a name into the mix, have you considered Klings? He makes watches that really appeal to me...they are hand-made ... 

I love Klings, but I’m not sure whether he is making watches anymore? JDN is amazing, but way over budget for me.

How are you familiar with them? Are you an owner?

I had my heart set on one of Rexhep's creations, and even tracked him down for lunch when he was in San Francisco a year and a half ago. But he wouldn't budge on any customization at that time (even though it was simple) so I had to very reluctantly bail ... 

belongs to me. I have found Aaron and Eszter a joy to deal with. First, they are genuine lovely people. Communications are quick and clear. Aaron is modest, too modest considering his skills. He is open to all opinions and discussions. When I visited them...  

Your very lucky to have this gorgeous watch in your collection imho. Excellent choice

Stunning up until now was my highest rating...it is now...BREATHTAKING! 😁

That is a truly stunning piece

And that backside deserves to be considered among the best!

Go for Kari,as fewer watches made a year does not equate to better or more exclusive. I prefer his design. Which one calls out to you more??

They both call out to me! I need to touch these in the metal to determine once and for all. Right now, the Bexei might call out to me slightly more, but I need to feel it on my wrist. My only concern is the height at 14mm.

Now and buy the other when funds permit? How long would it be to get to try on both watches?

Two amazing masterpieces and both so different . If it was my choice (i hope to get one or both too in the near future) i would go for the Bexei first , more unique and absolute stunning . If your budget is healthy again after you purchased it you maybe c... 

However, for me, it would be the Bexei because of 3 reasons which are 1. The amount of individualization availiable 2. the fact he is a one man show which is really cool 3. the very flamboyant nature of his watches. Having said that, there are a few big c... 

I have some ideas but nothing definitive yet for the Bexei. I really like his art deco style and I think that some type of parapet pattern of different types of metals would look cool on the dial. I agree with you too, I’m leaning toward Bexei.

The mixed metals is very baroque, which is something that I love! If it isn't baroque, dont fix it ;P I also think that having those french styled hands with gemstones for both the crown and numerals would be awesome! Like below the crown The crown the Ha...  

Why? It is you who determines what is most important—resale, value, customization, style, etc. However, we all like to seek counsel from the well-informed lot in this community. To that end, I do like Bescei. It’s different and you will likely not see ano... 

I just find it interesting to canvass the crowd of collectors and get varying opinions.

Is an important one and has been brought up before, but in this case I don’t believe a conclusion can be drawn since, to my knowledge, a Bexei has never been sold on the secondary market

People, such as Ant, who care less about market stability and more about artisanal design and top notch craftsmanship could easily overlook this part as I do with most watches but we have to also address this point since it is relevant for most others 😉 ... 

then you are approaching watch collecting as an investment and that will lead your route to PP or Rolex only. Collecting independents is about listening to your heart and you should be prepared to see values not hold beyond a price point.

Has no impact on my decisions. Collective tastes change over time. What is popular today may not be popular a decade from now. I always follow my heart

What I wanted to say is that we have to address certain points which come into play for many when considering certain pieces from Independents. I do understand and agree that choosing an Independent mostly has to do with patronizing an artisan and believi... 

Great comments Justin, considering both sides of an equation, value versus desirability is the correct way to do most anything in life. I understand purists but unless you’re filthy Rich you need to allocate funds accordingly. Have a great New Year Justin... 

I placed the order. But Voutilainen is still on my radar.

Have you chosen a design yet?

Involves investigating the feasibility of working with some materials that I’ve never seen before in a watch

Looking forward to seeing how it eventually turns out!

NT.

First I need to determine which case to go with. He now offers 38 or 42mm cases.

NT

congrats! Really excited to see how that one looks. I recall that you've also ordered the new Pascal Coyon (so have I); seems like you're going to have a pretty good couple of years of new indy acquisitions!

Yes, I am looking forward to that one as well. It will be a productive two years!