Independents

I am officially in awe with my latest treasure.  Roger Smith presented me with a piece of history.  The Daniels Anniversary watch is history.

The watch is simply breath taking.  Although I have had a picture of the prototype on my desk top for at least a year and a half - ever since I had the opportunity to visit Roger on the Isle of Man - the watch, in the metal, is more than I could ever have imagined.

The crowning moment of our trip to the Isle of Man, one that i will always treasure, was when my wife and I met George Daniels.  At the time we had no idea that he would pass away 11 days later.  In speaking with Roger, apparently my wife and i may have been one of the last non-family members and associates to speak to George.  There is a symmetry that I now have number 35 of 35!

Sir George and Roger have created a true masterpiece.  When seen, the watch cannot be mistaken for anything but a Daniels with its layout and balanced sub-dials with yellow gold chapter rings.  The different patterns of guilloche are beautiful.  

On the reverse side, the movement is a sight to behold.  It firstly is a ground up movement, never to be repeated after this series is completed.  A coaxial, true, but one that has been modified by Roger with the approval of Dr. Daniels.  The movement is a testament to British watchmaking - conservative, well done and beautifully understated.  

I must admit to face fatigue as I can't stop from smiling when I think of the watch, much less look at it on my wrist or on the counter.  

Thank you George and Roger.  This is and will always be a piece that will be treasured, and carry with it the memories of a special friendship and a special meeting in time. 

Mitch

  login to reply