Independents

O.K. I don't want to start anything up again....but I just wanted to share a couple pictures of my first independent timepiece.

While in discussion with Mr. Voutilainen I expressed that I would need a longer strap on my watch....it usually isn't a problem but I have 8 1/2 inch wrists and I always need a long gator strap or the watch will need to be worn on the very last hole leaving nothing left to tuck under the keepers...it isn't a good look or a safe feeling. This usually is a non issue on a high quality watch but I wanted to be upfront so I would not be dissapointed later.

From Mr. Voutilainen came a somewhat unexpected reply, actually totally unexpected reply....of course the longer strap will be no problem,  but would you like me to make you a larger watch? I could make an Observatoire that looks the very same overall as the 38 mm, but  in a 40mm platinum case?

WOW ! Uhm....sure...that sounds terrific. As Nike says "Just do it!"

The watch, imo, is the perfect size (For me)....and I am extremely pleased with the final results.

Cheers,

Rob

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And how great it must be to discuss and determine the size of the case itself with the watchmaker! Just one question though. I was looking closely at the second had and noticed ... naw, never mind! ;-)

Thanks for sharing the photos.

Best,

Jed

but that second hand really rocks!!

great watch Rob

that he did that.
Now you have the perfect watch for your wrist.
Congrats and enjoy this beauty.
It's a fantastic looking watch.
Geo

of Kari, the perfect relationship of the size of all parts now even extends to the person wearing it.
Wear in great health !

Don

It does indeed look perfect on your wrist. Thanks for sharing your beauty.
Wear it in the best of health!

Now that looks just - great! I only wish it were on MY wrist!

Plunging down several flights of stairs to the "BIG flaw" thread, which has been mercifully locked, I feel an ache of nostalgia about hats - like the Borsalino.

Why that? The interminable but recently terminated discussion about the seconds hand. Sure, it looks slightly off - in the pictures, including your own, but that gives it a certain jauntiness or flair, or debonair, outside of cold, raining sobriety. How does it look in motion? Any of those real hats that were being worn up into the 50's were not meant to be planted square on the head like a helmet. That little bit of "offness" on the part of the wearer gave it his own personal touch - as intended by the designer. Even John Steed - remember the black and white TV series Emma Peel? - could use his bowler to get him through almost any situation, depending on how he wore - or threw it.

No, don't throw around Kari's masterpiece! I just want to say, congratulations on being offered and getting the right "hat size" from Kari - what a guy! - and would be interested in how you respond to the crooked ??? seconds hand. That would be appreciated by all the hatless guys below, including me.

Superb watch, Donut!

This message has been edited by amerix on 2009-02-14 11:10:27 This message has been edited by amerix on 2009-02-14 11:15:54

 

and certainly don't want to start it up again. All I can say is that I read that thread just prior to receiving my Observatoire and was quite anxious. After receiving the watch and carefully examining it, including the use of a loupe, I am thouroughly delighted with the finished result....in all aspects.

 

Thanks to everyone for their kind words.

 

Rob

nt

Kari's answer caught you way off guard, but pleasantly so! Congrats on an awesome watch. REALLY nice!!

You have an unique piece !

Well, actually, It's not a surprise, when we know Kari but it's a wonderful gesture from him.

Congrats !

Fr.Xavier


This message has been edited by foversta on 2009-02-14 13:49:01

I always enjoy it when someone posts photos of their Observatoire.  It's a watch that I could look at for ages, and find something new to love about it each time.  I hope to be lucky enough to have my own one day!  Thanks also for sharing that great experience with Kari.  Isn't it nice when the experience of having something made for you is as great as the end product itself? 

Enjoy your new beauty!

Cheers,
Daos

Many Congratulations Rob
This is such a wonderful piece. I have tried asking Kari to make mine in to a 37 or 37.5mm but unfortunately, it can't be done.
But he very nicely suggested that he can make my lugs curve abit more which will make the watch fits better for my small wrist.
He is a true gentleman and a awesome watchmaker
I love Kari !!!
*CL

And made to fit, as well.

What more could any Horologist ask for.

Wear in good health.

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The 40mm size doesn't (to me) change the wonderful balance of the watch at all -- and it's great given the size of your wrist.  I particularly like the "all white" combo you chose with the PT case, silver dial, silver numerals and markers -- a great choice.  Welcome to the club!

By the way -- any chance of getting a photo or two of the back of the case to see how the 40mm differs from the 38?

Congrats again.

Best,

Gary G

Looks great and very much in proportion with the slightly larger case.  And the "all white" theme from the front of the watch continues on the rear as well.  Looks as if Kari did a particularly good job on the sinks for the screws, rounded edges on the plates, etc. -- it must really glow when seen in person!

Best,

Gary

With a larger case?

- SJX

NT

I'm very impressed with being able to special order the watch to size specifications. What other options did he allow for the watch?

e

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