Glashütte Original

As some of you may know, I've been agonizing over the decision between a PanoInverse XL and a Panograph for GO # 2 (GO # 1 is a Sport Evo Chronograph.)

This last Friday afternoon my AD advised he had just received a new SS PI fresh from GO and still wrapped up in plastic and that I had first dibs. Accordingly, my better half and I made the two hour trip up from Oro Valley to Scottsdale on Saturday morning to get some time up close and personal with the PI. As much time as I have spent admiring Jocke's and others' photos, I had only seen an SS PI in person for a few minutes previously - not enough time for me to make a firm decision. I figured this was crunch time and I would either end up loving it enough to leave with it or, if not, would be focusing on the Panograph. Well, the photo is a bit of a giveaway - obviously I went with the PI. 

Why? There is just so much detail to admire and the colours so well balanced, sophisticated, and complementary that I could not overcome its mystical charms. In fact, as I reflect now, the face of the PI makes me think of many of the various steps seen on the GO manufactory tour: Concept development and design; making plates, cocks, impossibly small screws; spark eroding the swan necks; ribbing; tin polishing; galvanizing; hand engraving; anglage; assembly; you name it - its all there to see on your wrist.

So, not only is the PI an object of beauty, it reminds one of all the exquisite detail steps necessary to bring all our GO watches into the world - every time you wonder "what time is it?" and glance at your wrist  just a little longer than needed to answer that question! The PI is the story of GO watchmaking living in a 42mm case and with very few words needed.

Those are my thoughts as of about 26 hours into the experience. Let's see how it goes from here, eh!

Cheers,

                Dave

Wear it in good health and I'm sure you'll have lots of enjoyment with it.

Richard

Cheers,

               Dave

Your interest in the PI must be the stuff of legend by now. Jocke has done more than his fair share of enticing people to this watch with his fabulously beautiful photos. In the end, though, it was spending some "up close" time that sealed the deal for me, so I understand your need to do the same.

One thing you cannot easily tell from photos is how much effect light has on appearance. Very small changes in the angle of light can change the look dramatically, especially on the ribbing. The type of light, diffuse vs. point source, also has a strong effect. I can tell you that much time can be spent admiring and experimenting!

I hope you continue to enjoy your "research."

Cheers,

               Dave

Watching this wonderful piece, I have the rare feelings of something out of the time: it will be a truly classic in the GO lineup!

I like a lot the slim bezel: the dial has a lot more "breathe" respect the old and massive version... very nice with exquisite balance!

Best regards,

massi.

The PI really does seem to hold some special appeal and I can only hope that it will one day be regarded as a classic. Art has philosophized a little on the mystery of the PI - art combined with horology - but also on whom the PI may appeal to. I think this ends up being very hard to pin down and maybe therein lies the mystery and the appeal? After all, a question with a clear, simple answer cannot hold a mystery.

One thing I like about the slim bezel is the view of the perlage finish below the balance. But there are equal merits in favour of the tighter framing of the thicker bezel. I would be happy with either!

Cheers,

                 Dave

. . . and it still brings a smile and a warm feeling every time I strap it on.  

Congratulations on the acquisition, and Masthead honors for the newest addition to our community.

Cordially,

Art

A smile and a warm feeling after 10 years with your Karree is a wonderful thing. In fact, like you, I enjoy relationships for the long haul rather than just the fashion of the moment. This last January marked the 25th anniversary of the purchase of one of my cars. I hope that either I, or perhaps my son, will still be enjoying the PI in another 25 years! I'll drink to that, and to your Karree.

Cheers,

              Dave 

. . . knows no bounds ;-) . . . 

. . . and chain, eh, Nico?