WristScan

I came across his work a couple of years ago when he showcased his first watch a chronograph based on a heavily hand finished with several new parts to his design, vintage Valjoux 22 column wheel chrono. I took the plunge last year and ordered his first simple Time Only watch, the 1817. He also was the recipient of the Lange & Sohne Excellence in Watchmaking back in 2014, which gave me much confidence in his ability as a watchmaker. He did work for ALS for a while and also the most famous Finnish watchmaker, KV. I appreciate his Independent streak and wanted to see what was up with him and his watchmaking.

I was intrigued by the pictures and having contacted Torsti prior to Basel 2017, planned to meet him to find out why he does what he does and lay my eyes in this rather stunning chronograph... Unfortunately, our timing didn't work out that trip. However, later in 2017 when he announced the 1817 model I decided to get one. I picked the classic white roman dial, as I love elongated romans, and went with a two tone style on the movement finish.

The caliber is based on our old friend the Unitas 6498, with his style and re-designed bridges and plates, with much hand finishing that I find quite charming and lovely. The hand engraved bridge is done by a friend of Torsti's and with the steel balance & escape wheel cocks, makes for a very pretty movement.

I had the enormous pleasure of finally meeting him this year during the Basel fair and finally got to see the lovely chronographs in person. They didn't disappoint ;-) in fact I felt that strong urge to get one...alas it's not to be, as I have other obligations that have to take precedence.

Pics from Basel this year:

Cheers,

Tim

  login to reply