The Watch World's Latest Buzz: From Tennis to Timepieces
As Wimbledon concludes and football fans mourn England's World Cup exit, the watch industry offers a captivating distraction. The week's highlights include a unique collaboration, a cinematic campaign, and a rare auction, all while sparking a debate about the evolving landscape of watch brands.
MB&F's M.A.D.Gallery: Where Art Meets Horology
MB&F's M.A.D.Gallery is pushing boundaries by showcasing the Solar Orbiter, a captivating fusion of sculpture and horological accessory. This piece, crafted by British artist Martin Smith, is a testament to the gallery's commitment to celebrating the intersection of art, engineering, and kinetic movement. What's intriguing is how MB&F challenges the traditional gallery experience, reminding us that the stories worth telling in the watch world often lie beyond the confines of a timepiece itself.
Shinola's Cinematic Debut: 'Set the Pace'
American brand Shinola, known for its Detroit-centric storytelling, has finally unveiled its first brand campaign, 'Set the Pace'. What makes this campaign particularly fascinating is the involvement of Nicholas Braun, who not only stars but also directs a short film titled 'The Restaurant'. Here, Braun's character's relationship with time takes center stage, marking a departure from Shinola's usual focus on product specifications. In my opinion, this shift towards exploring our complex connection with time is a bold move, especially for a brand that has primarily relied on its flagship watch's reputation.
Rolex's Rainbow Daytona: A Rare Auction
The spotlight now shifts to Australia, where First State Auctions is making history by offering Rolex's latest off-catalogue Cosmograph Daytona Rainbow, reference 126598RBOW. This auction is significant as it's the first time this new reference has appeared on the block. With a retail price of US$324,700 and a limited availability, the secondary market is buzzing with anticipation. This auction will undoubtedly set a precedent for how collectors value Rolex's exclusive timepieces.
The Microbrand Conundrum: A Label in Flux
A personal reflection on the term 'microbrand' reveals a fascinating evolution. Once a badge of honor for small, creative watch brands, it now seems to be a label some want to shed. I believe this shift is indicative of a maturing market. A decade ago, 'microbrand' evoked excitement and freshness. Today, with countless small watch companies, the term has become less about passion and innovation and more about assembly-line production. This evolution prompts a question: Is 'small independent' or 'indie' a more accurate and inclusive label?
Time+Tide's Weekly Highlights: From Wrist Shots to Exclusive Picks
- Wrist Shot of the Week: Corey, aka @enthuseddad, captivates with stunning shots of the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda Minute Rattrapante, proving that grey can be anything but dull.
- Time+Tide Shop Pick: The Wren Diver One Obsidian, a limited-edition collaboration, offers a unique twist on a classic dive watch, showcasing the brand's ability to innovate while staying true to its roots.
- Time+Tide Coverage: From exploring the allure of the white-dial Omega Speedmaster Professional to uncovering the origins of the automatic wristwatch, Time+Tide delves into the stories that make watch enthusiasts tick.
