Swiss Watch Exports Pick Up in First Quarter
Swiss watch exports registered strong growth in March and for the first quarter overall. Exports to the U.S. were up 56% in March and 6.7% for the quarter. Though the numbers reflect improvements against admittedly terrible year-earlier figures, the results confirm that a recovery is under way, with exports returning to 2007 levels.The moving 12 month average shows the corner has been turned.In March, the sector exported the equivalent of 1.2 billion francs, an increase of 32.8% compared with March 2009. Bimetallic watches saw their value more than double. Gold and steel timepieces were up sharply. The number of timepieces exported also rose, buoyed by the categories of bimetallic, steel, and other materials. In three months, volumes increased by 900,000 units (+19.8%) compared with 2009.Broken down by export price, watches below 500 francs showed only modest or even slightly negative growth, while timepieces above 500 francs made steady progress with a growth rate exceeding 40% in val

Event Recap: Celebrating Baume & Mercier's 2014 Collection Just In Time For Father's Day
Last night we had the privilege of hosting an awesome group of readers and collectors at New York City's Soho House to go hands-on with the latest releases from Baume & Mercier. There were great watches and great conversation in abundance, and Rudy Chavez, President of Baume & Mercier North America, welcomed guests and shared his knowledge of both the 2014 novelties and Baume & Mercier's history. We were all the first to see Baume's #CelebrateDad campaign video, which you can also see below. Thank you to everyone who came and please enjoy this photo report of the evening's festivities. You can see all of Baume & Mercier's most interesting pieces right here. 2 OF 25 3 OF 25 4 OF 25 5 OF 25 6 OF

My New Dynamic
The family grows. I've really liked the Dynamics for a long time. I finally had to move on this first generation. It is a little more reserved looking than some - and I like the funky-looking ones - but I could not resist. Now I need to find a leather band! Please let me know what you think!dynamic.jpgdynamic2.JPG

finally got the call!
Hey guys,Many of you probably saw my thread last week about a second-hand 5712 with a scratched hour hand. I declined the watch. Much to my surprise, I got just the call that my brand new 5712 has arrived at my AD much sooner than expected!! I honestly thought I'd be waiting for another year or more, but I'm flying to Switzerland to pick it up on Friday! Pictures to follow this weekend!-Matt

Unload 425 or 557 for 233 Please advise
I currently own two base Panerai 425 and 557. I want to add a 233 for its complications and date. I need to unload either the 425 or 557 to fund for the 233. The problem is I like them equally and I can't make up my mind. I am set for the 233 so I'll end up with 1 base and 1 complication to my PAM collection. If you guys have time please give me your 2 cents and help me justify what piece to let go and keep. Thanks again TRF.