BEST FROM: watches-dealer & Friends July 17, 2015
Visits to watch manufactures are always exciting, and we are kickstarting this round-up with our James Lamdin's report about the manufactures of Parmigiani Fleurier. Notice the use of the plural form of manufacture? That's because Parmigiani Fleurier is actually made up of five different facilities and under different names that manufacture a wide range of watch components, including their own balance shafts and even hairsprings.The visit to Parmigiani Fleurier aside, we also checked out a couple of new watches in the past weeks including the ever popular Rolex Explorer II 216570, Patek's mega Reference 5270R perpetual calendar chronograph watch, and the limited edition Sinn U1-D. Finally, we turn our attention to some vintage digital Casio watches and also find out what the servicing process of an Omega Speedmaster Pro with Omega is like.1. Rolex Explorer II 216570 Watch ReviewThe Rolex Explorer II is one of the brand's most popular watches, and that's not without good reason. For sta

BEST FROM: watches-dealer & Friends February 27, 2015
Independent watchmaking is one of the most fascinating facets of horology and watch collecting. And thanks to the resurgence of mechanical watches, there are a good number of such watchmakers around today. These independent watchmakers are responsible for some of the most jaw-dropping pieces that we see in the market today. Obviously, it goes without saying that such pieces are prohibitively expensive, but that doesn't mean we cannot admire them. Therefore, kickstarting this month's round-up is our trip to a little known watchmaker in Hungary by the name of?Aaron Becsei, who makes each of his watches by hand and by himself.Following the Swiss National Bank's decision to remove the cap on the Swiss Franc's value against the Euro, most people are expecting watch brands to increase their prices - and some already have. However, Patek Philippe, one of the most revered and desirable brands of them all, has actually taken the surprising decision to introduce price cuts in most regions of the

Help needed on bracelet pricing
Hello all,I usually hang around the Rolex discussion, but I have a quick question regarding cost of a Breitling bracelet. A. What is the current retail on a SS 20mm pilot for a Chronomat? The watch is from the late 90's. B. What should I expect to pay for a nice condition (all links included) second hand bracelet?Thanks in advance

Panerai 619 - Thoughts?
Just picked up the Panerai 619, my first Panerai which compliments two Rolex's (Sub C and Steel Daytona) in my collection. So far I'm pleased... I like how it's look and lite weight is different then the look and weight of my Rolex watches. Nice alternative to my rotation. I haven't read many reviews or perspectives on the 619. Is it a limited edition Panerai? What do people have to say about the 619? I'd welcome others thoughts on the 619. Thanks for any comments.

Finally pulled the trigger... 2 years later!
Hi everyone,It's been a couple of years since my last post. The picture below is of me trying on the BLNR and ultimately not buying it. Today I paid in full and now i await the phone call. I'm 6th on the list and the AD informed me that they had 3 last month so it could be as soon as February.I've had on going concerns that 40mm would be too small for my 8 inch wrist however most members here have been supportive with the odd dissenting voice. I've put that out of my mind now and decided that there is no other watch that comes close to this (except maybe the BLRO but that's just not feasible).I currently own a Tag Heuer Link Calibre S which is a watch I fell in love with long before I could afford it! I'm debating whether to keep it or not as it's unlikely to see much wrist time anymore.As for the BLNR, my 2 year deliberation has cost me ��600, but that's life I suppose.As a first time Rolex owner, what can i expect when I collect the watch? I've been reading lots of posts about sticker