Historical Perspectives: Audemars Piguet And The Ultra Thin Automatic Tourbillon Caliber 2870 (AKA T
There are, let’s face it, not a whole lot of real firsts in watchmaking, which isn’t surprising when you think about its history. The lever escapement, which is found  in basically every modern watch in one form or another, blew into town in 1750; the minute repeater had basically taken on its current form by the end of the 18th century; the first perpetual calendar watch is probably one made by Thomas Mudge, in 1764.  The history of watchmaking is very much a history of small, hard-won incremental improvements that unfolded over a very long period of time, which is why watches like Audemars Piguet’s caliber 2870 automatic tourbillon – less well known for its reference number, 25643, than for the name of the movement, for reasons we’ll see shortly –  continue to be interesting, and continue to be stories worth telling. The other reason (besides intrinsic interest) that the caliber 2870 is worth remembering is because it’s one of

Scrutinizing Jumbo
Inspired by Ben's excellent review of the venerable RO jumbo, I too pulled out my recently purchased macro lens to take a few shot of my all-time favorite watch. All shots were taken handheld with available ambient light. Hope you enjoy these 'low-key' portraits. HAGWE DialDo you notice how the dial changes its shade of blue depending on the angle of viewing? Do you also notice the weaving lines criss-crossing on the tapisserie dial? They allow the dial to reflect light in a unique way. Only a dial which is carved out by the 'rose machine' would yield such beautiful result.MovementThe beauty of the ultra-thin 2121 movement is a marvel. Every component of the movement was exquisitely finished in different styles at the highest level. The unique construction of the rail rotor system is a sight to behold. The 21k gold rotor plate is beautifully decorated with embossed wordings and alternate brushed and polished finishing. Mounted on a circular rail, this special construction allows the mo

post pictures fo your limited edition
Show your limited edition Breitling guys

There's always a first, sometimes, there are two in one go..
A few months ago, I wore a white gold daytona on croc as a daily and was scratching my head as to which Patek i would want to wear. Tried all sorts: 5205, 5146 and settled on a precious metal 5712. The thin case, general refinement and comfort did it for me. I even considered a 5960p but the watch was too top heavy.So it arrived yesterday and one of my colleague at work took some pics this morning.2 firsts? My first Patek and my first rose gold watch.

Is it safe to hack the P5000 movement?
I have a brand new PAM610 and PAM563. Essentially the same movement with a seconds hand showing on the 563. On the 610 it is irrelevant, but on the 563 I was wondering if it was safe to hack the second hand to sync it with a known time (as you would a Speedmaster with gentle reverse traction of the crown). I haven’t played with it yet, but wanted to see what the consensus was. It is also my understanding that these movements are not COSC certified. My 610 certainly gains time over the 8 day reserve. I haven’t checked the 563 yet. I don’t expect Rolex accuracy as they are hand wound. Just curious to hear others’ experience.