Elegant Accessories: Pens for Watch Lovers
Watch companies have upped the ante in the quality of their branded accessories �� particularly in the case of fine writing implements, a category near and dear to the hearts of many watch collectors. In this 2009 column by Fine Pens writer Jan DiVincenzo, the first in our online archive of WatchTime’s popular lifestyle columns, we take a look at some of the standouts.In pairing a watch with a pen, the obvious preference would be for both to be of the same manufacture. And this shouldn't be difficult, as more and more watch companies now offer pens. However, most of these pens, like other watch-branded ancillary products, come from companies that do not specialize in making them. Cartier, for instance, has been making pens since 1924 and currently offers nine pen models, including the Santos, Pasha and Roadster, which match their respective watch models. But these pens, despite their material preciousness, are usually not as thoughtfully engineered as their timekeeping brethren.A

Seiko Velatura Yachting Timer
Launched in 2007, Seiko’s Velatura collection is designed to withstand the rigors of open ocean racing. For 2009, Seiko improves the the Velatura Yachting Timer, making it lighter, tougher, and more resistant to the elements. The case is made from titanium, covered with a new hard coating. The watch has a new screw-in crown system that ensures water resistance to 20 bar or 200 meters. A new strap combines leather and ballistic nylon to offer a blend of good looks and strength. The dial is also new, with the pre-set start times highlighted in bright yellow and blue for easier legibility. There’s also a new model for women – the Velatura women’s chronograph. It is available in stainless steel with regular or mother-of-pearl dials, both of which are set with 16 diamonds. This piece is also available with a choice of leather strap or stainless steel bracelet.The men’s Yachting Timer retails for about 950 Euro, and the women’s chronograph ranges from Euro

IWC Plastiki Plastic Boat Lands In Sydney, Picks Up One Of A Kind Platinum Watch On Way
Back in March I wrote about my experience hanging out on the IWC Plastiki with its crew in San Francisco. This was prior to the ship's maiden voyage, which was to be an ambitious journey from San Francisco to Sydney. Please refer to the original article there for all the details on what the Plastiki is, and the purpose of its 'mission.'A few days ago the plastic bottle boat successfully made it to its location in Australia. I believe the voyage took over 3 months. It was not likely an easy rideas the Plastiki was the epitome of bare bones accommodations.? Amazing that it was able to sustain 6 people for that long. I am really curious about being able to ask them questions about the trip. I am sure they are all loving each other after being so close for that long. The leader of the voyage was Daniel de Rothschild, who was likely nicknamed "dirty Daniel" somewhere along the way, given that the Plastiki has no showering or cleaning facilities on board.The goal of the Plastiki was always t

A Great Brunch Gathering
Ben, Jeff and my family met up today at the Greenhouse Ritz Carlton Singapore for its famous Sunday Vintage Champagne Brunch. Free flow of Moet Chandon, assorted beers, whisky, cocktails, and unlimited serving of lobsters, foie gras, oysters, beef, cheese, and many more other finger-licking good food, the brunch was really a fulfilling one (literally), especially when the company was merry Of course, how can there be no watch-talk among WIS? My wife and I were on our APs, while Jeff had chosen to wear his IWC Portofino 8 Days and Ben his recently acquired IWC Portuguese Yatch Club RG. These favorite timepieces did nothing but elevated the entire experience of our gathering We are planning for our next outing

Case back carnage #4
ROLEX VINTAGE EXPLORER 6098Dented and pitted ��916.59 (including postage) ($1,300.00) ouch!