The Oak & Oscar Burnham
The American watch brand scene just gained a new addition with Chicago-based Oak & Oscar. The brand is entering the market with a watch called the Burnham, a limited-edition piece that packs a lot of detailing into a straightforward design. Oak & Oscar looks and sounds like something straight out of a hipster’s how-to handbook, with references to bourbon and crafted-leather accessories, but there is some real substance here in the execution. 1 OF 6 The Burnham gets its name from the architect and urban planner Daniel Burnham, who left his indelible mark on the city of Chicago more than 100 years ago. The watch is an interesting study in dial design, with many subtle details working independently of one another. The matte-grey dial is referred to as “non-militarized,” meaning great lengths were taken to ensure the sandwich dial and each of the Arabic numerals didn’t come off as a stencil set of numbers. The 8 and 7 were particular challenges

AP strategy
I've recently got round to thinking about APs strategy to minimise market flow by reducing manufacturing and moving from ADs to Boutiques. Whilst AP is not in the same league as both Rolex and Patek in relation to value retention these two moves could be positive news for those holding coveted models. My blue faced 15400 is now 3.5k more expensive than what it was 1year ago when bought new whilst Rolex prices have not moved and Patek have made reductions.I, like most here buy watches because I like them and I love my 15400. I cannot see any reason why I would ever look to sell but facts such as the above do offer some comfort not least considering the fact I lost 25% on my ROC 3 years back.

New OP39 dial
Anyone notice it? New white and black dial

Dear Rolex: Really????
Dear Rolex:You do know that I am a Rolex Geek Squad member (as called by several of your boutique staff); and that just like my fellow TRFers, we get goosebumps and start conversations everywhere a Rolex is even hinted. You do know that I, just as most here, are on the verge of a nervous breakdown as Basel is around the corner...the same problem I have year after year. I wake up this morning and find this full, two page ad in my local newspaper...so now my ��need' of a new watch has turned into full madness. Once again you are a marketing genius!

Back at it again
Proudly wearing the Rolex coat