Wrist Taker Magazine 2017 Issue

BASELWORLD 2017:
THE 100 YEAR JOURNEY
THROUGH TIME
.......................................................
HUBLOT CONQUERING
THE HOROLOGY
INDUSTRY
....................................
THE RISE OF
INDEPENDENT
WATCHMAKERS
2017 ISSUE
WRIST
TAKER
$9.99

1
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CONTENTS
2
5
10
HERE COMES THE
BOOM
A JOURNEY
THROUGH TIME:
BASELWORLD 100TH
18
20
HUBLOT:
CONQUERING THE
WATCH INDUSTRY
26
EYE OF THE
WOLF
28
ENTER THE WORLD
OF WUNDR
TALK OF THE
TOWN
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3
EDITOR'S NOTE
A teacher of mine once told me that change is the only
constant in life. That’s certainly true for the entire editorial
team here, which has spent the better part of a year working
tirelessly to change Wrist Taker for the better. You saw
evidence of that for yourself late last year, when we
redesigned our other publications, COMMON. and Sojourn.
With our 2017 issue, we’re unveiling a new look for Wrist
Taker. We hope you like what you see as our designer worked
hard to develop and implement a design that’s elegant,
minimalistic and easy to read. Once of the most obvious
changes, as you’ve probably already noted, is our new cover
design. We’ve also adopted a new tagline, “Timepiece for the
Curious,” which we think is a more appropriate motto for us.
Whether you read us in print or online, you represent a
readership that loves timepieces and shares a deep, abiding
curiosity about the world's best craftmanship. With every
story we print here, with every issue, with every day, we’re
committed to satisfying that curiosity.
Quite a few readers noted the absence of our popular Tick
Tock column and wondered if it had been eliminated as part
of the redesign. Not to worry: Tick Tock just took a brief
vacation and will be back in the next issue and in future
issues of Wrist Taker.
Check out this Baselworld 100th Anniversary special and all
of its goodness!
Azhar.A
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CONTENTS
4
32
34
A LEGACY IS
BORN
EDITOR'S PICK: BEST
OF BASELWORLD
2017
42
48
INTRODUCING
HAVESTON STRAP
THE NAME'S
BOND
50
58
IT LOOKS LIKE A
WATCH...
THE FUNDING
GAME
WRIST TAKER 17

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HERE COMES THE BOOM
READY OR NOT?
www.boomwatches.com
By Azhar Ahmad
The idea behind BOOM Watches is simple, its modular design enables its wearers to easily custom
make watches from the strap, case, rings and even the dials. The watches can be easily swapped
for new accessories at anytime, as the ring and case feature a twist and lock method to keep
everything in place. Why is this useful, you asked? Imagine having to go to gym after work. Simply
swap the leather bracelet for the heavy-duty Nato strap and you're good to go. Dinner afterwards?
Swap it with a metal mesh strap and rose gold top ring for a fancier look. It's that easy.
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WIND IT UP!
IMPROVE THE ACCURACY OF YOUR AUTOMATIC WATCH WITH BARRINGTON
WATCH WINDER
www.barringtonwatchwinders.com
This compact and stylish single watch winder from Barrington is super sleek in black (though it
also comes in six other attractive colors. Its adjustable cushion will fit any sized watches up to
24cm and the winder itself can be powered with the included AC adaptor or two AA batteries.
One neat feature that we discovered is that this watch winder is stackable and can all be powered
using one AC adaptor with its connecting cable (included) thanks to its new Jump feature.
Another feature that is highly useful is its gentle rotation system. This ensures that your watch
will not be over-winded while at the same time eliminating the damage caused to the watch's
main spring. There are five Turns Per Day setting available depending on the weight of the watch
as well as three direction settings.
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INTO THE VAULT
ELEGANT AUTOMATIC WATCHES WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK
www.vaulttimepieces.com
By Azhar Ahmad
VT103
We especially love this open heart dial
as you can see all the craftmanship put
into this automatic watch. The case is
made of the best quality stainless steel
and mineral glass. It comes with a the
most durable rubber band that is
suitable to be worn for long hours.
VT104
For a more sophisticated look, this
model is definitely suitable for work or
dinner dates. Its automatic movement
is housed in the same quality stainless
steel case and mineral glass that
provides water resistant up to 3ATM.
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THE ONLY SMARTWATCH YOU'LL
EVER NEED
WITHINGS ACTIVITÉ IS PACKED WITH EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A HEALTHIER
LIFESTYLE
www.withings.com
By Azhar Ahmad
8
It’s one part standard wristwatch, and one part fitness tracker. The Activité Steel is so elegantly
designed and made in Switzerland. It's not exactly the future of smartwatch, but we like the
simplicity of the design and function. It tracks your sleep, steps, and activity. What else do you
need it for really?
BUILD
We love the overall build of this watch. The rubber strap is so soft and comfortable, good to be
worn especially when you're sleeping and working out. Plus, the technology is housed in a
sapphire glass with steel casing.
BATTERY LIFE
It's paired with your smartphone via Bluetooth and it's silently running in the background without
draining both the batteries on your phone and the watch. In fact, the watch doesn't need to be
charged at all, and only needs a battery replacement after six months.
TECH
On the surface of the Activité Steel has two functions: telling time and tracking your daily fitness
goal. That’s all you’ll get from the face of this watch. It’s minimal to the core and to be frank, quite
hard to please. It seems to track less activities than a normal fitness tracker, but that encouraged
me to just keep moving.
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAAA
START YOUR JOURNEY WITH
ALIUM
AND TELL TIME DIFFERENTLY WITH ITS UNIQUE WATCHES
www.aliumww.com
By Azhar Ahmad
We've seen many unique watches out there
with their own way of telling time. Our
journey with Alium started way before we
had the watch in hand, and it's really
spiritual.
First, we received a PDF of selfquestionnaire
file to "discover where you're
from and where you stand now." We
honestly learned a lot from that
questionnaire and if you're already
intrigued, the only way to find out is to get
an Alium watch!
Then, a second PDF is for "external
perceivers", which is essentially for your
loved ones or peers to sort of 'review'
yourself. It was strange at first, but you'd be
surprised about what people think of you
and your potentials.
While the watch is on its way, we received
another 'package' in the form of an email to
start our Alium journey. This time, it's a goalsetting
questionnaire "to explore, define and
enhance your understanding of where you
want to go and how your way towards your
goals should look and feel like."
Now, let's talk about the watch. The way
to tell the time is fairly simple. There are
three round discs that acts as the hand just
like in a traditional watch. The outer disc is
the hour, the middle is the minute and the
smallest disc is the seconds. When the
numbers on the discs are parallel to the red
line, it will display the current time.
The strap is made with a silver stainless
steel mesh with a standard clasp buckle. All
Alium watches are shipped in a protective
velvet pouch.
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A JOURNEY THROUGH
TIME: 100 YEARS OF
BASELWORLD
Stadtcasino Basel, the first Swiss design fair in Basel, 1917
The most important event in the horological
calendar, Baselworld 2017 was the most
exciting event as it happened one hundred
years from the first ever Baselworld.
There is no doubt that the previous 99
Baselworld events have brought about some
incredible moments. So we decided to look
back at the history of Baselworld and how it
became what it is known today.
It all began a hundred years ago. The first
Muba opened its doors in Basel. It was set up
as a Sample Fair to support Swiss industry at
the time of the First World War. Of the 831
exhibiting companies, 29 belonged to the
"Watches & Jewellery" group – a rather small
sector for such a powerful industry. A few
years before that, in 1912, the Swiss watch
industry, with a market share of nearly 90 per
cent, had more or less completely dominated
the world market.
At Muba it exhibited pocket watches, small
wristwatches, wall clocks and chronometers.
The principal items presented by the jewellery
sector, on the other hand, were gold bracelets
and rings, plus fashionable jewellery made of
enamel and precious stones. The exhibitors
also demonstrated the craftsmanship involved.
The first Muba was a success. More than 300
000 visitors streamed into the halls, and the
companies concluded business worth more
than 20 million Swiss francs
Over the next few years the event started to
attract more and more manufacturers from the
watch industry. The first halls dedicated to the
watch and jewellery centre were opened in
1926 in the space where Hall 1 stands today.
The growing influence of the watch industry
led to the watch event being held in its own
dedicated pavilion under the name of the
“Swiss Watch Fair” in 1931. In many ways 1931
was the start of the history of Baselworld in
the form that it takes today. A year after that,
the fair management officially declared the
watch sector to be an autonomous specialist
fair.
The biggest names in the watch industry
started to descend upon Baselworld in the
coming years. Patek Philippe made their first
appearance at Baselworld in 1932 and they
have become one of the main attractions at the
event over the years. Heuer (TAG Heuer today)
appeared for the first time in 1934.
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Alter Badischer Bahnhof Basel: Since 1918, home to the entire design trade fair
Tobacco Stand, 1917/18
Basel Bandmakers Association and Basel
Dyeing Association, 1920
Hall 3, Swiss Design Exhibition, 1930
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Another of the most important exhibitors in the history of Baselworld, Rolex, did not make their
first appearance at Baselworld until 1939. With some of the exciting innovative minds heading to
Baselworld every year, it became a can’t miss event for people in the wristwatch industry.
The watch fair continued to be held even after outbreak of the Second World War. Throughout
the war years, the media regularly praised it as the Muba “gem", reflecting the "strong will to hold
out". In 1972, under the new fair director, Frédéric Walthard, exhibitors from other European
countries were admitted too.
Yet another milestone came in 1973, when the watch fair was held as an independent specialised
fair in parallel to Muba under the name of "European Watch and Jewellery Fair (EUSM)".
Exhibitors attended from Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands,
Spain, the United Kingdom and Switzerland. "EUSM" grew rapidly and set a new record in 1975,
attracting more than 60 000 specialist buyers.
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Hall 2, Basel 1950s
The watch and jewelery exhibition at the Schweizer
Mustermesse, 1955
The Basel Messeplatz with Hall 2 in 1957
The fair had become such a huge event by the 1990’s there was talk of the event being moved
away from its traditional setting. Unsurprisingly there was a huge backlash against this idea.
Massive investment was poured into the existing settings so that it was able to hold the large
number of people who wanted to attend. This work was completed in 1999.
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Congress Center Basel
The name Baselworld was not in use until 2003. The event was called
the Swiss Watch Show until 1983 when it was renamed BASEL 83 (the
numbers denoting the year). It was then renamed BASEL 95 – The
World Watch, Clock and Jewellery Show in 1995. Finally, in 2003 the
current name of Baselworld, The Watch and Jewellery show was
introduced. This name change took place before the exhibition area
was extended once again in 2004 in line with the demand for people to
attend the event.
In 2013 the exhibition area was modernised and Baselworld had
truly become known as the most important event on the horological
calendar. As we move towards the 100th anniversary of Baselworld,
the event continues to be the one to watch out for and Baselworld
2017 could certainly be the most exciting in the history of Baselworld!
City Lounge, Messe Basel
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Baselworld, 2017
This anniversary edition was inaugurated on
Thursday, 23 March in the presence of Federal
Councillor Alain Berset, who stressed the
prestige enjoyed by our country’s watch
industry all over the world. Few sectors of the
economy are so closely bound up with
Switzerland and its way of life.
Baselworld attracted this year some
106,000 buyers from more than 100
countries. 4,400 representatives of the print,
television and electronic world press
attended the Exhibition. Approximately
11,000 journalists followed live the opening
press conference via Internet.
Among the innovations, two new concepts
saw the light of day this year. Firstly, Les
Ateliers, a space dedicated to independent
watchmakers who had been housed until
2016 in the Palace marquee. Located on the
second floor of the main hall, this new space
provides individual modules with different
fittings; each exhibitor is able to personalise
his stand as he thinks fit.
This platform included watchmakers such as
MB&F, Pierre DeRoche, Louis Moinet, Favre-
Leuba, Romain Gauthier and Graham… that
list being far from exhaustive. As an original
feature of the venue, containers lined the
WRIST TAKER 17

access area. They were occupied by
companies such as M.A.D. Gallery, Swiza,
Ladurée and Kerbedanz, a watch brand
which attracted visitors with cognac
sampling.
A few days after the show’s inauguration,
exhibitors expressed their satisfaction with
this new formula. Thanks to signs clearly
laid out from the first floor of the hall,
visitors were guided through to the Ateliers
where they turned up in large numbers
throughout the exhibition.
Another new space, the Design Lab was
dedicated to prestigious designers and
emerging brands. At the heart of this
attractive space, a selection of some thirty
exhibitors presented unique and
unconventional jewellery pieces. They
included several design icons such as Georg
Spreng and Marcin Zaremski; young talents
like Christina Rasmussen and Liliana
Guerreiro, and rising new brands (Setare,
Capolavoro).
15
Stay up-to-date with the latest news from Baselworld
as well as next year's event from March 22 - 27, 2018 at
www.baselworld.com
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
MEET JAN HEEGE
THE MAN BEHIND ELEGANTLY DESIGNED WATCHES, BLACK WOOD
Text by Azhar Ahmad; Images by Simon Baumann Fotografie
First, tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Jan Heege. I am an 18-year old
German, live near Freiburg in the Black
Forest region and founded two companies
before I turned 18. I come from a
middleclass family and my parents always
encouraged me to work for it and to earn
my own money if I wanted something. My
two companies are BLACK WOOD and
Watchley. BLACK WOOD is a watch
brand which pursues the goal of selling
fine watches which combine the most
valuable assets in life - time and nature -
in one timepiece. In addition to providing
our great watches, we follow a big vision:
We want to bring the dark forests back by
planting many new trees in this world. We
started early to turn our vision into a
mission, namely to give the resources back
which we take from nature to produce our
timepieces. We intend to further develop
this project in the future and to plant even
more trees for every watch we sell.
As a CEO, how involved were you in the
brand, from design to manufacturing?
As a CEO and company founder, I have
been involved in everything - from the
idea to the finished product. I am the
designer of my timepieces and also
responsible for all technical aspects. The
only thing I did not develop myself was the
logo which was made by a professional
designer. When it comes to
manufacturing, I have professional
partners from various countries by my
side. I visited most of them to check
quality and skills. Things like design, brand
concept, website, etc. were created by
myself. I think it's not often that one
person alone is doing all the work. The
reason for this was that I did not have the
money to pay a web designer or someone
else.
Tell us about your first product
Our first product, the Rhine 40, was a big
step for me. The design of the timepiece
was clear for me right from the beginning.
I realized early that there was no great
timepiece in the store window displays or
on the internet that showed the features I
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17 5
expected from a "perfect timepiece": A
convenient, thin and elegant design
combined with all important functions (date,
small second, hour and minute hands, etc.). I
am very grateful to have had the
opportunity to produce our model in a very
small series under 150 pieces. I had a lot of
negotiations with producers because I knew
that my resources were limited and that I
also had to pay taxes and bear shipping
costs. I invested all I had. It was all the
money I had earned on the construction site
where I usually worked about 10-14 hours
on Fridays after school and on Saturdays. I
placed the order for my first timepieces in
late June. During the production time, I
started working again to get the money I
needed to pay for shipping and customs.
After two months of production, I got my
delivery and did my first sale. It was an
amazing feeling. Before my first delivery
arrived in Germany, I already worked on the
design of my new Mt. Belchen 40 collection
and was talking to various producers. In
order to be able to choose the right
producer, it was very important to get to
know even the slightest detail. Only 30 days
after my first Rhine 40 watches had arrived,
we already started with the production of
the new collection. If I set a goal for myself, I
take it seriously and do everything I can to
achieve it. People call me insane but that‘s
what you need to be if you want to achieve
extraordinary results and change the world.
What is the plan of expansion in the
upcoming months?
I intend to cooperate with several jewelry
stores in Germany and European online
fashion shops in the weeks to come. At
present, I am busy designing my first watch
collection for women and there is also
another special model for men in the
pipeline. And, of course, I want to strengthen
our #darkagain mission which means a lot to
me
What about for you personally? How are
you growing with the brand?
Every day, I learn something new and gain
new experiences, which unfortunately have
not always been positive. For example, I had
to ward off several intents to defraud in the
last few months. In particular, however, I
learned that we are living at a time where
you can achieve a lot with just a few
resources and that it is important to think
big and to invest in yourself when you are
young. Experience, applicable knowledge
and business networking are the best areas
to invest in. But life is more than just
business. Family, personal success, friends
and love are also very important aspects.
Especially in the startup phase, it may
happen that the one or the other aspect will
be neglected. But you must not neglect all
this permanently, even if you are just
building something great. Freedom and to be
loved by other people - that's what is the
most desirable in life for me and that's what
I'm striving for!
Visit blackwood-watches.com
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CONQUERING THE WATCH
INDUSTRY
HUBLOT HAS DONE IT AGAIN WITH INNOVATIONS AHEAD OF ITS TIME
18
MP-09 TOURBILLON BI-AXIS
Hublot’s watchmaking expertise and
creativity knows no limits. The first Hublot
multi-axis tourbillon designed for unique
visibility, all-new case and movement made at
the manufacture. With its new Manufacture
Piece (MP), Hublot is pushing back the
boundaries in terms of multi-axis tourbillons.
The MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis is thus the
result of a powerful idea: to provide a
maximum of visibility on the tourbillon—and
its fascinating double rotation – by designing a
fine watchmaking movement devoted to this
objective, and then creating an original case
that highlights the 100% manufacture calibre.
Here, the function defines the form.
TECHFRAME FERRARI TOURBILLON CHRONOGRAPH
A Ferrari Design for a Hublot watch celebrating Ferrari’s 70th Anniversary To celebrate Ferrari’s
70th anniversary, the Italian marque and its partner Hublot are presenting a new original
collection. Conceived with the same approach used for designing a car at the Ferrari Design
Centre and integrating Hublot’s watchmaking expertise, the Techframe Ferrari 70 years
Tourbillon Chronograph opens a new chapter in the partnership that unites Hublot and Ferrari.
The Techframe Ferrari 70 Years is available in three versions — King Gold, PEEK Carbon, and
Titanium — each of which is produced in 70 limited editions. It is destined to be a collector’s item.
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SPIRIT OF BIG BANG SAPPHIRE
The watch mechanism exposed.
Sapphire, the new Holy Grail of
Hublot. After the MP-05
“LaFerrari” Sapphire, the Big Bang
Unico Sapphire, it’s now the turn of
the emblematic barrel-shaped case
of the Spirit of Big Bang to become
transparent. When the decoration
of your watch becomes invisible,
the secrets of its architecture and
its movement are revealed directly
to your gaze. Thanks to 3D
machining and almost 100 hours of
work, the Spirit of Big Bang
Sapphire is as hard and scratchresistant
as diamond.
BIG BANG UNICO SAPPHIRE
Hublot celebrates a new world’s first. The Big
Bang Unico case now features sapphire in an
array of colours. For Hublot, it seems there
are no limits when it comes to colour. Its
application brings depth and distinction to
materials. Hublot has now fused sapphire and
metals to create a Big Bang case in blue
sapphire — marking the first time this colour
sapphire has been used in watchmaking.
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EYE OF THE WOLF
FEATURING GENERATIONS OF LUXURY TRADITION, SIMON PHILIP WOLF
NOW LEADS THE WAY IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS
By Azhar Ahmad
20
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role
in the company.
I am completely hands-on, being involved with
every facet of the company. Most important is
leading the design team so that our collections
are updated, new ones created and the design
aesthetic and quality is always true to WOLF
Growing up in such a big name in the industry,
you have a pretty big shoe to fill. How do you
make sure that the brand stays on top?
WOLF, in the last decade has evolved
considerably, the challenge has been to cement
ourselves as the brand leader in our industries.
I have lofty goals, the shoes will never be
completely filled!
What is the company’s main goal?
To continue worldwide expansion, currently
we are in over 50 countries
Now, we’re interested in the watch winders
that your company makes. Could you please
describe the process of making the product,
from start to finish? How long did it take from
design to execution?
The design of an item can take a few days.
Starting with a blank piece of paper to first
draft drawing. The sampling process takes 3-4
weeks, then if no changes need to be made, we
can be in production in 2-3 months. The
manufacturing process is all by hand. We cut
the hides to the right shape, skiving the
leathers’ edges, attaching the backing, turning
the edges and stitching them. The wooden
frames are built as 6 sided cubes and then split
so that lid and base are always a perfect match.
All the parts that make up the module are
assembled by hand, right down to inserting one
by one the individual gears into the gear box.
Once the module is inside the frame we can
seal and cover with the leather and add locks,
hinges, glass etc. Our sturdy gift boxes are
hand wrapped. We then enclose the winder in
WOLF tissue paper and then a soft dust bag to
complete the out of the box experience we give
every customer.
What is the importance of owning a watch
winder?
If you own an automatic watch then a WOLF
winder is a must. Automatic watches were
designed to be worn, every day. If not the main
spring loses tension and the watch will stop.
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Today we are too sedentary or have more than one watch.
Walking with arms up whilst texting, sitting at our desks
result in a watch that has little daily motion applied to it. At
night a WOLF winder will carefully and accurately rotate the
watch to create the tension in the mainspring, thus keeping
the watch keeping perfect time.
You make the accessories, but are you planning to have
your own brand of watches? If yes, what would be the
perfect watch and if no, what other accessories are you
planning to have next?
We are experts at keeping watches wound and safekeeping
them, we will let the Swiss experts make the watches!
How would you grow professionally and personally in the
upcoming years?
Professionally it is all about making the brand the best, that
takes great product, great customers and above all else
great people that work alongside me. Continuing to expand
the team and finding the very best people is certainly a goal.
For me personally, I am looking forward to spending more
time with my family, playing more tennis and building things
in the new workshop I just built for myself.
Visit www.wolf1834.co.uk and
follow them on Instagram @WOLF1834
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
THE ULTIMATE HUBLOT
EXPERIENCE
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE SUITE HUBLOT 107 AT THE
ATLANTIS BY GIARDINO IN ZURICH
Nestled at the foot of the Uëtliberg, the
Giardino Hotel Group opened its new fivestar
superior hotel in Zürich at the beginning
of December of 2015. This juxtaposition of
urban luxury against the breathtaking natural
backdrop of Zürich's neighbouring mountain
caught Hublot's attention too.
The Swiss luxury watch brand, always full of
surprises, was given free rein to create a suite
to their own designs. Guests are now able to
fully immerse themselves in Hublot's world in
the eponymous suite, "Hublot 107".
There is symmetry in the use of space – the
positioning and choice of furnishings in the 68
m 2 suite, along with the configuration of the
suite itself, embody the overarching concept
of balance.
Lavish fittings and textures transpose the
luxurious, hedonistic style typical of Hublot's
boutiques to the hotel suite. The modern
composition of light, mirror effects and
colours conveys an impression of pure
sensuality and elegance.
A refined combination of grey and black
tones, the use of polished aluminium and black
smoked mirror panels, alongside walls hung
with grey velvet, all work together to perfectly
encapsulate the chic, seductive lifestyle
characterised by the Hublot brand.
A particularly eye-catching object in the suite
is the most impressive chronograph
Chandelier in the living room Inspired by an
exploded view of Hublot's Unico
Chronograph. Its light produces enticing and
extraordinary reflections in the black mirrors.
Apart from this installation, the colorful
paintings show the passion of the watch brand
for its products. The contemporary Big Bang
pop art in striking neon colours splashed
across a number of decorative screens.
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In addition to custom Molteni sofas, which
feature a similar design – including the
characteristic grey – to the furnishings found
in Hublot boutiques, the room concept boasts
other items of furniture from Molteni.
From the collaboration of the Giardino
Group and the Swiss watchmaker, this
fantastic interior design project was born,
combining familiar homeliness with the
elegance of a boutique. The interior embodies
the Hublot lifestyle: restrained luxury and
casual chic. It makes a difference to the people
who are in the same place. Every detail of the
"Hublot 107" in the Atlantis Urban Retreat
demonstrates enthusiasm for high-end
watches and passion for best quality. The
world's first Hublot Suite is a place like no
other.
Reserve the suite at
www.atlantisbygiardino.ch
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AHOY, KAPTEN!
KAPTEN & SONS ARE STRONGER THAN EVER WITH THE LAUNCH
OF ITS PURE COLLECTION
www.kapten-son.com
By Azhar Ahmad
24
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role
in the company.
Call me Addy, or Artjem Weissbeck in full. I´m
one of the founders and Managing Directors at
Kapten & Son. Over the last three years I’ve
been living and traveling among three different
continents to globalize our business. It´s a
constant journey! Right now I´m living in New
York to build up our new US office. I love it, but
I also miss seeing our team in Germany every
day!
What made you decide to be in the
watchmaking business?
To be honest it was a decision for uncertainty
and against unhappiness. My co-founders
Fabian Deventer, Johannes Theobald and I
were all about to finish college, when we
realized that, although we were all on various
career tracks, we wanted to do something that
we were truly passionate about. Luckily we all
shared a big love for watches, so we decided to
make our own! Today - 3 years later - we are
proud of hundreds of thousands of customers,
>500 retail partners worldwide and our
community of more than a million followers on
social media.
How is watchmaking different for you as an
independent brand in a sea of other
watchmaking brands?
I think for us it’s really about creating
something that connects with our generation.
We recognize that good design doesn’t have to
be expensive, hence our products are an
unmatched combination of quality,
affordability, timeless German design and the
promise to be a stylish companion for every
journey a Kapten can undertake . We make
something that we are proud of and that we’d
be proud to have our friends or family wear.
Tell us about the new watches, PURE Nox and
Lux.
At just $99, the PURE allows new and younger
customers to give our brand a test drive. It's
minimal and sportive design offers a great
alternative to young professionals at work and
play. That´s why we believe the PURE will
become the must-have timepiece of 2017.
Many of the retailers we work with are already
calling it the analog timepiece for a digital
generation. PURE watches were also inspired
by famed industrial designer Dieter Rams and
his momentous principle “Less, but better.” We
designed the watches in collaboration with the
same German design studio that supports Bang
& Olufsen products so we are very proud to
work with such incredible people.
Any other plans of expansion for Kapten &
Son?
Always. We don’t want to give too much away,
but we recently launched sunglasses, and are
looking to become the signature accessories
brand for the international traveler. This will
include new categories, countless
collaborations and many new styles. We will be
more than a watch brand, we will be a brand to
watch!
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REDEFINING CLASSIC
COEN ANDERS TIMEPIECES EXUDE A PERFECT BALANCE OF
FORM AND FUNCTIONALITY
www.coenanders.com
Coen Anders is a fashion watch through and through, and by the looks of its latest collection, we’d
have to agree. Unlike a number of watchmakers who take on the minimalist aesthetic who
ultimately fail in the end by overdoing the overall design, Coen Anders has managed to get things
just right. Drawing inspiration from classic pilot watches, the watch was given a modern take while
still retaining its simplicity. It definitely makes a strong case for the first watch anyone looking to
upgrade should grab.
Paying homage to fashion and lifestyle, while keeping the look and feel of the iconic pilot
chronograph watch intact, this piece gives a nod to timeless style. Our favourite from the
collection would have to to be the Kent Black Rose, hands down. The pure black dial is enriched
with refined hands and indices, chronograph dials and a date display in contrasting rose gold,
making it an excellent addition to any wardrobe. The ultra-thin case merges seamlessly with the
tapered black Kent calf leather strap for a subtle elegance. Not to be outdone by other timepieces
in the same lane, all watches from Coen Anders sports a unique dome mineral crystal coated with
sapphire to make it almost impervious to scratches.
Movement is provided by OS11 Japanese Miyota Chronograph, meaning it’s definitely built to
last, and is highly accurate to say the least. Sporting a 42mm stainless steel case which also comes
in white silver and rose gold, as well as straps in calf leather, suede leather, and four different
NATO strap combinations.
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ENTER THE WORLD OF WUNDR
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AND GET TO KNOW THE MAN BEHIND ITS MINIMALIST WATCHES
By Azhar Ahmad
26
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Ayhan Celebi, I am 28 years old and
one of the co-founders of WUNDR. I am an
engineer and designer with a passion for
beautifully designed products.
What made you decide to be in the
watchmaking industry? If you weren’t doing
this, what is your intended career path?
Actually, I always wanted to be an
entrepreneur and design beautiful products.
The feeling of turning an idea into a real
product that makes people happy is just
amazing. I think the fact that I have already
been passionate about watches since my
childhood (according to my parents my first
word was “tick-tack”), brought me to the watch
business. Therefore, it’s hard to say what
would have been a good alternative.
Is designing a watch easy? Where do you start
with choosing colors, features, materials and
designs?
It took us about 2 years from the first ideas
until we had the finished prototype in our
hands. It all started with some hand sketches.
After that, we started to build up several 3D
models and “brought them to life” with the aid
of a 3D printer. We went through a process
with hundreds of different designs, materials
and color combinations. The next step was to
find the right manufacturing partner who could
realize our idea and keep our quality
standards. There have always been many ups
and downs. So in overall, I wouldn’t say that
designing a watch is easy. But like everything in
life, with a lot of power and passion nothing is
impossible.
What is the idea behind WUNDRWATCH?
We live in a world run by time, constantly
reminded and driven by our smartphone
notifications of meetings, calls, dates, and
events. Wundrwatch is a watch with only one
hand that lets you see the passing of time
throughout the day. It makes us conscious and
appreciative of the moments we don’t notice
while dealing with pressure created by our
connected life. With Wundrwatch we want to
create a reminder of how particular every
moment of life is, because we think: life is not
about time, but what we make out of it.
What is the plan of expansion for the brand?
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Our plan is to expand our brand globally. We
already have strong first partners who are
helping us to grow our brand in foreign
countries. Within the next years we want to
expand our network all over Europe, the US
and Asia. In 2018 we will also launch a new
product that we are really excited about
getting to the market.
What about you personally? What do you
hope to achieve in your life?
I think one of the most precious things in life is
time. Designing products that help people to
appreciate their time more consciously and
always be able to decide whom or what to
spend my time on.
Visit www.wundrstore.com
17 WRIST TAKER

TALK OF THE TOWN
TRENDS WE SAW AND LOVE AT BASELWORLD 2017
By Azhar Ahmad
28
The Octo Finissimo Automatic from Bvlgari is the slimmest ultra-thin automatic
watch right now. The 40mm sandblasted titanium case is just 5.15mm thick
SIZE MATTERS
Big, bold and flamboyant watches used to rule the watch world. It seemed that people believed
that the bigger the watch, the more complications and features it could encapsulate. However,
things have changed considerably now. Slim, small and flat cases were all the rage at Baselworld
this year. Make no mistake though, these slim watches are as technically tuned as your average
brawny timepiece featuring a multitude of complications
The Defy El Primero 21 from Zenith is housed in a
44mm case with an open dial in the aluminum version
INSIDE OUT
Open dial watches express the heart and soul of mechanical watchmaking like no others. While
traditionally, the lacy movement structure was fancifully embellished with frilly, engraved
flourishes, this year's Baselworld saw many brands taking a less is more approach that more
modern and edgy.
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This Chopard Mille Miglia 2017
Race Edition is limited to 1000
pieces and priced at only $6,840
WALLET-FRIENDLY
Anybody who has got anything to do with watches is well aware of the fact that the
watch industry is going through a tough phase. Sales of precious metal watches fell 9.7
per cent, while those for steel models fell 0.8 per cent. Hence, this year at Baselworld, a
large number of novelties and reiterations of icons introduced in steel (an affordable
metal) like never before.
Montblanc Summit is running Android Wear
2.0 and Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear 2100
chip with 4GB of storage
HIGHLY CONNECTED
The smartwatch craze has finally reached the Swiss shores. However, despite the immense
popularity of smartwatches, the Swiss watch industry are making sure that their consumers do
not lose the feeling and touch of a traditional ticking timepiece. The solution? The introduction of
an Analog Hybrid Smartwatch that combines the look and feel of a traditional timepiece while
also offering the option of connectivity to their consumers.
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CLASSIC + SPORTY
Swiss-made watches are famous for their craftsmanship, classic design
and their adaptability. It’s no surprise then, that the classic and the sporty
design are newly married and it's proven at this year's show as they made
a big splash.
Seculus’ Royal Marine Collection
highlights this match made in heaven by
their classic Swiss-made design paired
with the wearability factor.
The Edox Chronorally Chronograph is
one fine example to bring out the
incredible and innumerable properties
of the much sought-after material,
titanium.
STRONGER, LIGHTER, TITANIUM
Titanium was one of the most popular
materials used by almost all brands, big
and small. Also called the “engineering
metal”, titanium houses advantageous
properties like strength, hardness,
toughness, lightness, and durability. It
weighs half the weight of steel while
bringing in the same strength as that of
steel. Therefore, despite the size of the
watch, the use of titanium ensures the
watch feels light on the wrist. The only
disadvantage of using titanium is the
price that comes with it.
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The new Oris
Regulateur ‘Der
Meistertaucher’
brings a modern
feel by including
titanium
bracelet,
additional
rubber strap
with folding
buckle and
water-resistant
case with strapchanging
tools.
MODULAR APPROACH
This year's Baselworld saw an introduction of a variety
and mesmerising array of strap and wristband options.
With iconic timepieces being offered in colourful NATO
and rubber straps, this year the watch industry has taken
a step forward by taking risks and exploring new
territories.
The St. Imier watchmaker celebrates 60 years of this iconic
collection (from 1957 to 2017) at Baselworld 2017 with a heritage
re-issue of the Longines Flagship in numbered and limited edition
models available in steel, yellow gold and rose gold
SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS
Marking occasions like celebrating an anniversary, has always been an important reason for
numerous watch brands to introduce special watches that commemorate the particular occasion.
Many brands this year established a special moment in the history and heritage of the respective
brands, making 2017 Baselworld a grand affair to remember.
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
A LEGACY IS BORN
FREDRIK INGEL OF COTCAS SHARES HIS INCREDIBLE STORY BEHIND THE
ELEGANTLY DESIGNED WATCHES
By Azhar Ahmad
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Fredrik Ingel, I’m 30 years old from
Stockholm Sweden. I have a background as a
professional football player in Sweden, a
bachelor degree in marketing from Uppsala
University and since late 2015 I have been
designing, developing and working with my
own watch brand Cotcas.
What’s your history with wrist watches? How
did you get the idea to form Cotcas?
My history with wristwatches actually started
as a passion for jewelry, art and design. My
grandparents came to Sweden from Estonia
back in 1945 and they started designing and
manufacturing jewelry to earn a living so I
guess the interest for creating and driving this
type of business has been passed down to me.
The idea to form Cotcas came to me at a point
in my life when I had been diagnosed as being
burnt out. I had been pushing myself too hard,
doing things I didn’t really have a passion for
and as a result I had started getting anxiety
attacks. At that point I realised I had to put
myself first every day and asked myself “What
do you want to do?”. Right there and then the
idea for Cotcas popped into my head. I wanted
to express myself, break free in some way,
create something on my own and fill my days
with passion. First I was thinking about
designing jewelry but in the end I decided that
watches are more interesting as I love watches
myself. I’m very satisfied with my decision.
In a sea of watchmakers and brands, is it the
right time to become a watchmaker? What
has been the most difficult challenges you
faced so far?
This is actually something I have been thinking
about a lot. My opinion is that if you have an
idea that you believe in, don’t analyze too
much, just go for it. That’s what I did and I have
learned so much from creating and doing
something on my own. There are a lot of new
watch brands on the market right now, but I
don’t see it as a problem. I believe that if your
product are good enough and you work hard
you will get the success you deserve. The most
difficult challenges I have faced so far is to
spread the word about my brand and get
distribution. As a micro brand I don’t have the
funds to invest in all these marketing tools and
services available. So far I’ve been doing mostly
social media marketing, but I plan to increase
my presence with more bought media space,
public relations as well as working on finding
more sales channels.
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What excites you about watchmaking? Bring
us through a journey from design to
manufacturing Cotcas.
The thing that excites me the most with
watchmaking is that watches are one of the
jewelry available on the market that is timeless
and that I’m able to express my own design
preferences. When I designed our debut piece,
the Cotcas Legacy, the goal was that I should
love to wear it myself. I looked at my own style
and esthetic preferences and it became clear to
me, Cotcas should stand for a raw urban
attitude with a twist of elegance. After a lof ot
work revising and developing the first sketch, as
well as negotiating with about ten suppliers, I
finally felt satisfied with the design and sent it
for production at the manufacturer that I had
chosen. After evaluating, giving clear
instructions and changing some small details on
sample products the mass production of the
Cotcas Legacy started.
Where do you think the watch industry is
going and how do you fit in that future?
Hard to say but I think the industry will
continue to grow, with social media and e-
commerce it is getting easier to reach
customers that you wouldn’t have done 10
years ago. The way people shop is changing and
I believe micro-brands will benefit from this as
people find and spread the word about
products themselves. My plan is to be a part of
this shopping evolution, driving sales via social
media, influencer collaborations and having a
well-functioning webshop.
What about you personally? What do you
hope to achieve in life?
Personally my goals are to continue to have fun,
follow my passions and be recognized for my
design. Professionally I would like to develope
the Cotcas brand, finding more distributors and
becoming a well known brand on the
international market.
Visit www.cotcas.com to learn more
and follow Cotcas on Instagram -
@cotcaswatches
17 WRIST TAKER

EDITOR'S PICK: BASELWORLD
2017
BEST EVERYDAY WATCH FOR EVERYDAY MAN
By Azhar Ahmad
34
TUDOR BLACK BAY 41
When Tudor gets it right,
Tudor gets it very, very right.
The Black Bay 41 is essentially
just a larger version of last
year's Black Bay 36, which is
why it's so great. This is a slim
watch with a hyper-legible
dial that looks good on a strap
or a bracelet. It's reasonably
priced and has just the right
amount of vintage nostalgia
baked in.
ROLEX SEA DWELLER
Things are changing at
Rolex and the proof is
with the all-new Sea
Dweller. Its 43mm
makes it on the larger
side compared to its
predecessors, but that's
because it's always
hiding behind the
shadow of the
Submariner. Now, it
provides a much larger
emphasis and a more
robust look.
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NOMOS CLUB CAMPUS
Millennials can tell time only on their smartphones,
right? That’s a cliché, of course, but Nomos Glashütte, a
lauded German maker, released the chic,budget-friendly
Club Campus line for those still paying off their student
loans. As a bonus, each one comes with a largely blank
case back: just the thing for an inscription celebrating a
college graduation or a first job.
BREITLING COLT SKYRACER
Makers of fine Swiss
timepieces have no choice but
to connect with millennials or
fade to irrelevance. Quality
quartz watches like this are a
great start. This Breitling Colt
Skyracer costs less than half of
the company’s signature
aviation watches. But it
features a featherweight case
fashioned from a proprietary
carbon and a “SuperQuartz”
movement billed as 10 times
more accurate than standard
quartz. It also boasts an eightyear
battery life!
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Omega Speedmaster 60th
Anniversary Limited Edition
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of
one of the most famous watches
ever (a watch that astronauts would
eventually take to the moon),
Omega introduced this lovely and
letter-perfect homage to the
original Speedy, designed from a
digital scan of the ’50s original. It
can be purchased individually or as
part of the Trilogy collector’s set,
along with remakes of the 1957
Seamaster and Railmaster.
GRAND SEIKO
Seiko is known for producing
watches for the masses, but its
premium Grand Seiko line
holds its own among the fine
Swiss houses. To celebrate
Grand Seiko’s formal split into
a separate brand, the company
introduced an exquisite reissue
of its understated first model,
featuring a domed crystal and
wedge-cut hour markers. This
retro charmer is available in
gold, platinum and stainless
steel, in limited editions of
1,960 each, naturally.
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TAG HEUER AUTAVIA 02
Classic Autavias from the 1960s often fetch five-figure
sums on the vintage market. So imagine the delight
when TAG Heuer updated the coveted 1962 racing
chronograph, featuring a reverse panda dial and
brawny black bezel. The new version has been
modernized, with a larger 42-millimeter case and a
date window. But it still channels the spirit of Mario
Andretti, Jochen Rindt and other racing legends.
Citizen Eco-Drive
Professional Diver 1000M
At first glance, a lightpowered
watch that can be
used 1,000 meters
underwater may not make
much sense. It’s dark in
those inky depths. But the
lack of a battery means the
hardened “Super Titanium”
case never needs to be
opened, making it virtually
leakproof. Functionally
speaking, it is a bathyscaph
for the wrist.
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LOUIS MOINET X GLENLIVET
OLD VATTED 1862
A DROP OF THE OLDEST WHISKY IN THE WORLD INSIDE A $45,000 WATCH
If you love your whisky like you love your watch, the two can now be combined together. This year
saw a drop of the oldest whisky in the world, the Old Vatted 1862 from Glenlivet sealed inside a
watch designed by Louis Moinet, the inventor of the world's first chronograph.
It features a three-level dial with applied open-worked markers, seconds indication via a subdial
at 9:00, and the exclusive whisky capsule at 3:00. The Whisky Watch is powered by the LM45
automatic movement, with 22 jewels.
The whisky used in the watch was given courtesy of Sukhinder Singh, famed British Collector of
rare alcoholic beverages and the owner of The Whiskey Exchange. The bottle of Old Vatted
Glenlivet 1862 was opened on 14th March in Warsaw, Poland. It was tasted, poured into
individual tiny bottles, sealed and given to Jean Marie Schaller, owner of Louis Moinet, to bring
back to the watch atelier, where it was put into the miniature capsules and placed inside the
watches.
The gold version of the Whisky Watch will sell for about $45,000, which is a midrange price for
Louis Moinet watches, while a steel version will cost around $17,000.
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THE MACALLAN X URWERK
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU INVITE A WATCHMAKER TO A WHISKY PARTY?
Composed of over 150 parts, The Macallan x URWERK Flask has purposeful complexity and
intricacy at its heart; combining the beauty of design with genuine utility. Although it took two
years to develop, the result is a stunning flask with practicality, too.
Reflecting The Macallan's inherent mastery, intricacy and individuality combined with
URWERK’s unconventional design approach and revolutionary engineering, this is a statement of
what can be achieved when whisky mastery meets obsessively engineered horology.
A machined aluminium, titanium and stainless steel work of art featuring two titanium tanks, each
with a 100ml capacity that allow you to carry two of your favourite Macallan whiskies at once. You
can twist the outlet to switch reservoirs, letting you, say, sample a dollop of whisky and then chase
it with some flat Mickey’s. Winglets create a stand for the flask and cask indicators enable you to
track the cask type and age of the whiskies inside.
The Macallan x Urwerk Flask is limited to 500 pieces, and is available exclusively through
Macallan’s website at www.themacallan.com (sold out at the time of print).
17 WRIST TAKER

40
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
IT'S ABOUT TIME
OR IS IT ABOUT VINTAGE? IT CAN BE BOTH!
By Azhar Ahmad
First, tell us a little bit about yourselves and
the story behind the company.
It is almost a classic story. We are two high
school friends (Sebastian Skov & Thomas
Andersen, red.), both thirty years old. Thomas
have a background in economics and business
and I have in advertising. So the relation to
wristwatches may be hard to spot at first. But
where our background skills are what runs the
business – our passion is what drives it. We
always bought watches on our various travels
back then, nothing fancy, just as fashion
accessories. This turned over time into a
deeper interest and we began to collection
vintage watches, as well as the classics from
the big luxury Swiss houses. On a trip to
Mexico in 2013, the horology discussions
turned into a an classic “how does your future
look like” talk. After several years in difference
industries, we both felt something was
missing. Hence, we decided then and there to
start our own passion project, a ‘affordable
luxury’ watch brand
What made you guys start a watch company
while the industry is saturated with
timepieces?
There is a lot of watch brand these days, so
saying we spotted a hole in the market are big
words. Even though, we still felt that many
new watch brands were being different by
being very modern in their expressions, or
push into the fashion market with price as the
differentiator. So, our own desire of buying
classic designs with a luxury feel, was hard to
satisfy without paying the luxury cost of the
big brands. We therefore wanted to make big
classic designs, with and minimalistic
expression and small vintage details, all at an
affordable price point, 250-1000 USD. This
puts us into what we call the ‘affordable
luxury’ category, which is one of the smaller
watch segment – but which are growing fast.
So what do we have? In short, a strong sense of
style and direction, but most importantly - No
comprise. From everything to quality, design
details, packaging and into what stores we are
in we want to control and not have to make
any comprises to. And this is the interesting
part of this category. That you can make all the
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
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AAA
41
small details the big houses do, but make it
affordable without using the expensive inhouse
movements.
Tell us more about the name of the brand.
The name About Vintage we choose for two
reasons. One, it is a direct reference to our
design language. Two, it says something
about why we felt in love with watches in
the first place. Watches is much more than
an accessory. It is collectable because it can
contain history, it tells stories. All our
models tell stories that has been, by naming
them after big moments (years) in horology.
But we also hope they get the own history
along the way. Therefore, each watch is
of the most important terms of our business.
The design of the A/V watches is very clean,
simple and exudes timeless, understated
class. What's the inspiration behind the it?
We both love and live with Danish interior
design. This have had a major influence on the
simplicity of Danish design language which we
deeply respect. Combine that with the classic
design of vintage watches and you have the
source of our inspiration.
Where is the industry heading to and how do
your brand fit in that future?
We feel that wristwatches are here to stay.
And we also sense the increasing demand. We
individually numbered and we encourage
our customers to carry their watch on big
occasions, hence our tagline; make moments,
give it history – let it become vintage.
What has been the challenges you’ve faced
being the watchmaking industry so far?
We never compromise quality and therefore
we spend countless hours making sure that
all our designs are made to perfection. We
have visited all our manufactores, we have
declined lots of samples before finally
approving the perfect one. We feel our
watches are all made with the passion and
perfection deserved and we will always
continue to do so. Patience and
perseverance are without any doubt some
represent the segment from 349 USD - 1000
USD which is a kind of the segment in between
the more expensive brands and the cheaper
ones like Daniel Wellington and Skagen etc.
We strive to design classic and timeless
watches that will always be relevant and
modern. As we say, "only few stand the test of
evolution, and yet the classic timepiece has
done exactly that."
Visit www.about-vintage.com
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INTRODUCING HAVESTON
STRAP
THICKER, STURDIER, AND HIGHER QUALITY THAN THE AVERAGE
NATO STRAPS
www.haveston.com
By Azhar Ahmad
In this edition of strap review, we have a very cool brand for your reading pleasure.
These guys are not just your ordinary NATO straps; they're re-engineered from the
traditional layout by extending the mounting position of the watch case and relocate
the folded tail to the flat base of the wearer's wrist. But let’s not rush into
details so fast. Please meet Haveston, your new favorite heavy duty strap.
While other strap brands have many options to choose from, Haveston only has
two choice of straps, and it's actually a good thing. You can spend hours wandering
from one strap to another, but you'll never be able to narrow it down to these two
straps because let's face it, how often do you change straps anyway?
Inspired by the striped paint scheme applied to Allied aircraft on the eve of the D-
Day invasion, the Invasion strap was born. The M1936 strap is based on classic
canvas tones found in US military field equipment between 1943-45. Both straps
feature a heavy weave fabric that holds its form while still remaining flexible. Its
completely redesigned layout delivers greater comfort and aesthetics and the
sliding keeper allows easy and secure stowing of tail.
You can purchase them individually or both in a set. It only comes in 20mm but a
22mm one will soon be available. We encourage you to pay a visit to their site and
have a look or follow their journey on Instagram @havestonstraps.
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TRAVELING WITH LEATHER
STRAP
VINTAGE-STYLE LEATHER WATCH STRAP TO THE RESCUE
www.bulangandsons.com
How do you wear the same watch five different ways? This five-piece
leather straps from Bulang and Sons is the answer to that dilemma.
Featuring leather watch straps in variations of Caramel Brown, Siena
Brown, Black, Smokeyjack Grey and Cosaro Brown, the Collection provides
a solid variety that will match any vintage or modern watch. The elegant
Taupe leather strap roll allows for the storage of up to 11 buckle watch
straps too, if you require.
If you're like us and you love changing straps ever so often - especially
when you're traveling - it's safe to say that most of the leather straps will be
exposed to wear and tear pretty quickly and easily. With the leather strap
roll, your watch straps now have a place where it's rarely exposed to the
outside elements.
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
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JOIN THE SLOW REVOLUTION
WITH CHRIS & CORVIN OF SLOW WATCH
By Azhar Ahmad
Tell us a bit about the founders' backgrounds.
We are four founders with very different kind
of backgrounds. Two are Swiss watch Design
and Engineering experts from Switzerland, one
has long term experience in brand and product
management and one is an expert in online
marketing. So it’s a great combination of skaills
to create online watch brands.
What drove you to want to start your own
watch brand?
There was no inspiring offering for our
generation. All watch brands just felt old and
totally irrelevant. We wanted to create a brand
that truly speaks to us.
Do you still remember your first customer?
How did you get them?
Sure, we remember them. The first customers -
of course- were friends. The first “real”
customers found us on facebook.
What are some key lessons you learned after
working in the timepiece industry?
It’s an old and quite dusty market with (usually)
a long way to get your product to a consumer.
It’s all about tradition and prestige, not real
stories.
What was the inspiration behind the design of
slow?
The core is to appreciate time again. We do
that by helping the wearer to re-connect with
her/his consciousness and perception of time.
That’s why we designed the most natural way
to display time with our 24 hour one hand
concept.
What are your roles in the design process? Is
it hard to churn ideas and how do you handle
clash of interests/ideas?
We give a detailed guidance to the designer.
Actually the slow concept and story was so
consistent that the design process was very
smooth and without any clashes.
As founders of the company, it’s still
important to keep work/life balance. What do
you guys do when you’re not working?
Spending time with our young family and doing
as much sports as possible (Golf, Tennis,
Squash, Hockey, Yoga)
And finally, what’s on the horizon for slow
watches in the next twelve months?
We see slow a very very timeless brand and
our aim is to establish an icon shape. So we
want to keep the collection as focussed as
possible. Therefore we do not plan to launch
new models. We would rather reduce the
number of models even further. Less is more.
Visit www.slow-watches.com

45
17 WRIST TAKER

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
START A WATCH COLLECTION WITH THESE ELEGANT WATCHES UNDER $500
46
Bulova, founded in New York in 1875, has strong ties
to space exploration. A Bulova worn by astronaut
Dave Scott during the Apollo 15 mission in 1971 sold
for $1.6 million in 2015. This stunning re-issue edition
is a total steal, and has the look and feel of a much
more expensive piece, with some impressive history to
it. The high frequency quartz movement allows for
accuracy that is good within seconds per year. The low
price on this beauty is almost unbelievable
Smartwatches are often far less
attractive than their mechanical
counterparts, but this number
from Alpina, founded in
Switzerland in 1883, mates high
tech to classic looks. It’s really
something of a hybrid. The watch
monitors sleep patterns and
physical activity if you want it to
and automatically adjusts to
different time zones, interfacing
with an app on your smartphone.
Even if you lose the data it will
automatically restore itself from
a backup.
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Many precious Swiss diving watches never see any underwater action. Seiko’s
classic “Pepsi” (i.e. red and blue) diver is designed to be used, and is rated to 650
ft. The 44mm piece has the iconic rotating bezel that allows you to keep track of
how long you’ve been underwater. This is the only other watch on the list with an
automatic movement, and would normally cost considerably more. The Pepsi
coloring makes a bold and sporty statement but the watch has the chops to back
it up.
A dressier chrono from Tissot, the PR 100
comes on a black leather strap with a 41mm
case and an extremely accurate Swiss quartz
movement. The chronograph function lets
you time cool stuff like track laps in your
sports car, but is upscale enough to look
good with a business suit.
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48
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
THE NAME'S BOND,
BYRON BOND
MEET THE BRITISH/SWEDISH DUO WHO DESIGNED THE
ULTRA-SUAVE WATCHES FOR YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE
By Azhar Ahmad
Tell us a little bit about yourselves and your
roles in the company.
We are a British/Swedish duo with a
background in Internet retail. However, more
recently we have focused more on designbased
projects that have been really fun. There
is something innately satisfying about seeing
something through from design to production.
Typical of the ‘hands on’ nature of a start-up,
we are both involved in all aspects of the
business at the moment.
What made you both decided to be in the
watchmaking industry?
Going into the watchmaking industry wasn’t a
strategic decision but more an idea that
developed naturally from conversations about
a watch being an interesting design project to
pursue. We felt that it would be an exciting
venture; challenging but also immensely
rewarding. We could also visualise our style – a
mix of understated simplicity and British
classic elegance – converting well to a watch
design.
Is there anything lacking in the watch
industry or anything you would like to
change/add about the industry?
One thing we have really strived to capture in
our watches is a lux feeling you acquire from
Byron Bond, from the bespoke packaging to
the feeling of wearing our watches. Although
this is obviously not unique to our watches, we
feel that we are one of very few that can offer
this experience, at the price point we do. It has
been a real focal point in the process of
developing the brand.
When it comes to designing a watch, what
comes to mind first? Tell us about the design
to manufacturing process in brief.
We both have subtle differences in our design
tastes. Ironically, Jemma likes clean, simple
Scandinavian style while Rick has always been
a fan of classic British design; our watches are
a meeting of these complementary sources of
inspiration. Our remit was to create a watch
that is a 21century interpretation of a classic.
Our initial sketches were based on a classic
foundation but during the design process, we
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49
scrutinised each component in turn and
refined it to its most simple, understated
form. Our first designs were the gold, silver
and black models that have complete
uniformity of colour and material. We have
since added more extensive combinations to
the collection.
What would one wear from Byron Bond
London for these occassions; summer party,
dressy evenings, and casual work?
All our watches have interchangeable straps
and are available in mesh, leather and nato.
This allows for extreme versatility at an
affordable price point. For instance, our
Carnaby watch has a gold case, black face and
black nato strap, which is a great casual work
and weekend watch. For a dressy evening, the
nato strap could be replaced with a gold mesh
strap or a black leather strap would work well
for a garden party. It's essentially one watch,
three ways for £129. We think that's an
outstanding value.
Lastly, any plans of expansion for the brand?
What about both of you personally?
We have no current plans to expand the brand
at this early stage. Our vision is to make our
watches synonomous with the best of British
design and to enjoy each step of the journey
along the way.
Visit www.byronbond.com
17 WRIST TAKER

50
IT LOOKS LIKE A WATCH
BUT ACTS LIKE A SMARTWATCH
Compiled by Azhar Ahmad
DKNY
This everyday women's watch is a new hybrid
smartwatch from DKNY. There's no
touchscreen, instead the DKNY Minute will
track activity and send the data to iPhones and
Android phones via Bluetooth. The Minute will
also vibrate to alert the wearer of phone calls,
messages and apps notifications. There's three
'pushers' (physical buttons) on the right hand
edge of the watch and these will be customisable
via the app too. So, you can assign these to
functions like take a selfie or control music via
your smartphone.
KATE SPADE
Kate Spade New York offers the cutest hybrid
smartwatch that comes in pink color with
champagne bubbles. The bubbles rise up to the
word “Cheers!” Count down the days, hours and
minutes to your next celebration with a
champagne window that fills up as you get
closer to your date. The watch can also be used
to track your activity and beauty sleep as well as
notify you with incoming messages and calls. It
will also be available in variation and in a set of
two with a black leather strap.
TORY BURCH
The Collins from Tory Burch is set to follow in
the footsteps of other smartwatches as it is
discreetly integrating smartwatch features like
activity and sleep tracking as well as notification
support while still keeping things looking stylish.
The Collins is also able to find your phone with a
tap of a button. It will be available in four styles
aside from the gold/navy combo shown in the
image. There is no need for the watch to be
charged as coin cell batteries enable extended
use and will only have to be changed twice a
year (based on usage).
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DIESEL
Similar to all the hybrids under its parent
company, Fossil, Diesel also revealed its own
smartwatch called the Diesel On. This watch is
able to track your every move, pushing you to
meet your goals while keeping your unique
identity. Compatible with iPhones and Android
phones, Diesel On can be used to control music
app, snag a photo, track goal progress or even
ring your phone if you misplace it. The best part?
No charging needed whatsoever for up to six
months and can be easily replaced with an
included battery removable tool.
FOSSIL
As one of our favorite smartwatches out there,
Fossil definitely delivers again with its unveiling
of the Q Activist. It is compatible with iPhones
and Android phones and has all the bells and
whistles such as notifcations, music control,
second time zone as well as custom goal setting
and multiple alarms. The hybrid watch is one of
the slimmest around with just 12mm in thickness
and is able to hold its battery for up to four
months (based on usage).
MICHAEL KORS
The Michael Kors Access hybrid smartwatch is
the best of both worlds. With the functionality
of a world-class digital tracker combined with
signature Michael Kors analog watch design, the
hybrid smartwatch is a luxe modern essential.
This watch features an activity indicator dial on
the watch face and alerts you to incoming email
and text notifications through vibrations and
watch hand movements to help you stay
connected to the people and apps you care
about most.
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52
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
ON THAT CIRCULR LIFE
FOUNDER, DANNY BUCK SCHOOLS US ON E-COMMERCE BUSINESS AND HIS OWN
WATCH BRAND, CIRCULR
By Azhar Ahmad
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Around 10 years ago, just as I was set to
graduate, I decided to take a job in the “web
industry”. This decision accelerated me into a
role selling websites to small businesses.
Within a year, I did a management buyout of
the business (I was 22!) and turned it into a
digital agency worth millions. Eight years on,
after I’d turned 30, I decided to step down from
the board and focus on a new project. This
project was CIRCULR. I love ecommerce and
my background has pushed me towards
helping other brands so along CIRCULR, I help
aspiring entrepreneurs create an income
through online selling. Other than my business
life which is 95% of my day, I enjoy restaurants
(a lot), I’m a big football fan, my team is Man
Utd and I’m hooked on social media.
What made you decide to be in the
watchmaking industry?
It was quite the accident actually. I knew that I
wanted to have my own ecom brand and I’d
advised clients how to go from £500k to
£20mill by selling direct to consumer, all I had
to do was pick the right product line. I was
going to do a fashion category (still on the
backburner) when I discovered that nobody
was looking at the watch industry as a fashion
category. Most were looking at it as a one off
item or gift based business. As we developed
the brand, we found that we could be
extremely price effective by removing
unnecessary aspects of the watch. For
example, manufacturers recommended we go
for 5ATM waterproof but then put a genuine
leather strap on that wasn’t waterproof. We
were paying more for a watch that actually
couldn’t go in the water anyway. We started to
call anything unnecessary “bullsh*t” and the
brand philosophy was born. We now have an
active approach to reduce costs for our
customers by being efficient with our
processes. Henry Ford did it with the car,
Ingvar Kamprad did it with flat pack furniture
and we’re going to do it with watches.
How is a watch important? Do you
compromise function over style or the other
way around?
As our approach is very different to other
watch brands in different categories, we have
to look at what our customers want. Just like
there’s no waiters/waitresses in McDonald’s,
we have to be efficient in our processes to give
a great product at the best possible price. I
absolutely love Audemars Piguet watches, I
hope to buy one, one day. But they’re a
different category to us. Like a Ford to a
Ferrari, the only difference is our watches
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AAA
serve a purpose and have a place. You
wouldn’t wear an AP on a stag do/ bachelor
party now would you?
Design is technically free so we make our
watches as beautiful as we can and spend as
much as we can on the things you need in a
fashion watch. Hardened glass, nice straps,
exceptional movement, etc. We don’t
compromise on the things you need in a watch
from us, we buy extremely efficiently so we
can deliver watches at prices others can’t.
What is the process of making a watch like?
Bring us to a journey from design to
manufacturing.
Designing a watch is an absolute joy. Our
watch designs are mainly minimalist so our
process is to look at what to remove. Removal
of the unnecessary is actually quite difficult
but very rewarding when you find something
that works.
We import our components from across the
globe and then have a factory in Asia do all the
assembly although we have a business plan to
change that in Q2/3.
Who wears CIRCULR?
CIRCULR is designed to be worn by anyone
who wants to wear different watches daily or
by occasion. We’re not a luxury watch brand
trying to compete with Rolex but there are
1000s of people who love wearing watches
but don’t wear their expensive watches to
work or whilst at an event for the fear of
losing or damaging it. That’s where we fit into
the market.
Any plans of expansion for the company?
What about you personally?
Yes big plans! We’re set to roll out CIRC V2.0
soon which is a very exciting concept and will
make us totally unique in the industry. It’s
confidential at the moment but I’d love to
share it with you when it’s launched. For me,
I’m running CIRCULR which is the spawn of
my “Money While Sleeping” methodology
which is also a company that I’m a CEO of. We
offer customised plans to help aspiring
entrepreneurs to sell online. Everything we’re
doing at CIRCULR is included in the plans
which are only $299 per plan. There’s a tonne
of value in there even if you’re already a brand
but looking to improve.
Visit www.circulr.co
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54
PERFECT TIMING
THE LATEST IN THE WORLD OF HOROLOGY
Singer Vehicle Design Getting Into the Watch Game
www.singervehicledesign
At a very quick glance, the Singer Track 1 looks like a conventional watch, but
there's actually a lot more going on. It's one of only two watches to use the
AgenGraphe automatic chronograph movement that actually puts the time of
the day on the outside of the watch, with stopwatch functions moved to the
center.
To tell time, the two outer discs rotate with the orange index at the bottom
indicating the time. The three hands in the center measure hours, minutes, and
seconds when engaged by the start/stop pusher on the top right of the case.
The weirdness doesn't stop there. A typical chronograph measures 12 to 24
hours, but the Singer Track 1 can measure 60 hours. Suffice to say, this watch
isn't like anything else on the market.
This automatic movement also offers a 60-hour power reserve and a display
case at the back, so you can see all the mechanical bits. This movement,
designed by Swiss watchmaker Jean-Marc Wiederrecht, apparently took 10
years to develop, and it looks wildly complex to build. It's also the reason why
the Singer Track 1 is so expensive, at $41,000 - still cheaper than its
reimagined Porsche 911s.
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RESERVOIR Launches Its First Collection
www.reservoir-watch.com
We got the first scoop of the car-inspired collection and it was pretty
cool! The GT Tour Supercharged Sport caught our eye and is inspired
by dashboard instruments capturing the essence of classic racing. The
GT Tour displays central retrograde minutes, jumping hours at 6 and
the power reserve (plus the date at 5 which is not shown on this
prototype). Its engine is based on an ETA2824 movement, a reliable
work horse combined with a proprietary module manufactured by
Télôs, a movement designer owned by Frank Orny and Johnny
Girardin, the men behind the Harry Winston Opus 14 and the
Metamorphosis for Montblanc – among others.
The collection showcases all the elegance of the materials and
finishings so dear to cars in days gone by. The polished steel of the
cases and the leather of the straps underpin what is the
SUPERCHARGED style, recalling the chrome and velvet trimmings of
the seat and the steering wheel, and even the thick leather driving
gloves. Both models have an irresistible and palpable charm, with
their time apertures (and red date display for one model), and are
water-resistant to 50 metres.
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
AHEAD OF ITS TIME
TUSENÖ WATCH IS INSPIRED BY THE SWEDISH WEST COAST FOUNDED
BY TWO CHILDHOOD FRIENDS
By Azhar Ahmad
56
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role
in the company
My Name is Johan Holsner, I am the CEO and
Co-Founder of Tusenö. I’ve had a passion for
watches for a very long time and finally took
the step from dreaming about working with
watches, to actually doing it a few years ago.
My role in the company consists of both this,
that and the other. However coming from a
designer background, what I enjoy the most is
the design process, prototyping and being a big
part of the manufacturing. But as we are a very
small team, you really get to be a key part in
every piece of the company.
How did the company started? What is the
inspiration behind it?
Tusenö started back in early 2014. My
childhood friend (Alexander Bendz, Co-
Founder) and I had talked about starting
something up for a long time and thought it
was time to actually do it, so we quit our jobs
and went all in. Back in September 2015 we
launched a Kickstarter campaign, which onemonth
later, had become the highest funded
campaign for watches in Sweden ever. That
was a huge deal for us that meant that we
really could start up for real. Both Alexander
and I are born and raised on the Swedish west
coast, which has been a vital part of our
inspiration in design and tone. It’s also a bonus
to be able to show of some of Sweden’s
beautiful nature to our customers from all
over the world.
What makes Tusenö watches different? Is it
difficult being an independent watchmaker in
a sea of other giant watch brands?
I think it’s the effort that is put into the
watches and everything around it. We get a lot
of praise from our customers. They love the
fact that the watches feels much more
expensive than they actually are. That’s exactly
what we set out to create. When you purchase
a Tusenö, you get the same feel that you do
when you purchase a watch in a much higher
price range. Well, there are a lot of other watch
brands out there, and the big brands have
millions of dollars to spend on advertising, we
don’t. However, we want to build our audience
on satisfied customers and word of mouth. It’s
a slow process, but it’s the right way for us. We
know that our customers love our watches,
which is the most important thing.
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Take us through a journey from designing to
manufacturing the watches.
That’s a fun ride. You first set out sketching a
rough idea of what you want the watch to
become, a dress watch, a diver, chronograph or
something else. After that, you spend a long
time just perfecting the initial idea and creating
something you really love. 3D design and
technical drawings are created and material is
sourced. Then comes the prototyping, and
there are lots of them. Small differences and
tweaks are played around with until; finally, the
watch is perfected. All the parts are then
manufactured and assembled, a final quality
control is made and the watches can then be
delivered to their awaiting customers.
That’s the, very concise, journey.
What’s the plan of expansion for the
company?
We actually just launched our smaller model in
the First series, the First 38. Aimed towards
both men and women, it’s a long awaited
addition to the series and we are very pleased
with it. It’s always exciting to see the reactions
of a new segment. The plan for the future is to
continue to follow our vision of becoming an
established watch brand; this will be acquired
through offering great watches with great
quality at a really good price. We have some
really exciting projects in the pipeline where
we are going a bit more into the premium
segment. I would highly recommend following
us on Instagram (tusenowatches) or Facebook
(Tuseno) to keep up to date with all upcoming
projects.
And what about you personally?
Well, honestly, it’s total focus on Tusenö, so no
big plans personally at the moment.
Visit www.tuseno.com
17 WRIST TAKER

THE FUNDING GAME
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE
BEST WATCHES ON KICKSTARTER
58
BOLDR Supply Company Launches The
Odyssey Automatic Dive Watch
www.boldrwatches.com
The BOLDR Supply Company embarked on a new odyssey, with the BOLDR
Odyssey automatic dive watch. The BOLDR Odyssey brings BOLDR’s iconic
modern styling back with a new original design, in the form of a stylish
automatic dive watch that you can actually dive with. Last year, the watch
microbrand from Singapore and Malaysia launched a best-selling range of
aviator inspired mecha-quartz watches - which are now available in select
retail outlets in San Francisco, Paris and Singapore. This year, alongside a
redefined logo and brand, BOLDR successfully launched their boldest design
to date on Kickstarter in May 2017 and is expected to ship by October 2017. It
retails at$359, but is currently available for a limited time for pre-order at
$299 upwards.
The Odyssey is enveloped in a sturdy, stainless steel case, the Odyssey can
ride rough with an ultra tough 6-screw caseback, rated for up to 500m water
resistance, and a screw-down crown with triple lock mechanism. A resilient
automatic movement by Seiko and special helium escape valve also makes
sure the watch stays strong under any pressure, both in and out of the water.
Each BOLDR Odyssey comes with a choice of a durable polyurethane strap or
a top-grain stylish italian leather strap with a waterproof coating. The BOLDR
Odyssey comes in three, stylish colour combinations - the Deep Blue comes
with a navy blue dial, white Superlume index markers, in a stainless steel case
and bezel. The White Storm comes in a white dial, white Superlume index
markers, with a stainless steel case and gunmetal bezel. The Ever Black comes
with a black dial, white Superlume index markers with a all-black stainless
steel case and bezel.
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LIV Rebel Surpassed Kickstarter Record
For Swiss Watches
www.livwatches.com
LIV watches is now on their third Kickstarter campaign and already
breaking records. The LIV Rebel was priced at $259 USD to $790 USD
on Kickstarter and was fully funded within nine minutes. They raised
over $1.7mil, surpassing any Kickstarter record for Swiss watches
ever. How are they able to get so much support in such little time? Lets
look a little more at this new model and find out.
One thing that stands out right away is that this watch is unique: it’s
not round and features an innovative, stadium-design face. Covering
the dial is an eight sided sapphire crystal. The LIV Rebel is being
offered in four versions– an automatic chronograph, quartz
chronograph, a three hand automatic, and a quartz GMT. All models
are in the same unique case. Like all LIV watches, the Rebel is made of
top-of-the-line materials, in the tradition of fine Swiss watchmaking:
The case is machined out of a single piece of 316L stainless steel. It
has genuine sapphire crystal that’s scratch resistant with antireflective
coating. And it has the signature eye-popping, threedimensional,
multi-layered dial with BGW9 luminescence that brings
time to life. Each Rebel watch is a Swiss Made Limited Edition
timepiece and comes with a Limited Edition Certificate. The Limited
Edition number (in addition to the unique serial number) is engraved
on the caseback. Each model is available in a range of color options,
with a choice of several straps, as well as metal bracelets with
butterfly clasps and deployant buckles.
They also offer free worldwide shipping, a five-year warranty backed
by real service and a 90-day return policy (which is unheard of on
Kickstarter).
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