ztirual
1269
Nico
forget about repairing silicon parts in 50 years time.
That was the point I was making.
Good traditional watchmaking, irrespectively of how complicated it is, just as Breguet's watches today, can be serviced in the future by educated, skilful watchmakers.
But those silicon (etc.) parts, when those are broken, what will you do? Fix them with glue, go to the nearby shop, use another material?
Tissot was famous for experimenting with plastic parts throughout the 60's and 70's for some key components of their movements. Can you fix those pieces today?
At an equal level of complexity I believe that in the future it will be easier to repair one of those fantastic hand made watches from independents (Smith, Dufour, Strehler, Gerber and many others come to mind...) than one of those watches with a silicium elements (and God knows what other special materials)
The former are designed with respect for the past and to last for generations, they use materials that can be repaired, sourced and be relatively easily remade in the watchmakers workshop. The latter imho much less so.
Please note for me there is less an opposition between Independents and the brands than between those sticking to more traditional material and those who don't. We know of many independents who widely or sparingly use new materials for the mobile parts of their movements. De Bethune and Laurent Ferrier come to mind. Well, needless to say that I would be much more concerned of servicing of their watch equipped with high-tech materials that I would be with a watch of say, Klings or Haldiman... It has little to do about the care that needs to be taken when servicing. That applies to all watches.
Best, my friend
More posts:
Some quick pictures of the Gronefeld brothers.
Since I met Bart in Vegas, during our IGOTT II some 4 years ago ( already??? ), I can call him a friend. Each time we meet, it is a top quality time, with good laughs and interesting opinions to share. Each year, I meet them at the SIHH, as they love watc...
Meeting and discussing with independant watchmakers provide very special moments
I think I already asked you once why you didn't already acquire a watch from an Indy. I know you're very concerned about prices for value and going concern issues, but I guess you have there an envy (need?) that would be fulfilled if you took the plundge....
I am following the Independant Phenomenon in a close way.
Because I love this freshness, the concept, the man behind the Watch ( and God knows that there are some very cool guys, here ). Maybe one day... When my concerns will fly away. Best, Nicolas
Concern?
I honnestly do not follow you if you are referring to maintenance/ servicing concerns. 1/ as long as the watchmaker lives no problem 2/ No problem either after for all watches made in a traditional manner. Yes, I would be concerned with all small brands/ ...
I would be less categoric and optimistic than you, Z.
This could be a very interesting discussion, but it will be a long, very long one... To make it short, when you have to service a movement whose even the smallest parts are delicately finished, and that the watchmaker or his company has disappeared.... Wh...
So many questions unanswered, Nico
And that will never be answered. Carpe diem, seize the day, enjoy watches as they are, could be my (and your?) motto, where ever they come from... And think of servicing as it comes. I strongly believe there will always be very talented and careful watchm...
It depends on the price you have to pay for a watch.
From a certain price, I don't take the risk... If it is a 5000 Euros Watch, then why not. But paying 50, 60, 100 000 Euros for a Watch and being uncertain about being able to maintain it, well, no, thank you. Best, Nicolas
Wouldn't experienced watchmaker be able to revise an independent watch?
I am wondering, shouldn't a good and experienced watchmaker be able to even service an independent watch? Even be able to make certain movement parts himself? I recall one of my old watchmakers who was able to create parts himself. He is too old now, but ...
Normally, yes, but when it comes to a very technical movement...
With let's say silicon parts, is this still possible? I fear it is not. Or when the level of finishings is very high, I have the same doubts. Best, Nicolas
Nico
forget about repairing silicon parts in 50 years time. That was the point I was making. Good traditional watchmaking, irrespectively of how complicated it is, just as Breguet's watches today, can be serviced in the future by educated, skilful watchmakers....
That can't be the Gronefelds...
They must be celebrity doubles or impostors... you know its them as the Gronefelds always have a beer in their hands :) Cheers Andrew
As I always tell people...
smoking area is best place to meet great people ;) :) Thank you for pics Best D
