#35 Unboxing my True Grail Watch
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ส.ค. 2024
- A Collector's grail watch can be anything from a rare vintage Vulcain to an over-the-top Hublot. It can be as common as a Rolex Submariner to as rare (and expensive!) as a Dufour Simplicity. It's not the cost, rarity or popularity of a watch: it's what a collector dreams about and wishes he could have but cannot...yet. This is the story of how my "yet" came. WatchArtSci covers the general topics of high horology watches, watch movements, purchasing watches, judging the value of a watch and its movements and understanding the history of different watches and watch brands that collectors cherish.
I like seeing collectors who love their pieces. You looked like a little boy on Christmas morning opening up his Red Ryder carbine action 200 BB gun. Pure delight is a wonderful thing.I know some collectors brag about the value of their collection, but often I don't sense the same joy as someone like you that knew what you wanted and worked to get it when it was in your means to do so. I am equally excited to watch someone open up a 200 dollar automatic Seiko that they have waited and worked to save up and buy. May your beautiful watch bring you years of pleasure. It looks good on you.
Donna Thomas Red Ryer! You nailed that one!
Oh Man, i'm 56 soon to be 57 and I now have the watch fever. It happened when I started working from home last year and I somehow found a few TH-cam videos and now I'm hooked. That is an awesome looking watch. The great thing about this hobby is other collectors do these videos so you can get your fix until you can afford the grail. I think I'm equally addicted to watching these videos as I am to anticipating buying a grail watch. Good Luck with it!
No offense Stephen, you're still a kid as far as I'm concerned! Learn as much as you can and look at everything! Take care and be safe, Bill😷
@@watchartsci Thanks Bill. lol No offense taken. I like being referred to as a Kid. : )
Beautiful! I saw this watch in a magazine a long time ago and fell in love with it. Bold and unique design. It's nice to see something other than a Rolex Submariner or Patel dress watch. Like the tie and sweater. Nice to see someone dressed as an adult!
Hey Alan, thanks man! Like you, I saw the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 and used to look at pictures of it a lot. Then Jomashop had new ones for about $10k less than the original $34k, I had a watch to trade in and just enough money to get it at the time, and so I did. If you keep an eye out, one may come your way that you can get. I hope so! Kindest regards, Bill
The 1921 is amazing. It is one of the timepeaces that got me into watches and stille is one of the most classic and beautiful peaces. I dont normally care for watches over 10 K, but FP Journe and the 1921 are exception. Congratulations one the grail 👌
Hi Jon. I'm with you on watches over 10k--actually with watches over 2-3k. My Zenith GMT was only 1k, and it's one of my favorites. It's going to be a while before I will be able to get something as special as the 1921 and Chronomètre Souverain. Cheers, Bill
A belated congratulations. Your joy is infectious and wonderful to see.
Well, Prof, it's the fun that makes us spend so much money on these little pieces of machinery...Take care, Bill
One of my grail watches as well! The hits just keep on coming for you Bill! I know you'll truly enjoy this piece, I would love to just try one on!
Thanks John. I don't think there's going to be much more new soon, and I really like to see the collections that everyone else has--I learn so much from them and the variety of collectors and collections. Kindest regards, Bill
I currently have the Patek 3468, my grandfather's watch. It just came back form service at Patek about a month ago. I also use the Omega Planet Ocean Skyfall Limited Edition for my daily. I'm so torn as what piece to purchase next... Any thoughts? was thinking a chronograph
Big fan of Planet Oceans with their 15k gauss escapements! For a chronograph with a legendary movement, I'd consider a Zenith El Primero 36'000 VpH Men's Watch Model 03.2080.400/01.C494. Looks like you're ready for anything in that watch--and probably are! Cheers, Bill
I was thinking the Zenith with the White Dial for Christmas!
That is a true beauty! My old Zenith GMT has proven to be a star! Love it. Cheers, Bill
Really beautiful watch bill ,wish they would have put it in a few more boxes !!😂
Thanks, man! Yes, Junior, a few more boxes would help ... 😉 Cheers, Bill
Thanks to share this great new watch you have with us VC is one of highest prestigious brands if not the highest to have, enjoy it and wish you all the best very nice person have style of positivity hope it attract every beautiful thing you wish in life
Hey Ali! Thanks man. Let's see your watch collection! You can then share too! Kindest regards, Bill
Very unique piece i love it when brands are original in their designs. Hope you enjoy in good health. Congrats!
Hi Salvador! Thanks man! That was a nice thought, and I will do as you say. Kindest regards, Bill
What an amazing piece!Congrats Bill!!
Also enjoyed the presentation box.
Kudos for VC!
Enjoy this beauty in good health!!
Thanks Amintas. The box inside the presentation box is its travel box with side holsters for extra straps. My FPJ only has a flat leather case for travel, and my L. Leroy has a 1-watch roll case. I wonder if there's a way I can customize it to carry more than a single--that's a big travel box for just one watch. Kindest regards ,Bill
Usually in boxing they are not too interesting,but I loved yours.
Hi Galja! I had to wait months for this watch....but it was worth it. Kindest regards, Bill
What an absolute beautiful timepiece! I've also enjoyed the look of the old 1910s "Trench" watches with the chanted dial. I know this is an older video but I'm just catching up on what I've missed lol
Hey Forest Cop! Great to hear from you. The 'trench' watches have some very interesting fonts in their numbers too, and that's one of the things I like about the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921...some with even more interesting dials like those of the trench watches you mentioned. Kindest regards, Bill
Your Vacheron Constatin is Lovely. I love " DRIVERS". A shame more manufacturers don't make them ! Best Wishes.
Hey Roar! Thanks man! I'm not sure sometimes which is more expensive, the car or the watch that goes with it! Cheers, Bill
Could it be, that these were designed just by soldering lugs on pocket watches, to increase sales, during the time when wrist watches when people started getting more interested in pocket watches?
Later, company added the marketing gimmick and story about using it while deriving. As, We surely don't put left hand on right side of the wheel.
Love your channel, keep it up 🤜🤛
They could have been Punk, but I think they took one of the diamond-shaped broaches (broach-watch?) that women wore and added lugs. More likely, they simply angled the crown to 1 o'clock on a cushion-shaped case. It would make sense for them to to that to keep the crown from digging into the wrist. I just treat it as my "driver's" watch and let it go at that. Take care, Bill
Wow. It's beuatiful. Amazing choice as usual.
That's a process I have never endured. I feel like I have missed out. Maybe one day my luck will change. For now I'm selling my collection to avoid homelessness.
It's not going well at all.
I'm sorry to hear that Matty. These are rough times, and we'll come out of it soon I hope. Take care and be safe, Bill 😷
I love the watch and have also admired this particular piece both online and have seen it in a few ADs. It just doesn't really get any better. Terrific choice. Enjoy it.
Cheers..
Hi Zed, thanks man. The funny thing is for me is that I never thought I'd be able to get one unless I found a good deal on a used one. When some became available in Cond. 0 for about 1/3 less, it was hard to pass up. Kindest regards, Bill
Wonderful! Congratulations!It is obvious how much you enjoy your new watch!Absolutely great purchase.
geez thats one of my all time favs! Good on you for grabbing one!
Hi Stephen...check out Jomoshop.com; they may still have more. On Chrono24, a bunch showed up out of nowhere. My hunch is Asia. As for the used market, Chrono24 and Ebay. If that is one of your grails, I hope it meets your expectations like mine did. Take care, Bill
Hey Bill , is this the watch you were a little upset about the size of the movement? No that was your other watch as I can plainly see now , wow what a beautiful movement! I’ve been noticing on Chrono 24 these watches are rising in price buy leaps and bounds , don’t know what deal you got on this ? But you got yourself a winner! I would love to own this watch also , I was wondering is there any way they could put a see through back on these ? Great watch Bill ,
Pat, the VC 4400 is ok size-wise (could be a tad bigger, though). The one I got upset about was the L. Leroy with the ETA 7001-very small for a 40mm case. (plus Leroy deceived me about the movement.) BTW, VC came out with a 36mm version of my '21 ... and the 4400 fits it much better! Wonder if that was part of a plan to give the 4400 a wider use-base? Cheers, Bill
Gorgeous watch bill. This is in my list of 6 grail watches that I will hopefully complete collecting one day. Currently, I have an AP Royal Oak 15450 and GO PanoMaticLunar Blue in my high end tier & Grand Seiko SGBR061 and Cartier Pasha Seatimer as my daily wearers. I am currently saving up money for Patek Nautilus 5711. Afterwards, I will either go for this or the VC Traditionnelle Manual Small seconds. Both the VCs and the Nautilus 5711 are part of the 6 grail watches list. It would take few years but hey, it is a good goal to keep oneself motivated :). Congratulations again on this absolutely magnificent watch.
ali murtaza Hi Ali--love that grail list! Sounds like you have a good 😊 start. What about an FP Journe? Check out Video #31 Beyond the Grail. Need a first tier watch ⌚️ in the list! Kindest regards Bill
WatchArtSci How do you categorize F.P. Journey as first tier and not PP, AP and VC? Curious.
Hi Ali, Patek, Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin are at the top of the second tier, and so the differentiation is trickier. First of all, the Holy Trinity are produced in large numbers using production techniques for manufacturing on a larger scale. FP Journe produces around 800 watches per year. Total. For instance FPJ produces only 170 Chronometre Souverain watches (like mine) per year--that includes all gold and platinum ones; not just the platinum ones. Second, FPJ has a different, in-house movement for each watch--not series--but each watch. For instance, my Chronometre Souverain has a different movement than a Chronometre a Resonance Dual Time even though both are part of the Souverain collection. My Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 was the first VC with the 4400 movement, but several other VCs use the 4400 or use its base. Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe have even greater production numbers and movement re-use than Vacheron Constantin. Third, FP Journe watches have solid gold movements, while none of the Holy Trinity do. It's a different of small but significant degrees. Kindest regards, Bill
Great to see your excitement and enthusiasm about your new watch, Bill. Also, nice to learn some things I didn't know before. I am seriously enjoying the watch journey!
Thanks Arthur! As soon as I cease to have enthusiasm about watches in all of their many forms and the related milieu, it's time to take up a new hobby. Kindest regards, Bill
Beautiful watch Bill! I have not thought about a grail yet, so for now I will just consider my Rolex such. Now what you need to go with that fantastic watch is a red 350 convertible if they make one and a nice wool English riding coat. Meant for riding in the cold damp weather of the UK in an open car they are great. I don't have that problem but it was some of the best money I spent on a coat. Regards!
Dallas--A red 350 convertible--now that would be a hoot! Thanks for the creativie idea! Cheers 🍻 Bill
All class man. I have a few but not that model two Patek's and some privately made to order. Enjoy your Grail and long life.
Wow John, thanks! You know, we do collection reviews, and your collection sounds fantastic! There's no charge for collection reviews, and in fact, we give away free watches. (Not high horology, mind you, but some brand new watches that are sort of fun.) I'd love to show your collection. Kindest regards, Bill
My dream watch, literally!
Hi Azizan! Maybe at the right time, one will come your way. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
What a nice time piece you got here...i really enjoyed your unboxing. This is a watch that i can't unfortunatly afford. I am a big fan of Vacheron Constantin too. People like me who knows that we would probably never afford one, need to kind of find other options and thanks God there's some watches out there that look like yours and are very affordable with incredible history. starting with the ''LONGINES AVIGATION TYPE A-7'' that belong to the Longines Heritage line.
The Type A-7 1935 is based on a real single button chronograph produced by Longines and Meylan during the 1930s, and sold to the U.S. Army Air Corps, a very nice piece that might be interesting to look at for those who want that Vacheron Constantin look.
Hi Mehdi! The Longines Avigation is one I like! Cool watch. Did you get it? Kindest regards, Bill
congratulations on a true beast of a timepiece
Hey Allen, thanks man! Apparently, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 is quite popular and recently, Vacheron Constantin came out with a 36mm model. They also have a platinum model with white dial with blue numbers. I just like the original, though. Kindest regards, Bill
Very nice watch, the offset numbers is natural to look at in order to tell time.
It is different , Todd. Thanks, Bill
Very cool choice Bill. Thanks for the video and enjoy it !
Hey Roman, thanks man. What's your grail? I'd like to get an idea of what everyone else would like to have. Cheers, Bill
Hey Bill, my "fantasies" tend to evolve with mood and seasons ;-) These days I'm eyeing to Jaeger's master geographics, iwc dopple chronos (and other split chronos) or simple elegant dress watches with just a reserve de marche like a zenith captain. all watches with some age as I'm not too fond of shiny, perfect new watches. Cheers !
Hey Roman, nice choices. I like the JLC Master Geographics and Zenith Captain a lot. Excellent, beautiful watches. Not familiar with the IWC dopple chrono--will go find them. Kindest regards, Bill
Aren't they cool ? Don't jump on your next grail too soon ah ah.
Beautiful!! Congratulations Bill...
Hey Oskar, thanks man! Kindest regards, bill
congratulation , Greatest Haute Horology watch with History no other can match .
Hey Mohammad, thanks man! As I write this, I am preparing to go get it out of the bank's safety deposit box I keep it when I go on vacation. Next vacation, it gets to go too! It's fun to wear and I get to wind it every morning! It's a long, long, wind with a gigantic barrel! Kindest regards, Bill
Beautiful watch, wear it well and wear it often.
Thanks Jay. My '21 is out of rotation right now but will be back on my wrist in March. Kindest regards, Bill
Colonel Sanders you bought a really high end watch !!! Kudos to you !!!! We live only once.
Hey Eto Ya -- thank you for your kind words. As a gentleman of obvious refinement, I'm guessing you have a wonderful watch collection--perhaps one with a military skew? Anyway, how about a watch review? I think everyone would be interested. Besides you'd be eligible to win a free watch! Check out sandlight.com/Watches for instructions. (Also, I'd love to get your feedback on the WatchArtSci web site.) Kindest regards, Bill
Thank you, for the offer. Maybe some day. Indeed I have a few nice pieces, but nothing that can match your F.P.Journe and Vacheron. Just the usual suspects - Rolexes, Breitlings, Panerais etc. Anyway looking forward to your new video.
Eto, man, it's not about who's got the "best" pieces--what's best to any collector IS what's BEST for him. If all I did was to compare my collection to others, I'd never be happy. My $1k Zenith GMT means as much to me as my most expensive watch. Besides, they're lots of people I know who have more and more expensive watches than I'll ever have, and I have no problem with that, and there're others who have much less expensive collections whom I admire greatly because they have some wonderfully interesting watches. So, as far as I'm concerned, no one has a lesser or greater collection--we're all just having fun with our own collections and interests. Take care, Bill
Congratulations!!!! Beautiful watch!
Hey SC, thanks man! I've had it a few years now and it works as well as when I first got it. Take care, Bill
congratulations! Love your enthusiasm and care for watchmaking
Well Guillermo, since we share the same name, you must be a true enthusiast yourself! Thanks man! Take care, Bill
Superb watch, thanks for the un-boxing. Love the case shape and the angled dial. Rose gold is just perfect for this timepiece! Great history behind this watch. Thanks again for sharing.
Jay thanks man! Glad 😁 to share--how about a collection review of your watches ⌚️? 😁 kindest regards Bill
That is one of the most beautiful watches of the XXI century.
Wow Lee! Thanks man! Reaching back to the early XX Century for XXI Century beauty! I like that! Cheers, Bill
Beautiful, Beautiful watch Bill, congrats on your good deal, wonderful
Thanks Reza ... I've had it for a few years now, and it's been a delight to wear. Kindest regards, Bill
Lol...a driver's watch, that's one of mine too, what a coincendence!
Hey iDid!! Well, I guess we both have to drive and the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 certainly enhances the trip! Kindest regards, Bill
incredible piece, congratulations. it's one of the pieces i'm interested in acquiring at some point. vc has really grown on me as a brand after i set out and did my own research. everyone makes it seem pp is the grail, but to me i've come to prefer vc and lange most of all. that said, i'm a huge fan of all aforementioned brands and hope to have at least one of each in my collection within the next few years.
Thanks man, it took a while to get it, but It's been a great watch. Of course, I keep finding new grails... Cheers, Bill
WatchArtSci, Bill what did you mean when you said that FP Journe was beyond a grail and this one is a true grail watch?
Just a degree of grail, Alexander. Take care, Bill
very nice unboxing ... enjoy your new toy Bill 😁👍
Thanks Raden, but I'd rather have that bad boy P-51 with the shark markings! I do know how to enjoy new toys (and old toys too!) Cheers, Bill
GRAIL indeed! Congrats BILL to your amazing timepiece. Love all your informative videos & keep it coming. Aloha from Hawaii \m/
Hey Oly, thanks man! what's your grail watch? Kindest regards, Bill
Urban Jürgensen’s the ALFRED for me will be my grail. I love the video you did a few weeks ago about this timepiece. Thank you for that, Aloha \m/
That's even better! And you're quite welcome! \m/; Bill
nice review on nice watch! thank you for video!!
Hey Keith, thanks man! I'm glad you liked it. Let me know of the kinds of reviews you'd like.Cheers, Bill
Beautiful watch!
Thank you Annika! Kindest regards, Bill
Brilliant watch Bill,enjoy it,congratulations.
Hi Eugene, thanks man. It has been well-worn watch. Kindest regards, Bill
lucky guy ! by the way i started loving again h moser .. for8 k euro u can get the H. Moser & Cie. Venturer Small Seconds... i mean its almost a price of a jlc in steal ! crazy value
Andy! You are so right about the H. Moser Venturer Small Seconds! Crazy value indeed ... it's all I can do to keep my finger off the trigger for one of those! Kindest regards, Bill
@@watchartsci sorry about brain fuckin you before mate... had some rough times in my private life !
regards
We all do...
Congratulations Mr. Sanders! A classic, no question about it. Interesting enough, the piece being a driver's watch may be considered a sports-watch. Sports in the likes of a Rolls-Royce Wraith (and not a Chevy Corvette, any Lamborghini, or BMW M5 of course). Cheers.
Hey Luis--yes, a Rolls-Royce Wraith; that would be nice. In the meantime, I'll make-do with my Great White Shark.....try not to hit a tree while looking at my watch! Kindest regards, Bill
Sorry for the question, but was it bought New/Unworn or used?
Daniel, I got it new. I bought it from a secondary market during what was called "The Asian Crisis," when China cracked down on bringing in expensive watches used for bribery. During that crisis, a number of watches sent for China sales went unsold; so, several brand new watches were returned, and I got mine for a $10,000 discount. Take care and be safe, Bill😷
I think that watch is impeccably well made and it won't fit me! (need longer strap) haha. it must also be easy to tell the time when you are typing on the keyboard as well. I am in aww.
Driving a car or driving a keyboard--it's angled just right. Kindest regards, Bill
Time with Don could alway's get a nato don! Lol.
Don, I think that you can get an extra-long band from Vacheron Constantin.
Congratulations !
Hey Smooth...thanks man! It was a few years ago, and it's still ticking fine... Cheers, Bill
Spectacular on the wrist!
It's a fun watch to wear Richard... even though it's cockeyed! Take care, Bill
it looks beautiful. great design. so unique!
That's my grail Sing, and I wear it a lot. Every watch I have, I wear, even if some consider my attire 'inappropriate" for the watch. Today I went popcorn shopping at Target and wore a t-shirt, cargo shorts and my newly-polished Vacheron Constantin Overseas. Yesterday, I had on a t-shirt and headed for the mall in my Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921--my grail. Thanks for visiting my channel, Bill
WatchArtSci it's nice to wear in a dress down setting.
I wear it a lot...even with informal clothes. Why get a watch you can't wear whenever you want?
WatchArtSci it is not a watch. it is a time piece you can pass it on to future generations.
An absolutely beautiful watch Bill.
Thanks Bruce! Cheers, Bill
Stunning watch. Congrats to you sir.
Hey CSW, thanks man! Kindest regards, Bill
Bravo bravo bravo bravo Bill that's all I can say,what a choice it is superb, enjoy my friend!
Walt! Thanks man! This time I may have pronounced several words correctly--well one or two perhaps. Cheers Bill
Love your enthusiasm. Learning alot of very interesting things from your video's. 👍
Hey James thanks man! Take care, Bill😷
I am also searching for this (grail watch for me too) but on Chrono 24 almost all the Cinese dralers does not give “sure payment insurance” normally granted by Chrono24. Where did you purchase it?
Hi Paolocap. I got mine from Jomashop. Had to wait 3 months, but it was worth it. ( www.jomashop.com/vacheron-constantin-watch-82035-000r-9359.html ) Got it new and it's worked perfectly since then. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci Thank you very much 🙏
Bill, please excuse me if I disturb you again, but have you had any further cost (taxation or transport) over the price?
@@CAP18 There's state tax (if and how much there is) and shipping.
I am so happy for you, congratulations and enjoy it, what an incredible timepiece. One of my favorite watches of all time is the Vacheron Constantin Harmony Dual time...
Regards.
Hey Pasquale, thanks man! That was a second true grail, and I wear it a good deal--even when I'm just sitting around at home. It has a wonderful movement as well. The VC 4400 was first used in my 21! Kindest regards, Bill
Love this watch. Enjoy it! I have been on look out in pre-owned market for the Boutique edition of it but alas very seldom seen.
Thanks TQ. What is the Boutique edition of the VC 1921? Kindest regards, Bill
WatchArtSci it's with the Breguet style numerals: www.ablogtowatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Vacheron-Constantin-Historiques-American-1921-Boutique-New-York-Watch-11.jpg
That is so unique. I like it too Cheers, Bill
I'd rather hear you wifes comments 😳 ! Great vid Bill, beautiful ⌚️
Hey man...no need to bother my wife with boring details...if you know what I mean...Cheers, Bill
Bill, what’s your opinion on this VC in comparison to the likes’ of patek 5146 or lange one, both have more complications / same or cheaper in pricing?
Hi Ricky, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 is so unique, it's hard to compare. I'm not a fan of complex watches with dials I rarely use that get in the way of the primary goal of telling the time at a glance. I like the Patek 5124 series a lot, and the cleaner Langes. Cheers, Bill
Lovely watch Bill and one I was watching on Chrono24 until someone snapped it up! Makes me think of a Longines Avigation watch I had which also has an offset dial. Pilots would wear watches like this on the inside of their wrists allowing them to check the time easily without removing their hand from the controls. You might fancy trying that when you’re out driving some time?
So how does one qualify to have one’s watch collection reviewed by you?
Doug, my flying days are long behind me...but I get to keep all the memories. For a collection review, take a look at these videos for preparing the photos, th-cam.com/video/GQ_w1iXxrXE/w-d-xo.html , th-cam.com/video/sGYfXJLlriQ/w-d-xo.html and email the images to me at williebegoode@att.net. Kindest regards, Bill
WatchArtSci Ha ha Bill, I wasn’t suggesting you wear your VC whilst flying a plane but rather, since it’s a driver’s watch, wear it on the inside of your wrist when you go for a long-ish drive....you’ll soon see how efficacious a way it is to enjoy your watch and check the time while on the road!
I’ll check out the vids you suggest and get back to you.
Kind regards
Doug
Ok, Doug I'll give it a try with my '21. Thanks for the tip, Bill
Hi Bill. Wonderful choice , I really like this brand. congratulations
Hi Jairo! Thanks man, it was one I've looked and wished I had for some time. Kindest regards, Bill
I think this is a very similar watch that Eric Ripert has. Nice.
Thanks Quentinho. I do not know Eric, but if he has the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921, he certainly has a nice watch. Cheers, Bill
Very nice watch.
Hey Nelson, thanks man! It's fun to wear. Cheers, Bill
Do you think that a new 1921 for 30.000€ is a good price?
If 36.5 mm is more to your liking. I prefer the 40mm, Paolocap. Take care, Bill
@@watchartsci I also prefer the 40mm. I found it at 30,000€ new. I hope price is good.
lmao - its like one of those secret opening boxes or codex from the da vinci code - never seen so much wrapping and opening to get at the goodies. Well worth the wait though - gorgeous - wear it in good health.
Thanks Rusty! Actually, I had to cut out large portions of the unboxing -- because there was so much wrapping/unwrapping. It was like unbinding a mummy! Take care, Bill
looks quite large whats its dimension?
It's 40mm, and in cushion shape, it looks very big.
I think its a perfect counterpoint to your overseas which was 36? Anyway its stunning.
The Overseas is 37mm, and the new ones are 41mm! However, for the foreseeable future, I'll be sporting my 37. Cheers, Bill
6:53 Looks great on you.
Hey SO, thanks man! Take care, Bill
hello my name is Kenny I've been collecting watches for 3 years now and have an odd collection...I have four upper tier...two Hublot one classic fusion in rose gold 42 mm and a 44 big bang ceramic bezel carbon dial...before unico movement was released...I also have a valjous 7750 navitimer..and a 3135 submariner date ...also and it goes straight down from there...I have a Seiko snp0772 Chrono...I love it though....keeps amazing time...and I have the invicta 8926ob pro diver with the Seiko nh35 movement....also a very good watch for the money....I'm looking towards mid tier value. and I was wondering if you'd have a look at the luminox f22 and tell me your opinion....I'd appreciate it greatly I trust your wealth of knowledge...mind you I'm 34 and I have an affinity for dive and flight watches
Hi Fire, would you like to have a collection review? To prepare photos of your watches, use this guide: th-cam.com/video/sGYfXJLlriQ/w-d-xo.html Send photos to williebegoode@att.net Kindest regards, Bill
Hi, new subscriber here. Nice video, gorgeous watch. I've got my heart set on a new overseas 3 hands in brown, but this is very tempting. Enjoy Sir.
Hi Larry, that brown Overseas is my favorite. Here's a great buy on one: www.jomashop.com/vacheron-constantin-watch-4500v-110a-b146.html The Overseas have '6' instead of '8' prongs around the dial. If you get a new Overseas, be sure to get one with 6 prongs. Kindest regards, Bill
WatchArtSci Great price Bill. Only issue is, I live in the UK, so would have to pay 20% import tax. Best price in the UK is about $18,000 US, but our mrsp is 10% above yours to begin with. Watches in the US are so cheap....... maybe I will pick one up in my next visit. Thanks for the feedback anyhow.
My pleasure! Kindest regards, Bill
How do you feel about the overseas?
I traded in my Overseas (I had the original OS referred to as 'OS1') to get my wife an anniversary present watch. It was a good watch that I wore a great deal. However, the new Overseas is really an outstanding watch, primarily because of a new movement, the VC caliber 5100. When I went to the VC boutique in NYC to try it on, I also tried on the Quai de l'Ile, which also has the 5100 movement. Were I to get another, I'd get the brown dial OS, but I might get the Quai de l'Ile with a white dial. Both the Overseas and the Quai de l'Ile (and the Historiques American 1921 ) are all sold at Jomashop for considerable savings. If you're interested in an Overseas, the first two versions have non-VC movements, a much modified Girard-Perregaux in the OS1 and a Jaeger-LeCoultre-based movement in OS2. The case was increased from 37mm to 42mm and then to 41mm in the latest Overseas. For a new (Condition 0), I'd probably try to negotiate for around $10k and get a Quai de l'Ile in stainless steel. Kindest regards, Bill
Nice video and NICE watch. Congratulations :)
Watch On my distinctive pleasure. An honor to hear from you. Kindest regards Bill
WatchArtSci Love your passion for high end horology. You got it Bill. 👍🏻
Very cool watch!!! It pair nicely with the E 350 ;)
Thank you Professor. A funny thing happened with my 350--when I turn on the engine, the BlueTooth automatically kicks in looks for my iPhone and starts playing music. Unfortunately, that automatically turns off the video. That's why that segment ended so abruptly! Cheers, Bill
Thumbs up from me, the ultimate chauffeurs watch.
Hi David--that'd be great; Bill The Chauffeur! I'd tool around in my Great White Shark with Janis Joplin blasting out 'Chauffeur Blues' with my watch at 12 o'clock on the steering wheel wearing a dove-gray uniform and cool hat. How's your watch blog coming? Let me know when something new goes up! Cheers, Bill
I'm not really actively blogging, but I will be getting my next watch soon I hope... will try to hunt it down after Christmas is out of the way.
David, after Christmas is a great idea. That's when you can get the best buys. Good hunting! Bill
That’s also one of my grill watch.
Mainland Chinese prefer dress watch only , VC,Piaget, Rolex, IWC,PP, Longines are big name.
VC, Piaget and PP only sell in Beijing and Shanghai.
When the political reason: limited currency exchange, anticorruption, limited import luxury goods.
High end watch market just shut down.
PP, VC, Lange no longer open new boutique in major city. Other brand like AP, Breguet, Blancpain never have the chance to do well in China.
I understand the anti-corruption campaign, and that is important anywhere, but any product can be used to corrupt; I guess watches are just a popular way to corrupt. (It would work on me!) 切顺利 Bill
Watching for the second time , what was the Asian Crisis ?
Hi Junior, a few years ago the Chinese government had a crackdown on imported luxury watches that were being used to bribe Chinese officials for government favors; so all the watches made for the Chinese market came flooding back to the US and Europe at discount prices. That's how I was able to afford my VC 1921... $10k discount. Unfortunately for collectors, the crisis has been remedied. Take care, Bill
Thanks Bill
I'd never heard of the Asian crisis .
How does it wear?
Hi CC. I don't even know it's there. I have it on now, and it's so comfortable that I had to check my wrist to see if I still had it on. I wear it all the time in rotation. Cheers, Bill
Are you per chance related to Colonel Sanders ? !
Yes I am Douglas. Cheers, Bill
Jomashop grey market I assume
Hi Jace. I've come to question the 'grey market' label because there's nothing at all grey about the online dealers who take the overflow supply of watches and sell them at deep discounts in Condition Zero (new/unworn). It's a term that the manufacturers coined (as a midpoint between ADs [white] and smuggled [black]) to describe sources of a watch's origin. Collectors have been herded along like sheep with a lot of the terminology that has nothing to do with the actual process of moving watches from manufacturers to owner. Of course since I saved $10,000 over the AD price--not to mention the tax savings--they could call it whatever they want. But for the sake of accuracy, I think something like "Overflow Market" would be more accurate in both function and description. Without the overflow market, ADs and manufacturers would have to eat their surplus watches. What do you think Jace? Got a better, more descriptive name? Kindest regards, Bill
Gorgeous time piece. Hand wound watches give me time each morning to get intimate with it. My wife does not know about this daily love affair.
Mike, I'm sort of in the same boat as you with my better half. I start each day winding watches -- including my wife's JLC Reverso. She understands in the way that all wives understand their husbands' hobbies--something to tolerate! Cheers, Bill
congrats
great timepiece - enjoy
1921 is very cool but not for me , from VC i like Harmony 3300 but for this kind of $$$ I would buy 10 other watches LOL
btw. the box is too crazy
Hey Tesla, thanks. You are quite right; the 1921 isn't everyone's cup of tea, and the Harmony is a wonderfully sophisticated watch with the 2460 calibre heart. Instead of 10 other watches, you could get 3 or 4 really nice Rolexes! Cheers, Bill
30 grand ! 28g packageing 2grand watch !
Hey Proipp! The list price for the Historiques American 1921 (AKA '21) is published as $36,800. When I was involved in book publishing, the retail price was set about 10x the manufacturing cost-that was the rule-of-thumb used by the publisher. So, if a book cost $1.49 to produce, the list price would be $14.90. Using that formula, the watch would cost about $3,680 to produce. What's involved in the mfg. of a new model watch?
1. Movement design & development (It just so-happens that the calibre 4400 was first used in the '21)
2. Watch design
3. Watch band/bracelet
4. Materials (this one is made of 18k gold and the current price of gold is $1,204.50/oz. In the early 2000s gold was $200/oz!)
5. Labor
6. Misc (there's everything from the depreciation of the tools used to the mortgage on the buildings.)
...So out-the-door $3,680 sounds about right. The R&D costs are amortized over time because the design and development of the watch and movement is a one-time expense for any given model and movement. (Since the '21, the 4400 movement has been used in several other VC watches.)
So that leaves $33,12 ($36,800 - $3,680)
Right away the retailer (AD) gets a 50% discount ($16,560) so we're dealing with the other half of $16,560...
1. Packaging (as you noted)
2. Marketing
3. Advertising
4. Shipping
5. Promotion
That's the real world! of luxury watches. Keep in mind that it's easier to sell 1000 Swatch watch for $100 ($100,000); than a single Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921for $36,800,
Kindest regards, Bill
No matter it was only a joke , but appreciate the info.
Still, you were making a good point! Cheers, bill
Cheers Bill I watch your vid because they ARE so informative keep up the great work, I may or may not take the piss (english term) sometimes LOL Every respect...Lee
Too big, seriously.
They now have one in 36mm. You may like that better. Cheers, Bill
Sweet!
Here you go: www.vacheron-constantin.com/en2/watches/historiques/historiques-american-1921-365-mm-1100s-000r-b430.html (It's actually 36.5mm) Cheers, Bill
Your car is a mercedes 350, not a "great white shark" (that is a fish and bears no resemblance to a motor vehicle)! As for the watch, I don't like the off-set dial. The natural inclination when looking at a dial is to align 12 O'clock at centre top. I guarantee you that an off-set dial causes you to adjust your view (subconsciously) when telling the time. Worse still, to argue the point that the design is helpful when placing your hand at an unnatural position on the steering wheel (it should be 2 hands on the wheel at the 3 and 9 0'clock positions!) is weak!! I bet you your car dashboard has a digital display with the time on it, rendering the watch as a timepiece of no value! Finally the price...way too expensive, but who am I to argue if you have got that much surplus money to splash out on luxury goods.
Hi MO.... why are you wasting your great mind on watching horological videos? I've been struggling with Lambda Calculus and you'd like it for a mental workout: th-cam.com/video/eis11j_iGMs/w-d-xo.html Off you go .... and quit wasting time here ... Cheers, Bill
Good morning Bill. Thank you for the very useful link, referencing the Lambda calculus. Using the same principles of the X + Y formulae, to ascertain the best value (X) and function (Y) watch available, you could have saved yourself several thousand dollars by opting for a Rolex submariner. With minor tweaks to the same calculus, you would have realised an off-set dial is a bit of a gimmick.....have a great day and keep your eyes on the road when driving that "white shark"...lol
You're a gem man! And I told you you'd like Lambda calculus!! Kindest regards, Bill
it's crooked
Stoneitful, nobody else seems to think so... but since you do, it's not a watch for you. Take care, Bill
Just kidding Bill, I enjoy your youtube very much. You always have me shopping for expensive stuff. Thank you, Steve
It's crooked.
Do'ah!
It is designed like that!
See, I'm not the only one who thinks it's weird.
ryvr madduck I am not attacking you. 😃
The design is unique. If you can't handle unique, that's ok.
Fantastic watch, very nicely done video. Enjoy wearing this beauty! Congratulations!
Hey Michae thank youl, it's a great watch to have. I get to wind it ... for a long time! The VC4400 has my favorite kind of movement-hand wind. This one takes a while, but I get to hold the watch longer! Cheers, Bill
A manual wind chronograph possibly with other complications is my grail watch. As an mech engineer and watchmaker this might be one that I make myself in my studio in Michigan.
As an ME and watchmaker, I'm always interested in what you have to say about making your own watch! I've made two so far using ETA 6497/8 movements, but I'm no engineer nor watchmaker! Just enjoy the process. Tune in at 4pm (Eastern) today for a live stream discussion of DIY watch assembling. Cheers, Bill