Why my Hublot and Australia have so much in common.

This is not your average post to say the least LOL. When I purchased my All Black Classic Fusion I was aware that it is made from ceramic which uses Zirconium Oxide. I also understand that Australia mines mineral sands but after some further research I realised that one of our companies, Iluka is the largest producer of zircon in the world, with an approximate global market share of 34%.

With respect to the Big Bang Tantalum Matt, one of biggest success stories in Western Australia’s mining sector is in the sleepy South-West town of Greenbushes - and it doesn’t involve iron ore, gold or nickel. Talison Minerals’ tantalum and spodumene mine in Greenbushes, 250km south-east of Perth, was until very recently producing 50 % of the world’s tantalum and 80 % of the world’s lithium minerals. Tantalum is indeed a very rare element.

It would be a nice thought to think that some of the raw materials actually did come from Australia. Being born in Switzerland and now living in Australia makes this idea quite special – call it a type of fusion lol.

Now back to wearing my two Hublot.

Finally got a Big Bang

Gee that was quick, but it should come to no surprise. Once you are bitten by the Hublot bug (for me it is for the second time) it is hard to resist. So lets step back for a moment. I only got my All Black Classic Fusion about 3 weeks ago. This watch is the perfect daily wearer. Smart and elegant it arouses a great deal of curiosity from the casual onlooker. Based on the number of complements, the magnetisim of the Classic Fusion line should not be underestimated by Hublot. Imagine adding a tourbillion and\or other complications into the Classic Fusion line.

The joys that I have been experiencing with the All Black have intensified my desire to get a Big Bang to complete my Hublot collection. I have been procrastinating on this point for months now, as I want this one to be a keeper. The initial thought was to get the original Rose Gold Big Bang with ceramic bezel. To the purists this must be the ultimate Hublot. However, the Big Bang line has evolved and the selection is overwhelming. I have also been privileged to see the Magnesium Bang with the Hublonium in-house movement. This would have been a nice addition, however I do prefer some more heft in my watches.

When I posted the picture of the Lockheed SR-71 a few weeks ago, the concept of ‘luxurious stealth’ spoke to me and it is my Hublot collection theme going forward. Personally I believe that the idea of understated luxury is also an interesting element of the Hublot Fusion concept. Searching the world for a used Big Bang All Black came to mind but I wanted more variety in my collection.

May I present the unveiling of my latest Hublot.


You will have to scroll down a bit further.

Here it is, the perfect complement, a Big Bang Tantalum Mat. This watch spoke to me in the first instance. I love the contrast of the dial and the heft. The fact that Tantalum is a noble metal also adds to its appeal. I have gold, platinum already and this is just so different.

I also like the tactile dimension of this watch. Running your fingertips through the micro blasted surface presents a remarkable sensation


In closing, I consider myself privileged to be back in the Hublot family. Hublot watches personify dreams and aspirations, which in the current economic climate could be considered a luxury.

Back in Black - Hublotista again

It has been a long time, as I think I have been suffering from Big Bang indecision LOL. How times change, about 14 months ago when I got my first Hublot (and regretfully let it go) there was only one AD in Sydney Australia. Now we have three so the choice is great and hence the dilemma. I had a SS\Ceramic Big Bang and more recently I have been looking at the Rose Gold, Mag Bang and the Areo Bang as a replacement. Then I've also been thinking about the Big Bang Evolution models which are coming out later this year.

This all changed, the choice was instantanious when I laid my eyes on the BB Classic All Black. WOW this is like a black jewel. Elegant, understated (No way) a real stealth piece that looks awesome. I just had to have this watch LOL.

The pictures don't do this watch justice.

Legibility is actually very good

Love the All Black look

This is not a dull black


Since I got this watch it hasn't been off my wrist and its durability make it a great daily wearer.

Glad to be a fully blown Hublotista again and look forward to reporting some exciting travel tales whilst wearing this watch.

Well done Hublot, the BB Classic line is another great success which will in time receive even greater recognition. The choice for the discerning collector.

Paperchase

I’m not talking about my work that is a case of more paper shuffle and talking the talk (personally I prefer to walk the walk) lol.

That brings me to my most recent project and it is not another watch. Rather I’ve been in the hunt for an original Rolex Cosmograph booklet that came with the watches during the mid to late 60s. Boy I though getting an authentic vintage Rolex is a challenge, these booklets are as rare as hens teeth. Naturally there are a lot of fakes. With a bit of inside knowledge from a fellow experienced Rolex collector and some determination the challenge was finally overcome.



Thanks for having a look, catch you again soon!

A King Power Lunch in Sydney

Imagine having one of those crazy days in the office where you just want to escape. Well this is how the day started on a Tuesday morning and I was really wondering whether I would actually have the time to catch up with our special visitors for lunch. Luckily Vikki had it all under control, despite the fact that the weather was being just as unpredictable. Come lunchtime all the pieces fell magically into place. Vikki chose Cafe Sydney which captures the essence of Sydney. Located on the rooftop of Customs House, Cafe Sydney is a regular haunt for businessmen closing deals and beautiful people being beautiful. It has a great wine list and an extensive seafood selection on the menu (on our hosts wish list). It is also just meters away from my office. The scene has finally been set for the perfect lunch. Our hosts are none other than Emil and Jacqueline from Swiss Prestige Watches, who are always a pleasure and privilege to spend time with. The first order of business was to select our food from the fabulous menu which included a number of Australian seafood delights such as; oysters, bugs, crayfish and of course Emil’s favourite fresh yabbies. Accompanied by a nice bottle of Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Shortly thereafter the conversation moved onto my favourite topic LOL watches. It has been over 12 months since we last caught up. Back then the conversation focus was on LVMH’s acquisition of Hublot, now we talked about the economic downturn and its effect on the watch industry. One obvious positive is that there is now a lot more focus on the customer which is great news as we will see even better service. Hublot, specifically, is doing very well in a more realistic market. We talked about the King Power and my initial impression was that this line was more of a novelty rather than an evolution of the Hublot Big Bang. I could not have been more wrong after seeing the BB King Power rosegold tourbillon, its rawness spoke to my heart and soul. Design wise it is way ahead of its time and I couldn’t imagine the watch being any smaller. And then Emil took out the King Power All Black Tourbillon which looks like a stealth fighter and is my favourite. I felt like an action hero wearing this watch. The combination of scrumptious food, smooth wine and great company has made this another memorable event. Emil and Jacqueline are fabulous hosts and we are very grateful for the time they spent with us in their busy schedule. The passion and energy of Hublot and its people is very apparent and something I would like to introduce to more Australians. Stay tuned as this is only the beginning.......

Tropic Thunder – A Rare Breed Indeed

Where does ones Daytona collection go after acquiring a Paul Newman ‘Grail’. Time to stay content and enjoy the collection, or so I thought. The current economic climate is certainly keeping most people on the edge when it comes to buying another watch. At the same time, amazing pieces seem to be popping out of the woodwork. Unfortunately, the good stuff is not cheap.

I thought I had completed my Daytona collection and was therefore looking at something truly unique and one of a kind. I was increasingly drawn to the independent horology of the watch making masters such as; Dufour, Voutilainen and Vianney Halter. However a combination of bad luck and circumstance precluded me from acquiring one of these wonders. C’est la vie! The good news is that I have made some more friends and contacts.

Then out of no-where comes the most amazing Daytona. It is an 18ct gold ref 6239 with a standard dial. These in their own right are quite rare as most have Paul Newman dials fitted. What is even more special is that the black sub dials have turned into a nice chocolate brown colour. After I saw this watch for the first time, I just had to have it. Naturally some sacrifices had to be made on the financial front, however I believe it was well worth it.

The combination of the champagne dial and the chocolate brown sub dials is just enchanting.







Still trying to find the right angle LOL.




I consider myself truly fortunate to own this wonderful watch as it is a magnificent specimen that over the years has developed its own unique character and look. A truly independent masterpiece produced by Rolex, nature and time. I now understand and appreciate why people covet ‘tropical dialled’ Rolex watches.

Initially I thought I would keep this watch just to myself, however upon further reflection (and arm twisting from fellow collectors) I was compelled to share it with all the Rolex WIS.

NOW the time has come to enjoy the collection
Still trying to find the right angle LOL.

Thanks for having a look catch you soon!

An Auspicious New Year

Source: SMH

Wow what a way to celebrate New Years in Sydney. I was going to work earlier yesterday, when I was astounded to find a package that was only sent from LA on the 26th of December.

I have been searching for this book for a while, as not only do I collect the watches but my thirst for knowledge drives me to collect all the relevant books, catalogues and pamphlets. The book is aptly titled ‘ROLEX Timeless Elegance’ by George Gordon. It was published in 1989 and had a limited run with each book numbered. It has some nice photos of vintage Rolex Ads, certificates and a section about the original designs of Rolex.



In addition I also decided to finally wear my newly acquired V series 16600 Sea-Dweller (last of its kind). I got the call from the AD about a week ago. While I’m mainly into Rolex Daytona’s, I find the SD an essential Rolex and a must have in my collection. It is a great daily wearer and looks equally at home when wearing a business suit or just with jeans and t-shirt. Also the only watch I look forward to getting as wet as possible. Had an F series Sea-Dweller earlier and loved the watch but it wasn’t in perfect condition. Nothing beats getting a new Rolex and being the first person (and only) to put a scratches on it LOL.



Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous 2009. May all your collecting dreams come true.

Thanks for popping in for a look. Catch you soon!