Vintage Rolex: Perfection as a Hipster

I’ve been teased as a hipster ever since that word became part of the lexicon decades ago. And it somehow stuck even though I don’t consider myself one. I do, from time to time, display characteristics of a hipster. But those outbreaks of self-important indulgences were few and far in between and—I’d like to think… Continue reading Vintage Rolex: Perfection as a Hipster

Of Love for Stories and Watches

As a frustrated, wanna-be novelist I've always been drawn to Story. Of course, I prefer the exploration of the mundane and the deeply personal. When I was younger I used to love science fiction and fantasy but I must admit that my favorite parts were always the quiet moments that protagonists are obligated to have… Continue reading Of Love for Stories and Watches

Table for one: a Bulova reproach

I come not to praise Bulova, but to bury it. I have a problem with modern Bulova. Every time that I see this or that enthusiast enthuse about their newest Jet Pilot or Mil-ships I want to stick my nose in and puncture their joy. It is a reflex that I have resisted so far.… Continue reading Table for one: a Bulova reproach

The Escapement Room Interview: Mr. 60%

The following is another in an occasional series of The Escapement Rooms interviews. Tramelan, Switzerland. In a small, prefabricated building at 14 Rue des Sucettes is Doilea, S.A., a small but important part of the Swiss watch industry. Its founder, and today seemingly its only employee, Al Doilea sits behind a large desk in a… Continue reading The Escapement Room Interview: Mr. 60%

The Valentine’s Special

The only thing Valentine's day is good for is an increase in body oil and body glitter sales. I'm considering investing in those two areas; I'll make a blooming fortune. Second-hand handcuff prices also usually go up. Don't ask me why or how I know, but consider this as investment advice for next year. I… Continue reading The Valentine’s Special

Lessons from an engineer and bladesmith to a hobbyist watchmaker

My uncle owns a civil engineering firm. He's an awesome guy and my dad visits him regularly. I don't visit him regularly, which is a bit of a problem. He is one of those men that in a perfect world every young man should have access to. He is full of jest and doesn't take… Continue reading Lessons from an engineer and bladesmith to a hobbyist watchmaker