MichaelC[AP Moderator]
18938
Your initial thoughts on this one are quite welcomed, and bold!
Nov 22, 2015,07:36 AM
I happen to love the second part about it - you are not afraid to compare to Patek. And despite the inevitable "apples and oranges" sentiments, you are correct to do so.
When I fell in love with watches as a young boy, and then dreamed of a nice one as I got older, I had no idea what I wanted. But I knew what I did not want - a Rolex or Cartier. Why? Admittedly for the names and reputations. Those were "rich people" watches where I grew up. So the brands that I fell in love with were Panerai and AP, UN, Maurice Lacroix, etc. I'm a designer, I love bold, structural casework, and these brands called to me. Of course I give lots of respect to Rolex and Cartier now that I understand them, but still, many non-watch people will choose them for their names. And many watch-people will choose Patek for the same reason in these sorts of comparisons.
When I first saw the post on these new watches a few weeks back, I was also smitten with this watch. The greatest aspect of this piece is how it joins old and new. It looks like a modern production watch with its details - the Luminova numerals are superb on the blue dial. And I just like this design path better - let's make a modern interpretation of an old style manual chronograph. The result is an exciting, fresh watch, different than the other brands.
Believe it or not, a salesperson once told me a Patek is an "old man's watch". I wholeheartedly disagreed. I will definitely own my first Patek one day. But at least in the 2 side by side comparisons you made with the MB and PP watches in this thread, I much prefer the aesthetics of the MB. And it does look much more exciting to my 41 year old eyes.
I have never owned a Montblanc, further testament that despite the name I am considering to purchase it.
Lastly, to tell you how off I am, you know which Patek I frequently think about? The new Pilot watch most every Patek fan criticized at launch. I cannot even tell you the reference number without checking first. But that is the one I would like to try, the non-Patek Patek I guess! This passion is so much easier when you don't do it for money, you do it for your personal pleasure