Thursday 29 December 2016

Possessing watchmaking passion in DNA essential trait to excel in Britain



The aesthetic appeal of a chronograph on the wrist of a watch wearer is undeniable. Unmistakably it sends a message that of quiet confidence and thoughtful purpose. The balance and symmetry of a chronograph with its multitude of dials is special as evidenced by the wearer constantly glancing down at the watch – not only to know the time but to enjoy the grace of the chronograph. It evokes awe and admiration; no wonder that chronograph watch auctions attract the highest number of bidders.



If you are new to the world of collecting watches the thought of maintaining the watch is uppermost in the minds. Fortunately Britain is blessed with passionate watchmakers who understand the delicate nuances of mechanical watches and their intricacies. One such entity is Perpetual Time Limited in Manchester and Liverpool. This bespoke watchmaker (prudence dictates that calling ahead and making an appointment assures attention to your needs with the highest professional competence) comes with impeccable reputation among not only watch aficionados but also peers in the watch world.

About Perpetual Time

The organization is headed by the CEO Mr. Alex Photi who is WOSTEP and BHI trained and has the likes of John Harrison’s and George Daniel’s blood running in his and team’s veins. These are not ordinary craftsmen but are Guild of Master Craftsman certified. This certification is not for the faint hearted as the grading is severe which can only be achieved through passion, dedication, knowledge and skill. The latter three traits can be learnt but the first requires that you possess the DNA that goes beyond the XY chromosome. Watch restoration and servicing is the forte of this reputed organisation. Several Perpetual Time reviews have noted their appreciation for the professionalism and knowledge in the restoration of family heirlooms. Recently in a bid to disseminate interesting information the portal of Perpetual Time reviews has begun a web series to highlight British watchmakers, past and present.

Tuesday 27 December 2016

Moving British watch sensibility another gear



When Sir Terence Conran was asked about his design philosophy with respect to British design sensitivity he replied that he was not trying to change it; his job was to move it and this is very apparent in his projects. At 85 years of age he has more work than he ever had as he continues with his design ideas. This is also true of Sir Jonathan Ive, industrial designer extraordinaire, Chief Design Officer for Apple and Roma Agrawal the engineer who helped build London’s iconic building The Shard – her design philosophy - redefine skylines.



Ask will.i.am (singer, song writer and rapper from America) about Roma and he replies that she makes music with steel just like Quincy Jones (legendary music producer). This is what British resilience is all about which is now the pivotal point for resurgence in manufacturing following Brexit. And nowhere is it more apparent than the watch industry. They are in the process of redefining watch manufacturing as well as watch servicing. The big brands of Europe are already facing stiff competition from Glasshutte brands and it is time for British bespoke brands to make their mark.

In the area of servicing one enterprise is making a mark too. This is Perpetual Time Limited with workshops located in Manchester and Liverpool. They are as bespoke as anything else in Britain; they bring the same level of craftsmanship to the table what Sir Terence Conran and Sir Jonathan Ive practice. Perpetual Time reviews are expressions of gratitude that sound musical as much as Roma Agrawal’s slim steel columns atop the Shard.



The able watch commander of Perpetual Time is Guild of Master Craftsman certified which is no ordinary certification. They have now embarked in spreading their knowledge and that of the watch world through the portals of Perpetual Time Reviews which gives fascinating insights of British watchmaking which include history, form and functionality.

Sunday 25 December 2016

Is Britain ready to launch luxury watch brands?



Change is subtle. That has been the message all along. To accept change is even more daunting. We all like to wear the comfortable coat, or shoes, we like to buy fish from the Mr. Jones the fishmonger we have been patronizing over the years. It is an accepted fact that people grow into change ever so slowly.



However, Britain is demanding changing so abruptly that it is completely out of character. Brexit has signaled that people in Britain want the changes to take place yesterday. The shoe is on the other foot as EU (European Union) countries is still trying to understand the reality that the United Kingdom has decided to part ways.

This new trait is becoming endemic. People are buying meat from the local butcher. Sales at the supermarket are under threat. It is spreading to good old-fashioned British virtue of pride in Britain made goods. There is resurgence in the type of watch that is worn on the wrist. Made in Britain watches is worth a second glance. It is not surprising to see a Roger Smith or a Garrick adorning the wrist of a man while travelling the tube.



British watchmaking is making a comeback; the numbers are small now. There is an air of optimism in meetings with BHI (British Horological Institute) members. The talk of “Is Britain ready to launch luxury watch brands?” is a common thread.

Even forums such as uk.trustpilot.com (online review community) have several Perpetual Time reviews starting a conversation on British luxury watches that appears interesting. The time is ripe for a bigger push in this direction. There is no dearth of watchmaking talent. The Perpetual Time reviews prove that fact. The attention to achieve technical perfection in restoration services speaks volumes about the talent, which aficionados of fine watches have appreciated.