Hong Kong Watch Fever

Vintage Rado SeaHorse and the latest Rado made of Ceramos Material

2012-02-14T03:36:00.001-08:00

Rado Seahorse is a High grade Swiss automatic with Rado's famous rotating anchor. This Swiss made watch is an automatic, and has the date at the three o'clock spot. The watch also features a sweep secondhand. I bought Rado Seahorse in 1970, I remember the sea horse was blue. It was HKD$120.00.
It was a very durable watch, I had put the watch in the top Cold storage compartment of my Refrigerator overnight and next day I put it in hot waterr to study how durable the watch could be… and it was passed. I used to play watch Tug of war by resting the watch ‘s crown on my other watch’s crown and see which watch was going to stop first, It was a common Game we played for watch in the 70’s.
The next picture is the latest Rado Ceramos material to make watch, There seems has some shadow of the 70’s Seahorse. I had found another Art Deco Design Oval shaped Rado. That is a good example of beautiful Rado!
Anyway, the Rado was one of the watch I had in the 70.
HK Snob
Ps
Ceramos® evolves from the platinum-coloured high-tech ceramic which Rado introduced in 1993. This ceramic and metal composite was designed to have the optimal properties of both components. Today Ceramos® accommodates a unique platinum steel look for use in sharp, edgy designs. It is a light material, which adjusts quickly to skin temperature, offering unrivalled comfort levels when used to make watch bracelets and cases. It is hard as up to Vickers hardness at least 1200, which is harder than Gold, Steel and Platinum. Ceramos is super resistant to scratches. Hardness of Diamond is Vickers 10,000.

This is my first Omega Classic De Ville.

2012-02-12T06:25:00.002-08:00

I bought this watch at one small watch shop in Kowloon City with HKD$1,080 in 1981. After 5 years, I sold it to one of my best friends KM Chan at HKD$800. He has been using this watch for many years. Omega had once produced the best watch in the 60's till 80's. You know that Omega was once more expensive than Rolex in the same category and class. But After 80's Rolex overtaken Omega in price and also in quality.
Today, whilst we had a tea with KM in the morning, I saw that watch again, he knows and every year whilst we meet, he worn that watch and showed me! But he never want to sell it back to me!
This is the first Omega I had first purchased. I can see the plating of gold is so thick that it looks 80 microns; is that Older is always better!? Note Also the Art Deco dial Design, it is beautiful, classic, simple, accurate and thin! What else you want from HKD$1,080?
HK Snob

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms

2012-02-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

In 1952, the French "Nageuers de combat" (combat swimmers) was instituted by the French government as an elite team of tactical soldiers - the NAVY Seals of France. Captain Bob Maloubier was at the helm of this group, whose missions included underwater intelligence, sabotaging operations, and clandestine port-attacks. The team was already using tools such as compasses, depth gauges, and yes, watches, but none were specifically designed for the rugged tasks at hand. He was the original Designer for Fifty Fathoms, and he approached LIP and then the very small company of Blancpain to make this diving watch for him, that was 1954. Today there are about 20 variations of Blancpain and I used to have one A "No Radiations" Model From 1966. but I looked at the case carefully, and saw that there are very rough case profile and I suspected that was a fake,, and in fact I had not so much knowledge at that time, so I sold it to some one, Today, I fell regret as that is a rare watch, and that is beautiful. How Can I get this watch again!?
The picture shown here is the new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms limited to 500 pcs Only.
Blancpain had announced that they produce mechanical watch only and never will make any quartz watch! This may be the only one swiss company that can definitely say they produce Mechanical watch only.
HK Snob

Breitling Navitimer

2012-02-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Breitling Navitimer is a great name that went back to 1954, The original Breitling Navigation & Time was developed as a navigator watch for Pilots, who could use the slide rule to calculate remaining distance, fuel consumption, beside the time keeping.
It can be classified as one of the most important watches for flying professions besides Rolex GMT Master and it has gone through so many years and likely four generations of Design Changes, It is one of the most durable, beautiful and presentable cult watch for air borne flyer.
HK Snob
The Picture was taken at HKIA by Nolia N97 mini Hand set.
Ps This gentleman has a complete collection of Breitling Navitimer.
http://people.timezone.com/breitling/bfaq/Reviews--Navitimer.html

What we would buy for your beloved one in Saint Valentines’ Day?

2012-02-04T09:21:00.001-08:00

* Courtesy of Cartier

Life is a time-series of romances a continuum of events and eipsodes that takes us through all peaks and valleys, something faster than we can feel. Time moves in haste, but one thing for sure makes its stand still:Love! Buy a watch for your wife, mistress, parents, daughters and sons... that will keep your intimate relationhsip last till that watch can move...Someone says that it is not necesary to buy anything other than a bunch of flowers.
I would rather prefer watch as whenever she looks at the watch, she might remember you.
Of course if you can afford, buy a Rolex, as its value would likely been maintaining as money tends to depreciating year after year.
For those who are still not going to marry or your budget is limited. You can consider something functional, unique and beautiful. We have found that Lancaster Italy has some beautiful creation of watch, likely not too expensive, in the range of HKD$2,000.
This Lancaster Italy Bongo men's watch is a real Italian statement watch. The sharp black dial along with the black rubber band is sure to dazzle all your friends. It is for men.
How about a gift for girl, well, Rolex Ref 179175, 178274, 179171, 179173, 179171, 178240 or if budget allows go for a Ref 179159. Needless to say a Submariner Ref 116610 LV for after-office usage. If budget is tight, a Technomarine, a Philip Stern, Longines, Movado or a Swatch!

How about a Cartier Ballon Bleu W69002Z2 Pink Gold White Gold with inlaid Diamonds for the sophisticated feminine lady? It does not matter what kind of watch, so long it is from you she will like it.
HK Snob

History of Rolex's Flag Ship: Date Day

2012-01-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

The Rolex Day Date across the world has become synonymous with class, taste and style. This watch remains one of the most prestigious additions a man can have to his wardrobe.
The Birth of Date Day
The 6511 the "Day Date" had a window at 12 spelling out the day at 12 and the date was shown at 3. Patented July 23. 1955 - officially Released in 1956 after Rolex had been enjoying quite a barren spell in the sale of its complicated timepieces it soon began to revive fortune..
President Bracelet
An additional day and date discs and a screw down back it was a very large and thick watch which gave it presence on the wrist. Due to the complexity of the watch, with its automatic movement,. Introduced as a niche model it soon gained the popularity it deserved and after the introduction of the concealed clasp (concealed clasp was offer as $75 option in 1969) it was known as the "President".
Flag Ship Model
The Day Date became Rolex's flagship. The first model (6511) lasted just over a year before it was replaced by the externally identical 6611 with caliber 1055 movement with its free sprung Micro-Stella balance and was the first to be labeled "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" on the dial. This new accuracy standard guaranteed the watch to remain within + 3.0 seconds per day.
Date Day Caliber
In 1959 caliber 1055 was replaced with caliber 1555 in model 1803 (18,000bph) and later In 1965 - model 1803 received caliber 1556 (19,800bph).
In 1977 caliber 3055 (quick-set) was introduced in model 18038.
In 1988 caliber 3155 (double quick-set) was introduced in model 18238.
Caliber 3155 is the caliber still used today in all Day-Date models.
President Watch
The Day Date earned the nickname the "President" when Rolex reportedly gave one to the then President of the United States Dwight Eisenhower. Some sources say that President Eisenhower was actually given a Date Just with the presidential bracelet. But it is a fact that several other US presidents are known to wear Day-Date (Roosevelt, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Reagan, but seems Clinton, Bush and Obama does not wear Rolex Date Day, that may indicate that the recent US President has lost their glory on the wrist than in the past! (Clinton had a Roger Dubuis Muchmore, George Bush Worn a Cheap Electronics Digital watch and Obama has a few including a Tag Huer.)
Shape of the Date Day
These early models appeared rather bulky. In their never ending quest to modernize the basic configuration of the Day Date, Rolex have changed from the bulbous bubbleback look of the early models to the slender shape employed today.
With only a few mild case design changes over the year the first modification to the Day Date was the addition of the hack feature in about 1972. This allowed the second hand to be stopped dead if you wanted to set the time via a preset accurate source.
Material for Date Day
The Day Date was available in white gold, yellow gold, pink gold and platinum although in early 70's the pink gold watch was fazed out. If you had a Date Day in stainless steel, that is a prototype and that can be a great treasure in Auction.
Quick Set
The "Quick set" feature (caliber 3055) solved one of the watches biggest problems. Introduced in the late 1970's Quick set was introduced to all Rolex models by 1983. Instead of turning the crown round and round to change the day the wearer could just pull the button out half way and a few turns at most and the correct date was displayed.
Sapphire Crystal
The introduction of the quick set feature also coincided with other developments for the Day Date. The inclusion of the sapphire crystal not only gave the watch a sleeker look but also added to the durability of the watch. Introduced in 1977, the sapphire crystal fitted tighter than the plastic glass employed before and rendered the watch glass scratch proof near enough. The early Day Date models were waterproof to 165 feet (50 meters) while the current model is safe at depths of up to 100 meters. At the same time the current model is much slimmer.
Double Quick Set
Introduced in 1988/89 was the "Double Quick Set" watch with caliber 3155. This was model 18238 and it made the setting of the Day and Date even easier as they could both be done on the button. Rolex has also increasingly expanded their "Crown Collection" to include all types of precious stones by now although they were available with diamonds on the bezel from their introduction.
Pink Gold Date Day
From the end of 2000 the Day Date has been available in pink gold again. The watch has also been introduced with slightly redesigned case with polished lugs, smooth bezel is now domed, a domed sapphire crystal, solid center links on now heavier bracelet and can also come on an oyster bracelet to bring it in line with many of their other models.
Sham Shui Po Snob

2012, Audemars Piguet Celebrates Royal Oak's 40th Anniversary

2012-01-27T04:31:00.000-08:00

It has been 40 yeas after the likely one of most beautiful watch designs was invented by Gerald Genta in 1972, with continuously applause of such beautiful Watch by watch lovers all over the World, a new Memorial Royal Oak design is created in 2012.
Since the timeless 2121 movement was introduced in its Royal Oak case in 1972, with movement thickness of 3.05mm, one of the World’s thinnest mechanical Automatic movement, it provides the Hour, Minutes and Second, Date Display function. In 2012, AP introduces a new Tourbillon ultra thin Skeleton masterpiece. The movement is still assembled with meticulous procedure as AP did 40 years ago. The Skeleton Watch case installed the State-of-The-Art tourbillon module, recalled the World First Tourbillon Automatic AP which shocked the World in 1986.
The new movement is Cal. 2924 is new with tourbillon assembly placed in a yet delicate but super tough Platinum dark grey case of 41mm with mere 4.46mm thick. The Power drum is Yellow gold which has a drastic Colour contrast with the case. Highly appreciatible! The Time display is on the front and Power reserve indicator on the back is the design layout.
Frequency is 21,600 CPS (3 Hertz) with power reserve up to 70 hours. Whole watch has 110 parts that are required hand polish, individual numbered for a limited 40 pieces only.
Price, yet to be advised.

I had the first AP Royal Oak Jumbo and that was numbered as XX…Today, this is only 40 Pieces, Who is the lucky one who can afford to own One. I would not hesitate to buy one if I could have that kind of money. Men’s dream and AP Royal Oak, Watch Lovers' dream.
Besides, AP made a decision to enlarge the Royal Oak from a base line of 39mm to 41mm, to meet the trend of "tend to be Larger” So there will be more prominent outlook with the new 41mm size of a Royal Oak you buy in 2012. Definitely it can catch more admirers from distant faraway opposite the Nathan Road.
Nathan Road Snob

Hamilton Khaki Flight Timer

2012-01-26T06:45:00.000-08:00

Hamilton is an American Brand since 1892. I used to have few Hamilton Solid Gold Watches made in the 40'. Those watches were purely mechanical watches.
This Khaki Flight timers is a high function pilot watch embedded with Swiss ETA Quartz movement. New from Hamilton, result of collaboration with the Air Zermatt helicopter rescue team in Switzerland. You can see the Air Zermatt logo engraved on the caseback.
The dial is broken up into a few negative LCD screen sections and the case has a crown along with three pushers. You can still read the time easily enough, and I like the large applied metal minute/hour markers. You'll of course see that the dial is an available in a silver or anthracite tone. Skeletonized hands make it possible to see the screens below them without too much interference.
Functions include Two digital timezones, UTC time, Alarm, Chronograph, Countdown, Flight time recorder, ISA temperature display. Perpetual Calendar. Perpetual Calendar is what the Tissot Touch does not have, Tissot has the unique winning touch feature, but there is no 24 hours, no date. A deduction of a watch feature in terms of versatility.
One of the price features is log data for recording details of up to 20 flights and a total of 99 landings. It has a rotating timing bezel on the case.
The steel case is 40mm wide, water resistant to 100 meters and has a sapphire crystal.. This is a function-oriented watch and I like that Hamilton is still keen on making a lot of these pieces.
Die hard mechanical watch lovers still prefer not to use Electronics Quartz watch in professional applications. However, some of the features and functions are only achievable by means of Electronics Quartz watch module. Unless in utmost low temperature.
Hamilton will offer the Khaki Flight Timer with at least two dial options and on a rubber or leather strap. I like the Orange Strap. There is also a metal bracelet option. Prices for the leather/rubber strap models is $1,445 for just a bit more you can get the metal bracelet model for $1,495.
So if you are a Pilot, other than the Rolex GMT Master II, $ 7,800. Breitling professional Co-pilot 143A $2,475. This Hamilton is your choice too!

HK Snob

Glashjutte Original of the 60's

2012-01-26T00:11:00.000-08:00

In the name Glashütte Original lies the history and unique heritage of a small town
in South Eastern part of Germany In the neighbors hood of Czech Republic, a small Silver, Copper and lead, iron ore mining buried in the mountains of the Erzgebirge started from 165 years ago.
In the early part of the 19th century, the citizens of Glashütte began to look for alternatives. Saxon Court, Dresden had long nourished the nascent art
and science of keeping time with the aid of clocks and pocket watches. Dresden was the splendid city on the Elbe once known as the Florence of the North.
At the same time, the excitement of the industrial revolution had captured
the imagination of adventurous thinkers and entrepreneurs all over Europe,
and Saxony was no exception.
It was this spirit of adventurous enterprise that slowly transformed Glashütte
from a remote village in the mountains into the world-class centre of handcrafted
watches that it remains today. But don’t forget it was the Eastern Germany after the WWII, and then at that period of 1945-1990, there were not to much Fancy technology in the watch marking, but to make simple, durable low cost Watches for the People of the Eastern Germany, So these are the two pieces that I bought in 1995 in a Small town of Germany,
Note that the Movement is simple, quite sturdy and there even not have any date, size was small as that was the right size in the 70. I believe the lady one was in the year is 1968-1972, and the men’s one is an automatic with 23 Rubies that goes to 1960-1968.
They were lying down in the drawing over 15 years until today I checked for some of the straps and revealed these two watches,… These are not expensive watches, but a good example to show the life style of Eastern Germany whereby they had not too much resources to make beautiful watches as the Swiss did. But these metal watches demonstrate what a watch needs is time keeping, on top of it, accuracy and reliability is important.

HK Snob

Deep Blue BlueTech AB YSS500 Diver's Watch

2012-01-21T21:24:00.000-08:00

This new Deep blue BlueTech AB YSS500 comes with four dial colour. Blue, Black, Orange and Yellow with limited 500 pieces each Colour.
The Blue one is my favourite, next is Orange or Yellow. It measures 46.5mmx18mm and a lug width of 26mm, big enough for a six feet man.
Water Resistance up to 5mm meters. Movement is Swiss ETA 2824-2 with 25 jewels and a custom Deep Blue Rotor. USD$999.00!
I love to get one not just because of the dial is a dynamic look appearance, but a big and Sharp blue Dial!

HK Snob

US Marine Prototype Rolex Submariner

2012-01-21T21:14:00.000-08:00

Rolex Produced some of the rarest prototype Submariner for US Marine in 1982.
However due to whatever reason that it never turned into mass production.

It features a rather unique of locking its bi-directional timing bezel, The large detachable lug hoods lift up to allow manipulation of the bezel, lower it down to secure lock.
It has a new look as the traditional Submariner design as it extend the watch it out down from the middle of the case to meet the bracelet. It is 44mm with a lug to measurement of 58mm. The example featured here was sold at auction by Antiquorum in 2004 for USD$ 72,000! I think the current price may be already go double to USD$150,000! if your wrist is small , this may not be too fit for it.HK Snob

A Fake Rolex Submariner

2012-01-15T08:23:00.000-08:00

This is a Rolex Submariner my friend showed me yesterday, of course I did not say anything as he said he bought it recently, He asked me how is it. I said quite beautiful.
But actually I told myself this is a Fake Rolex!
First of all, this model is White gold, and his one is steel,
The weight is not as heavy as the original one.
The finishing of the body is quite rough, It does not carry that kind of elegant gloss of the Rolex. The printing on dial is rough, the Rim is not smooth, laser Marked Rolex Logo is not clear enough.

Tsim Sha Tsui Snob

Swatch new look 2012

2012-01-15T07:33:00.000-08:00

Swatch is using plastic as the component in the movement, though Plastic is not the first time to be used for component in a watch. Tissot low cost Auto Watch used a lot of plastic gear. The light weight component has an advantage of longer serviceability. Swatch uses colourful part inside the watch. It creates colourful rainbow like movement, this example is one of the most beautiful Combination. Thin, Colour, Watch proof, acccurate, light and comfortable to wear. This is Swatch!

Picture taken by Nokia Mini 97 at Tsuen Wan MTR station.

Tsuen Wan Snob

Can you Check your Rolex Time Keeping Accuracy when you purchase?

2012-01-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

This is a question that most of the non-jeweler Rolex AD can offer, and most of the people do not know that there is the right for them to SELECT a better Rolex when you buy new from Rolex AD.
Well, most of the WATCH dealer like Zurich, Oriental, Wah Hing can have this service. Do to forget that you are spending some money that is good for buying a used BMW, this is your customer right to ask for the Shop to provide you a Health Check on your Rolex.
As you know you Rolex is a Certificated Swiss Chronometers, that can guarantee some kind of time accuracy per day.
Usually I will buy a Rolex with +2 second per day base on a temperature of 25 deg C,
And some time you can get one like +5 seconds a day, it is still within the specification of qualify the watch to be a Chronometer.
The reason why we have to buy a watch faster a few seconds is that after a few years say three, the lubrication oil inside the jewel bearing and the minor wear and tear inside of movement will gradually add on some friction that would slow down the watch.
So when you use your Rolex it may be becoming slow after 4 year, then it is time for you to send it to Rolex Service Centre for a cleaning..
Actually the period of time for Overhauling or cleaning depending on how you use the watch, and some of my Rolex has been using for 10 years still working in perfect time keeping.
So next time when you go to buy your Rolex, ask for the time check service, of course it is Free!
HK Snob

What Rolex I should buy as an Investment item?!

2012-01-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

If you ask me what is the best Investment Rolex we should buy now. From what I have learnt from these 30 years playing Rolex, I have firm answer is Daytona if you ask me what is the best investment Rolex as generally.
Thought its entry price is the high for Average Rolex Selling price. But that is not the most expensive series of Rolex.
Many people ask what is the best first Rolex he should consider, it is also having no definitely reply as all depends on what you wants.
For fun, What He-has-that-I-should-Have!? For Investment!? Just For use!? For Stylish fashion watch!? For his Function? Just because of Rolex?
If you are professional diver, golfer, mountaineer, I am sure that you may consider the Submariner or Explorer II. If you want to buy one just for going work, likely a Rolex Turn-O-graph is best, as most of the people would likely choose Date Just as it is so far the most popular model from Rolex, accounts for 60% of the total Sales.
If you area student, OL, I believe I would like to go for Submariner or Explorer II
Women would like to go for Explorer.
If you are borne with Silver sterling 925 spoon, well, it is out of the question, you can buy all available Rolex models and change every day, we need not to be discussed here.
If you are the CEO, CFO, COO I think a Rolex Daytona, or Day Date would be one of the choice.
So How about Daytona? well, it is hard to say as for pure function consideration, that is not too persuasive as it has no date, you know some time a frequent traveling , when you wake up in the Hotel have your experience that “ hey, what is the Day to day? That is one of the reason why I choose Day Date, or a perpetual calendar when I travelling. As it never fails to provide me the most importunate data in the morning, time for next meeting, Today is what Date!?
If you are an collector, or investor, well, that is not q question, you may go for Daytona as it is really the Icon of Rolex, the most complicated watch from Rolex, Sorry please do not compare with the triple or Grand complication watch from VC, PP or AP. That is different animals.
As from most of the previous Auctions, Daytona and Comex Submariner seems never turn out to be the Dutch Auction. So if I were asked what is the best Rolex Investment item, that is Daytona!
As what the Rolex Bible said, "Rolex Daytona" means a lot of things: it is the most desirable chronograph, it is a tool to measure time, it is a fashion object, it is a collector's dream and it is a safe investment!
There are many Daytona models whose value increases year after year. Here you can see some examples:
-Daytona Ref. 16520 in stainless steel
CATALOGUE PRICE: In1994: € 3.047,10
CURRENT VALUE: € 10.000/12.000
-Daytona Ref. 16520 in stainless steel, black dial turning into brown
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1994: € 3.047,10
CURRENT VALUE: € 18.000/22.000
-Daytona Ref. 6239 in stainless steel
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1966/67: € 64,04
CURRENT VALUE: € 22.000/24.000
-Daytona Ref. 6239 in stainless steel with Paul Newman dial
CATALOGUE PRICE:In 1969/70: € 67,14
CURRENT VALUE: € 65.000/70.000
-Daytona Ref. 6239 in gold 18k
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1966/67: € 163,71
CURRENT VALUE: € 60.000/65.000
-Daytona Ref. 6239 in gold 18k with Paul Newman dial
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1969/70: € 163,71
CURRENT VALUE: € 100.000/110.000
-Daytona Ref. 6241 in stainless steel
CATALOGUE PRICE In 1966/67: € 64,04
CURRENT VALUE: € 24.000/26.000
Daytona Ref. 6241 in gold 18k
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1966/67: € 163,71
-CURRENT VALUE: € 70.000/75.0000
Daytona Ref. 6241 in stainless steel with Paul Newman dial
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1969/70: € 67,14
CURRENT VALUE: € 65.000/70.000
-Daytona Ref. 6241 in gold 18k with Paul Newman dial
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1969/70: € 163,71
CURRENT VALUE: € 100.000/110.000
-Daytona Ref. 6263 in stainless steel
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1971/72: € 78,50
CURRENT VALUE: € 25.000/27.000
-Daytona Ref. 6265 in stainless steel
CATALOGUE PRICE: In 1971/72: € 78,50
CURRENT VALUE: € 25.000/27.000
-Daytona Ref. 6265 in gold 18k
CATALOGUE PRICE: Ini 1971/72: € 241,19
CURRENT VALUE: € 55.000/60.000
Furthermore, if the color of a Daytona's dial turn into another color, the watch will be even more valuable.
An example: the reference 6263 in stainless steel with Paul Newman dial is worth around € 70'000; but the same watch with the dial turning into brown, was sold by Sothebys on 2011, November 14th for CHF 464’500.
Reference: Rolex Daytona Story: the new book of Guido Mondani Editore.
Recommend to go for this Book as it contains numerous stories and picture of Daytona.
Image appears courtesy of Jake's Rolex blog
HK Snob

Fossil

2012-01-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

This is just a watch electronic movement with Date Day, time., quite a Functionable watch, with a sharp Diamond Like Bezel, strap that was made to look like mother of pearl.

Super light weight for young women. I bought it brand new at one shop at the junction between TST MTR Exit and I-square. The Sales Ken had a nice chat with me, he is a serious WATCH collctor for Omega, he is collection Omega Schummerger: he has Blue, Yellow, Red...etc

Price of Fossil was HKD$1,000, less 15%. Great deal for my little Daughter for going School.

Tsim Sha Tsui Snob

Rolex Ref 216570 Explorer II Orange Pointer on Sales at Wah Hing Mongkok

2012-01-05T07:50:00.000-08:00

We found that Mong Kong Wah Hing has stock for Selling the Famous new Ref 216570 Black and White Dial. at price of HKD$60,500
Interested parties, RolexFans should not miss it.
Address Mong Kok Too Tak Mansion, 646, Nathan Road, exit at Mong Kok MTR Bank Centre walking towards North for 20 meters approx.
Mong Kok Snob
PS Photo was taken with an iPhone4s by KF.

The Conquest Watches for Mount Everest Part II

2011-12-31T06:26:00.000-08:00

My Smiths Everest Arrives after a Month the Watch is arrived.
It was sent from UK, and made in UK, a Watch that was once being used for Conquest of Mount Everest in 1953.
The packing is perfect, bubble packing, inside a clutch there it contains the watch and a Ball pen in wooden body.
The watch is well built, very heavy, solid stainless steel bracelet, the crown screw thread is fine pitch, which is at least 1.5 times finer than Submariner’s. thus has a better watch tight, but likely easier to get wear out faster if you do gyou w to screw tight.
Normally when we screw in, we have to turn anticlockwise for half a round to ensure the gear is meshed then rotate for clockwise direction.
The profile is smooth and sleek, simple and water resistant, great value for just 225 pounds. But you may have to wait for the goods to reach you after you placed the order.
Specification
Specification of Smiths Everest PRS-25
CASE
Material 316L stainless steel, brushed top with polished sides
Diameter 40mm, 44mm including crown
Lug to lug height 49.8mm
Thickness 14.5mm to the top of the hi-dome crystal
Lug spacing 22mm
Anti-magnetic 4,800 A/m
Water resistance 10ATM/100 metres/330 feet
Weight 165 grammes including bracelet
Features Screw back, screw down crown, drilled lugs
DIAL
Colour Black with white printed minute track
Luminous Triangle, numbers and indices SuperLuminova C3
HANDS
Style Mercedes hands, polished steel
Luminous SuperLuminova C3
CRYSTAL
Type Hi-dome acrylic , 34.6mm diameter x 2.5mm thick
MOVEMENT
Calibre Miyota 9015, 24 jewel automatic, 28,800 BPH
BRACELET
Solid link stainless steel with screwed links and solid end links and signed clasp.
The Rolex Day Date is 36mm for comparison with Smiths!
Aftermath,
This watch has been running test and the time accuracy is about +5 seconds per day, but the there is some variations when temperature changes, but I think that is acceptable for a watch of 250 pounds.

HK Snob

Grand Seiko Asia Limited 150 pieces Model SBGH017G

2011-12-30T10:27:00.001-08:00

Grand Seiko Hi Beat 36000 Model SBGH017G Asian Special blue dial with Gold second hand Limited with 150 pieces. I hd saw it on newspaper only, not even in Seiko Website yet.

The Escape wheel and pallet fork is made by MEMS engineering.
A watch that can go exceed the limit of mechancial watch engineering, comparable or in par with accuracy of Tourbillon!
Price is unknow, likely it is in the range of HKD$58,000.00.
HK Snob

Rolex Choice

2011-12-29T06:52:00.000-08:00

My Personal opinion only
In terms of Rolex Tradition
1. Daytona
2 Submariner
3. Explorer II
4. GMT master II

In terms of Value
1. Daytona
2 Submariner
3. Explorer II
4. GMT master II
5. Yacht master
5. Date Just
6. Celini

In terms of Popularity Hit
1. Submariner Green Dial green Bezel
2. Explorer II Black
3. Explorer II White
4. Submariner Green bezel Black face

Auction Star
1. Daytona
2. Submariner Comex
3. Explorer II

For executive
1. Daytona
2. Submariner
3. DateJust
4. Explorer II

HK Snob
1. Day Date
2. Daytona
3. Turn-O-graph

HK Snob

The Most Impotant Inventions of Breguet since 1775

2011-12-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

These are the most important Breguet inventions since 1775.
1780 development of automatic watch
1783 invention of gong sponge for repeaters, design of the Breguet hands and numerals
1786 the Breguet dial, engine-turned by hand
1789 the ratchet key known as the "Breguet key".
Escapement working without oil.
1790 invention of the pare-chute (shock absorber)
1792 development and production of the mechanical forth Chappe optical telegraph.
1795 first description of the sympatique clocks.
Development of the perpetual calendar.
The Breguet balance wheel.
The ruby cylinder.
1796 the single-hand watch known as the " subscription watch".
1798 patent of the constant force escapement (March 9)
Invention of the musical chronometer, the clockwork mechanism that acts as a metronome.
1799 the "tact" watch,
1801 patent of the tourbillon regulator (June 26)
1810 development and production of the first wristwatch, ordered by the queen of Naples.
1812 appearance of dials with off-centered hour ring.
1815 fine-tuning of the double-barrelled marine chronometer.
1819 ocular of an astronomical telescope.
1820 invention of the mounter & doubles seconds or observation chronometer, forerunner of the modern chronograph.
1830 first watch with keyless winding.
1939 Patent of the sidereal time-keeper (February 28)
1990 the sympathize wristwatch and it's clock.
1991 patent of the perpetual equation-of-time wristwatch (April 17).
1997 patent of the in-line perpetual calendar wristwatch (May 15)
1998 the smallest self-winding chronograph movement In the world.
2002 patent for the moon-phase mechanism in the "Reine de Naples" watch.
2003 two patented inventions in the Breguet alarm watch "Reveil du Tsar":
A column-wheel mechanism to lock or activate the alarm and a device to co-ordinate the alarm with local time.2004 Titanium balance
2005 shock-protection device for balance pivot (tradition). Three patent for the new Breguet detent escapement. Centrifugal strike governor (Grand Strike. there iv>Note that bewteen 1830 to 1939, there had been no new design patent, inventions at all, I think that have been something, I may need to find out. Also, 50 years between 1939 and 1990, there was no inventions.Well, Today Breguet has been proud of the major designs: Automatic watch movement (1780) Perpetual Calendar (1795) and The Tourbillon (1801)!
Look at ths beautiful Breguet watch that has been built in the latest Micro CNC machining for the parts coming up to traditonal 1790 watch design. So this is Breguet, something that he can be proud of, and of course If I can wear a watch on my hand, that is something I can be proud of myself!
Remarks, the above picture was taken at HKIA arrival Hall, 23 Dec 2011 using my Nokia N97 mini with others.

Omega Ploprof 1200M Professional Diver's Watch

2011-12-27T05:16:00.000-08:00

The Seamaster Ploprof 1200M, a myth-buster of mission impossible diving down below 1000m.
Omega Launched a Seamaster Professional 600, the so-called “Ploprof” (the first letters of plongeur professionnel – the French words meaning “professional divers.
It was the Rival of Submariner in the 70’s, one more choice the professional diver in need of the most rugged, tough, robust deep sea timing instrument.
The new unmistakable Co-Axial ploprof OMEGA has introduced a completely updated version of the classic and instantly recognizable wristwatch. Equipped with a Co-Axial (launched in 1999) calibre 8500, the new Ploprof 1200M is, as its name suggests, water resistant to an astounding 1200 metres / 4000 feet /120 bar and it artfully combines its ancestor’s legendary features with OMEGA’s state-of-the-industry Co-Axial technology.
The screwed-in crown is located at 9 o’clock under a protective buffer. Its unique positioning allows freer wrist movement and prevents any inadvertent manipulation.
At the 2 o’clock position is the Ploprof’s characteristic bezel-release security pusher with an orange anodized aluminum ring. Pressing the pusher allows the bezel to be rotated in either direction and then locked firmly in position, ensuring that it cannot be accidentally shifted during a dive. Automatic helium escape valve located on the side of the case at the 4 o’clock position.
Two-piece oriented case back. The case body is made of brushed stainless steel and has polished bevels.
The polished indexes are coated with white Super-LumiNova, as are the varnished hour and seconds hands. The oversized minute hand is crafted from orange anodized aluminum and is coated with white Super-LumiNova. The Ploprof 1200M has a date window at the 4:30 position.
The Ploprof 1200M is available either with a brushed mesh "Sharkproof" bracelet or on a rubber strap in a choice of black or orange.
The bracelet, with its double extension system, is fitted with OMEGA’s new diving safety clasp whose pinned links allow precise adjustments to 18 positions. It also features an extra divers’ extension to 26 mm so that the watch can be worn comfortably over a diving suit.
This is the real Competitor of Rolex DeepSEA. With comparable Prices if Listed HKD$86K. If you are having Submariner, DeepSEA, this is the one that you have to consider… No matter what, this guarantee you are not lonely in the deepsSsa under a depth of 1200M.. with the companion of such professional equipment.

The above picture taken at Chow Tai Fook MK Branch on 25 Dec 2011.
HK Snob

Top Label of Watch and Leather Product: Rolex and Louis Vitton

2011-12-26T21:56:00.000-08:00

Subjugation Period
Hong Kong has gone through phases of economic development in the past 50 years as…after being invaded by the Japanese during WW II. A lot of construction required man power. At same time, ten thousands of people were rushing across the border into Hong Kong in 50’s. There was an unpublished rule that once if you could reach Tai Po or anywhere south of it. You would be granted the right to stay in Hong Kong…
These were the first few large batches of man power helping Hong Kong to establish an Electronics, building and construction industry in 60’-70s. Peoples were diligent, hard working and eager to learn or they could not be competitive as the local Hong Kong peoples. They were able to adapt to the fast growing pace and ever-changing society. They could easily transform themselves as chameleon does in the desert area for being treated as dim sum by snakes in camouflage, changing forms of business such as OEM, tool fabrication support for bigger factory, changing themselves to adapt new wages level that go par with the improving standard of living.25 years ago, Hong Kong started shifting the manufacturing faculties to China and now more than 98% f their factories are in China to enjoy the low manufacturing cost. And there is over 8 millions of working force running in Shenzhen for the Hong Kong companies now!
Start of money
Hong Kong’s industry was leap frog well entrenched growth of double digits of export in 70’s and 80’s every year. Fairchild, Siliconix, Motorola, EDL were some of the early semiconductor factories in the Kwun Tong and Kwai Fong area respective. They hired a lot of engineers, technicians, and operators to support the manufacturing operation. More universities were being developed in terms number of enrolling student and set-up more ruminative package for more professional expertise in to provide better education for the higher management and engineering requirement of the commercial and industrial entrepreneurs. Speculated investor poured money into Real estate markers.
A lot of construction works was been carried out at that period of time. Heavy invested construction Cross harbor Tunnel was completed in 1972, first MTR mass transit system was completed in 1979. Central landmark of circular window and pillar-less Jardines House stood up right in front of the Queen’s Pier in 1970. Jardine House (Chinese: 怡和大廈), now is where Rolex Service Centre is located, formerly known as Connaught Centre (康樂大廈), is an office tower in Hong Kong. The building is located at No.1 Connaught Place, Central on the Hong Kong Island. It is owned by Hongkong Land Limited, a subsidiary of Jardines. At the time of its completion in 1972, Jardine House was the tallest building in Hong Kong and in Asia in 1980.
Show off period
In the 80’s and 90’s people of Hong Kong are all having only one thing in their mind” Money”. Most of them is dreaming to be coming rich in one night… still can recalled than young students got crazy of Swatch collection and trade. They could queue at Swatch shop for 48 hours waiting for the limited Swatch on sales …especially those on St-valentines and Christmas special. Afterward, immediate sales can be made to others at a few times higher price.
Hong Kong was experienced the fastest growing economics at that time ; engineers are no longer eager to stay in one company, head hunter, job search, buy and sell stock are the things they involved party, directly or indirectly.
Fit it
HK people were proud of their wealth and be forgetful on the stock nightmare of 1973, 1987, 1997, 2003. Though, the significant influence some of the top 20% richest people does not have any hesitation to spend money on these extravagant items like Lamborghini, Porches, Rolex, Patek Philips, Mark Levinson, Marantz, JBL, Aston Martin, Louis Vitton, Chanel as Hong Kong People favourite buying list.
Mix and match
Free Newspaper is stuffing ads into our mind. The singers, movie stars and celebrities are in fact moulding youngster’s preference in brand selections.
Group 18-40 is the 80% market of the consumer goods. 80% of the people using the branded stuffs are honest followers on those rich and famous in this small City. They feel being respected or can achieve certain kind of social satisfaction as consent from the snobs.
Way of life.
I dislike baggy jeans(賴屎褲), with heavy big Stainless steel chain hanging between the jean and the pocket behind… wearing oversized T-shirt, ring on his tongue and eye lips, Tattoo on his bonny skeleton arms…carrying burning cigarettes? This is just rebelliousness on his thoughts and a demonstration to the public that they are of some difference only!
The way of life of most of Hong Kong people is typical Hong Kong, very Hong Kong…money minded, narrow minded and limited vision towards international politics. The major topics in the tea house or MTR are yesterday soap TV story endings…Who is going to marry to the diamond bachelor of the Lee’ family. Who is the next victim of Tomorrow Fruit paper capture by their paparazzi!?

Asian Top Ten Labels

However this the powerful generation that spend on these luxury brands…
From the statistic of some 2008 data, these are the top ten Asia most popular labels in Asia.
1. Louis Vitton
2. Rolex
3. Cartier
4. Gucci
5. Burberry
6. Hermes
7. Chanel
8. Prada
9. Tiffany
10. Armani

Reason of Success
One common successful story behind the top two, they have Good quality, very high brand value, international mostly welcome luxury goods. and the Marketing of the products.

Almost all Top Ten Label produce watch
Can you notice that they all produce Watch… except Prada! Why, as Watch is officially become a men or women accessories.. not more just a time piece.. this effect has becoming more obvious since 1990.
No question why you could see lot of Louis Vitton hand bag could be found in the train… I have seen 7 Rolex at the CitiSuper pay-line, probably the largest concentration of Rolex in the world!
Yesterday’s Classic
In order not to be one of the member of the Way-of-life in HK, I used to use Yesterdays Classic stuff… no matter bag and watch…
For Rolex, I used 1970-1985 Day Date Ref 1608 or Ref 18038.
For Louis Vitton, I do not call for their model, but something I bought in 1990… They are the Classic… many people asked me to sell mine Louis Vitton bag to him. I said “ why? They said, it looks good… Yah., it Looks good because they are not new and that has brought me traces of Love tears, deep thought of life, fun and all kind of olden days’ sweet memories.,…no one want to sell it…

Retro Design
Sooner later Louis Vitton will product a special product line of Old bag in retro design…
10 times more expensive may be… like the jean we have now…
For Rolex, no need, as they looks new forever because it is Rolex…Time can leave us but your Rolex remains the same forever. So that is one of the reason why I use 36mm Rolex not the larger 40mm one as it is the Classic.
HK Snob

Oriental Watch Company

2011-12-25T07:28:00.000-08:00

First Oriental Watch Shop in Kam Lung Building in 1961

But seems to me that this picture was taken in the year between 1940- 1948

Oriental Watch Company, Taken on Xmas Day 25 Dec 2011

One of the Biggest and longest History for Watch Retails in Hong Kong, Oriental Watch company was established by Dr. Yeung Ming Biu and three other share holder in 1961. Started the first Shop in Des Voeux Road Central, with progressive gain in the profit, in 1973, they aquired Swiss Watch Company, ontained a bunches of Swiss Renowned watch as the Authorized agent in Hong Kong. In 1993, they got IPO in HK Exchange
In 2008,100 Queen’s Road Central, the opened the Flagship shop. With floor space of 20,000 sq. ft.
Oriental Watch Company represented their principles of major watch making Empire in Switzerland for those Rolex, Tudor, Piaget, Vacheron Constanin, Audemars Piguet, IWC, Jaeger-LeCouture, Girad Perregaux, longines and Omega.
If you buy Rolex, this is one of the best Choice as Orietal Business is Watches and nothing more, So they have professional Sales Consultnat offering you the suggestion and they have Watch smith in shop for serving you and your watch.
Des Veoux Road Central Snob

Rolex AD Chow Tai Fook Mong Kok Main Branch

2011-12-23T07:29:00.001-08:00

This is one of the Rolex AD at Mong Kok MTR exit. One of the Major Rolex Outlets!

One was taken at night yesterday.

Mong Kong Snob