A Celebration of Craftsmanship
As the watch world gears up for another exciting season, Time+Tide is poised to make waves with a dazzling array of seven special edition timepieces, each a testament to the artistry and innovation of independent watchmakers. These remarkable watches will debut at the inaugural FounderFest, a unique event that marries live music with a showcase of horological excellence across three vibrant cities: New York, Melbourne, and London.
The Essence of FounderFest
Running from September 19 to 20, 2023, FounderFest will serve as a dynamic hub for watch enthusiasts and collectors. With Time+Tide’s Watch Discovery Studios acting as the event’s backdrop, attendees can engage with the minds behind these exquisite creations through live interviews and performances. For those unable to attend in person, the festivities will extend online, allowing a global audience to appreciate the craftsmanship on display.
Awakening the Senses
Leading the charge is the Awake Sơn Mài Frosted Leaf ‘Ultraviolet’, a stunning piece that showcases the brand’s mastery of lacquer dials. Utilizing a meticulous layering technique, the dial features rich purple and black pigments interspersed with pure silver-leaf gilding, creating a mesmerizing play of light. Housed in a refined 38mm stainless steel case and powered by the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, this watch is as striking as it is wearable, priced at $3,650 USD.
A World of Time
Next, the Baltic Heures du Monde ‘Horizon Line’ expands on the brand’s popularity with a bold new interpretation of its worldtimer. Sporting a captivating forged-carbon dial, this 37mm watch features a vibrant orange 24-hour indicator and city markers in sky blue, representing the locations of the Discovery Studios. Its Soprod C125 movement ensures both functionality and style, making it a versatile choice for the modern traveler at $1,795 USD.
Pink Revolution
The Beaucroft ‘The Punk’ takes a daring approach with a sapphire dial tinted in a bold pink hue. This 38mm model, reminiscent of the rebellious spirit of 1970s punk, is equipped with a PVD black-coated steel case and is powered by the reliable Miyota 90S5 automatic movement. Priced at $800 USD, it exemplifies fun and flair while maintaining quality craftsmanship.
British Flair and Unique Designs
Next in line is the Dennison ALD Dual Time ‘Carnaby Blue’, which captures the essence of London’s vibrant culture with its mosaic mother-of-pearl dial. Featuring a dual-time function, this watch is adorned with a Union Jack motif and a bullseye reminiscent of both the RAF and iconic rock bands. Its compact 35.6mm case and denim-blue strap add to its charm, with a retail price of $1,090 USD.
Elegance in Simplicity
Echoing the trend for refined dress watches, the echo/neutra Rivanera Piccolo ‘Rosa d’Epoca’ presents an elegant 26mm x 33mm design crafted from grade 5 titanium. The dark grey grained dial is accented with rose gold highlights, beautifully contrasting its modern materials. At $1,995 USD, this timepiece is a sophisticated blend of contemporary design and classic elegance.
Exploring New Horizons
The Furlan Marri ‘Songlines’ is a testament to the brand’s evolution. Merging elements from its previous designs, this 39mm watch features a rich brown tobacco-like dial that stands out in a sea of common colors. The La Joux-Perret G100 caliber inside promises a robust 68 hours of autonomy, available for $2,750 USD.
A Nod to Vintage Aesthetic
Finally, the Serica Ref. 7505 ‘Sunburst’ rounds out the collection with its vintage-inspired design. Sporting a compact 35mm case and a serene brown fume dial, this timepiece evokes nostalgia while incorporating modern elements, such as the Soprod M100 chronometer-certified movement. Priced at $1,625 USD, it exemplifies a balance of form and function.
As the watch community anticipates the official launch on September 22, 2023, the FounderFest special editions promise to be not just timepieces, but meaningful collectibles that encapsulate a moment in horological history. With their unique craftsmanship and compelling stories, these watches are sure to hold significant value for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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