Dream Watch Collection: Unexpected Acquisition

Cookies · 2021-10-06T13:59:03Z

Explore Cookies' journey to acquire a Speake-Marin Piccadilly, a dream watch with unique design and a connection to Peter Speake-Marin's legacy. Discover collector insights.

WPS member · Independents forum

46 replies10580 views2 photos

Cookies shares a deeply personal journey of acquiring a Speake-Marin Piccadilly, a watch that resonated with him for nearly a decade. His post highlights the enduring appeal of Peter Speake-Marin's early designs and the emotional connection collectors form with independent watchmaking. This article explores the unique design language of the Piccadilly and the unexpected thrill of finding a long-sought-after piece.

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In 2012 or so, I was admiring Speake-marin pieces on this forum. The “Foundation” hands were something different, with the hour hand looking like a heart. The lugs were radically different. The case shape was inspired by a watch holder he used when working in Renaud and Papi.

It is 2021 now. Many things have changed. The namesake genuis Peter Speake-Marin whom I admire, has left the company. I still listen intently when he speaks, or writes, via his website thenakedwatchmaker.

There is clarity, a certain charm to his character which is unique. Values which are often reflected as slogans on his watches resonate with me - resilience, love, perseverance.

And I must admit I am a huge fan of Pierce Brosnan. I enjoyed the movie where he played the role as a watchmaker where he was assembling a Speake-Marin watch.

I was browsing through the marketplace for used watches a few days ago, and saw a SM Piccadilly for sale at AUD5k with papers. I could not believe what I saw, and immediately wrote to the seller. So here it is, my dream to own a Piccadilly is complete. It came with his “autograph” on the certificate, which is a wow to me.

Key Points from the Discussion

The distinctive design language of early Speake-Marin pieces, particularly the 'Foundation' hands and unique lugs, has gained appreciation over time, even from those initially unaccustomed to the style.
The 38mm Speake-Marin Piccadilly wears well on a 17cm wrist, with the author noting that the 42mm version would likely be too large due to the prominent lug design.
The Pierce Brosnan movie where he plays a watchmaker assembling a Speake-Marin watch is a notable cultural reference for the brand, though some contributors were unaware of it.
Finding a Speake-Marin Piccadilly for AUD5k with papers is considered an exceptional deal, especially for models from before Peter Speake-Marin's departure, which often feature his hand-signed certificate.
The value of pre-2017 Speake-Marin pieces, particularly those with Peter Speake-Marin's signature, may be underestimated in general marketplaces dominated by more common brands.
Other collectors share their own Speake-Marin pieces, including the Serpent Calendar, showcasing the variety and continued appeal of the brand's early designs.

The Discussion

penfriend

Oct 6, 2021

I have never seen this one

but I love the enamel dial and the hands especially!! Congrats!

Lankysudanese

Oct 6, 2021

Congrats!

I, too, am in the market for a 38mm PSM from back when he was running the company. I didn’t know about the pierce brosnan movie. Which one is it? I’ll have to check it out Enjoy the Piccadilly, and wear it in good health

Oct 6, 2021

You must watch it

The movie is called Survivor (2015). In this movie Brosnan plays the bad guy.

banderlero

Oct 13, 2021

Speake Marin

Hi, i am currently looking to sell my Spirit Pioneer if you are interested

Oct 13, 2021

You can post it on the Buy/Sell section

I already have one SM, and it’s good enough. Funds are limited though my wishes are unlimited. Wish you luck to sell it.=D

Oct 6, 2021

Thanks