Independents
Bernard Cheong shares his experience acquiring the Greubel Forsey Platinum Invention Piece 1 and the platinum Antiqua, emphasizing the emotional and financial journey behind owning such exceptional independent watches. He reflects on the unique comfort and powerful presence of these pieces, positioning them as legends in haute horlogerie. This post offers a deeply personal insight into the world of high-end independent watch collecting.
After a long wait, and watching its price rise as I waited, I got my own Greubel Forsey at a punishing price.
Although I am a firm believer that ALL (no exception) good and relevant watches should ALWAYS cost more after it has been used, a part which disqualifies a certain brand which almost insists that it retains an unopened plastic bag sealed with envelope and unopened box...only the platinum Antiqua, MBF1, Freak have met these criteria.
For those who sold at a loss, I understand. It is about timing and who is buying/selling.
For me, it was VERY painful to see my own words stuffed down my mouth.
Paying MORE for the GF IP1 ( in platinum) was not a pleasure, but after a week of owning it...since mid of 2013.
On its technical aspects, after owning so many of the top end "players", the Greubel Forsey pieces not only live up to their reputation.
BUT they have, to me, become legend. A brief chat with Dufour and Stepen also confirmed my own belief, which please forgive me, may not be true.
...the magical touch of both Dufour and the harsh mix of the british finish..Daniel's style...
Anyway, I am simply sitting in my room at Hotel Rapheal.and because so few pics of the IP1 in platinum appear..none commercial shots.
And on my table are:
Just for recording their existence and good health.
For the record. only the MBF machine 1 and the Greubel Forsey platinum IP1 have an INCREDIBLE comfort factor on the wrist. They are both VERY powerful and over bearing in presence...not for subtle people. Definetely good for showing off and boasting. But to be honest, even doing such a banal act is fun. I admit that I enjoy playing with stuck up and snotty sales people at fashion stores, who really look right down on you.
Anyway:
They exist. The Antiqua is also VERY comfortable.
Both make you sleep well at night.
Chuckles.
Wait for my upcoming series of pics which I will use the Pentax 645D...man...mind blowing medium format kicks ass.
I had the chance to meet Bernard in person just yesterday night, and of course, to take a real close look at these two pieces ! I wanted to take them with me to take some good pictures, but, oddly, Bernard didn't seem to agree... ;) The Antiqua is simply unique, obviously, with its stunning personality, And the GF... well... the GF... just an amazing piece... strong and incredibly refined at the same time... I loved it !! Thanks for the opportunity Bernard, I had a wonderful time !
The GF is a technical beauty.
These are beautiful pieces and represent the finest work of the most gifted watchmakers. You have excellent taste and are fortunate to have them both in your collection. Regards, Jon
... And now I need to wipe my saliva away! Stunning pieces! Regards, Robin
....but I really wish Bernard you would excite me in the feeling of wearing it, joys of owning it and of course the technical aspects... all we seem to hear recently in your posts is how much money it has cost you to purchase this or any of your other watches. It is not meant with any disrespect as they really are stunning, however most of us know what they cost, we know that you paid a lot to own it and as you have mentioned several times that you cannot afford it.... where is the passion? The
I do not "belong" to a wealthy class which a purchase of such watches will be a sneeze. That's why my emotional points are "the price, and the cost". I would stress that the parable of the poor old woman who donates $1 is mightier than the King who gave $100. I am not THAT poor, but I am not THAT rich either. This is true. To me, right now, the cost is the most emotional. As for wearing it...I wear that watch almost every other day since I got it. And I even took it to Paris, for my daughter's d
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