Collection
pplater introduces the Lyrique Étude No 1, a fascinating example of a collector-commissioned timepiece. His post highlights the collaborative spirit and horological expertise that brought this unique project to fruition, featuring contributions from independent watchmaking luminaries. This article explores the challenges and triumphs of creating a high-quality watch through collective effort.
This watch doesn't seem to have been posted previously; if it has, mea culpa. In any event, this post is really a thankyou to, and acknowledgment of, the passionate and enthusiastic collector friend who made it possible (you know who you are!).
The watch in question is the Lyrique Étude No 1. It has an interesting provenance: a group of 50-odd collectors from 17 countries who assembled to commission an independent piece of uncompromising quality. It could have become the proverbial horse designed by a committee (i.e. a camel), but clearly common sense and good stewardship prevailed. The watchmakers who contributed their talents include rock-stars of the Indie world: case by Voutilainen Cattin; exclusive AGH-6801 movement by Agenhor; hands by Fiedler; dial by Metalem. Chronometre certification by the Horological Society of New York(!). Limited to 70 pieces, all long ago committed.
Classically proportioned at 39mm diameter x 9.75mm high x 46.7mm end of lug-to-end of lug. It sits low and snug, thanks to the cleverly designed, complex case and those achingly beautiful lugs, reminiscent of (but different to) the signature lugs used by Kari at Voutilainen and UJ.
This is a wonderful watch to wear and a pleasure to own. Once again, thank you K, and the rest of the ‘committee’, for making that possible.
Cheers,
pplater
but 70 pieces for 50 collectors? Some people are gluttons in the group, clearly. Everything is impeccable - movement, case, dial, hands, even the strap!
There were those who assisted in the construction who also wished to acquire a souvenir of their work! Cheers, pplater.
As someone who has contributed to a ‘collective design exercise’ more than once (thinking here of the several TTP, for example), you will appreciate how difficult it must be to achieve a satisfactory outcome. These folk seem to have succeeded. Cheers, pplater.
…is high praise indeed! 😀 Cheers, pplater.
…most especially at the very reasonable price point. Cheers, pplater.
What a fantastically interesting watch, especially the case!I Like it!
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