Luxury Watch Collection Showcase

ant · 2025-03-21T23:44:48Z

Explore the bespoke journey of acquiring the Akrivia AK02 in platinum with a custom Grand Feu enamel dial. Antony shares his unique experience with Rexhep Rexhepi.

ant

WPS member · Independents forum

55 replies8557 views8 photos

Antony, a long-time collector and early supporter of Rexhep Rexhepi, shares his deeply personal journey of acquiring the Akrivia AK02. His account offers a rare glimpse into the bespoke creation process with one of independent horology's most revered figures, highlighting the unique relationship between collector and artisan. This article delves into the nuances of custom watchmaking and the evolution of a brand through the eyes of a passionate enthusiast.

You know, the ones that live in your memory. Yesterday I collected my long anticipated Akrivia AK02.

It has been an adventure. I was one of Rexhep's early customers for the CC1

Excuse the poor pic. But you get my drift? Perfection. I have had a pleasant friendly relationship with Rexhep and his wife Annabelle, they're lovely natural people. Seemingly unaffected by their superstardom.

In early 2023 I was visiting his atelier with a group of friends, as we were walking around he casually handed me an AK02 and said...'go on, put it on, why don't you wear it whilst we're showing your friends around?'....

There's an offer you can't refuse! So I did, and even though it was titanium it seemed to be putting roots into my wrist,,,,,really weird.

Just as we were about to leave I summoned up the courage ....'do you think I could possibly get one,,,please?'.... well, knock me down with a feather duster, he said yes. Yeah!!!! When I picked myself up off the floor, pinched

myself three times to make sure I wasn't hallucinating I couldn't believe it. So I asked again, yes he said. Wowza!! Heavy stuff.

Shortly after we worked out my AK02's spec:

Platinum case

In house Grand Feu enamel dial with gold dust inclusions.

Small tweaks to the overall design

Over the last two years I have phoned and visited to watch the whole masterpiece come together.

Here are a few pics. I hope that you like them

Thank you for reading, I hope that you enjoyed sharing my AK02.

But my biggest thanks and deepest admiration is reserved for Rexhep and his wonderful friendly and enthusiastic team.

Antony

Key Points from the Discussion

The author initially struggled to capture the Akrivia AK02's dial subtlety and color with a smartphone camera, finding that a dedicated camera like the Ricoh GRiii was essential to convey its true beauty.
Rexhep Rexhepi's strategic move to introduce his watchmaking skills in a more conventional package, like the AK02, was crucial for broader acceptance among conservative watch enthusiasts, ultimately legitimizing his earlier, more adventurous designs.
The author reflects on the serendipitous nature of acquiring an early Akrivia Chronomètre Contemporain (CC1) before the brand implemented stricter vetting processes for collectors, emphasizing that his 'average' status would likely preclude him from such an acquisition today.
While the author initially envisioned platinum inclusions for his Grand Feu enamel dial, Rexhep Rexhepi guided the design towards gold inclusions, demonstrating the collaborative yet expert-led nature of bespoke watch creation.
A fellow collector praises the author's deep knowledge and humble approach to high horology, recognizing the Akrivia AK02 as a piece that perfectly embodies his passion.
Another collector notes how Akrivia's designs, particularly the AK02 tourbillon, have grown on him over time, acknowledging the exquisite nature of the RRCC1 and the brand's evolution.

The Discussion

AuHavrePro

Mar 21, 2025

Excellent images as well, thank you for sharing them here with us, enjoy it monumentally, cheers, Filip

Marc Obermann

Mar 22, 2025

But that watch was most certainly worth the wait, congratulations on your stunningly beautiful new watch and wear and enjoy it in good health. Marc

Gregineugene

Mar 22, 2025

And may you return there every time you strap this exquisite machine on your wrist. HAGWE!

ant

Mar 22, 2025

I truly appreciate how fortunate I am. Kind regards, Antony

ant

Mar 22, 2025

Me? Nah! But what choice did I have? Looking at the watch I reckon that two years was nothing when compared to its beauty and refinement. Kind regards, Antony

ant

Mar 22, 2025

Certainly in spirit. Such nice people leave a deep impression,,,and then there's the watch! Kind regards, Antony

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