Arie - Mr Orange shares his long journey to acquiring a Sarpaneva watch, highlighting the unique appeal of Stepan Sarpaneva's moon phase complication and the direct interaction with the master watchmaker. His narrative captures the excitement and deliberation involved in choosing a highly personalized independent timepiece.
Add some Ambient Glow Technology and you get starshine at night
Now I've been pondering about getting one of his watches for a long time, but never pulled the trigger because every time I had doubt about what model to choose (first choice Harvest Moon was sold out before I knew it existed) or something new was crafted by Mr Stepan Sarpaneva what would make me hesitate even more.
Last year the Northern Lights came out. Almost bought one, but was afraid that 46 mm would make it a watch I wouldn't wear often (enough). 42 mm diameter is a very good 'daily' size, but I didn't like that protruding crown. Not that it doesn't look good, but I really liked the placement of the crown at 4 on the bigger case version. So I didn't order a 42 mm version of the Northern Lights while I still could.
In hindsight I regretted not getting the Northern Lights so when the Korona K0 Seasons came out, which has got a perfect balanced look, I asked him if I could have one. But at the last moment I pulled out because I realized that if I was going to acquire a Sarpaneva I wanted it to have his famous moon complication.
In all honesty I have to admit that the green seasons would have been a perfect choice too. However it turns out that good things come to those who wait. Because this week, after 3 years of contact and too much hesitation from my side, I finally pulled the trigger! And I'm very excited about it.
What also has to be said is that the Finnish Master Watchmaker is not only a patient and accommodating, but also a very friendly person. It's a great thing having direct (!) contact with the man who is going to make your watch. It will make the emotional connection to the watch much stronger.
So now I will have to be patient for some time. But I'm looking forward on how the project will develop and if any alterations will occur in the process. And I have to thank one of Stepan's customers for practically all of the inspiration.
