WatchProSite Gathering with Jason Wilbur

Dr No · 2023-05-29T19:57:41Z

Explore Jason Wilbur's innovative watches, including the Launch JWA, EXP B1, and Leo JW 1.3, and rare collector pieces like the Zenith 'Poker Chip' El Primero, from an exclusive WatchProSite gathering.

Dr No

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

23 replies4607 views10 photos

Dr No's insightful post offers an exclusive look into a WatchProSite gathering with American watchmaker Jason Wilbur, renowned for the Devon Tread. This article provides a unique opportunity to explore Wilbur's eponymous watch collection, detailing seven distinct models. Dr No meticulously captures the essence of each piece, from their movements to their modular case designs, making this a valuable resource for collectors interested in independent watchmaking and innovative design.

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. . . was held a few nights ago at a restaurant in Anaheim, California, with a dozen guests aside from myself and Jason. Several were gentlemen I'd never met before, or only once. (I managed to take a group photo but need technical assistance to post it due to formatting issues.) Jason, for those unaware, is an American watchmaker, best known for being the creator of the Devon Tread.

Let's get started with Jason's watches which carry his name. Seven in all, starting with . . .

. . . the first Wilbur watch, the Launch JWA, powered by a Seiko NH35 movement modified by Jason. Stainless steel case implemented in a modular design with nine parts.

Wilbur EXP B1 . . .

. . . powered by a Sellita movement modified by Jason, steel and ceramic case in eight modular parts.

Wilbur EXP A1 . . .

. . . similar to the B1 but cased in titanium and ceramic.

Wilbur Launch cased . . .

. . . in DLC stainless. This particular example is a piece unique.

Leo JW 1.3, named 'The Firefly' . . .

. . . powered by a jump hour movement of Jason's design, Wilbur Engine 1, manufactured and assembled by Concepto in Switzerland. (This particular example is Jason's personal watch.)

Wilbur EXP A . . .

. . . cased in gun-metal steel, powered by a Sellita movement modified by Jason.

Leo JW 1 . . .

. . . cased in titanium and DLC stainless, fitted with Jason's proprietary Wilbur Engine 1 jump hour movement manufactured by Concepto.

There were several watches brought by our guests, of which I'd like to share three at this time. Two were brought by a gentleman who has never posted here but has been reading our forum for years.

Have you ever seen a Poker Chip?

I was aware of this early Zenith EP, but had never seen one in the metal before until Saturday night. My mind was blown.

The same gentleman brought a Patek I wasn't even aware of.

White gold case, bracelet, and dial furniture, likely '70s production. I almost offered to trade a pool cue for it.

Finally, a watch from a guest who would be familiar to all, India Whiskey Charlie.

Yup, Mr IWC himself is coming around to Grand Seiko.

👍

There will be more to come tomorrow. Cheers, all!

Cordially,

Art

Key Points from the Discussion

The Zenith 'Poker Chip' El Primero, initially perceived as overly ornate from images, reveals itself as a perfectly formed work of art when viewed in person, highlighting the importance of experiencing watches in the metal.
Jason Wilbur's latest creation, the LEO, is noted for its high quality and excellent craftsmanship, reinforcing the brand's reputation for well-made timepieces.
The discussion highlights the engineer-driven design philosophy behind Wilbur watches, characterized by a deliberate and forceful approach to modern aesthetics.
Attendees expressed immense pleasure in meeting Jason Wilbur and fellow WatchProSite members, underscoring the enduring value and camaraderie fostered by WatchProSite gatherings.
Beyond Wilbur's collection, other fascinating watches were present, including a rare Waltham FF (one of 300), a McGonigle, and a Breguet, showcasing the diverse tastes of the collectors in attendance.
The community expressed a desire for more wrist shots of Jason Wilbur's watches, emphasizing that while pictures convey much, seeing them on the wrist provides a crucial perspective.

The Discussion

Cpt Scarlet

May 29, 2023

Only sorry that I couldn’t be there.

India Whiskey Charlie

May 29, 2023

They are also quite well made and high quality. I really liked his latest creation, the LEO...

Drjack5150

May 30, 2023

These look amazing, I'm sorry I missed it. Next time for sure!

patrick_y

May 30, 2023

It was a pleasure to meet Mr. Wilbur and our distinguished WatchProSite members! What a lovely event and conversation was had by all. The power of the WatchProSite GTG lives on! Thank you Dr. No and Mr. Wilbur for hosting this amazing event!

vitalsigns

May 30, 2023

A really cool piece. Thanks, Art, for arranging the get-together, and Jason Wilbur for hosting. Cheers, John

Dr No

May 30, 2023

. . . almost all of our guests are in this photo. Supper was top-drawer, too, as you may tell . . . we had a private room, thanks to Jason. Best, Art

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