Watch Dandy

One of the nicest things that can happen to you if you’re into the history of watches and watch design (and aren’t we all) is getting to not just see, but actually handle, things that physically represent that history (one of the reasons vintage watches can be so attractive). Doing really strong designs for functional objects like watches is pretty tough though, and often you see decisions made that make it clear the designer or designers decided to prioritize either aesthetics or functionality, rather than combining the two. We were lucky enough recently to have two Cartier pocket watches in the office – separated in manufacturing dates by over six decades – that are not only pieces of history, but also objects that speak in a very interesting way to the problem of making beautiful, functional objects, and to the enduring nature of good design ideas. They also offer great perspective on when and how not just design, but also luxury itself, does and doesn’t work – and on the corny-sounding notion of chic, with which much of Cartier design can be associated.

We knew something was coming, but didn’t know what. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the famed Patek Philippe Nautilus, a favorite amongst collectors new and old. At Baselworld 2016, we were told by Patek directly that indeed there would be some special pieces coming this fall, and now we know what they are – an oversized white gold Nautilus chronograph with diamond indexes and a platinum time-and-date Nautilus, both with a special stamping on the dial to commemorate the anniversary. What’s more, the cork box is back!