A few weeks ago I made the transition from Total Watch Reviews to Total Design Reviews. The main reason I made this decision is because I wanted to feature a much broader range of subjects including Architecture, Technology, Lifestyle and Horology. Ultimately that means I can now select only the most exclusive and best-designed timepieces available. That is why I was delighted to receive a press release from Kees Englebarts unveiling his latest masterpiece called the Platinum Tsuba Watch.
As the name suggests the Platinum Tsuba Watch is a truly remarkable watch reserved for only a select amount of fortunate buyers. In fact this wonderful timepiece might appeal to the owners of some the exquisite properties I have recently featured. However it is pertinent to mention that this unique watch was probably commissioned by a discerning buyer with exceptionally deep pockets. Therefore if you wanted something similar you would have to contact Kees Englebarts directly.
Visually the Platinum Tsuba Watch is absolutely spectacular and is definitely a future museum piece. The dial that pays homage to a scene by Hamano Masanobu (called Tsuba with a Hawk and Sparrow) is a revelation. It also showcases all of Kees Englebarts engraving skills. I absolutely love the meticulous attention to detail, especially the gold leaves and miniature bronze sparrow. This entire splendor is encapsulated in an extravagant 49mm x 16mm (weighing a mighty 301 grams) polished platinum case.
Powering the watch is a sophisticated Swiss made hand-winding movement. The Caliber AS 690 comprises 17-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour. This sublime Mokume Gane decorated mechanism is visibly showcased through the sapphire crystal case back. Functionally the Platinum Tsuba Watch features hours, minutes and a power reserve of eight days.
Photographs courtesy of Guy Lucas de Peslouan.