Recently I invested in an iPad Pro and numerous artistic Apps to focus more on design. Apple became the first Trillion-dollar company in the world (followed closely by Google) and it is not hard to understand why. Obviously, there are many other Graphic’s tablets on the market depending on your personal preference. However, I used Apple as an example to illustrate how these modern devices make life a lot easier for creative types like myself. Certainly, this is evident in the wonderful world of horology. It also has enabled the consumer to get their hands on striking watches at affordable prices. A great example can be found in the amazing Prometheus by ERA Timepieces.
What is fascinating about the world of horology at the moment is the amount of emerging talent. As I mentioned earlier watch fanatics can establish their own micro brands and bespoke watches relatively easy. Modern devices and state of the art software are accessible to most aspiring designers. However, it is important to mention that to bring a sophisticated product to market a collaboration with a master watchmaker is imperative. Owner of ERA Michael Galarza adopted this strategy with the Prometheus and it appears to be paying dividends. In fact, his campaign on Kickstarter was so successful it raised $50,000 before the launch date and over $300,000 to date.
So far I have written three global books about horology, which feature many exclusive tourbillon watches. Even though the functionality of this exceedingly complicated (anti-gravity) mechanism isn’t relevant in the modern world, it is still highly prestigious. That is why discerning buyers will pay a premium for a Swiss-made tourbillon. In fact, I have reviewed several watches in excess of six figures and some topping the million-dollar mark. Michael Galarza saw a niche in the market for an affordable ‘Haute Horlogerie’ style alternative and has exploited this with the Prometheus. Not only does this timepiece look amazing but it also features a rotating tourbillon and is priced under the $1,000 threshold ($999).
At first glance, I thought the Prometheus was a really expensive watch because the appearance is really high quality. Aesthetically this is a timepiece that is going to attract a lot of positive attention and that is why the Kickstarter campaign was a resounding success. I absolutely love the ‘Art Nouveau’ skeletonised dial, which is inspired by classics like the ‘Great Gatsby’. Every meticulous detail of this glorious timepiece has been carefully considered from the hand engraved gears/bridges to the perfectly sculpted blue hour/minute hands. However, the ‘Pièce de résistance’ (taking centre stage) has to to be the formidable exposed tourbillon carriage.
Beneath the 316L polished stainless steel (or Grade 5 titanium) 44mm case lies a refined movement. The Caliber HZ3360A comprises 20-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This extraordinary mechanism is showcased in all its glory via the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the Prometheus features hours, minutes, GMT (dual timezone display) and sun-moon/time of day indications (located at 3 o’clock). The timepiece also has a power reserve of 42-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 50-metres. As a perfect finishing touch the watch has a brown Hornback crocodile strap and is presented in a hand-crafted polished lacquered wooden box.
For more information about ERA Timepieces and the Prometheus, campaign follow this link
