Most people will know Watchismo as a cool online retailer selling a range of eclectic timepieces. Dynamic brothers Mitch and Andrew Greenblatt established the business in 1999. Previously both the brothers had worked in completely different industries. Mitch gained his experience in advertising, music and television whilst Andrew was a computer specialist. It was their combined love of watches that helped them make the transition into the wonderful world of horology.
What first drew me to Watchismo was a mutual admiration for the brands we both feature. Over the last few months I have had the pleasure of reviewing the Ritmo Persepolis, Ventura Sparc Sigma, Azimuth Landship, Meccaniche Veloci Quattro Valvole, U-Boat Unicum, Devon Tread 1F and Devon Tread 2. All these incredible watches have been sold on their website over the last few years. This prompted me to contact them to see if there was a way we could work together.
My primary contact has been with Mitch Greenblatt whose general enthusiasm for watches is contagious. A few months ago he told me that Watchismo were in the process of designing their first timepiece. As I have mentioned in numerous articles this is a monumental feat even for experienced watchmakers. The name of the watch is called the Xeriscope and was launched a few weeks ago on the platform Kickstarter (http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/watchismo/xeriscope-the-orbiting-mechanical-automatic-watch). Initially the company set a modest funding goal of $40,000 and have already achieved ten times this amount. Unbelievably they have secured advance orders for nearly a thousand watches.
When I first saw the Xeriscope I was quite surprised at its appearance. I was expecting a really contemporary design and this watch has a more classical façade. Nevertheless it is a great looking mechanical watch at a really competitive price point ($400). Out of all the models currently available my personal favourite is the Silver/Black version. The black dial has a Guilloché style engraved pattern, which perfectly contrasts with the bold silver numerals. Other really successful details include the retrograde power reserve indicator and the large aperture (positioned at 6 o’clock) displaying the mechanical movement.
With measurements of 45mm x 13mm I feel they have judged their target market well. Ultimately the watch is large enough to make a bold statement without been oversized. The Xeriscope has a stylish leather strap and comes with a 12 Month Warranty.
