Even though there are a lot of television shows about architecture and real estate, my personal favourite is Grand Designs. This series originally aired in the UK and is presented by the enigmatic Kevin McCloud. In a recent episode the ambitious owner (a food writer) wanted to construct a family home and wine storage/cellar door type building. Like most of the clients featured they had a limited budget and had to raise additional funds. Interestingly rather than taking the conventional route of visiting a financial institution they adopted to secure the capital via a crowdfunding site. In this context it is very unusual but watch brands have been successfully doing this for a long time. A great example can be found in US based company LIV Watches.
Just over a year ago I published an article about the phenomenal GX1-A from LIV Watches. Impressively this creation became the most funded timepiece on Kickstarter raising over $500,000. However, their new watch called the Rebel has exceeded this figure and so has received over $1,000,000 in pledges. Not surprisingly the owner, Co-Founder and Brand Manager Esti Chazanow is absolutely ecstatic with the outcome.
Of all the versions released, my favorite is the Swiss automatic chronograph. Aesthetically this timepiece punches well above its weight and looks significantly more expensive than it actually is (price $790). The timepiece has a delightful Retro appearance that should appeal to a broad demographic. I absolutely love the three-dimensional multi layered dial which is available in black, silver and blue versions. This characteristic acts in perfect harmony with the cushion shape 316L stainless steel case. Another stylish element is the sporty chronograph counters and bold orange numerals. Overall the composition is truly refined and the attention to detail is superlative.
Powering the watch is a high quality Swiss self-winding movement from Selita. The SW500 comprises 26-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This intricate mechanism is visibly showcased through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the Rebel features hours, minutes, seconds, date and chronograph timers. The watch also has a power reserve of around 40-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 100-metres.
Find out more information about the Rebel via Kickstarter
