Prior to making the life-changing decision to relocate (halfway across the world) to Australia, I was embarking on a career as a fine artist. Even though my portrait paintings were a decent enough standard I couldn’t compete against the world’s finest. Therefore, I had to adopt, a different strategy, which meant a radical change of subject matter. After visiting the spectacular Keukenhof in the Netherlands I had an epiphany. These amazing gardens are some of the largest in the world and display and an extraordinary array of beautiful tulips. From that moment I became fascinated with flowers and especially with water droplets. Fortunately, international galleries also shared my passion. In fact, if I hadn’t moved to Adelaide, I would have definitely signed up with a prestigious company in Helsinki.
Even though I only spent a short amount of time in Helsinki the allure of the architecture, culture, and scalability was highly impressive. A few years later I also discovered that Finland hosts some fantastic watchmakers like Kari Voutilainen, Stepan Sarpaneva, Antti Rönkkö and Simo Ylitalo. The latter actually worked at Atelier Voutilainen for 1 year before establishing his own micro brand called Rajamäen Kellotehdas. Without a doubt, Simo has got horology in his DNA and has created some beautiful watches like the 12M.
Originally I became aware of Simo Ylitalo and Rajamäen Kellotehdas on Facebook. It is always very refreshing to see something unique which display a high degree of design merit. The 12M is housed in a classical size polished steel case, which measures 41mm in diameter. A few years ago this would have been considered pretty large but in today’s world is dwarfed by most contemporary timepieces. Nevertheless this a beautiful watch that will appeal to a huge demographic of discerning buyers including the lucrative unisex market. I also would imagine it would be very comfortable to wear due to an innovative curvaceous silhouette.
Aesthetically the composition is cohesive and I absolutely love the 3-dimensional dial. Hours and minutes are displayed on raised chapter rings. This detailing really elevates the design to a different level and separates this watch from more generic models. Presently the 12M is available in several different colors including (my personal favorite) a delicate claret/deep red hue. Other characteristics include refined hour/minute hands, date indication, which is located at 6 o’clock (or 3 o’clock if preferred) and an ornate crown. Powering the watch is a Swiss made ETA 2892 self-winding movement that comprises 21-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This exquisite mechanism is also visibly showcased through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back.
As well as being a highly gifted craftsman Simo Ylitalo also is the Vice Principal of a prestigious Finnish watchmaking academy. For more information about Rajamäen Kellotehdas and the attractively priced 12M (€4,115) follow this link
