In the last two years, my passion for design has really been ignited mainly because of the books I have authored. The research for these projects exposed to a broad range of topics including architecture, luxury goods, automobiles, technology and horology. It is a really exciting time to be a writer because of the amount of creative talent out there. One great example is legendary Formula One artist Giorgio Piola. His illustrations are so accomplished that they were featured in many prestigious international Motorsport magazines. This also inspired an American watch brand to adopt his name and employ him as the chief designer.
Back in June 2018 was fortunate enough to review the phenomenal G5 from Giorgio Piola. This watch is the brand’s flagship model and delivers on absolutely every front. For example, it’s constructed from high-quality material like carbon fibre and titanium. It also is powered by a top class Valjoux 7750 mechanical chronograph movement. Even though I would say this watch is great value for money ($2,995) it probably is beyond the realms of some people’s budgets. That is why the company have just launched an enticing more affordable alternative called the SHIFT Collection.
Recently, I heard on the grapevine that interest was diminishing on crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter. However, Giorgio Piola has exceeded their original $41,558 goal by over 500% raising a staggering $230,900 (time of publication) which ensures this stylish watch will go into production. Certainly devotees of the brand will be excited to receive a beautiful timepiece for a competitive price (estimated delivery March 2019).
On the first inspection, it is evident that the design of the SHIFT has been well considered and is anything but generic. Notable features include a distinctive multi-layered dial (available in black, blue, red, green) sapphire crystal lens, luminescent raised indexes, screw down crown and date window (located at 4’ o’ clock). Looking at the stylish façade you could be forgiven by thinking this is a very expensive timepiece. Certainly, I feel the sporty aesthetic (inspired by brake callipers) is a real triumph and definitely a crowd pleaser.
Dimensionally this model is slightly smaller than the G5 and has a respectable 46.5mm x 15mm 316L stainless steel case weighing 150grams. Essentially this should make it comfortable to wear on a daily basis and suitable for most occasions (with the exception of extreme sports). Powering the watch is a specially customised 13-jewel Swiss made Ronda 5040.D quartz movement. Functionally the SHIFT features chronograph timer (recording tenths of a second), hours, minutes, seconds and date indication.
The SHIFT has a sporty textured silicone strap (available in black, blue, red, green) with matching stainless steel buckle and stylish presentation box. To follow the campaign click on this link
