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Holthinrichs - A New Craft in Watchmaking
All members of Bespoken Lounge are welcome to join the Holthinrichs Club
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Holthinrichs Deconstructed Initial Thoughts
TimeTexas replied to TimeTexas's topic in Holthinrichs's Forum
For those that don't know, I ordered a Deconstructed. Damiaen just reached out and it looks like they are making great progress. Here a few shots he sent. The titanium case have been printed, as well as components of the bracelet. They have also received the new brushes from their CNC partner. They are beginning testing on those before beginning the finishing. -
Dulty joined the club
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Some shots of the upcoming release. DO NOT SHARE THESE OUTSIDE THE CLUB until after the announcement.
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Master Watch Interview - Geneva Watch Days
TimeTexas replied to TimeTexas's topic in Holthinrichs's Media
Some really good looks at the Deconstructed and Michiel gets into the process of the 3D technology and the watch inspiration. -
A closer look at the Deconstructed
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Clubs are a place to discuss information about the watchmaker/brand. In some cases it may be public information, but in others cases, information or news may be disclosed that is NOT yet public. Unless you specifically see the information on a public forum from the brand itself, PLEASE DO NOT SHARE information from the club to anyone outside of the club unless it is specifically authorized by the brand. If you are unsure, just don't share it. Failure to adhere to this rule will result in your removal from the club and forum. Thank you! @timetexaschris
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https://www.ablogtowatch.com/watch-review-the-3d-printed-holthinrichs-raw-ornament/ What’s incredible about the RAW Ornament is that it would be a stunning watch in any material, produced in any way. Holthinrichs didn’t let the novelty of the manufacturing process force it into a design that would alienate people for being too industrial or chunky or modern. Instead, the watch features elements pulled from the past and filtered through an architectural lens, with just a splash of contemporary cues as a nod to the 3D printing process. Photo credit to ABTW Read the entire article
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Scrubsaurusrex joined the club
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Gathered up some of the recent articles discussing the latest release of the Deconstructed. https://revolutionwatch.com/holthinrichs-deconstructed/ However, what truly distinguishes the dial is its exceptional finishing. Resembling a movement plate, the dial plates exhibit bevelled edges, creating a polished contrast against the textured top surface. This exquisite treatment extends to other visible components on the front, such as the hour markers, hands, and movement bridges, all carefully finished to highlight the brand’s appreciation of traditional craftsmanship in movement detailing. https://wornandwound.com/holthinrichs-announces-the-deconstructed-their-most-ambitious-watch-yet/ The new watch is their most ambitious yet by a large margin, incorporating a new in-house movement and pushing the limits of their manufacturing process seemingly as far as they’ll go. If you look back on the watches they were making just a few years ago, the Deconstructed represents a fairly enormous leap in confidence and conviction in what the brand is doing. It’s genuinely exciting. https://monochrome-watches.com/holthinrichs-deconstructed-3d-printed-titanium-case-and-bracelet-calibre-hm-m01-hands-on-review-price/ For the better part of half a decade, we have been keeping close tabs on a very specific watchmaker of Dutch origin; Michiel Holthinrichs. This young man, 33 years of age now, has a very different approach to design compared to the vast majority of watchmaking companies out there. Utilizing his background as an architect to the fullest, Holthinrichs Watches have been pioneering 3D printed technology in combination with ornamental design. The inaugural model of the brand, the Ornament 1 has recently gone out of production and new creations were to be expected to take its place. The first new creation to emerge from the Atelier in Delft is the DECONSTRUCTED, a watch that looks like nothing else on the planet! https://www.fratellowatches.com/introducing-the-holthinrichs-watches-deconstructed/ Michiel Holthinrichs has always been on a very personal path to horological enlightenment. Having trained as an architect, his method of watch design is marked by a fresh, studious approach. How it shows is in the way Michiel seems to have a deeper, more thoughtful agenda than a lot of small brands, and he doesn’t shy away from polarizing designs. The pure otherness of Holthinrichs Watches has always resonated with me as we certainly have enough homage in this world. And by introducing the DECONSTRUCTED, Michiel is cementing his position within European horology. https://www.ablogtowatch.com/new-release-the-radical-holthinrichs-deconstructed-watch/ A little over a month ago, I had the chance to review the incredible Holthinrichs RAW Ornament, and at the end of the review, I had the less incredible task of sharing that the brand was discontinuing two of its three models as it reorganizes its product line and strategy. Well, Holthinrichs has just released the first model of that brand evolution, the Holthinrichs DECONSTRUCTED. While the all-caps text is from the brand, it’s not a far cry from how I feel about this release, which marks an exciting chapter not just for the brand but for 3D printing in watch manufacturing. https://oracleoftime.com/holthinrichs-deconstructed/ Every so often you come across a watchmaker who has a genuinely unique approach to watchmaking that totally changes how you think about watches. Off the top of my head one of the most exciting is Holthinrichs, who produce watches using cutting edge metal 3D printing. In fact, Holthinrichs they’ve just announced their latest project, the Holthinrichs Deconstructed. Conceptually the new watch is inspired by the deconstructivism movement in art and architecture. Deconstructivism is a movement that involves dissecting and analysing structures in order to challenge existing concepts and reassemble them in new configurations. It’s an approach that goes hand in hand with the process of 3D printing as you literally have to deconstruct and map out every tiny facet of the watch in order to create it. https://watchilove.com/introducing-holthinrichs-watches-deconstructed Throughout an intensive and lengthy process of deconstruction and analysis, all layers of the classical watch, case, dial, movement, hands, and bracelet, are carefully dissected and recomposed to achieve a new and truly integral and radical design where the hierarchical relationships between the components are eliminated, their technical functioning is provocatively exposed, and all parts work together in a dynamic whole.
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Holthinrichs Deconstructed Initial Thoughts
TimeTexas replied to TimeTexas's topic in Holthinrichs's Forum
I was able to have a conversation with Michiel and Damiaen last week regarding the Deconstructed and it was enlightening. This was an incredibly intensive process to develop the watch and the movement. The costs for development were extremely significant and an enormous risk for the company. Overall the watch seems to have been very well received - which was a huge relief for something so different. The brand, and Michiel in particular, take enormous pride in their finishing. Nearly every element of the watch the 3D-printed bracelet, and the movement include finishing by hand. Hence the price. Apparently the price, while an enormous jump, hasn't been received particularly negatively. I think that's because it does require so much hand finishing that people in a position to buy a watch at this price point realize that is where a large amount of the cost in high-end watches goes. Throw in the development of the manufacture movement which has been a 6-year journey, and the price doesn't seem so outrageous. Also, I learned that the finishing on the Ornament 1 and the Raw Ornament takes about 85 hours which is double what was estimated it would take. With that level of time and cost invested in each piece, the decision to discontinue those models makes more sense. What also contributed to the decision, and something I think all Holthinrichs fans will be excited about, is that there is a new, more affordable model line in the works. Michiel showed me a sketch on the screen, but I don't have any shots to share. That said, if you remember back a few months, Holthinrichs had a few sketches on its IG feed and also had some stories asking followers to post their favorite cars. In fact, before the Deconstructed announcement, I guessed the new design would be influenced by classic cars. I was right, I just had the timing wrong. It was originally anticipated this model would be announced as the replacement for the O1 and RO before the announcement of the Deconstructed, but the Deconstructed was actually ready first, so it was announced at the end of May. The new model, which will be the start of a new family will have extremely dramatic, rounded lugs, continuing the theme of the O1 and RO, but even moreso. From what I understand, the amount of finishing on the watch and the movement will be more minimal to keep Holthinrichs costs down and allow them to sell it at a price more in line with their previous models. However, I don't know what that price will be, just that it will be more of entry level than the Deconstructed. If I had to guess, it will be generally in line with the O1 and RO/Liminality Series. I think this is a great idea to maintain a more accessible watch. While Holthinrichs has certainly grown in popularity over the past few years, they still aren't a household name, even among relatively experienced independent collectors. It also sounded like this line would also be the launch pad for a new vertical and a haute horlogerie piece based on this design would also be available at some point in the future. I'm guessing quite a ways off since the focus is on the deconstructed. Its another stunning looking watch and still contains the Holthinrichs DNA although the sketch I saw was relatively minimal but it looks like the general case design is similar and the biggest change is in the lugs. The dial may offer some changes - I know from previous conversations that Holthinrichs likes to experiment with materials and colors and has a lot of one-off dials they have created, so maybe they have come across something new they will use for this watch. Regardless, expect news at Geneva Watch Days. A few other notes: About half of the Deconstructed have sold. The rubber strap, which is 3D printed, will apparently be somewhat translucent - something they've recently discovered how to do. Sounds like it will be very cool. The Liminality series was a stepping stone between the O1/RO and the Deconstructed - you can see the evolutionary step. I think if the new model is successful, you will see Holthinrichs continue to grow as it more fully develops and implements a lower-priced base model and higher-priced haute horlogerie model within two different verticals. The releases staggered so that as one model vertical moves from the base to the higher-end piece, it will be replaced with a newer base model and the process will repeat. I also expect one off limited series as kind of a middle ground/evolutionary proof of concept similar to the Liminality. This is my takeaway on the plans going forward - nothing set in stone here. Sounds like a trip to the US may happen at some point in the relatively near future. Not sure if that means this year or sometime early in 2024. I'll try get more information about this and keep everyone updated. That's about all I recall right now, but I'll add later if I remember anything else about the conversation. Thanks to Michiel and Damiaen for spending their time to chat with me. They represent everything I love about independent watchmaking and exemplify how much the personal relationship aspect can enhance the watch ownership experience. -
Deconstructed Thoughts on the new release from Holthinrichs. Photos from Holthinrichs Release Info/Instagram About 15 months ago I sat on a Zoom call with Michiel Holthinrichs and Damiaen Hogervorst. That call lasted nearly 3 hours and we discussed the watch I was interested in purchasing, as well as an idea I had about a dial I was interested in seeing if they would be able to create. Still waiting on that dial, but its clear that Michiel and team have been very busy. While on the Zoom, Michiel was visibly excited about a project they were working on and during a tour of the Atelier, he shared some quick looks at a deconstructed dial. It was a far cry from the current iteration, but it was obvious this was a new watch they were extremely excited about. Now, 15 months later, I have a much better appreciation of their excitement as they shared that small piece of the watchmaking process with me. Not that long ago, Michiel Holthinrichs was living in a one-bedroom studio apartment/watchmaking shop. A background in architect had turned to a fascination with a much smaller but even more complex form of design - watchmaking. With inspiration from historical architectural stylings and a vintage Cyma, Michiel sought out a new technology - 3D printing - as the modern means to achieve his ambitious vision. Certainly watchmakers have increasingly relied on new technology over the years, but this was different. This was taking an emerging and untested technology and pushing the boundaries to achieve and create a process that could be used to make a stable, strong, and beautiful design with incredibly tight tolerances. It also allowed for the case to include a hollowed out side case, both reducing weight and also the partially hidden text. The Deconstructed model was already on Michiel's mind as early as 2017, even if the vision was surely refined over the past several years. In hindsight, the Liminality and Pre-Liminality were precursors of what was to come. The open-work dial and even the sectionized dial (although machined into the dial instead of individual pieces) all were the early steps into the full deconstruction. The DNA from the Ornament 1 to the Raw Ornament to the Liminality/Pre-Liminality and now the Deconstructed is pure Holthinrichs. The thin, hollowed out profile of the 3D-printed dial, long skeletonized lugs with flowing curves, ultra-lightweight, and thin bezel to maximize dial area are all familiar. More on each of these features in a bit. While the design of the watch and especially the bracelet has been the primary focus, probably the biggest change is the addition of a manufacture movement, the Caliber HM-M01. This is a monumental achievement for such a young brand. It is based on the gear-train layout of the Perseux 7001, a movement Holthinrichs was familiar with as the base movement for its Ornament and Liminality models. Pushing boundaries in design elements and tolerances, as well as a philosophy of an integral approach, it only makes sense to develop a movement. In partnership with dutch-based precision manufacturers, Michiel turned this dream into a reality. While the HM-M01 provides a relatively simple hours, minutes & subseconds, the flexibility provided in manufacturing their own movement is an significant step both for the Deconstructed, but also for the future. It's a big step for a brand obviously looking to move into a completely different realm of watchmaking. Both the Liminality and Pre-Liminality included openwork dials. This time though, the dial highlights the HM-M01 a movement that allows for additional flexibility both in the design and addition of complications, but also allows Holthinrichs to really highlight their excellent hand-finishing. Something they take great pride in. Bridges, beveling, frosting, and Anglage, oh my! I'm still learning about the intricacies and movements and finishing and what it takes to go from good to excellent. I do know that Michiel and some of his team have attended the Phillipe Narbel Watchmaking Masterclass to refine their work and improve their capabilities. The movement appears to have a significant amount of interior angles and wide beveling. Besides highlighting intricate workings of the movement however, the dial provides a dynamic nature all of its own. Broken down into 25 separate components with 3 different levels in a manner that is only possible due to the incredibly tight 3D-printing tolerances, it is something to behold. The inspiration for the dial came from Nature in the form of the rings of a tree trunk. More than that, the shape naturally draws the eye to the movement. The layers themselves also serve a purpose as described in the Holthinrichs release. The first layer consists of a carefully open-worked ring forming both the structural part of the dial, and a frame to exhibit the movement and some of its delicate parts. The second layer consists of twelve floating sectors that embrace 48 minute markers that protrude from the surface of the baseplate. In between these sectors the third layer is located, made out of 12 strongly pronounced and manually finished stainless steel baton shape markers to indicate the hours. This 3-layer layour adds an entirely new 3D dimensionality to the watch despite its impressively thin profile.The concept of floating levels is almost antithetical to dial and watchmaking where the goal is to avoid gaps. On the Deconstructed they are included as an architectural element. Although the dial is remarkably different than earlier models, it remains intimately familiar and unmistakably Holthinrichs. The case itself is also similar to the previous Raw Ornament, with alternating Raw and brushed elements (as opposed to polished surfaces) providing incredible visual interest and help highlight both the bezel and the lugs. The effect is clearly meant to highlight each element individually as part of the deconstruction, while tying them all together. This contrast is similar to that found on the Raw Ornament, but I think even more successful and sporty looking, consistent with the overall look and feel of the watch. This dramatic effect continues with the lugs which is another major change from the previous models. The Ornament 1 and Raw Ornament cases both sported incredibly dramatic, skeletonized, and flowing lugs. Honestly the lugs are one of my favorite features of Holthinrichs design. In the eariler models, the lugs distinctly integrated into the case by flowing into the top of the bezel, illustrated below. Keeping with the theme of deconstruction; however, and now taking inspiration from human anatomy, the lugs appear nearly separate from the case. This is done in an incredibly interesting manner, again only allowed by the 3D-printing process. The lugs continue to maintain skeletonization with a distinct split that almost appears to be two separate elements but the the integration is now inspired by a ball and socket joint, like a pelvic bone. The lugs are similarly designed to actually attach to the case within the partially hidden confines of the hollowed out side profile. A step down as it comes into view from the edge of the case provides a hard to describe feeling that the lugs are floating and dettached from the watch itself. There's not really a way to describe it, so here's a couple photographs. The re-design and re-assembly of the case, dial, and lugs are themselves enough to warrant a new model. Then things get interesting. I have to admit that my first reaction when I saw the watch bracelet was an audible Holy Sh....well let's just say I was floored. To say there hasn't ever been anything like the bracelet (and to a lesser extent the strap) is an understatement. The first person I discussed it with said it reminded them of the old Oakley Watch bracelet. And while there's a bold industrial consistency there, I don't think that's an adequate comparison. The Oakley is bold and brash and designed for a much more aggressive watch. The bracelet on the Deconstructed is certainly aggressive, but despite its industrial look looks incredibly refined. First, the bracelet is 3D-printed which is the first of a kind. Second, Michiel again took inspiration from nature. This time in the form of the scales of an alligator. Even more interesting than that is what I can only describe as a second set of lugs within the bracelet that mirror the actual lugs. The brushed finishing inextricably links those two elements and then flows into the "scales" which are also designated by brushed, thin, (and words fail me, so for lack of anything better) "center links." Really, only a much better writer than me could describe them aptly, so here's some photos. Again, something this complex could really only be achieved through the 3D-printing process. The only comparison I can make is the bracelet is like that found on the Moser Streamliner, except on acid. It's a living and dynamic thing and its incredible, imo. Kudos to Holthinrichs for something so dynamic and unique. It's also my biggest concerns with the watch, as I'll address shortly. The rubber strap, while less dramatic, also mimics the effect of the crocodile scales as well as contains the openwork element at the case, although without the brushed internal "lugs." I chatted with Michiel very briefly after getting the pre-release info - they were understandably tired and incredibly busy preparing for the official release. He wanted to create something completely new and provocative. In that, the Deconstructed is already an incredible success. Whether it appeals to you or not has never been a more personal decision. It certainly isn't for everyone, or even most people, or even many people for that matter. Undeniably Holthinrichs, achingly familiar, and yet absolutely new and truly a New Craft in Watchmaking. Michiel has never played it safe and has incredibly grasped at stars out of his reach. Until they aren't. He's already gone from a very humble start to a places very few people in the world can achieve in less than 8 years. One of my favorite musicians, Ryan Adams, years ago penned a song called Firecracker. While the song is about love and not watchmaking, one of the verses stands out, "Well everybody wants to go forever, I just want to burn up hard and bright." I think that's definitely Michiel's mindset, although I don't think he has plans on burning up. But his ascendancy is certainly on a trajectory like a firecracker and he's burning bright. And that doesn't come without risk. Obviously he's not averse to risk, continuing to push boundaries well before he became more well known in the independent watch world. But stopping production on your most popular models and releasing a challenging, provocative, and polarizing watch is the action of someone who burns bright. Personally I love the watch. I believe its an incredbile feat of engineering, design, and modern-techonology. It captures the essence of deconstruction, it captures the essence of Holthinrichs Watches, and it blends a variety of disparate parts into a harmonious whole. When I first saw it, I did have a few concerns. First, the bracelet, while absolute incredible, is a LOT to take in and in some ways I wonder if it overshadows from the watch itself. Not only that, it is difficult to tell in photos how such a substantial bracelet would fit on what is a relatively small and thin watch. Would it look like a natural extension of the timepiece, or something so different it would look out of place? Having now seen some wristshots, I think it works, but without seeing it in person, that's certainly still a concern. The Crown, which looks great, also appears like it could be difficult to wind. Partially inset into the case profile, it is raw on the inside and brushed on the exterior. There are no ridges and the way it appears in photos appears that the circumferential joint between the raw and brushed surfaces has an edge which is parallel to the rotational direction. Having polished surfaces on the crowns on my Raw Ornament and Pre-Liminality, these can be somewhat difficult to wind. I think the raw interior portion of the crown on the Deconstructed will alleviate this potential issue as it is more tactile and easy to grip without your fingers slipping. That said, it is something to look at when handling the watch. And finally, the elephant in the room, the price. Holthinrichs models (not highly customized) have sold for between $8-10k for the last few years. This is really a sweet spot for an introduction to high-end independent watchmaking with numerous very high quality brands offering exceptional value and wonderful timepieces in this range. It's also relatively crowded and becoming increasingly so. And I know Michiel has high aspirations to move beyond entry level which he has done so here and I anticipate will continue to do in the future. That said, this is a significant jump in price to about $38,000 USD. There's obviously a significant amount of time spent designing this watch and likely just as much designing the bracelet. Developing a new manufacture movement is a monumental step. Those things come at a price. There's also literally dozens of pieces to be assembled and finished on the dial alone and the movement is designed to highlight Holthinrichs exceptional finishing. Even developing the new binding process for the 3D printing to allow for the watch to even be made is a significant cost both in time and money. There's no doubt a significant price adjustment is not only expected but completely justified. But the level of competition at that price increases significantly - Grönefeld, Moritz Grossman, Laurent Ferrier to name a few in a similar range. Is Holthinrichs at a point to command prices at that level? I think certainly this watch will be able to command that and there's an incredible amount of work that has to go into making the Deconstructed. There are only 20 planned to be made and certainly there are enough current Holthinrichs customers that have the money to spend on something this unique and incredibly well executed. But looking longer-term, where does Holthinrichs the brand go? What is next? This price point sets extremely high expectations, not only for this watch but future models. And the competition is very high at this price level. I'm certainly not betting against Michiel and the Holthinrichs team. The Deconstructed is a defining timepiece for Holthinrichs. It defines and clarifies the direction the brand is headed. Like it or not, Michiel is not one to rest on his laurels and simply maintain the status quo. He is driven to be one of the top watchmakers in the world. Like a firecracker, he's headed skyward and burning bright. The results will be spectacular, even if like a New Years fireworks show, many of us have to watch from afar.
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I can see that but that's not how it struck me. I like the open dial concept over a pure skeleton dial. I also think its consistent with the overall deconstructed theme. I was more concerned with the bracelet at first. It was clearly very interesting and by itself looked great. But the watch (and previous versions) are SO thin that I was worried it might look out of place on the watch in person. Having seen some screenshots, I think I'm sold on it. Just seemed from first appearances that it might be too substantial and thick based on the size of the thickness of the watch. Working on a write-up now with more detailed thoughts.
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Saw it. Don't like the compact open dial. The movement looks like it's too small like that. And the watch has enough stuff it doesn't need to have "open heart", imho. Perfect with a full dial though. And that bracelet. Awesome. 40k so not for my wallet but it's nice to dream
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Really curious, Today should be the day Thanks for your early thoughts Chris. Your opinion about that brand may be 100% correct!
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So I've now seen the watch promotional materials that went out to previous owners yesterday. I'm sworn to secrecy, so I can't share pictures. Let me just say a few things. The case is unmistakably recognizable as Holthinrichs, as well as the lugs. All I can really say about everything else is Holy F'in Shit. Literally the words out of my mouth when I saw it. There really isn't any other watchmaker that I'm aware of pushing boundaries like Holthinrichs. Maybe someone like Kees Englebarts or Ondrej Berkus, Dervis Uhrenmanufacktur, Itay Noy, ot @f.rozon. I'm sure there are others, but those are the ones that immediately came to mind. I've thought about this since I got the email yesterday. This will be a polarizing release. It is an enormous risk, but an incredibly exciting one and an indication that Holthinrichs is looking to move up market. It is also very clear that Michiel continues to be a bold innovator. I anticipate there will be a lot of naysayers and negativity. It is a polarizing design. Holthinrichs was already not a brand for a casual collector, both from aesthetics and price. This watch is not an entry level piece by any stretch of the imagination. I look at this as a positive overall. Polarizing in my mind means you are doing something outside the norm, challenging peoples' comfort level, and challenging yourself to create something unique. Something that is tough to considering the long history of watchmaking. The price will also be a deterrent for many. There will be 20 watches made in the first series. I don't know exactly what that means. Is this limited and then there will release a second series in 18 months. Is this going to be the one model for the foreseeable future or are they considering offering a more entry level timepiece that would be a replacement of the O1 and RO? I don't know the answers to these questions. The watch is certainly aggressive compared to the earlier models, even the Lims/Prelims. The bracelet and strap make it clear this isn't a dressier watch but something sportier and casual. I didn't see a water resistance rating or anything like that, so I see it more as a casual watch. I hate to compare it to anything. It is incredibly light and thin, just like all Holthinrichs watches. But the design, especially of the bracelet and rubber strap, make it much more aggressive and sporty looking. My personal opinion is that while the economy has been shaky the last year plus, this seems to really be impacting the hype watches that needed to reset, and then entry level pieces in the sub $15k price category where the people buying them are definitely affected by economic conditions. People shopping for watches at this price range are not slowing down as much - brands like Sarpaneva, Gronefeld, Moritz Grossman, Laurent Ferrier are not having trouble selling their watches. Clearly Holthinrichs wants to compete at this level of watch and not in the sub-$10k range they have occupied previously. At least based on this release. Again, 20 watches in 18 months is not a lot of watches, but they are extremely labor intensive, so I don't know if there is enough capacity to have a more entry-level timepiece. And that may be something they don't want to do. Gronefeld and MG and LF do not have "entry level" timepieces. And it can cheapen the overall brand. My personal opinion is that instead of inching their prices up year over year, they just ripped off the bandaid and jumped up market because that's where they want to be and their watches going forward will start at this new price point. That is completely my opinion and not based on any discussion with Holthinrichs. One potential option in lieu of that is to use Michiel's other watch company, Delft Watch Works, in a similar manner as Sarpaneva uses SUF. Entry level pieces that are very nice but don't require a lot of hand assembly/finishing and provides an entry to the brand at affordable prices. That can be done without cheapening the Holthinrichs brand and allowing it to be completely focused on low production, extremely high quality watches. I personally love the watch, at least in the photos I've seen. I'm a little uncertain how it will appear in the metal and with the bracelet/strap. In some ways it is still a somewhat small watch at 38.5mm and less than 7mm high without the crystal. The bracelet, imo, is amazingly integrated into the design and apparently has a quick release system built in. But the styling of the bracelet (which isn't like anything I've ever seen), is something I would expect to see on a larger sports/diving watch. So I look at the photos and I love it one time and then the next uncertainty creeps in. But the more I look at it, the more certain I am that it works. Overall I'm excited by the watch and the direction Holthinrichs it is heading. I think Michiel and team are visionaries and they are committed to continuing to improving their processes and their skills, including adding manufacture movements. That said, it is certainly a significant reduction in availability and increase in cost that will risks alienating some current clients. Thoughts? I'll post some of the materials that were sent out along with photos after the official announcement.
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There's definitely a lot of shit under $10k, but there's also some really quality ones like Dornbluth, and Habring² and Zeitwinkel. I think the work required to assemble this watch and also the finishing certainly justify a higher amount, but I do think there's a point where your price yourself out of what a lot of people are willing to pay. You also move up into another class of watch with different brands competing for customers. I think 8-10k is kind of a sweet spot for smaller independents where they are still accessible for most watch people interested in these types of watches. There's a balance to strike between maximizing the price and also making it reasonably available to know collectors. And I know the cost of everything had gone way up which also pushes process upwards. And they have a backlog of orders so they aren't hurting for business. The previous models were steel but also available in other metals. A titanium would almost for away, it's already a very lightweight watch. I personally prefer a little more weight than titanium has.i like to feel that I'm wearing the watch and it just feels more premium. But I know that's a matter of opinion.
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Since every brand releases shit watch at 10k, the good ones can't cost less.. Not cool for the amateur but understandable. Titanium for this soon-to-be release! The previous was steel, isn't it ?
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The I study the lugs the more I like them. I love the originals but I think the way there are attached to be floating is going to make them even more eye-catching. I think this is one of the coolest things allowed by the 3D printing.
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Since more details. You can see how the floating lugs work. Will be interesting to see the effect in real life. They definitely assist to have a more significant downturn than the original models. You can also see how the deconstructed dial works and fits together. Always there will be a lot of hours not only finishing each timepiece but also just assembling the sections of the dial. Overall it looks incredible and unlike anything else out there. That's too be expected.
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Yeah, sounds like a lot of time spent to assemble it. Interested in seeing the price. I did talk with someone (not Holthinrichs) who indicated the pre-announcement would be under $10k but the retail price would be over that. Not arguing, there's a lot of watchmaker time going into each one and the finishing will be great I'm sure But that's a pretty big threshold to go over. Will be interesting to see how that is received.
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05/30 ! Curious about this one. It surely be like nothing else.
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So from the Zoom call, it was a skeletonized dial with other different or deconstructed pieces layered setting the movement. That seems to be depicted in the first set of photos which shows individual hour markers and separate hour indices. The second set of stretched appears to indicate the little are slightly more curved but more interestingly, the split which is similar to the O1/RO case may originate from two different sections of the case separately. See the deconnected lug. Hard to say for sure, but the integration with the case seems different. The sketch of the ball and socket joint may be fair aesthetics, but could it also mean that there's some movement of the lugs allowed? Seems unlikely but it fits day "deconnected" which could show for some rotation. The last set is the movement which I'm still studying.
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From Damiaen, they are working on a publication now for Holthinrichs Owners presenting the new Model. The plan sounds like it will come out in the next few weeks, sometime in May. Me: My Bank Account:
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Definitely some strong nature, human, and structural elements.
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So in February of 2022, at I was looking to buy my Raw Ornament, I was able to spend a couple hours talking on Zoom with Michael and Damiaen. Michiel was very excited to show me a new project he was working on, with a deconstructed dial. Now that they have posted some sketches of the upcoming release that was the watch they were working on. Lots to digest here. Looks like a continuing evolution from the Raw Ornament to the Liminality Series but with even more exaggerated architectural elements. The sketch showing the lug connection clearly based on a ball and socket hip joint.
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Great article on Holthinrichs and the Raw Ornament from A Blog to Watch. Definitely worth the read. https://www.ablogtowatch.com/watch-review-the-3d-printed-holthinrichs-raw-ornament/?fbclid=PAAaa1adJOZXprDfNOBvxpBx0To9DsHHL2wpF3_0Eo__RnfETmk8B7XU-wBM8 While 3D printing is no longer in its nascency, you wouldn’t know it looking at the wristwatch landscape. Very few brands are utilizing it as a core manufacturing approach, though there are several brands, large and small, that employ the technology for prototyping (from Visitor to A. Lange & Söhne), and Panerai even used a form of 3D printing on its Luminor Marina DMLS. From a production standpoint, though, most brands treat it as a design tool or a novelty, not a way to bring watches to the market. However, there are two brands that have embraced 3D printing with gusto. The watches from American brand Barrelhand include a large number of components that have been 3D printed, and that’s reflected in their industrial aesthetic, but Dutch brand Holthinrichs has elevated 3D-printed watches to an art. Read the full article at the link. Great to see one of the most exciting brands today getting some major press. Photo credit to ABTW.