Interior Angles and Beveling - Are you getting what you pay for?

[TimeTexas]

IG: @scaramanga__ made a post about properly executed bevels in combination with inward angles. @awatchcritic provided a response. I figure its worthy of discussion, so posting screenshots of the conversation (with permission from both) below.

Where do you fall? I have to say I understand both points. But I think taking a hard line on This Good, This Bad probably over simplifies the issue and there is some element of artistry and design that could lead to the less symmetrical interior angle and beveling. And in some cases it may be due to limitations by the watchmaker, but not as an absolute.

Art the end of the day,  I believe people should buy what they want at the price they are willing to pay. And if it's beatiful and excellent to them and they feel they got the value they paid for,  then who am I to argue or convince them otherwise. To each their own. 

 

 

[TimeTexas]

Continuing on this discussion.

While the angle itself can be a design decision, evenness from the jewel is much more an indication, imo, of the quality. From @velociphile.

 

[Nakkdry]

I think it matters when the movement decoration is the main asset of the watch and a great reason to buy it at a high price.

I would not be happy if I bought a Kari, an Akrivia or something like that and see the finish isn't top notch. 'cause it's what I expect from them.

Wanted that on a GS or a Laine is irrelevant. In that case, we expect great, not greatness.

Well, it's how I see it.

[TimeTexas]

Agreed, it seems the argument here is more over the use of the term "excellence" when that term should be reserved for only the truly excellent.

[Nakkdry]

True. We can't ask people to moderate their words because it's the emotion speaking if it's their watch.

But media or watch pro should be more professional on their review and the content should be more developped.

Instead, mass watch medias or blogs don't do that kind of work. They almost never criticize brands/watches (brands that pay for the article, so no surprise here).

This is where forum like this one offers space where pros and enthusiasts can exchange, share their knowledge and discuss topics with thorough analysis.

[TimeTexas]

Very true. The purpose of this forum is to generally be supportive of independent watchmakers, but it shouldn't be a group think for positivity. I think honesty and candor is important. But I do hope that people think about how they approach criticism. It can be done in a positive way that promotes change, or it can be done negatively in a manner that doesn't promote change and only leads to defensiveness and entrenched opinions. 

It's one of my biggest concerns in moderating this board. Managing that discourse. Watches are emotional possessions, and especially so when talking about pieces that are in the tens of thousands of dollars. That emotion and passion is a wonderful thing but can also be a source of tension. 

In this case I think the discussion is absolutely warranted and should be out in the open. It just needs to remain honest and candid without being accusatory or demeaning.