In the Flesh: Red Bar Toronto

Just a couple of months ago, I discussed NYC’s “Red Bar Crew” and the camaraderie developed from their shared passion for horology. As mentioned in the article, their influence is now seen through other GTG’s across the globe, in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and now Toronto. Last Thursday was the third Red Bar Toronto gathering, and as Wound For Life’s resident Canadian, I had to get in on the action. With a thirst for horology, and a fully charged camera, a night of truly exceptional watches began. Now, I can most definitely say that I truly understand the importance of events like Red Bar, and their positive impact on this industry. Check out my Red Bar Toronto Photo Report.

IWC Ingenieur

This watch is truly brilliant. It’s a vintage IWC Ingenieur, and one of the first seriously anti-magnetic wristwatches, designed for as the name would suggest, engineers. The example shown above has strangely enough been “following” me, as I saw it a few weeks back while in NYC, and was brought to Toronto by one of the NYC Red Bar members. It’s currently available for sale at www.analogshift.com

Patek Philippe Nautilus

Rare is a term that gets thrown around in the watch industry quite often, but in this case its no joke. Here you see a Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 5711 in steel, but what makes this watch just so special is the Tiffany signed dial. Its owner is one of the earlier members of Red Bar NYC, and took a leap of faith when purchasing the watch, as he says “it was now or never”.

SevenFriday Trio, M1 on the right

One brand that was quite popular at this GTG was the new, affordable, and avant-garde SevenFriday. Several of the brand’s models were seen including the P2 and P3. The brand’s newest offering, the M1, was also seen, courtesy of our friends over at Classic Creations Jewelers.

Montblanc Monopusher

If there’s a watch on the market that doesn’t get enough attention, it’s the Nicolas Rieussec collection from Mont Blanc. With a monopusher, column wheel chronograph and a second time zone display, this is one of the best values in watchmaking today at just under $12,000.

Minerva Pocketwatch Chronograph

What you see here is a vintage Minerva double chronograph. Operated by the pusher housed in the crown, and the pusher to the left of the crown, this is one complication that you just have to see to fully experience. I didn’t get a chance to open it up, but I can only imagine how beautiful its movement must’ve been.

Zeno De Luxe

The 70’s were what some collectors regard as the golden-age of sports chronographs. Between the outrageous colors, and vibrantly designed dials, 1970s chronographs are truly something, and this Zeno is no exception. The watch is powered by a Lemania hand-wound movement, and has a great wrist presence.

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