Holding two opposing ideas

 

Yesterday, in the midst of the madness created by the release of Seiko Resin, as the phone was literally melting down and while emails were pouring in, a remark by a subscriber caught me by surprise: "Seriously, how low can you really go? $299? Would there be a $99 Seiko next week?" The broader context of this insult hinges on two points: am I really a watchmaker of the reputation I claim to be, and is this Seiko anything more than cheap junk? One thing that separates humans and monkeys is the power of imagination. Imagination is the ability to form mental images; the ability of the mind to build mental scenes, objects or events that do not exist, are not present, or have not happened in the past - or those which will not happen in future. Imagination based on facts is reality, and non factual imagination is just a speculative fiction. It is up to each one of us to strike the balance between the two. In other words: if I find pleasure in selling affordable watches, then that is really just my business and no one else's. Cheap and expensive are just constructs of our imagination. As someone said, "The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function." So yes, intelligent people can find enjoyment in both cheap and expensive, affordable and exclusive, mass-produced and masterpieces. Because they are intelligent enough to tell the difference between the two.

Yesterday, while we were selling the cool and affordable Seiko, we also bought a wonderfully exciting 1880 single pusher chronograph pocket watch by Nicole Nielsen which is now undergoing a complete restoration. "The high regard in which some of the best watchmakers in London were held is due, in large part, to the work of 'Nicole Nielsen' (Charles Nicole & Emil Nielsen). They could make watches with any escapement and had the ability to supply calendar, chronograph and repeating watches, as well as special complications including tourbillons of the highest quality. In short, Nicole Nielsen's watches are superb." Minutes later, completely unexpectedly, we acquired a collection of 32 Omega railway pocket watches issued to NSW rail - a historically important find. As well as an extremely fine 1950 Omega bumper in completely original condition. Plus Another six vintage Omegas. And on top of that, 18 modern watches, to be listed over the next couple of days.

We can go low, we can go high, and either is fun. Almost forgot: there is a parcel from Seiko on it's way too.