Nov. 5th, 2024

from: My Other Watch Is... - - On November 5th, 2024 at 03:51

Hi Tim,
I'm Mike, and you have a great memory regarding how we obtained the UN! Before your post, I had talked myself out of posting on WPS as I try to keep a very low profile online. Don't' know if the WPS moderators have had any trouble with theft, but it occurred to me that if a bad actor wanted to, he/she might be able to identify someone talking about their collection, and I didn't want to risk that. Every day, the news is jammed full of reports of new scams to separate people from their belongings and money, and my guess is that AI will make it even easier. But when I saw your UN Marine Chronometer post, I couldn't resist, and since then it's been a blast. I'm trying not to reveal anything that could point back to our location or contact info, so I didn't use my name, but I see that many people do sign off with at least a first name. I figure there is not that much risk of using a common name like Mike.

We are still in California, splitting our time between SF Bay and a cabin in the woods in the Sierra foothills. I consult from home and am finding that I spend most of my time at the cabin, although I do go down the hill occasionally.

As far as the kind words, it's been my pleasure to share them. We really enjoyed having Jackson Square only a few miles away and were lost for good watch companions when the store closed. I certainly enjoyed learning about the independent watchmakers, as well as meeting quite a few, such as the Habrings and Martin Braun. And I have vivid memories of studying watches by the Habrings, Lang & Heyne (that Moritz!), and Peter Speak-Marin, and those fabulous Roger Dubuis Sympathies and Hommage with retrograde hands everywhere. Unfortunately, most of those were beyond our means back then, but I did manage to purchase a rose gold Martin Braun EOS 42 when you held a major event for him (still have it). Over the years since then, I've managed to pick up a few more watches (all with at least 5 hands or complications), and I doubt I'll ever stop looking.

Well, thanks again for the warm welcome and acknowledging my crazy UN Marine Chronometer post. I look forward to seeing other posts from you and participating with the entire group.

Best regards,

Mike

from: My Other Watch Is... - - On November 5th, 2024 at 22:49 

Hello again,
I have been to independentintime.com several times, including last week when writing my first post. You are welcome to use content from the post as you see fit.

Thanks for your phone number and offer to get together; I would be glad to see you again too. I don't have any near term plans to come down, but let me see what happens during the holidays. For decades, my daughter Lauren and I would plan a day in the city before Christmas where we would go to the Palace hotel for holiday tea and spend the rest of the day visiting - get ready - watch stores!! She still opines regarding "our" collection, and knows quite a bit about the various brands from having visited Tourbillon, Shreve (old and new locations) and the many other stores along Geary and in the Union Square area. Unfortunately, the pandemic put a stop to it for several years, and we haven't restarted the tradition.

I'll close for now, but get in touch if we decide to come down or have other news. My cell number should you wish to call.

Best,

Mike

Feb 22nd, 2022

  • I’ve been working with Tim since our meeting in Basel World in 2016. Through education and an introduction into the independent watchmaking world, Tim has opened a new world of high end watchmaking study. Tim’s expertise and knowledge of the industry has been extremely helpful as I build my unique collection. His name carries significant weight in the industry, including his acceptance into the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers as a Freeman. I will continue to work with Tim in the future for independent watchmaker guidance, as well as a continued friendship.

    Nate B.

    Feb 19th, 2022

Oct. 22nd, 2019

Hi Tim—

I wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for hosting our unannounced, impromptu visit to Solana Beach on Tuesday! It was great to meet you and see and learn about some great independent watches and watchmakers. It was also cool to hear the stories about the Habring visit and see some of their newer pieces. And thanks for cleaning Jo Ann’s rings as well!

I’m also glad I could meet one of the people behind the beautiful Habring2 Doppel3 I purchased, a truly treasured part of my collection! I’m so happy with it and it always makes me smile. Thanks so much for allowing me to be a part of that limited edition!

Looking forward, I’m definitely interested in your next Habring2 collaboration piece based on the Erwin. Would it be possible to earmark #3 for me to match the number on my other limited edition? I’ll look forward to seeing images as the design becomes more real.

I’m also very intrigued by the Laine watches and the artistry of the dial and the movement at a very approachable price point. Not sure I’m ready to do anything here, but it is certainly percolating.

All in all, a very enjoyable visit and so glad we were able to make a personal connection at long last!

Looking forward to many more interesting conversations. :-)

All my best,

Rick

Oct 17, 2019

Aug 14th, 2015

I sent a one word text yesterday, but as I’ve not texted you before, I don’t know whether you received it, beautiful.
 
I am pleased.  I was going to ask several redundant questions—invoice, price, dial material, etc.—but I was able to refresh my aging memory from our email chain.  I knew there was a reason I like the written word.  And, although it sounds absurd (shows how deeply down the collecting rabbit hole I’ve fallen): now that I have the Heinrich in hand, well is seems rather a good bargain for the price.  Shush! Don’t tell my watch guy, he might need future funds… I’ve still got to take some pictures (the setup is always a chore) for my records.  But making the requisite entry in to my tracking database reminded me of what a good decision this was.  May have to provide it with a brother…but not yet.
 
Again, thank you for letting me become a part of this world.

erhm

Jan. 22nd, 2015

Hi Tim,
Banu arrived my office for two days as I am outstation travelling. Finally I have the chance to hold its, feel its and fully appreciate the masterpiece of McGonigle.
What I can say is totally speechless & is not words that I can describe how beautiful this masterpiece created by McGonigle. Absolutely stunning gorgeous.
Again, Tim thanks for all your efforts & giving me all this opportunities to own one of the best of the best masterpiece.
Cheers,
Ronnie

In response to my recent "Musings..." article in "Time with Tim"

http://www.independentintime.com/time-with-tim/2013/3/30/musings-on-independent-watchmaking-and-the-beginning-journey.html

Tim, so great musing with you.  Yes, you had a special vision some ten (maybe more) years ago.  It had to be frightening for you to even finally consider the all the changes you made professionally and personally.  There was so much to loose and total uncertainty of any gain much less a livelihood.  I could see your early passion and it  certainly came as no surprise that you would eventually tag your new business with such an  appropriate name.
 
Then you send this message during the Christian and Jewish weeks of passion, a very different kind for those of us who may lean to the more secular existence.  I come from a family of mixed faiths and tend to lean more to the Judaic teachings - but Easter is a wonderful time along with Passover as they occur at my most favorite time of the year, that being Spring (as in Springer, pun intended) because it is when life is fresh and spontaneous.
 
You, my friend, have certainly been spontaneous by going to the pen (actually the keyboard) and sharing precious moments of the past with us.  As I have previously told you, I am likely at a point in life when I am beyond another timepiece acquisition but were I able, I would follow you much more closely in your pursuit of support for these wonderful independents.  It will likely best be through you, and other of your peers, that these artist/craftsmen are able to be more greatly exposed to the most appreciative buyers.  That you and your independent watchmakers depend on those buyers it behooves you to work hard, give up sleep for personal contact and to never compromise your personal relationship.  You have worked hard to gain the trust and respect of so many, even some who may appear to have fallen by the wayside, so to speak.
 
I just want you to know that Bud and Mickey have not fallen, merely slowed down a small bit.  We still want to be honored by your communications so keep us on those mailing lists.
 
Cheers back at you, as always, Bud Springer 

Nov. 10th, 2012

Tim,
 
Thank you for the follow up.  I can’t even describe how wonderful the Serpent Calendar from Peter is.  I continue to admire the overall look of the watch (the dial, the case, the blue steel hands).  Truly amazing!  It is clearly the centerpiece of my five piece collection.  The fact that I could meet with Peter to discuss watches and other various topics makes it so special!  I did some browsing in Las Vegas and I can honestly say that the Serpent Calendar was head and shoulders above the hundreds of other watches I looked at.  It simply confirmed that I made the correct decision to work with you and Peter now and in the future.
 
I would very much enjoy meeting you in person sometime in your store sometime in 2013 to become more informed of other independent watchmakers.  Perhaps I can coordinate a visit when you are hosting another fine independent.  Having only begun my interest in watches earlier this year, I find myself being most attracted to the independent watchmakers.  The watches that you currently show on your website are among my favorites to view.
 
I had mentioned to Peter that I was interested in a deployant buckle and he said he was working on one that may be ready by next year.  If you hear that he has completed that project, please let me know and we can coordinate the purchase.
 
Again, thank you so much for all of the help.  It has truly been a pleasure working with you!
 
Mike

Nov 10, 2012

Oct. 25th, 2012

In the world of fine watches where most retailers play it safe by offering up big luxury brands, such as Rolex and Jaeger-Le Coultre, it takes a certain passion - not to mention courage - to go against the grain, discover and offer unique pieces made by watchmakers most people have never heard of.  I was recently introduced to "The Independents" by my friend, Tim Jackson.   Ever since our first meeting when I saw the Habring2 Foudroyante, I knew my thinking about watch collecting was going to shift.  His knowledge about this small and exciting group of horologists is unparalleled, and working closely with the manufacturers he represents to ensure clients achieve the perfect fit is his passion!  

From exquisitely crafted, independently-made wristwatches to custom-made, one-of-a-kind diamond rings, if you are looking something truly special Tim is the man to see!

My name is Scott Goldman and I approved this message!

October  8th, 2012

July 11th, 2012

'I am head over heels with my new Sarpaneva K3 Northern Stars. It's an absolute masterpiece.  Dress or casual, this watch is a stunner ... Like nothing else on Earth or even perhaps the Moon.  Sarpaneva's creativity and craftsmanship are second to none, and being able to order a truly bespoke timepiece from an independent watchmaker, at a price a normal person can afford -- and from Finland! -- is a real privilege and pleasure.  What's more, Tim's passion for the craft and affection for 'his' watchmakers are infectious and make the buying and waiting all the more fun.'

Doug W.

July 8th, 2012

May 12th, 2012

hi,

sitting in my bedroom reading a newspaper, what do i hear?  footsteps in the back yard.  thinking it odd that the construction workers have come on a saturday, i look up.  what do i see, the fedex guy walking through my garden:

through my bedroom door:

and into the bedroom:

delivering the watch:

which i like a lot and has exceeded my belief in its execution.  please note: all future deliveries now have to be made to my bedroom.

thanks for getting this habring for me.

Dr. A.

May 5th, 2012

“Tim is one of the most knowledgeable horologists I've ever known, and is of the highest integrity. I have relied on his recommendations in purchasing and selling fine watches from independent watchmakers, who make very few pieces, and not only has he been right, his suggestions have been creative and resulted in better deals for me. Tim works to provide superb service for someone looking for fine jewelry (and high-end watches are jewelry). Moreover, his salon is unique and he frequently has as dinner guests (to which he invites clients) some of the watchmakers/jewelers with whom he deals, which gives the clients an opportunity to meet (and in my case actually continue to communicate with) the people who make the products the clients buy. Tim is good people and terrific to deal with. I'd recommend him to anyone looking for watches and jewelry of the highest quality.”

Steve B. April 13, 2012

April 16th, 2012

“"For over a decade, Tim Jackson has been an invaluable resource regarding all aspects of Independent Watchmakers. He educates and guides, is exceptionally responsive, and helps match an individual's interests with specific pieces. Every interaction has been a pleasure while building a very enjoyable collection of watches and family jewelry." Mark R.”

April 16, 2012

Dec. 21st, 2011

I'd been wanting to visit Tim in Solana Beach, for more than a year.
Boy, I'm so glad I did. Even though I only stopped by for a few minutes the warm and relaxing atmosphere immediately struck me as unique.  No counters,
no barriers, just a place were people passionate about watches can simply talk and converse.

We didn't do any business that day, but a few weeks later I contacted Tim about making a purchase. "Above and Beyond" is the only way to describe the service I received. Prompt priority shipping, constant communication, and Tim doing everything possible to help me make my decision from a long distance away has made me a believer.

Needless to say, "I just received the watch...and it is stunning!".

Thanks Tim

D*C San Jose, CA Dec 20th, 2011

Aug. 20th, 2010

As my own watch passion began back in 1999, I can be
thankful that it began with you.  It's way too common
for watch dealers to be overly focused on making a sale and rarely interested in the timepieces themselves and how they can affect people.  I was fortunate to get my start with the positive experience of your shared passion.
The independent watchmakers couldn't have a better
ambassador than Tim Jackson.

Marc W, Washington DC, Aug 20. 2010

July 10th, 2010

“I have know Tim for the past 10 years. During that time I have purchased approximately 9 high-end watches from him. Tim's intricate horological knowledge coupled with his patient/non-pressure/laid-back sales approach make him an extremely easy and enjoyable person to work with. I would also like to mention that Tim is responsible for introducing me to the world of independent watch makers - AHCI, (the only brands that I currently have any interest in) and helping me refine my collection to reflect these talented independent artisans. You can be confident that you'll get what is promised when doing business with Tim. The watch education is a bonus!”

Matt, Marin County, CA, July 10, 2010