Going Back To Go Forward - Tempus Fugit!

Four words I swore I'd never say in relation to watch show attendance -

"I'll be in Geneva!"

Now before you call the "thought police" that manipulate the guest list at Watches and Wonders, relax - they still have not invited me ; )

I will be working (to quote that other great commentator on the watch industry, Dolly Parton) 

"Two doors down."

Technically one door down if I've understood the map provided by Time to Watches. I will be working the booth at Ollech & Wajs, so if you find yourself in Geneva, come by to see us!

And I have to say that I am feeling rather enthusiastic about watches again - and that is a bit of a welcome feeling. And that feeling brought me back to this time machine -

And yes, there is a story to it. And like any good story that I have about Watch Town, discovering cool watches, and meeting new friends, it's a story that involves Roderich Hess. Although it's been (I believe) 7 years now, parts of it seem like yesterday. Auguste Reymond was still in its birthplace of Tramelan. Lorenz Aebischer was still in charge, and there was a real feeling to the brand. The building was very, very cool but definitely in need of some attention / refurbishment. Two watch makers were on site along with administration folks. It was a humble, honest and sincere enterprise. 

Well, that was then. It is inevitable that things can and must inevitably change. Sometimes for the better, sometimes not so much. You can't live in the past, but by that same token you should not forget it, or try to ignore it.

In the end, Auguste Reymond went to new owners, and moved down the hill to the Biel/Bienne suburbs. But I remember it for what it was, something special.

A watch ultimately is a thing, an object. But like so many things that come and go in our lives, this watch for me is also a talisman. It reminds me of the importance of friendship, of commitment, and of working together - just the way I saw Lorenz and his team work together in sometimes overwhelming circumstances. 

I was passionate then. Somehow over the last few years that passion was lost. But oddly enough, an upcoming trip to Geneva seems to be just the tonic to put the bounce back in my step!

So as you go about your day today, pick a time machine to wear (if you have a collection) that reminds you of something special, something that will inspire you, something that will make you smile.

And remember - although nothing lasts forever, your memories are yours for keeps!

Tempus Fugit -

Henki