Watches tell tales of time. It represents a sign of union, and a tradition being passed on from one generation to another. When I was young, I was brought up in a watch-loving family, inheriting the stories traditions of my father.
I first discovered the Time Club over social media. It was right before “Baselworld 2017”, when I found out that the Time Club was organizing an exclusive visit to various brands at this one of world’s most well-known watch fair. I knew right away that is the place to be, where my love for watches reconcile with the tradition, and it has been a great journey being part of it.
It is a place where you meet so many people who share the same interest. Already from our car sharing en route to Basel, I was exchanging with the other invitees to the event our different thoughts and perceptions on watches: prestige, craftsmanship, tradition… They were the ones constantly reminding me of every reason why I have so much passion in watches.
Luca Baudino
Jaquet Droz – Flying butterfly
The moment when we entered the pavilion, we were overwhelmed by countless masterpieces showcase. I was amazed, it was a true heaven on earth for all watch lovers. Moreover, thanks to the great organisation of the Time Club, we were invited to test out the latest products from leading companies in the industry; visits which are normally open only to VIPs and retailers.
Jaquet Droz – Bird repeater
We first had access to the back offices of Jaquet Droz in order to discover the art of miniature painting and engraved ornamentation. Jaquet Droz’s artisans were working on unique masterpieces and they shared with us their tricks of the trade.
Following this first great experience of the day, we had breakfast in the lounge of Tudor, before discovering their “Born To Dare” philosophy through a private presentation.
We were already really satisfied of the ongoing visits, however, surprises were not over. Before finding out the unique new collection of Omega as well as their “1957 – Trilogy Limited Editions” we had the pleasure to be invited in their classy and beautiful lounge for lunch. Even their delicious dishes were aligned with their elegance and precision: was definitely a great pit-stop before the following appointments.
Tudor heritage – black bay
omega vip lounge
Time Club members wearing omega watches
omega – seamaster
After being regenerated by the lovely lunch at Omega, we have been hosted by the Movado Group, who also had to pleasure to offer us the main invitation to Baselworld 2017. I personally did not know much about the company but, thanks to the explanations of Mr. Pierre Burban, International Sales Director of the Swiss brands for the group, I discovered not only their innovative watches but also many aspects related to the firm such as the positioning of the brand, their mission and vision, and their strategies to penetrate different markets.
movado 70th anniversary museum watch
karen wearing a movado museum watch
movado watches
In the late afternoon, tired by the long day but extremely gratified, we had the chance to cheer up with a glass of champagne in the lounge of Blancpain while listening to interesting “anectodes” of Mr. Delamuraz, Vice-President and Head of Marketing of the company, and discovering some very stunning pieces of art.
Our last stopover was at Breguet, where we experienced the feeling of holding beautiful and expensive masterpieces, synonym of delicacy and elegance, witness of a time, when kings, queens and other personalities were the first privileged people to wear such high quality watches.
After this last visit, the day was unfortunately over. We left the pavillion aware of the great time we had: full of surprises and exclusive experiences. Besides many gifts kindly offered by different companies, I returned back home enriched of beautiful memories!
Watches is a part of lifestyle. Thanks to the Time Club, I have never felt this close to the watch industry, being exposed to cutting-edge technologies and top-notch companies.
As a new member of the Time Club, I am looking forward to share my passion and contribute in its success by organizing more eye-opening experiences for every future member !
Luca Baudino
Time club members with Mr. Delamuraz
Blancpain – les vaches du val d’herens
Breguet – classique
Breguet – reine de naples