First, I have to apologize for the quality of my pics. I forgot my camera at home and had to resort to my iPad. What I lack in picture quality, I will try to make up for in witty subtitles.
Enjoy!
BTW, as my second GTG, it was great to meet some new faces and some amazing watches! I always love reading about the history of Panerai and am always grateful to Asi and the others for the wonderful posts especially at the Paneristi Officine forum here at P.com.
First here are some pieces from one TokyoRisti:
And here is a little "before" and "after" comparing the original with the modern take:
and some tukus shots
And the full Monty:
Never expected to see a PAM in Saran wrap - but there was a very good reason for this:
Evidently this is how they did it back in the day - not 100% sure but that is what I was told:
Then there was a real treat - a ROLEX!!!
Have read about them and seen the amazing prices they fetch - but to have been able to see one, take its pic, and hold it - what a feeling!! And the owner said he wore this to work on many an occasion and no one has any idea what it is or what it is worth. Thought that was interesting!
Evidently this is a prototype:
thus the need to keep it extra safe.
Of course Panerai is more than just watches! Here are the "usual suspects" as Dan called them:
And a pic of Dan taking a pic - sorry for the "fuz," let's say I was trying to be artsy.
Anyway, enough of people, back to the watches! And there were some intriguing similarities to be found! Hey, am I seeing double??
Yup! We got ourselves a 4 deuces! Wish I had four deuces my last time in Vegas!!!
On a side note, had to laugh when Dan mentioned that his 22 was also #22. And then when he checked his bag in at the door, he was given #22 as a check claim number. Dan and 22 - sounds like the making of a Hollywood movie in there somewhere!
And another "before/after" for you:
Look at that!
Was standing there soaking in the atmosphere and two of the Ristis started spitting into the palm of their hands and then turning the back of their watches - was wondering WTH?! Then wallah!
And whatever you do, don't lose this!
Yep, put that back where it belongs!
Got a mini table shot or two to share:
Again?! What's with the 2s?! There were, in fact, three 22s that evening. Guess they are popular here in Japan.
And that's about it as I had to go home - gotta work this Saturday morn.
But I had a wonderful time, met more gr8 m8s and got to see some amazing historical pieces, too! Missed out on the cold beer after, but there will always be another GTG!
And, of course, a shout out to Nozawa-san and the Ginza boutique for organizing this wonderful event! Look forward to the next time!
Thanks for reading,
E
