The pick: The Beatles’ first ever watch

Started in 1976, during the Quartz Crisis – the watchmaking industry’s period of economic instability, which coincided with the rise of quartz mechanisms replacing mechanical mechanisms in the 1970s and 80s – Mr Raymond Weil decided to launch his own company to mould his vision of what watchmaking should be into a tangible reality.

A key component of the brand’s watches has been an inherent source of musical inspiration. Some early examples of note, include the Amadeus collection, released in 1983 named after Amadeus Mozart and launched in conjunction with Milos Forman’s world acclaimed film of the same name. Other watches inspired by famous musicians followed, such as the Fidelio, which was named after Beethoven’s only opera.

Today, the brand remains family owned – one of the last Swiss watchmaking houses to maintain independence – yet, despite being passed down to the second generation, the musical tie up continues to play an intrinsic role for Raymond Weil. For example, they’ve been an official partner of the BRIT Awards since 2008 and have now collaborated with one of the most celebrated bands to take to the stage.

This classically minimalist Maestro Beatles limited edition watch, the first the band has ever done, builds on the fine legacies on both sides of the partnership. Featuring a mechanical self-winding movement housed in a 39.5mm polished steel case, the 13 Beatles’ album titles are displayed all around the bespoke dial, with a special “Help” index at 4 o’clock, which recalls the cover of the iconic album released in 1965.

The silver galvanic dial matches the polished steel bracelet. It features the official Beatles logo and a date window at 3 o’clock. Finally, the case back presents a smoked sapphire crystal that carries the official Beatles logo and the limited edition number engraved, the unique timepiece is limited to a run of 3,000 pieces. Gentlemen, this is the perfect time piece for you if you are, either, a fan of the Beatles, or the exceptional watchmaking the Swiss brand are known for.

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