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PACESETTER yogesh negi
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Timeless timekeepers Good times don’t last forever but good timepieces do! Elegant and expensive clocks, traditionally considered collectibles of the rich and the famous, today top the wish-list of an increasing number of up-with-the-times people. Apart from the ever-rising demand for antique wall and table clocks, there’s a distinct niche developing for modern wall clocks creating an altogether new opening for leading players, who are unfolding designer ranges that are classy, trendy and, sometimes, downright quirky. The demand for clocks can be gauged from the fact that sometime back at the World Watch and Jewellery show in Basel, Switzerland, when Swiss watchmaker Jaquet Droz displayed La Machine à Ecrire le Temps (the Machine that writes the time), it received such an overwhelming response that it virtually stole the show.
Time machine
The ‘Time Machine’is actually a complicated clock, more like an advanced computer, where everything works to micro-second precision. Considered the ultimate expression of a watchmaker’s art, this $3,42,275 (`18.4 crore) clock is a design wonder where an unbelievable 1,200 separate components operate in conjunction to make it one of the most perfect clocks ever created. Though this may be a technological wonder, the potential of the traditional clocks has been recognised by leading companies like Rolex, Vacheron Constantin, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Jaeger LeCoultre, Omega and more. The exclusive clocks of these companies have been the choice of kings, queens, heads of states and celebrities. The Patek Philippe company, for example, which started making clocks in 1868 has been the favourite of the British royalty and its other distinguished customers include Pope Pius IX and the king and queen of Denmark.
Elegant & expensive
Expensive clocks have for centuries been considered accessories of the rich and the famous. Limited editions of mega expensive brands are rolled out from time to time for the ultra rich to flaunt their taste for things exclusive. The Swiss have clearly been world leaders as far as timepieces are concerned. Geneva and Neuchâtel in Switzerland have been home to some of the most exquisite clocks the world has ever seen. Another iconic timepiece, the cuckoo clock, was created in the Black Forest region of Switzerland. Clockmakers here have created the chalet-style cuckoo, which had an outstanding tonal quality of chirping and chiming, thanks to the top quality music box invented, especially for the clock. Over the centuries, cuckoo clocks have not lost their appeal.
Grandfather clocks
Like the cuckoo clock, the grandfather clock too has achieved legendary status over the centuries. Invented around 1670 by British clockmaker William Clement, it was first called the Longcase clock that had a pendulum whose each swing took a second to complete. These free-standing clocks were hand-crafted from the highest quality wood, brass and durable glass and instantly caught the fancy of the world. The straight lines and artful curves of these clocks, which sometimes towered over six-feet, lent elegance and grace to whichever room of the house these were kept in. Made generally of oak or cherry wood, these ancient clocks had an ivory white face with golden Roman numerals and the chime of the pendulum framed by golden decorative weights echoed through the house. Interestingly the old world charm of these giant clocks has not abated and collectors and aficionados pay fortunes at auctions around the world for antique pieces by well-known clock makers like William Cement & Sons and Peddie Stirling Company of Scotland. For those who cannot lay their hands on the originals, many companies making high-end replicas of these artistic clocks.
Modern-day clocks
Though computers and mobile phones with built-in analogue and digital time displays may have diminished the need for clocks but their appeal has not decreased. These are now increasingly being looked upon as decoration pieces. Clock makers are coming out with designer and limited editions, turning clock-making into a highly creative activity. Whether you have a predilection for the ultra-modern or neo-modern, there’s an unconventional clock to suit your style and wallet. Though the market is flooded with low-end and Chinese clocks, for the serious buyers, there’s plenty on offer. Giants in the field like Baume & Mercier, Tissot, Rolex, Tag Heuer, Longines, etc. come up with modern classics from time to time. Interestingly, even designer houses and brands targeting the young are jumping on to the watch and clock bandwagon. Names like Tommy Hilfiger, Christian Dior, Espirit, Guess, Pierre Cardiene, Gucci are enthralling Gen Y with their timepieces. What is it that high-end buyers look for in a clock? Experts say, it is a combo of design and the brand name. Which is why, perhaps, many of these leading brands come up with new collections every year.
Not many know that the grandfather clock was earlier known as the longcase
clock. And some fine ones continue to be called with their old name. The Marie
Longcase clock is one of them. This French and Scandinavian inspired clock has
beautiful detailing, removable crown and shell overlays. The aged dial
features distinctive Roman numerals beneath a convex glass crystal. Truly a
beauty to behold. Price: $4,750 (Rs 2,61,250)
The Scottish Longcase Grandfather Clock in cherry Bordeaux has a hand-painted dial and a painting of a pastoral scene with a woman standing in a boat floating down the river with a waterfall as a backdrop and a shepherd standing on the shore. The antique beauty has an ivory dial with Roman numerals and it features uncomplicated columns and simple lines. The overall effect is awe-inspiring. Price:
$8,220 (Rs 4,52,100)
ROLEX WALL DISPLAY CLOCK
Price: $8,000 (Rs 4.4 lakh)
This is a low-priced Howard Miller adaptation of the ball clock made so famous by George Nelson in 1940. The clock face is finished in brushed nickel and is surrounded by 12 black satin balls on nickel finished rods. Black hands complete the look. The clock meshes very well both with traditional and modern settings. Price:
$65 (Rs 3,575)
Another one of the fun clocks, this one by Creative Motion looks like a
motorcycle crashing through the wall complete with its handlebars, front
fender and front tyre. The clock is in its headlamp. Measuring 5 inches in
length and a little more than 13 inches from one handlebar to another, this
macho clock is perfect for a young boy’s room or for the bedroom of a man
young at heart. Price: $90 (Rs 4,950)
PATEK PHILIPPE WORLD-TIME WALL CLOCK
Price: $3,000 (Rs
1.65 lakh)
The Crosby Wall Clock designed for the gallery is a large, 30-inch diameter metal timepiece with applied Roman numerals and cast metal gears. The inner and outer rings and spade hands are finished in a warm grey iron. It features antique brass finished gears and numerals in the centre of the dial. The artistry of the clock shows up at its best against a light-coloured wall. Price:
$325 (Rs 17,875)
This clock will surely take you on a ride of your life. Handcrafted from
Chevrolet 350 V8 engine parts — considered one of the greatest automobile
engines of the 20th century — it has become somewhat of a classic among
collectors. Made of two-timing gears held together by a chain, it is a perfect
decor for any room or office. Price: $80 (Rs 4,400)
Swiss giant Hubolt may be known for its stunning wristwatches but its clocks division throws up surprises frequently. One such surprise was its brass quartz wall clock Hubolt MDM launched in 2000. Round, polished and brushed, it has a heavy brass bezel with screws and brass baton hands giving it an elegant look. Price:
$1,100 (Rs 60,500)
This is one of the cleverest wall clocks launched in the recent times. Created by the apps and games creator Pixelthis, this clock is basically a decommissioned Apple iBook G4 recycled into 14-inch high and 18-inch wide timepiece complete with an Apple mouse that works as a pendulum. The masterpiece is the brainchild of a genius geek. Price:
$75 (Rs 4,125)
Though the cuckoo clock was invented in 1737, it is still a very coveted timepiece-cum-decorative. Take the case of the hand-carved and hand-painted Chalet Cuckoo Clock. This traditional style Cuckoo crafted in the Black Forest region of Germany has a family barn scene with two beer drinkers, who move their glasses every half and full hour to the sound of chiming. The sheer artistry of the clock will pep up your interiors. Price:
$995 (Rs 54,725)
BREITLING MANUAL WINDING CLOCK
Price: $700 (Rs
38,500)
It's a fine blend of looks and utility. The Howard Miller Wall Clock is designed for both indoor and outdoor use and has an in-built thermometer and a hygrometer to tell the temperature and relative humidity, respectively. The circular frame has a brushed, antique copper finish with embossed décor making it a beautiful and a very versatile clock. Price:
$505 (Rs 27,775)
DO-IT-YOURSELF WALL CLOCK
Price: $70 (Rs 3,850)
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PACESETTER yogesh negi it was only early this year that a cartoon controversy shook the Mamta Banerjee government in West Bengal and landed a chemistry professor, Ambhikesh Mahapatra in jail. Yogesh Negi, a cartoonist, says “Look at the controversy raked by Danish newspaper Jyllands Posten over the editorial cartoon on Prophet Muhammad,” implying that no other medium gives better freedom of speech. Yogesh Negi, a cartoonist and the creative director at Click Labs, designs games for Mac products. Recounting his first interaction with arts and creativity, he mentions how it was not until he participated in a district-level art competition that Yogesh knew anything about cartoon. “As a prize-winner, I got a drawing book, which elaborated on different techniques of cartooning,” he says. This is how, Yogesh, born in Jeori, a small village in Himachal, got into animation. “I was in Class X, when I made a 32-page comic book,” he says. His creation, Killer—the Superhero, was an instant hit and furthered his passion for cartooning. Unlike cartoonists who give it up for bankable options, Yogesh’s hobby is his profession. The highpoint of Yogesh’s cartooning talent came when, B2 (pronounced Bittu) made him an instant hit during his postgraduation. Once uploaded on Facebook, several long-lost friends of his got in touch and relived B2’s sarcasm. “Currently, I have drawn 52 strips that are ready for colouring, so hopefully, soon B2 will have a separate page on Facebook,” says Yogesh.“From the time when the cartoon is conceived till the time the game reaches the finishing level, I ensure that my creations only get better,” he adds. He makes documentaries as well. His 45-minute documentary on ragging Prashnchinh is shown every year in several colleges and all departments of the University. The next will be focused on a city without women. “It is an attempt to talk about the impact of female foeticide in India,” he adds. “Cartooning cannot exist without creativity. You have to constantly push your boundaries, else, you will be history,” is his conviction. Now that Tom and Jerry have been replaced by Chinese cartoons and animation has reached phones and notebooks, cartoons are here to stay and will forever remain popular. “No matter what’s on my mind, using satire, I can address the most sensitive issues without offending anyone,” he adds. In the meantime, don’t forget to check out what B2 is upto. His role models include the best in the creative industry, Steve Jobs, James Cameron, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera.
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RESTAURANT ON FOUR WHEELS
Cost of construction: $ 2 million
(Rs 11 crore)
Raise a toast to this luxury vodka from Finland, crafted by hand in small limited batches. The Finlandia Platinum is made from glacial spring waters gently passed over a bed of Finnish Birch chips and then finished with slow Arctic chilling process giving it a unique, distinctive character and a cold, crisp taste to be savoured with each sip. The vodka will be made available in
small batches annually and a batch has freshly been ushered in the world markets. So grab a bottle
of this luxury. Price: Rs 5,000
WINE FOR THE ROAD
Price: $2400 (Rs 1.32 lakh)
On a long drive most of us have got the sudden urge for a steaming cup of coffee but are miles away from the nearest highway eatery. So you drive on in despair hoping to find a restaurant pit stop. Now you can avoid the situation if you have the Handpresso Auto. All you need to do is to pour water and coffee powder in this coffee-maker and plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter charger. And lo and behold within minutes your espresso coffee is ready. Price: $200
(Rs 11,000)
THE BAG OF CHARITY
Price: $1520 (Rs
83,600)
INSTANT HOT DOGS
Price: $20
(Rs 1,100)
THIS MUG’S ALL STIRRED UP
Price: $10
(Rs 550)
RE-CREATING A MASTERPIECE
Value of RR GLK 21: Priceless!
Though it can be worn around the neck like a scarf it is more than just a fashion statement. The Hövding is an invisible helmet that has the power to save lives. The scarf-like collar worn by two-wheeler riders contains a folded-up airbag that opens up in case of an accident and surrounds and protects the rider’s head. The trigger mechanism is controlled by sensors which pick up the abnormal movements of a bike in an accident.
Best of all, the colour of the visible part of the collar helmet is changeable to match your outfit making a fashion statement while saving your head. Price: $600
(Rs 33,000)
WATCH THIS ALL-TIMER
Price in
india: Rs 82,000
MINIATURE MEAN MACHINE
Price: $5,600
(Rs 3.08 lakh)
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Vasudha Gupta
MARIE
LONGCASE CLOCK
SCOTTISH
GRANDFATHER CLOCK
The
iconic Rolex Watch Company's 1990 Wall Display Clock is a very rare timepiece.
Made of brass with bezel it has white, opaque glass applied gold baton
indexes. Run with Quartz movement with fast/slow adjustment it has a diameter
of 60 centimetres and depth of 16 centimetres making it a timeless luxury
clock.
BALL
CLOCK
MOTORCYCLE
WALL CLOCK
It
may have been launched just nine years ago but the large World-Time Wall Clock
by Patek Philippe is a rare gilt brass timepiece. The two-body, polished clock
has gilt indexes, surrounded by a black and matte silvered revolving disc in
24 hours for the daytime and night-time hours. The outer revolving ring dial
bears the names of 24 global cities making it a classic.
CROSBY
WALL CLOCK
CHAIN
GEAR CLOCK
HUBOLT
WALL CLOCK
APPLE
iBOOK WALL CLOCK
CHALET
CUCKOO CLOCK
This
is a rare clock that has collectors in hot pursuit. In 1995, Breitling
launched a Huit Jours (8-day) Manual Wind Clock crafted from old aircraft
instruments. The clock that comes both in desk and wall models was in a
limited series of 1,000 with each having a distinct number. There are just a
handful of these left and come up for sale from time to time. If you like
timepieces, grab this piece when you get an opportunity.
HOWARD
MILLER WALL CLOCK
This
one is from Karlsson’s “Time of Your Life” series that has clocks that
add fun and contemporary design to the home or office interiors. Distinct
colours, shapes and a sense of humour are the keynotes of this collection. By
first placing the main cube at the centre, you can use your imagination to
arrange the colourful blocks around it. The cubes have adhesive backing and
will stick to the wall.
What happens when a car becomes an obsession with some people? The answer is simple. They practically start living in it. A man staying near the Austrian town of Salzburg took his fixation for the Volkswagen Beetle too far and asked an architect to transform his home into a restaurant resembling the iconic German car. And the architect made his dream come true. The house-cum-restaurant has headlamp shaped windows and suspension spring-themed columns inside. And true to character, the driver’s seat at this restaurant is the priciest!
SIP OF FINLAND
This one’s perfect for people who like one for the road! The Italian Cedes Milano Wine Travelling Set is a covered wooden box made from pigskin that is 9-inches long, 8 inches wide and 14.5 inches high, the set contains two wine tasting glasses, two watertight caps, a barman corkscrew and wine thermometer. There is also room for two pint-sized wine bottles. A great travel box for those who like their drink on the go.
COFFEE ON THE GO
In its seventh year of partnership with UNICEF, Gucci has introduced a special edition of the vintage web beige Boston bag. As in previous years, the Italian fashion and leather goods label will donate 25 per cent of the retail price of each bag to support education programmes in Asia and Africa. The new Boston handbag in luxurious micro Guccissima leather features a double top handle, detachable shoulder strap and light gold hardware with the iconic interlocking GG embossed on it.
So match style with charity and go for this bag.
We’ve all seen a toaster and also a griller. But what many of us may not have seen is a special toaster for hot dogs and kebabs. The HDT-600 Retrored has slots not for bread slices but in shapes to facilitate roasting of kebabs and sausages and bread to wrap around. All you have to do is slip in the meat and buns and press the start button. When they are done, they will pop up like regular toast. Considering its cheap price and great utility, this is just what an over-worked chef dreamt of!
How do you like your coffee? If you are having it in this mug, the answer is you will get it stirred though not shaken! The self stirring mug by a company going by the name of Plain Lazy is one of those gadgets invented to make you…well, lazy. When you pour coffee, tea, soup or any other drink in this mug it starts stirring itself. Simply press the thumb-friendly button at the top of the handle and watch as the battery-powered mug does all the stirring for you.
The 1924 Rolls-Royce GLK 21, owned by Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, recently became the first Indian-owned car to win the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance award in California, USA. On this occasion, the House of Mewar also released a coffee table book dedicated to the history and the painstaking restoration of the RR GLK 21 which was lying unused and almost forgotten for over half-a-century in the City Palace, Udaipur. In 1999, Arvind Singh asked his palace motor garage to take full stock of the Rolls-Royce. A list of all available and missing parts was made and restoration experts in both India and the UK were contacted. And the result —stunner on four wheels.
SAVED BY THE SCRUFF OF THE NECK
Every man needs a classic watch in his collection. A watch for that special occasion where he has to look his stylish best. The Tissot Classic Gent Gold is just what the stylist ordered. It is a sumptuous piece which will add elegance to any wrist. The one-liner indices on the dial not just give it an embossed effect and extra depth but also a cosmopolitan look. The Roman number XII, set at its peak, provides it with a refined classical hint. The single separate circular seconds’ counter makes the timepiece look trendy while providing both a vintage trace and a modern dash simultaneously.
Recently when Cartier celebrated 100 years in America it displayed some of the most amazing of its creations. One of them was the sterling silver re-creation of a Harley-Davidson bike, complete with rugged rubber wheels. At 24.5cm X 15cm X 7cm, the true-to-scale model is a stunning miniature. Though this souvenir instantly sold out, more are on the way to keep alive a bike enthusiast’s ultimate dream.