Messages: 1548 Location: London, UK
Registered: July 2005
A Fantastic Day Out with JLC and AM for the Launch of the Amvox 7
Mon, 12 November 2012 09:12
As a result of Howard putting my name forward I was fortunate to enjoy the generosity and hospitality of Jaeger LeCoultre (JLC) and Aston Martin (AM) for a day out last Thursday with the understanding I would share a report with you guys. Due to other commitments it has taken a few days to compile, but I hope that is OK and you all enjoy the read. Unlike the proper journalists who attended I didn't take notes through the day, and had numerous conversations with the main participants at different times, so I apologise in advance if my recollection of events or comments is incorrect. In addition there were restrictions on photography so I am relying on the official pictures (by the Kalory Agency) in places and have noted them as such.
My starting point for the day was 'The Tube' from home to central London.
It was then a short walk to AM's W-One showroom containing some beautiful AM cars, including a DBS like 007's.
There I met Stéphane Belmont, JLC Marketing and technical Director, and his wonderful team from Switzerland and the UK, including Harriet Grundy and Claire Gilberts, along with the other guests reporting for various luxury watch and goods magazines and forums.
We then transferred in two minibuses to the Millbrook Proving Facility near Bedford where AM have a satellite facility.
Here over refreshments we could inspect some of the previous Amvox models, provided to illustrate the evolution of the line, and look over the DB9 and Vanquish cars parked outside in the forecourt.
Here is Stephane Belmont with the AM cars (Kalory Agency)
Stephane and Marek Reichmann with cars and watches (Kalory Agency)
The partnership between JLC and AM was described, based on shared values and design ethos, and we were introduced to the new JLC Amvox 7 by Stéphane. Later Marek Reichmann, AM Design Director, introduced us to the new AM Vanquish. Both new products were described as an evolution from earlier models, taking the best elements forwards, with refinements, and introducing new elements. They are therefore clearly part of a continuing evolution, seeking aesthetic and technical perfection, by companies seeking to produce luxury goods that are clearly part of an ongoing tradition, whilst incorporating cutting edge materials and technology, that engender awe and respect rather than inspiring negative, envious reactions.
(Kalory Agency)
For example, among other things, the Amvox 7 exhibits a similar case shape, dial layout and design, and vertical chronograph action to earlier models, but subtle changes and decorative details reflect the connection to AM, make the watch appear and wear smaller than before, includes a date window at 6 o'clock and a new, innovative power reserve indicator around the 10 to 2 area and has a quick change strap facility. The vertical chronograph action has been refined so that the play between the crystal and case is less noticeable and it works with a satisfying click. In my opinion it appears less busy than earlier models whilst delivering the same or more information. It sits comfortably on the wrist and is marvellously simple to operate.
(Kalory Agency)
(Kalory Agency)
Likewise the Vanquish utilises the normal AM chassis design, and a refined version of the AM V12 engine providing more power whilst at the same time better fuel efficiency, but beneath an all new carbon fibre bodywork. This draws on previous models such as the DB9 and the more exotic One77. Inside touch sensitive glass control buttons reflect the vertical chronograph function of the Amvox watches.
The Millbrook facility is used by various vehicle manufacturers to test new vehicles, hence the issues about photography, and therefore it has a number of different tracks designed to test different aspects of driving that vehicles will have to encounter. Either side of a delicious lunch we took it in turns to be driven around once and then have a couple of laps driving for ourselves on three; the swooping curves up and down the alpine course, the continuous high speed of the banked, circular endurance course and the raw power of the long straight. I was fortunate enough to experience the first two, in a DB9 then Vanquish respectively, including the enormous power and grip on the road around the alpine course at unbelievable speeds and the 'no hands' effect at 95mph on the duration course topping out at 130mph. Other guests who did the long straight confirmed it was equally exhilarating and nerve wracking getting closer to the end of the track at top speed waiting for the AM guide's instruction to brake. All the time cocooned in the luxurious, sensuous interior.
(Kalory Agency)
Back to London, with a delightful bag of souvenirs from AM, for a breather and to freshen up before being driven in AM Rapide's to the opening evening of the Salon QP watch event at the Saatchi Gallery.
The event allows a wide selection of watch brands to display their products and the skills required to produce them. JLC filled one half of one gallery space, staffed by their superb and friendly sales team, with displays designed specifically for the occasion containing pieces from their current and heritage collections and an area set up for a watchmaking masterclass. In addition a heritage expert, a gemsetter and two watchmakers were on hand to answer questions and demonstrate their skills.
In a separate gallery an area was set up for Stéphane, Dr Ulrich Betz (CEO of AM) and James Gurney (editor in chief of Salon QP magazine) jointly launched the new JLC Amvox 7 to the world.
However the evening was still young. Back in the JLC gallery we were invited to participate in a watchmaking course with Richard Phipps-Carter, JLC's senior UK watchmaker, and his assistant.
Here we had the 'pleasure' of removing and then replacing 22 parts from a 751 chronograph movement under their watchful eye and guidance.
I'm not sure mine worked perfectly afterwards, but it was still a fascinating if slightly nerve wracking experience once again making me appreciate the complexity and delicacy of the little marvels we wear on our wrists. On completion we were presented with a certificate of participation and some delightful gifts from JLC.
To round off the evening the AM Rapide's were again on hand to ferry us to a delicious meal with our wonderful JLC hosts at the nearby Le Cercle restaurant. More friendly, fascinating and entertaining conversation about our experiences through the day, and of course watches, to end a fantastic day out before returning home on 'The Tube' 15 hours after setting out. I hope this report captures some of the great day out I experienced and I would like to thank again Howard and all the staff involved at JLC and AM who made it possible. To end here am I posing next to the Vanquish and wearing my JLC Master Calendar with my broad smile partly hiding behind my one week's growth of Movember charity moustache.
Nigel
Time flies like an arrow, fruit flies like a banana - Groucho Marx
- NMGE17