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Alain Silberstein "Arkitek Valentine" One-Hander

Alain Silberstein "Arkitek Valentine" One-Hander

£2,000.00 GBP
£2,000.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
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Model: Alain Silberstein "Arkitek Valentine" One-Hander

Year: 1990s

Limited Edition: 99 Pieces

Features:

The Man. Silberstein has historically described Japan as his second largest market. Given the country’s appreciation for unusual watches, the claim hardly feels surprising. And it’s certainly backed up by numbers - in a 2017 interview he revealed that, at the brand’s peak, he had 22 Alain Silberstein boutiques operating throughout Japan. A remarkable achievement for an independent. 

The Exclusivity. But his sales numbers weren’t just propped up by Japan’s love of the weird and wonderful - Silberstein actually designed exclusive pieces for the JDM. And the Valentine, on offer today, is one such watch. Limited to 99 pieces, the Valentine dispenses with a minute hand entirely in favour of an extra long hour hand shaped like Cupid’s arrow. Remember, time is just a construct, and therefore an Einzeiger, or one-handed watch, is perfectly adequate for almost everything you do. 

The Meaning. The watch is almost 30 years old, so any official descriptions of the watch have been lost to time, but I’m sure there’s an artistic message in the design. Is it saying love is messy and imprecise? Or perhaps the watch is telling us to focus on the abstraction rather than the specifics - which is pretty good advice for the long term success of any relationship, isn’t it? Or, cynically, it could just be that Cupid’s arrow works best as an elongated single hand.

The Recreations. Whatever the message, it must have been popular as it inspired sequels. Klub Valentine, as it became known, spawned several love-themed and internationally offered watches, including some two-handers that attempted to recreate the Cupid’s arrow setup without the same success. As they say, why mess with a classic?

Specifications:

Condition: In great condition overall. Some minor marks are visible, particularly on the caseback, but there are no marks of any significance. Original strap and buckle.

Scope: Box and papers

Movement: ETA 2892

Dimensions:

  • Case Width: 35.5mm
  • Lug to Lug: 40.0mm
  • Case Thickness: 10.5mm
  • Lug Width: 17mm
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FAQs

Are your watches authentic?

Everything we sell is 100% authentic.

All of our watches are inspected and verified for authenticity - both inside and out. We have over 15 years of sourcing and collecting rare watches in Japan, which is often considered to be one of the best markets for authentic and fully original vintage watches.

Do you ship globally?

We are based in Japan and regularly ship all over the world. We typically use FedEx and it takes:

  • 3-7 business days to reach North America
  • 3-7 business days to reach Europe
  • 3-7 business days to reach Asia and Oceania.

All of our packages are securely shipped, fully insured, and trackable door-to-door.

Are all of your watches serviced?

Most but not all of our watches are serviced. The "Condition" section of each watch will confirm if the watch has been serviced.

All of our watches are tested by an independent watchmaker - if a service is needed, the watch will be serviced. If a service hasn't been conducted, it's because the watch itself is too new to need a service, or there is evidence of a recent service.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment by all major Credit Cards and Wise.com

What condition are your watches?

Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of the watches we typically sell, the condition varies from watch to watch. However, our photos are high resolution and our descriptions are accurate. You can buy with confidence knowing there won't be any nasty surprises.

If the condition of a watch is ever misrepresented, we would offer a full refund.

Do I have to pay customs or taxes?

It depends on so many factors, including but not limited to the cost of the watch, the type of watch you've bought (vintage or new), and the import laws of your country. If you're unsure we recommend checking the import laws that relate to your country before ordering.

Are your watches water resistant?

Our serviced watches are typically tested to their original water resistant specifications, but we would never recommend pushing vintage or neo-vintage watches to their depth limits.

What is your returns policy?

Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of most of our watches, we do not offer returns under normal circumstances. All sales should be considered final.

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