Following on from the Ref. 1016 we introduced last time, this time we're introducing another tropical dial. It's a 1962 Ref. 1601 with a unique atmosphere.
The hands are original dauphine hands. The sharp, diamond-shaped hands, seen only for a limited period from the late 1950s to the early 1960s, give it a distinctly crisper impression compared to the straight hands from the mid-1960s onwards.
And the "Single Swiss" notation at the 6 o'clock position is a detail seen only on pieces from before tritium notation became mandatory.
Although it may be a subtle detail, the bezel also remains original with fine fluting. It is the accumulation of such fine details that creates a small yet clear difference in impression when viewed as a whole.
And above all, there's the exceptional atmosphere of the tropical dial, which is unlike any other. While the luster remains firmly, the burn itself does have some unevenness, so to speak, it is not perfect.
However, the way the color has faded particularly along the stepped outer edge, and the uneven burn suggesting that the dial peeked out from under a left cuff, reveal a value that goes beyond mere specs and condition, don't they?
The Ref. 1016 we introduced last time was, so to speak, the king of tropicals. It was a classic among classics, with a face comparable to a Daytona.
On the other hand, this Ref. 1601 has a different kind of charm. It's a dress model at its base, with unmistakable vintage details like dauphine hands and "Single Swiss."
The unique balance of such a piece having this exceptionally atmospheric tropical dial might be akin to vintage Levi's that still retain their color but have sharp whiskers.
As AFTER, which proposes watches not just as timepieces but as accessories to complement everyday fashion, we want to actively suggest the latter value: the kind of aging that, while it can only be described as "atmosphere," captivates everyone, alongside details like specs and condition, which are easily understandable and often reflected in price.
It's a piece we want you to enjoy for its contrast, pairing a dress watch with sharper, more delicate details with casual everyday wear.
When choosing a tropical watch, the ability to opt for a dress model with subtle yet unmistakable details, rather than a mainstream sports model, suggests a breadth of experience and an unwillingness to compromise.
