RJ -- thanks for your postings here on Omega Forums, they're much appreciated.
Interesting bit on the Bulova chronograph, while we all know that David Scott received and used Bulova time pieces during Apollo 15
While they are still much appreciated, apparently it’s an essentially auto-generated posting feature as between certain of Fratello’s Omega-related content and the OF server.
Unclear how much anyone (much less RJ) is actually monitoring these auto-posts’ subsequent thread conversations?
I mentioned this on facebook but I’ll say it here too, Petros wins best dressed again. The red slacks with matching bow tie killed it, as usual. Head of Omega brand heritage & mens fashion icon at the same time.
I'd be interested in knowing how big the 321 atelier is, how many watchmakers are beavering away assembling the 321? That could give us an idea on how many of these watches are actually being made as they seem to be pretty rare now.
During the visit, there were like a handful of them. Not sure what that tells you in terms of production numbers, but I am pretty sure it's indeed between the 1000 and 2000 per year they said they would make.
If they hold this total production constant, while every year introducing a few new models using the 321…
It sure *feels* like the SS NEW321 has fewer and fewer new from-factory owners checking in on OF.
During the visit, there were like a handful of them. Not sure what that tells you in terms of production numbers, but I am pretty sure it's indeed between the 1000 and 2000 per year they said they would make.
Thanks, good to get a field report. You really wouldn't need more than a handful of watchmakers to assemble, time and case 2,000 pieces a year. I guess the big question is will Omega ever increase yearly production or will they keep it as a halo production item? I would guess they will keep it as a hard to get niche product.
I am not sure if that's a realistic reference tbh. There's a world outside forums, magazines, social media, etc. Actually, I think I see more and more Calibre 321 watches popping up on the wrists of enthusiasts.
Anyway, the Calibre 321 models besides the steel one, so the platinum version with onyx dial and the Canopus white gold Broad Arrow, are much more limited. They don't eat that much from the Calibre 321 "cake".
Of course, of course - though since Omega gives us enthusiasts so little actionable information, we’re left to our terot cards and reading the future in coffee grounds 😁
While I assume the same as you here, if playing the devil’s advocate:
(1) because margins are much higher in precious metals examples, if I’m Omega I’m going to fill every precious metal order before any stainless order, and
(2) if Omega annually only makes 1000 cal.321’s in a given year it doesn’t take many global precious metal sales to have a material impact on the “cake” - is Omega selling 100 or 500 of these precious metal per year?
In any event, I’m deeply aware that the lack of information from Omega is by design to create just this very discussion and attention - so none of it is intended as complaint, but instead intrigue and obedient fan behavior. 👍
Of course, of course - though since Omega gives us enthusiasts so little actionable information, we’re left to our terot cards and reading the future in coffee grounds 😁
While I assume the same as you here, if playing the devil’s advocate:
(1) because margins are much higher in precious metals examples, if I’m Omega I’m going to fill every precious metal order before any stainless order, and
(2) if Omega annually only makes 1000 cal.321’s in a given year it doesn’t take many global precious metal sales to have a material impact on the “cake” - is Omega selling 100 or 500 of these precious metal per year?
In any event, I’m deeply aware that the lack of information from Omega is by design to create just this very discussion and attention - so none of it is intended as complaint, but instead intrigue and obedient fan behavior. 👍
