Normally most of my articles for Luxurious Magazine feature high end Swiss made watches. Since I have been writing for this publication I have showcased many timepieces with exceptionally complicated movements. For the serious investor a tourbillon or minute repeater holds an enormous amount of importance. A perfect illustration of this point is the watchmaker Patek Philippe. At ‘Only Watch’ 2013 a discerning collector was prepared to pay €2,950,000 (approximately $3,994,772) for what?. To put this into perspective this watch exceeded the reserve price (€400-€600,000) by well over €2,000,000. On that basis it makes it increasingly hard for companies outside this region to have an impact on this market. Amazingly Californian brand Devon has achieved this monumental task with ease.
In 2009 Devon released their revolutionary oversized belt driven Tread 1 watch to a very positive reception. Impressively this timepiece was nominated (in the category of Design and Concept watch) at the highly prestigious Gran Prix d’Horlogerie de Genéve. Presently they are the only ever American brand to be awarded this honour. Amongst the many striking models available my personal favourite is gigantic Steampunk version. This imposing watch measures a staggering 56mm x 50mm x 18.5mm. Admittedly this timepiece won’t appeal to everyone’s tastes but I think it is fantastic.
A few months ago after Devon released the highly anticipated Tread 2. The watch is significantly smaller than the Tread 1 measuring a modest 44.2mm x 41.7mm x 14.5mm. Realistically these reduced proportions should appeal to a much wider demographic. A few months ago I was fortunate enough to wear the Tread 2 and found it to be exceptionally comfortable. It also felt lighter than its larger predecessor and in my opinion would be a more practical option for daily usage.
Visually the Tread 2 has a lot more classic appearance than the more contemporary Tread 1. In my opinion the styling is similar to Richard Mille watches but at a fraction of the price. Interesting features on this model include an elegant tonneau shape, bezel with eight screws and unique crown lever. I love the way time is displayed by horizontal and vertical belts. Currently there are four models to choose from (Ghost, Murder, Nightmare and Shining) in different colour combinations. My personal favourites out of the range are the white ceramic (Ghost) and natural steel (Shining).
Beneath the refined façade lies an Avant-Garde patented movement. This mechanism is operated by a bespoke microcontroller and powered by a rechargeable lithium‐ion battery. Essentially a series of micro fine nylon belts (adapted from Airplane cockpits) are driven by a sophisticated pulley and teeth system. All this incredible engineering is skillfully displayed through the sapphire crystal windows. The Tread 2 features hours, minutes and chronograph functions.
The Devon Tread 2 has a high quality leather strap with matching buckle. Prices range from $9,950-10,950.
You can read more reviews by Steve Huyton on his own website: www.totalwatchreviews.com