A couple of months ago I received an invitation from Berrys in York to an evening event to showcase Tudor watches. This I happily accepted, having been to previous similar outings they are an interesting and entirely pleasant experience.
Just to recap a little on Tudor, this was the separate company set up by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf. Although the name was registered in 1926, it wasn’t until 1947 onwards that their watches were marketed under the Tudor Oyster/Prince names. The principal aim of the venture was to offer quality watches but at a lower price than Rolex. Whilst that indeed was the case, the watches in fact benefitted greatly from using not only quite a few Rolex components, but also their innovations – such as the Oyster waterproofing technology. The company was never quite as successful as it’s parent, with some commentators disparagingly citing the brand as simply “the poor man’s Rolex”. Bearing in mind that to own a Rolex was, and still is, an aspirational concept, that perhaps reduced Tudor’s appeal further. All that said, whilst the Tudor name does not have the same cachet as Rolex, those in the know appreciate that the actual quality is almost the same, but for somewhat less outlay. So, a smart buy? Today I think it is true to say that Tudor are definitely their own brand with their own following, along with some (but not all) models distinct from their older sibling.
The event was being held at the Malmaison in York – and more specifically at the rooftop bar. The kick-off was noted at 6.30. I had decided to stay over so I could have a few drinks, plus I had a few errands to attend to in town anyway. I did not stay at the Malmaison – mainly because they only have 7 car park spaces so the chances of getting are very slim. So, I decided to stay at The Milner, next to York station. Whilst, again, you cannot reserve parking, their car park is much larger so your success rate is higher, and to this end I triumphed! Whilst my car is aging, it is a nice vehicle which I like, and I would unduly fret leaving it in a dodgy public spot overnight. Also, it is just more convenient when you are aging!
Whilst undertaking my chores in the afternoon, I did call into the Berrys Patek boutique and had a good chat with Mike, Tim, and other staff. It is good to hear that the undoubted high expense of opening such an establishment is paying off. I will admit that when I first heard of the plans – bearing in mind that Berrys already had two boutiques in close proximity, I was somewhat sceptical about it. Whilst York and it’s environs would be viewed as fairly affluent, I was doubtful (and actually worried) that sufficient expensive watches could be sold to actually support the enterprise. Happily for Berrys, my fears seem to have been unfounded.
Whilst considering what to wear that evening – both watch-wise, and sartorially, I had initially felt that all bases had been covered. As to the former, for daytime duties I have been tending of late to wear my Heuer GMT reissue (WS2113), as it is fairly modest in size (so light), attractive, and accurate. For the evening however, I felt that something more elegant and dressy would be required. As such I had selected my Franck Muller Master Banker in rose gold – more on that later!
As to attire – and in order to comply with the “smart casual” request, I would wear a nice shirt, light slacks and a jacket. I would normally have packed a tie too, but for some reason I decided against this at the time. Whilst strolling around York, I then decided that no, I would in fact need a tie. Whilst sporting a tie may be a dying convention – with the young in particular, I still feel it projects a certain image. I also I happen to like ties! Anyway, I called into a boutique I usually frequent, who, amongst other things, also happen to have a nice collection of neck-wear. In fact, the last time I was in York I bought a very nice blue/white polka dot silk tie by a Swedish designer called Amanda Christianson. On this occasion I needed something to go with a bold blue/white check shirt – an old Tyrwhitt job in fact. After a bit of mulling I chose a really nice orange/white polka dot item from the same range.
When I returned to the hotel to have a rest before the evenings activities, I decided to dig out the FM watch. Where was it? No, not in my overnight grip. Mmmm. Maybe I had popped it into another bag in the car? So, I went down and commenced to ransack the car, to no avail. I know I packed it!. More searching in my room, then another trip to the car (that it is why it is sensible to have nearby parking!), but in the end I had to give up as clearly the watch was not with me, plus, I did not want a heart attack. I must have left it at home after all. Bah, that was a blow.
After resting, shaving, showering and dressing I felt in good spirits – aside from the missing watch saga. My new tie was a good pick and went well with everything. So, I set off for what was only a 5min walk, getting to the Malmasion at about 6.45. I ascended up to the roof terrace in the lift and when I alighted went to the reception desk. My name was checked and I was offered either a Pinot Grigio or a bottled lager. Unusually for me I had the former. Although early, there were quite a few people already there. The first person I met was a research chemist for the NHS – I am not sure we ever exchanged names. The first thing I said to him was “I am glad I am not the only one to wear a tie”. We chatted for about 20minutes, and it was clear he was a long-term client of Berrys and had at least one if not more Pateks. We were then offered canapes, and on this occasion a mini tortillas filled with avocado and salsa. I took a bit and the contents promptly shot out and went, yes, you have guessed it, right onto my new tie!!
My reaction was mixture of fury and embarrassment! I shot off to the loo, where I first sucked and licked the offending blob off the tie, feeling that was less damaging than trying to scrape or rub it off. This proved to be reasonably successful. Next, I got some paper towel, moistened it and and added a little soap, then gently dabbed onto the tie. Again, this seemed to work. I next used the Dyson hand drier to good effect, as after a minute or so it was dry. OK, if you peered closely you could make out a slight discolouration, but from a few feet is was ok, and lets face it, much much better that the green/red goo of before! So, I put it back on and re-entered the fray! Incidentally, at this juncture I would note that I then met two others had fallen victim to rogue canapes. By the way, it was all tasty (the satay chicken was the best taste ever – plus they were the least risky to eat), but being a tad serious for a moment, in future the canape choice may need to be a bit more nuanced for ease of consumption on the go!
By this time it was quite busy. I got another drink from the free bar and moved about chatting to people – including the two security guards present! I also studied the contents of the 8 or so glass cabinets – each containing some 4-6 watches. These were mainly represented by Black Bay models covering a wide variety of types/styles, e.g. GMTs, Chronographs, metals, dial colours, and sizes.
There were some slightly smaller versions more suited to a female wrist, one model being the Clair De Rose. That said, I did also notice that some of the more mainstream models are now offered in smaller versions. There were also the dive-orientated Pelagos models too.
After looking at the Tudor website I note there are some ten models these days, covering a wide range of styles for each. Some are just time, some time/date, GMTs, bi-metals, bracelets or straps – the permutations are legion! Also, is there a bit too much focus/variety with the Black Bay model? Well, maybe, but on the plus side, there should be a watch for every taste! In order to aid guests navigate all this, Berrys had some 6 or so helpful and pleasant staff on hand – as well as the Tudor area manger.
Whilst chatting to other guests I also managed to take a few pics of their watches and I note these below. Incidentally, the fact that none are Tudors is purely coincidence – there were some being worn! Oh, I have done my best to correctly identify the the pieces after the event.
The event I think was due to wind up at 9.30, but a few of us were still chatting at 10. At that point tiredness prevailed and I said my thanks to Mike for the invite and bade my farewell to other staff. On the way out I received a “goody” bag, which contained a Berrys brochure, a Tudor range brochure and a Tudor baseball cap.
Once back at the hotel I reflected on the evening. Apparently nearly 100 folks attended and some half dozen orders were placed, with more hinted at. So, hopefully for Berry’s the event more than “washed its face”. However, there is more to these events than a pure selling opportunity: it also a forum where like-minded people can gather in safe and convivial surroundings, and chat to their hearts content about watches – without being accused of undue nerdiness! I discussed this with quite a few souls and we all were in agreement. Another aspect that came to light was the fact that most of out friends and family are just not interested in a nice timepiece – they just do not “get it”. The most common accusation being “Why do you need to spend that on a watch when you can get the same (and more) information from a Smartwatch or your ‘phone”. Yes, I too have had all that before, however, I counter that this is our way of appreciating jewellery combined with extraordinary micro-engineering – oh, and you are philistines!! Incidentally, I met two very pleasant and interesting people, who turned out to be local farmers and had only been “into” watches this year. However, that did not prevent them from acquiring and sporting two very nice Pateks already. Who says farmers are in trouble lol!! At the end of the day it was a great event and Berrys are surely the ones to get your new watch from!
A last Post Script: after I returned home I tried some Hydrogen Peroxide (I always keep some) on my tie as suggested by my new chemist friend. It worked pretty well and I could barely see the mark at all. However, I wore the same tie to another do a week later, and horror of horrors, managed to spill more food down it. I could not believe it, however, although I am pleased to report further cleaning success, as one can see a slight smudge, I shall probably end up having it professionally dry-cleaned. Yes, I am but a baby and need a bib!!
Rating: 4/5
Words/Images: The Writer
Thanks to: Berrys