While not a household name, Alexander Venacci made some serious waves in the watch community when it announced its first timepiece, the Design 1. I was fortunate enough to have spent a bit of time with the Design 1 and can personally attest to its build quality and appealing aesthetic. Alexander Venacci released the Design 1 via the well known crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, where support exceeded the initial funding goal, amassing a total of $200,000 being raised by the end of the campaign. So, I think it's safe to say that Alexander Venacci knows a thing or two about making a good watch.
Enter the Design 1.2. In-keeping with the Design 1's octagonal case, the Design 1.2 thematically continues the theme of the original piece, albeit with some minor improvements. There seems to be more attention paid to the finer details of the Design 1.2. Brushings on more surfaces, more polished edges emanating a deeper level of contrasting between the finishings, a more defined change in the levels of the case, and finally the addition of that steel bracelet which features Alexandar Venacci's insignia between each bracelet link.
There are a number of different model variations of the Design 1.2 including a black DLC or rose gold PVD model and three stainless steel models, two with stunning fumé dials and the third with dial made out of real meteorite rock.
The main point of differentiation between the Design 1 and the Design 1.2 is the addition of the day-date complication. The addition of the day-date, with the day depicted in the window aperture at 12 o'clock and the date in a window at 3 o'clock, takes nothing away from the clean, flowing look of the Design 1.2.
Powering the Design 1.2 is the Swiss made automatic calibre STP 4-13 which features Côtes de Geneve decorating and circular graining throughout. Its power reserve of 44-hours continues on the Design 1.2's theme of functionality and with an Incabloc shock absorber and a Nivaflex mainspring, the movement is well poised for continuous day-to-day wear.
Alexander Venacci has once again proven that a watch doesn't need to cost many thousands of dollars to hit the mark.
The Alexander Venacci Design 1.2 will launch soon. Follow this link to register your interest and for early bird pricing.