Friday, 11 July 2025

Are You Ready For The One Point Five?

Having released the Series 1 which was sold out in no time, ZLTD Watches started out to develop Series 2. Series 2 will be more technical in nature so in the meantime, they decided to release the Series 1.5, a slightly different take on the popular Series 1.

What are the differences between Series 1 and Series 1.5? Well, below is the Series 1 and just focusing on the dial, the difference is stark.

Series 1.5 comes with an anodized titanium dial in two colours - Aubergine and Bronze. The dial comes with brushed finishing and that gives the dial a different hue under different lighting conditions.

What is not apparent on photo is the new feature of an hour hand adjustment found on the Series 1.5. If one pulls out the crown to the first position, the owner can change the hour hand (just like a GMT) without having to reset the minutes and seconds hand.

Another difference between these two Series is the movement...

One Point Five comes with an automatic movement... I wish they had kept it as a manual winding.

As with the Series 1, the finishing on the indices are very good. (The photos are those of the prototype and not the finished product... there are some smudges on the ring which I am sure will not be there for production pieces).

The launch of Series 1.5 is slated for Saturday, 12th July 2025 with 2 slots - 1000hrs (Singapore Time) and 2200hrs (Singapore time).

The 38.5mm case is perfect for my small wrist.

If you had missed out on Series 1, do take note of the launch of the 1.5. I think there are some upgrades in 1.5 worth considering over the Series 1. Between Aubergine and Bronze, what's your choice? Drop a comment below.

Sunday, 6 July 2025

The Feynman Q - A Bold Take on an Icon

In the world of horology, few things are as exciting as a fresh take on a classic design. Enter Feynman Watch with their Feynman Q, a timepiece that pays homage to an iconic predecessor while injecting modern sophistication and unique personality.

A Tribute with a Twist.

The Feynman Q draws inspiration from a legendary watch, the Roger Dubuis Sympathie, reimagining its distinctive case shape with Feynman’s signature DNA. After multiple design iterations, the brand has unveiled a 34mm stunner — compact yet bold, blending vintage charm with contemporary refinement.

With a lug-to-lug measurement of 38mm and a sleek 7mm profile, the Q is designed for understated elegance. The fully brushed bezel contrasts beautifully with polished case sides, while the redesigned crown — borrowing from the 2018 Feynman One — completes the refined silhouette.

Gemstone Dials: Uniqueness as a Philosophy

Feynman Timekeepers embraces individuality, and the Q’s gemstone dials embody this ethos. Each variant features a natural stone, ensuring no two watches are exactly alike — much like diamonds, symbolizing that "everyone is different." You can say it is almost piece unique.

First up, something special - the Malachite (Founder’s Edition) – Bold & Distinctive

As with previous launches, no Feynman launch would be complete without a Founder’s Edition. The Malachite dial, with its vivid green bands and intricate patterns, is housed in a gold coloured case, making it a true collector’s piece.

Next up, my favourite, the Turquoise – Vibrant & Spiritual

The second variant showcases a turquoise dial, prized for its striking blue-green hues and symbolic ties to wisdom and protection.

The silver case and hands create a crisp, balanced aesthetic. As of the publishing of this blogpost, the pre-order for the Turqoise dial version is fully sold out and I think you can see why.

Then comes the Lapis Lazuli – Timeless Elegance

A fan favorite from internal surveys, the Lapis Lazuli model boasts deep blue tones with golden flecks, representing truth and spiritual depth. Its rich history makes it a standout choice.

The Lapis Lazuli is primarily a deep, intense blue, often with flecks of pyrite (which can resemble gold flakes) and white calcite and this version truly reflects that.

Another gold-toned case is the Tiger’s Eye exuding Warmth & Luxury

This variant features a gold-toned case paired with a mesmerizing Tiger’s Eye dial, known for its silky golden sheen that shifts with light. Paired with an olive green leather strap handcrafted by Yi Leather, this model exudes sophistication.

The Tiger's Eye is a rock with golden to reddish-brown bands and a silky luster. This captivating appearance is due to the presence of quartz and altered amphibole fibers.

Do you think the Tiger's Eye version would look better with a steel case? Similarly for the Malachite dial? Maybe I am partial to steel cases...

On the wrist, the 34mm case wears very well for my smallish wrist (16.5mm). While I would have preferred the case to be 37mm, I won't complain about the 34mm case as the unusual shape does make it look bigger.

To keep the fun timepiece affordable yet with a luxurious feel, Feynman has chosen the quartz movement by Swiss company Ronda. The movement Ronda 1014 delivers reliability in an exquisite package and at a special launch price of SGD 599 (USD 460), it’s an accessible entry into gemstone-dial watches

I suspect that these timepieces will be a hit with the ladies - trendy, colourful, playful and no-fuss. With a precise quartz movement, one just needs to pick up and slap it on - choosing the dial colour that matches your outfit.

The preorders begin July 4, 2025, at 10 PM GMT+8. With such distinctive designs, these variants won’t last long. Stay tuned for more updates, and follow Feynman Timekeepers to witness how tradition and modernity collide in the Q series.

Which variant speaks to you? What would you like to see in the next iteration of the Q? Let us know in the comments!

Sunday, 29 June 2025

A wonderful find in Japan - Aomori Apple Tea

When you hear of Aomori, the first thing that comes to mind is their apples... So no wonder my sister insisted I bought her the Ringocha, as they are called, from Aomori.

It was not easy to find. The company, Macure House is based in Aomori. This prefecture is the northern most prefecture and city on the main island of Honshu. Using the Shinkansen Bullet Train, it takes slightly more than 3 hours to get from Tokyo to Aomori. I have only been to Aomori once back in 1999.

I had tried to buy it online but Amazon Japan does not fulfill overseas orders. After much searching, I managed to find the company's website (macure house) and I wrote to them hoping to know where the retail points are in Tokyo.

While there were three retail shops in Tokyo, I went to 2 but they did not have any in stock... that's how popular they are. So, I wrote to the brand again hoping they would do delivery. Surprise surprise... they do. And they were willing to make delivery to my hotel. When I arrived at my hotel, the package was already delivered and waiting for me - that kind of service level is first class.

When you open the packet, there are 5 tea bags per packet (not individually wrapped) but the packet has a seal to keep the team bags fresh. What you can see from the tea bags are bits of dried apples smelling ever so sweet.

There are two ways to enjoy the tea - as a hot tea or cold brew.

The recommendation is to add 200ml of 90 degrees (Celcius) to one tea bag and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. I did just that for my hot apple tea and the drink was everything I had expected it to be.

Sweet, aromatic and fruity. The apple bits are natural and caffeine free. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile beverage for any time of year.

As stated on the packet, the tea is additive-free, pure Aomori apple tea.

I tried the hot tea and we liked it - and if you like, you can also open the bag and eat the apple bits too. Next to try the cold brew method. Leave a bag in 200ml of water and leave it in the fridge for about 8 to 10 hours to fully extract the apple taste - nice summer drink!

I have to say that the service provided by Takahashi-san was exemplary. They were very trusting when it came to payment. The package came with a payment slip which I brought to a convenience store to make payment. It was made so simple and I guess I will be buying these again when I return to Japan next. Thanks Macure and thanks Takahashi-san!