The Watches of Watch Lovers, Raymond Weil

Have you ever had a nice watch?  I mean a really nice watch.  Watches and shoes are two things you need to splurge on at least once, there is a difference in quality, style, feel and they just look so damn good.  I was lucky enough to check out a couple watches from the new Raymond Weil Freelancer collection, here are my thoughts and a few reasons why you need to get one too.

The History of One of Switzerland’s Greatest Watchmakers

Raymond Weil always loved watches.  From the time he was a teenager to his passing last sunday (he died peacefully at the age of 87) he loved everything about watches and when he started his company in 1976 he strived to make nothing short of the best.

Starting in Geneva, Switzerland Raymond Weil was quickly recognized for its superior design, innovative technology and unquestionable elegance.  The brand was modernized and revamped during its rapid growth and in 1982 Weil’s son-in-law, Olivier Bernheim, joined the company (he would later become president and CEO) and with Bernheim came new strategies, marketing techniques and modern knowhow.

Raymond Weil watches were influenced by music early on and in 1983 they released their first collection really showcasing their inspiration, the Amadeus Collection.  Numerous other lines based on infamous composers and operas came in the years to follow, including the Fidelio, Saxo and Traviata collections.

Raymond Weil Today

While the looks have become more modern, the attention to detail has not changed.  The brand has introduced several new lines since their 30th anniversary including the masculine Nabucco collection, the Noemia women’s line and the extremely well crafted Freelancers.

So what makes these watches so great?  Besides the years of knowledge and perfection, Raymond Weil uses only the highest of quality metals and materials to craft their timepieces.  The Freelancers are constructed of stainless steel held together with sturdy screws and sapphire crystal.  The watch itself is a mechanical chronograph movement with self-winding (which all great watches should be) and comes with your choice of either a soft leather strap or stainless steel.  The folding clasp is well made, not loose or easily broken like so many discount watch brands, and has a double push security feature so you won’t lose it on your morning commute should the subway come to a screeching halt.

These watches are nothing short of amazing and are worth every single penny.  If you are in the market for a new timepiece, I cannot endorse Raymond Weil enough, trust me and thank me later.

Where To Get Your New Raymond Weil Watch

Now that you’re (hopefully) sold on these classic pieces, it’s time to go out and purchase one.  Lucky for you (and me) there are well over a 100 plus stores sprawled across the United States (click here to see if there is one near you) that carry Raymond Weil, including both Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s.  Already know what you want?  Hate going into stores?  Just click here and head over to the RW website to let all your watch dreams come true.

Our Final Review

In case you can’t tell, we think the world of Raymond Weil and the style, sophistication, class and elegance that comes with it.  If we could afford to own the entire collection, we would.  Here are the two watches I was lucky enough to get my hands on, I wholeheartedly endorse them and suggest you pick one (or both) up, although I’m sure the other lines are equally as great.

And thank you, Mr. Raymond Weil for your wonderful contribution to not only the world of watches, but the world of fashion.  Your legacy will clearly live on through your timepieces for many, many years.

Both watches part of the Freelancer Collection.  Leather strap model available for $2950, Stainless steel strap model available for $2995.