2014-09-17

VintageVDB Troop SE TANTAL

By TLex Introducing the VintageVDB Troop SE from VDB's custom handmade series. Special features of this fine watch include a handmade case in Tantulum and a vintage Rolex caliber!



Its Tantulum case measures 47mm in diameter with a thickness of 18mm and a lug to lug measurement of 55mm. Tantalum AKA Tantalium (Ta), is a rare metal. Besides its lovely bluish gray color, it is prized for its ductility, strength, and corrosion resistance. It is extremely heavy.



It is also extremely expensive. Here's a for instance - Helson produced a Tantulum version of their sub -1000USD Shark diver with a price tag of 6000USD. It has been used by Audemars Piguet, Harry Winston and Montblanc for some special divers models.



VDB are no stranger to this exotic metal and have used it for the case construction of the T-Edition TANTAL and Tantalum 'Son of ZEUS', for the dial of the CUSHION and the caseback of Arnie's bespoke diver, the AS - THE ONE.



Powering this amazing watch is a vintage Rolex 1570 caliber with 26 jewels beating a low beat-rate of 19,800 bhp as is typical of such old school movements. It is decorated with blued screws. Power-reserve is 42 hours.



Furthers features include: a rotational bezel (not sure on its spec.), a crown placement at 8 o'clock and a handmade VDB Troop SE embossed dial in grey fitted with orange vintage handset and 'Erfurt' text (6 o'clock) for its origin.



There isn't much that isn't appealing from VDB, but this one really speaks to me - outstanding; another one for the connoisseurs!

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