One Week at a Time
Introducing the RGM Seven Day Watch, Ref. 130
by C. Bradley Jacobs
Originally published in International Watch
November 2006
RGM Watch Company, the Lancaster County, Pennsylvania-based maker of fine timepieces announces the introduction of their first long-running wristwatch: the limited-edition reference 130 "Seven Day." The clean lines of the case--42 mm in stainless steel with sapphire crystals front and back--are the perfect complement for the dynamic dial. This original design combines bold numerals, sleek blue hands and elegant guilloché. The long-running nature of the movement is indicated on the dial via a 7-day power reserve index at 12 o'clock; contributing to its balance is a small seconds indicator at 6 o'clock. A large central field of hand-turned guilloché adds a sense of both motion and serenity to an overall package that is detailed and yet very easily readable.
The power for RGM Ref. 130 comes from a new addition to the RGM line. The modified RGM/Jaquet movement features high-quality hairspring, mainspring, escapement and balance with precision regulator. The plates are decorated with perlage while the bridges are tastefully adorned with côtes de Genève and blued screws. Twin mainspring barrels and 19 jewels help ensure that the movement, which is adjusted to five positions, runs smoothly through its 7-day power reserve. Just a glance through the caseback window reveals to the aficionado of luxury timepieces that this is a fine movement of a type that is not commonly seen on the market. The layout of the winding train and the gear train, both efficiently engineered into a reasonably sized package, will be a welcome change to those unused to complicated hand-wound movements or watches with such a long reserve of power. The familiar threaded case back and movement logo of RGM ensure that quality is guaranteed as much as exclusivity.
The Seven Day watch is available in a limited series of only thirty pieces. Each example boasts a polished steel case with brushed sides, fine exotic leather straps, a signed steel deployant clasp, and RGM carrying case and box. MSRP for this fine long-player is $7900. As with all RGM watches, custom orders are welcome.
Founded by master watchmaker Roland G. Murphy, RGM Watch Company is located in the heart of one of America's premier historic watchmaking centers. An independent firm, RGM produces fine watches including a minute repeater with tourbillon, the William Penn collection of elegant rectangular watches, a series of steel pilots' models, and special editions utilizing the nearly lost arts of engraving and engine-turning. Mr. Murphy's company is one of a select number who will modify examples of their existing product line or endeavor to make a totally exclusive, unique, high-grade timepiece at the request of the customer. More information can be found at RGMWatches.com or by calling (717) 653-9799.