Hi all. Although I had anticipated this would be an interesting thread, I've been bowled over by what's come to light.

I have had some wonderful watches pass through my hands in the last two years. From a Breitling 806 to many wonderful Heuers and Zodiacs, and in ideal world I would have like to have kept them all!

However like many I cannot afford that luxury, and I have enjoyed along with my expert watchmaker, restoring and bringing back to life some great pieces which have gone out into the community. Sometimes (like classic cars) the chase and restoration are the fun bit. When that's over, life can go flat ;)

I also have many other things I am passionate about - vintage Hi-Fi, my recording studio equipment much of it vintage, and my collection of analog synths (and saxophones and flutes all of them vintage) which blur the line between work and passion. However being able to wear a watch really is the coolest thing.

I have managed to hold onto a small collection so here's my three - all Heuer, but as my 1959 Rolex Air King has gone to my wife and I can't see myself owning a Sub any time soon, it's Jack's masterpieces that are my top three.

1. Heuer Autavia 3646 - After owning my first 3647 Carrera I sold that and managed to bag this wonderful example. I will never ever sell it. I can't sell it now after it being so (unintentionally I promise!) prominently featured on my latest record cover. My wife wouldn't let me sell it as she steals it for special occasion if I'm wearing something else - this is here wearing mine...

2. Heuer Carrera 2447 - Well I had to let this one go recently. Gnashing of teeth ensued (and the odd tear was shed if I'm honest), but it went on part funding the album above. So no regrets there. I feel honoured to have owned one. I traded up several watches to get this example. A gent in the UK bought it and hopefully he will give me first refusal if he wants to see. I WILL get another.

3. Tag Heuer Spirotechnique - I had heard so much about these, with James and Stewart both saying they were "never to be parted with" pieces. I had the non Spirotechnique Quartz version which I sold on, but this is another beast entirely. They were right. It's a stunner, with that perfect mix of heft and grace.

Well that's it - as always thanks to Jeff and OTD for giving so much pleasure and thanks to all you crazy horologists out there!