Testimonial

Hi Tim,
Banu arrived my office for two days as I am outstation travelling. Finally I have the chance to hold its, feel its and fully appreciate the masterpiece of McGonigle.
What I can say is totally speechless & is not words that I can describe how beautiful this masterpiece created by McGonigle. Absolutely stunning gorgeous.
Again, Tim thanks for all your efforts & giving me all this opportunities to own one of the best of the best masterpiece.
Cheers,
Ronnie

In response to my recent "Musings..." article in "Time with Tim"

http://www.independentintime.com/time-with-tim/2013/3/30/musings-on-independent-watchmaking-and-the-beginning-journey.html

Tim, so great musing with you.  Yes, you had a special vision some ten (maybe more) years ago.  It had to be frightening for you to even finally consider the all the changes you made professionally and personally.  There was so much to loose and total uncertainty of any gain much less a livelihood.  I could see your early passion and it  certainly came as no surprise that you would eventually tag your new business with such an  appropriate name.
 
Then you send this message during the Christian and Jewish weeks of passion, a very different kind for those of us who may lean to the more secular existence.  I come from a family of mixed faiths and tend to lean more to the Judaic teachings - but Easter is a wonderful time along with Passover as they occur at my most favorite time of the year, that being Spring (as in Springer, pun intended) because it is when life is fresh and spontaneous.
 
You, my friend, have certainly been spontaneous by going to the pen (actually the keyboard) and sharing precious moments of the past with us.  As I have previously told you, I am likely at a point in life when I am beyond another timepiece acquisition but were I able, I would follow you much more closely in your pursuit of support for these wonderful independents.  It will likely best be through you, and other of your peers, that these artist/craftsmen are able to be more greatly exposed to the most appreciative buyers.  That you and your independent watchmakers depend on those buyers it behooves you to work hard, give up sleep for personal contact and to never compromise your personal relationship.  You have worked hard to gain the trust and respect of so many, even some who may appear to have fallen by the wayside, so to speak.
 
I just want you to know that Bud and Mickey have not fallen, merely slowed down a small bit.  We still want to be honored by your communications so keep us on those mailing lists.
 
Cheers back at you, as always, Bud Springer 

Tim,
 
Thank you for the follow up.  I can’t even describe how wonderful the Serpent Calendar from Peter is.  I continue to admire the overall look of the watch (the dial, the case, the blue steel hands).  Truly amazing!  It is clearly the centerpiece of my five piece collection.  The fact that I could meet with Peter to discuss watches and other various topics makes it so special!  I did some browsing in Las Vegas and I can honestly say that the Serpent Calendar was head and shoulders above the hundreds of other watches I looked at.  It simply confirmed that I made the correct decision to work with you and Peter now and in the future.
 
I would very much enjoy meeting you in person sometime in your store sometime in 2013 to become more informed of other independent watchmakers.  Perhaps I can coordinate a visit when you are hosting another fine independent.  Having only begun my interest in watches earlier this year, I find myself being most attracted to the independent watchmakers.  The watches that you currently show on your website are among my favorites to view.
 
I had mentioned to Peter that I was interested in a deployant buckle and he said he was working on one that may be ready by next year.  If you hear that he has completed that project, please let me know and we can coordinate the purchase.
 
Again, thank you so much for all of the help.  It has truly been a pleasure working with you!
 
Mike

Nov 10, 2012

In the world of fine watches where most retailers play it safe by offering up big luxury brands, such as Rolex and Jaeger-Le Coultre, it takes a certain passion - not to mention courage - to go against the grain, discover and offer unique pieces made by watchmakers most people have never heard of.  I was recently introduced to "The Independents" by my friend, Tim Jackson.   Ever since our first meeting when I saw the Habring2 Foudroyante, I knew my thinking about watch collecting was going to shift.  His knowledge about this small and exciting group of horologists is unparalleled, and working closely with the manufacturers he represents to ensure clients achieve the perfect fit is his passion!  

From exquisitely crafted, independently-made wristwatches to custom-made, one-of-a-kind diamond rings, if you are looking something truly special Tim is the man to see!

My name is Scott Goldman and I approved this message!

October  8th, 2012

'I am head over heels with my new Sarpaneva K3 Northern Stars. It's an absolute masterpiece.  Dress or casual, this watch is a stunner ... Like nothing else on Earth or even perhaps the Moon.  Sarpaneva's creativity and craftsmanship are second to none, and being able to order a truly bespoke timepiece from an independent watchmaker, at a price a normal person can afford -- and from Finland! -- is a real privilege and pleasure.  What's more, Tim's passion for the craft and affection for 'his' watchmakers are infectious and make the buying and waiting all the more fun.'

Doug W.

July 8th, 2012

hi,
sitting in my bedroom reading a newspaper, what do i hear?  footsteps in the back yard.  thinking it odd that the construction workers have come on a saturday, i look up.  what do i see, the fedex guy walking through my garden:

through my bedroom door:


and into the bedroom:

delivering the watch:

which i like a lot and has exceeded my belief in its execution.  please note: all future deliveries now have to be made to my bedroom.

thanks for getting this habring for me.

Dr. A.

“Tim is one of the most knowledgeable horologists I've ever known, and is of the highest integrity. I have relied on his recommendations in purchasing and selling fine watches from independent watchmakers, who make very few pieces, and not only has he been right, his suggestions have been creative and resulted in better deals for me. Tim works to provide superb service for someone looking for fine jewelry (and high-end watches are jewelry). Moreover, his salon is unique and he frequently has as dinner guests (to which he invites clients) some of the watchmakers/jewelers with whom he deals, which gives the clients an opportunity to meet (and in my case actually continue to communicate with) the people who make the products the clients buy. Tim is good people and terrific to deal with. I'd recommend him to anyone looking for watches and jewelry of the highest quality.”

Steve B. April 13, 2012

“"For over a decade, Tim Jackson has been an invaluable resource regarding all aspects of Independent Watchmakers. He educates and guides, is exceptionally responsive, and helps match an individual's interests with specific pieces. Every interaction has been a pleasure while building a very enjoyable collection of watches and family jewelry." Mark R.”

April 16, 2012

I'd been wanting to visit Tim in Solana Beach, for more than a year.
Boy, I'm so glad I did. Even though I only stopped by for a few minutes the warm and relaxing atmosphere immediately struck me as unique.  No counters,
no barriers, just a place were people passionate about watches can simply talk and converse.

We didn't do any business that day, but a few weeks later I contacted Tim about making a purchase. "Above and Beyond" is the only way to describe the service I received. Prompt priority shipping, constant communication, and Tim doing everything possible to help me make my decision from a long distance away has made me a believer.

Needless to say, "I just received the watch...and it is stunning!".

Thanks Tim

D*C San Jose, CA Dec 20th, 2011

As my own watch passion began back in 1999, I can be
thankful that it began with you.  It's way too common
for watch dealers to be overly focused on making a sale and rarely interested in the timepieces themselves and how they can affect people.  I was fortunate to get my start with the positive experience of your shared passion.
The independent watchmakers couldn't have a better
ambassador than Tim Jackson.

Marc W, Washington DC, Aug 20. 2010

“Tim has provided me with excellent advice and service over the years. Aside from a vast knowledge of his products, Tim has gone above and beyond in after sales service, as well as always assisting me in making the right decisions before and after sales. Tim has a fantastic combination of an artist's eye (setting up the look and feel of his shops, choosing excellent products), great integrity (garnering a high degree of trust and respect from repeat customers), and excellent knowledge about the industry and technical expertise for his products.”

-Gordie, Cupertino, CA, July 8, 2010

I met Tim many years ago and have developed a good friendship with him over the years. Tim introduced me to the world of Haute Horology. Thanks to him, I have established a nice collection of time pieces. Tim puts his client's interest ahead of making a sale. He is a true professional. If you are looking for some fine time pieces from notable independent watchmakers, you should really consider contacting him.

M. Cheng - Portola Valley, CA

"I recently purchased a pre-owned watch from Tim, sight unseen.  I had no hesitation doing so because I knew him by reputation to be an honest gentleman, and of course an enthusiastic supporter of independent makers.  My trust in Tim was well placed.  The watch arrived on schedule and in even better condition than described. I have enjoyed getting to know Tim, and I am looking forward to seeing him soon and sharing our passion for watches."

JL
Los Angeles, CA

"While I was aware of independent watchmakers for a while before I met Tim, I had never really gotten to KNOW them and learn to fully appreciate and love what they do. It is truly refreshing to know the watchmaker as a person rather than a faceless conglomerate or brand - part of their soul is represented in the fantastic products they create. In addition to acquiring their watches, I have been fortunate enough to meet and get to know several of them well - to the point that I consider them more than just talented individuals, they are my friends.

I thank Tim for what he has done and continues to do to educate and inform people about the independents. He is truly a great asset to watch collectors, individual watchmakers and the industry as a whole!"
- RC

Five years ago I saw a watch in a display case. The watchmaker was Peter Speake-Marin - a name I'd never heard of. The watch itself was a magnet for the eye - a timeless version of an Edwardian dial and lugs on the case that suggested a century of timepieces.

When I could, I bought a Piccadilly. Those were better days in the valley; I don't think I'll be able to get anything like the Piccadilly again. But it will last forever, and I never would have known about it if it hadn't been for a watch store that moved far past the well known marques with their large advertising budgets.

SM
Redwood City

Tim has been a superb representative and teacher introducing me to the exquisite artistry and mechanical brilliance of Independent Watchmakers. I have purchased four watches from Independents through Tim. Each one is a wonderful timepiece that gets worn frequently and with great enjoyment. I especially appreciate that Tim is incredible at guiding a match between watch options and my individual interests, lifestyle, and collection. He is a tremendous resource and advocate for Independent Watchmakers.

 

Mark R. Rosekind, Ph.D.

President and Chief Scientist

Alertness Solutions

With Tim's help along the way, I have come to understand that wearing a fine mechanical watch means so much more than just "telling time." It is fashion, my brand, my love of technology, and art - all at once! But be cautious...I never thought that I'd get to the point where a Rolex [insert your brand choice here] just didn't cut it anymore....BW