We always come back from BaselWorld talking about all the great timepieces we saw – and we should. But, as we all know- the info about those watches has to be somewhere – and that is usually on a USB. Indeed, storage is one of the most important aspects when it comes to offering journalists all the information that’s fit to print. That may well be why some watch brands go to the trouble of making creative USBs. We’ve covered this subject here before, but now we bring you the ATP Innovative USB winners of BaselWorld 2014.
Louis Moinet does it best. What better way to save watch images and info than on a miniature pocket watch USB. Not only is the USB a replica of the brand’s early pocket watch, but also it is totally detailed – with a parchment-like dial and stopwatch pushers so realistic you are sure the USB is going to time your next move. In fact, if you give those pushers a pull, the USB comes right out.
Similarly, Frederique Constant also offers an innovated watch USB with raised faux rotor on it and etched movement parts—including screws and jewels – on both sides. It is also a fitting tribute to the in-house calibers the brand produces.
Going in a different direction, Bremont honors its new affiliation with Boeing and its long-time association with aviation with a hefty little airplane USB. The nose pulls out from the body to reveal the USB. Also celebrating its heritage, Bulgari releases its USB in the shape and engraved of the doorway of one of the brand’s first stores – on Via Condotti – in celebration of its 130th anniversary.
This year, these four cool USBs join the other interesting trinkets that adorn my office as innovative gestures from the watch industry. They make great conversation pieces, are cool to travel with and serve a real purpose. What’s next? Again, I am waiting for a brand to create a cloud-shaped mega-sized key… or something even better. Got a good USB? Send me images and we’ll put them up.