Victoria

My boyfriend. He sends me "care packages" from Canada, frequently, full of the things I miss from Canada (remember, I used to live there when younger). I literally JUST got it! It arrived on Saturday. My first pull was what you can expect from a total newbie. Awful. 3rd was ambrosia -- what a crema. Yes, I see that the Rancilios are more favoured in the site Tech directed me to, but I'm going from a Bialetti cooker version to a high-end Gaggia. That's not bad, I think. It's like going from a Paul HBB, to an HBB Lite from Angus. The full ceramic from Josh can be in the future. (Oh, to pre-empt a possible followup, Toady: I have a Gaggia MDF burr grinder, which is getting old. The Rocky is better, yes, but it'll do!) Nice. Score another for Bodum!

Ugh, what a downer. Sorry about the turn of the thread, TeeJay. It's like you can't talk about anything here anymore. Anyway, if you need anything from Miami, let me know. Let's see if I can do better with cars, than I can with straps.

I know I'm a relative newbie, and saying this might be forced, but I_M_H_O, this is the best photo shown of a rep watch on RWG this year.

I forgot about this thread. Geeks are back up! SPPPPARRTTTTTTTTTTAAAAA! P.S.: 300 -- Best feel good movie of 2007. Even its spoofs were THE BEST.

I don't think so. Last I heard, Finepics said Guy at Risti asked him to stop posting there. His abortive attempt to offer advice was rebuffed. He sent me a very kind PM after the recent mel

Moi, if you don't mind going to another forum, here's an EXCELLENT one by Frogman at 'Geeks (5 parts): http://www.repgeek.com/showthread.php?t=677

That's not just the thing, it's EVERYTHING. You fight and keep on fighting. God bless, Cats and a HAPPY New Year to you.

"Although many of Arabo’s creations are designed for both men and women, The Quenttin – Rose Gold, is only for the boys." Let's be honest. Jacob & Co watches are for flamboyant people, whether straight or gay. You have to be very confident in your sexuality as a regular Joe to wear such a marque. But what kills me is the absolute certainty of the statement: is only for the boys. Well at 56mm, perhaps a very big boy... @Pix: LOL! True -- like I will buy a gen Panerai just to know the time. @Dutchy: Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it. Oh yeah, here are (non-forum designated/approved) Jacob & Co rep watches: http://www.milleniumreplicawatches.com/Jac...0Co/index.shtml They are using gen photos, which veteran members here always said is the mark of a fake rep watch site. For the record, they state these pics were taken by them. Maybe Narikaa knows if those are gen or rep J&Cos.

I came across this funny article searching for more "local" news on the late ex-PM Bhutto. It's a fluff piece via an UAE business site. Didn't know much about Jacob & Co watches, other than they're viciously gaudy, so perhaps you might enjoy reading it: "New York jeweller Jacob Arabo’s watches were first seen on the wrists of stars like Madonna, and since then, with the launch of The Quenttin – Rose Gold, topping one million dirhams, they have stayed on the wish-lists of the world’s rich and famous. The limited-edition watch retails at Dh1,440,000 and is only available at BinHendi Jewellery Stores in Dubai. Only 18 were released worldwide and, to date, only three have been sold in the UAE. Although many of Arabo’s creations are designed for both men and women, The Quenttin – Rose Gold, is only for the boys. [ed. Victoria: Oh really now] Jacob & Co was founded in 1981 by Jacob Arabo in New York City. As a young boy Arabo migrated to the United States from Russia with his family and studied jewellery design. After working for jewellery labels and private clients in New York’s famed Diamond District, he opened his own business in 1986 and began designing products under his own brand. He became well known in the entertainment industry after his jewellery appealed to singers such as Whitney Houston and Mary J Blige, who helped to promote his designs. He expanded into timepieces in 2002, with The Five Time Zone Collection, which combined bold primary colours with multiple time zone technology. His first designs were inspired by celebrity clients, including Sir Elton John, David Beckham Justin Timberlake, Bono and Naomi Campbell. Arabo’s philosophy is creating one-of-a-kind jewellery and he has reportedly said: “There are too many generic looking pieces in the marketplace right now – there is a sameness that is not interesting”. One of the company’s previous designs, The World is Yours timepiece, was recognised last year for its big and bold design. Travel + Leisure, one of the world’s leading travel magazines, presented Jacob & Co with one of its 2006 Design Awards, which honour products and destinations that underscore the significance of design in the traveller’s world. Designer products always top the price scale and the Quenttin is also crafted with gold and jewels. The bezel and case are made from 18-carat rose gold. The thin plate, which protects the watch dial, is made from sapphires and there are 40 jewels in the watch. The watch-face displays seven vertical rolls, which are the watch’s barrels, the thin cylindrical boxes containing the watches mainspring. These barrels supply energy for a 31-day (744 hour) power reserve. The Quenttin follows the fashion trend for large, ostentatious watches, measuring 56mm by 47mm. The watch has been billed as the most unusual, complicated timepiece and it is easy to see why. It features vertical mechanical movement with manual winding escapement. It incorporates a Swiss anchor mounted in a Tourbillion cage, which is suspended without roller bearings and positioned vertically. It winds with integrated key, external hand key or it can be motorised in the box. It is water resistant to 30 metres and it has an on-off key for time set up or winding. It is almost guaranteed to never break down, but there is a two-year warranty just in case. [ed. Victoria: 2 years. Generous] Luxury watches have traditionally been the domain of the Swiss watch companies. At two of the industry’s biggest trade fairs this year, Baselword in Basel and SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) in Geneva, Swiss watchmaker Hublot reported sales of 152 million Swiss francs, about Dh488 million. In November 2007, the Swiss watch industry exported 56.2m Swiss francs (Dh180m) worth of watches to the UAE. The UAE ranked 11 in the list of countries receiving exports. Swiss watch company the Marvin Watch Company launched in the UAE last month, after having an international presence in 70 countries. Founded in 1805, it prides itself on beautiful, mechanical, reliable and precise watches. [ed. Victoria: Never heard of Marvin Watch Company. Any info?] In the UAE, Marvin timepiece’s are distributed through Paris Gallery. As part of its expansion in the Middle East, the company has also expanded into Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. According to Marvin International Sales Director Frederic Bastiat, the move aims to “tap the watches sector in the Gulf”. Another Swiss watchmaker, Baume et Mercier, recently announced the Middle East launch of its exclusive women’s watch, Riviera XXL, priced at Dh18,560. The XXL has been marketed as an “an ultra feminine” watch, “combining femininity and prestige” and is aimed at Arab consumers as well as discerning expatriates in the region. It features the line’s signature twelve-sided design. The double twelve-sided bezel, secured by four gem-set screws, is clothed in white gold for the black version, and sapphire crystal for the pink and white versions. The opulent shapes of the white gold case are set with 400 diamonds totalling 9.5 carats." Gratuitous and more common Jacob & Co Wristcheck: Thoughts: DuDro said about another watch: "My first "acid test" for a watch is the readability of the dial" And that's pretty much the problem with the Quenttin. Who can read that dial? OTOH, the 18 "lucky souls" who possess it bought it for every reason BUT to have a timepiece. It's a statement. "Je suis arriv

I was going to mention that, but I believe the laws are different for vintage cars. Something TeeJay needs to research, and I would start with that site you listed. BTW from the Camaro Wiki entry: Top Gear's American fly-drive special featured a third-generation Camaro, bought by presenter Jeremy Clarkson for US$800 in Miami. During the filming, Clarkson became rather attached to the car, at one point stating that "I'd rather be in this now than an Enzo." Heh. And yes, Camaros are dead cheap here, TeeJay. Miamians were always big into muscle cars.

TeeJay, good luck to you. When I was a child, my father imported an automatic car for my mother from the US, so she could drive around the UK. She doesn't do "stick" as Americans say. And she preferred the left-hand ride. Guess what? It was 1982 Camaro Barretta (sp?), if memory serves. Great muscle car. What I recall is that the VAT almost killed him, but he got a break because they had owned it for a while -- a year or so. I think there's a discount if you can claim it's your regular mode of transport in the US, and need it as such in the UK. So far, both Narikaa and Andy's suggestions seem the best. Sorry I can't help more. You'll look a treat in it, as she did, I'm sure. P.S.: Actually, I can help you A BIT. I am going to buy a car this January, so these sites and I have become very close friends: http://www.autotrader.com/ http://www.carfax.com/ Once you get a beat on your Camaro, be sure to get the VIN number. In the latter site, you can check its history, including if it's been in accidents to check the sturdiness of the frame, etc. This site tells you what a car should be worth, key if you're a foreigner getting jacked for the price, the very famous Kelley Blue Book. http://www.kbb.com/ Well, they don't exactly answer your question, but perhaps they can help you in your quest. @Ape: Hmm, could be. Doesn't sound right, except for the -etta ending. I remember thinking the Camaro was cool because it kinda resembled our name. *g*

Rolex + Filet Mignon + Baby Roma Tomatoes = This pic made such an impression on me last night, Mezz...so I'm going for (Peruvian) rotisserie chicken tonight. Which watch to wear... @Freddy: Something told me you'd like it. @Vlydog: Great shot! One of the best. @Golfman: Fiddy + GSCH + French Riviera = ...welcome back!

DSN PAM 112 on Mario Paci SE Senape. Best shot I've ever taken.

1. Observe 2. Read 3. Be jovial 4. Help others 5. If the forum helps you, upgrade to Supporter status 6. Don't reach 4000 posts in 6 months. Good luck! Love your ID.

Ape, I just editted the Wiki definitions article. I used your definitions in part below. See if you wish to edit, to refine it. http://www.rwg.cc/members/index.php?autoco...ticle&id=83 OEM -- "Original Equipment Manufacturer": genuine article, not aftermarket or secondary brands Prince, the definition for AR was there BUT I realise now it's all jumbled together. A more visually pleasing edit is called for. AR -- anti-reflective coating on watch crystals, casts a blueish tint

Hey TeeJay! In theory, yes, I think the same "tells" apply. Here is where they differ, IMHO. A woman's judgementalism of another is more physical, than a man's. A man seems to target earning-power objects like cars and indeed, the watch itself. Ours seems to rely on accessories (shoes, jewelry) which CAN be just as expensive sometimes. Have you ever seen the price of a pair of Jimmy Choos? But also, it's about overall presentation -- nice manicure, pedicure, good style of hair, quality of clothes. That's not something men are socialised to notice or care about, I think. It throws some doubt, but not necessarily. In fact, sometimes it's the opposite -- a model which hasn't hit the shops yet elicits surprise, and doubt. Do you remember when the LV Cerises series came out? (Perhaps not. *g*). Certain women were doubtful of the authenticity of said bags at first. Nice guy...but then we know him, alas. You are too kind to give anything. Maybe I would too, but it wouldn't be nice items like Ken's. TeeJay, I am still in your debt, I haven't forgotten! I apologise publicly though, and hope to address this for the New Year!

I can finally post my Explorer pics, By-Tor! Won't you and Nanuq be surprised. Silix Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer (Ref. 1016) A difficult watch to photograph to get just the right non-reflective shots. But beautiful! (However, this is my first domed plexiglass rep watch and am I glad I got it. I don't think I would like the PAM 249 that much)

@Pix: Happy Birthday, M. Pix! :punk: FRIDAY I knew I waited to post these late for a reason. ...my new "vintage" Silix Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer (Ref. 1016)! Just behind, the recently discussed Bialetti Mukka. Coffee and watches -- all the goodness heaven allows. SATURDAY Al fresco party in the late afternoon, so busting out a very feminine and pretty TechnoMarine. :cloud9: SUNDAY Slai shot! The DSN PAM 112 on an OF Paci "Medici" (Vecchia Sella Tan). Lovely strap. ...be safe, peeps!

As mentioned above, your "heart" reference sold this. That's a writer's description right-there. I bought it at Scamazon instead of Fleabay: Delivery estimate: January 4, 2008 - January 9, 2008 * 1 of: Aeropress Espresso Maker Sold by: Liquid Planet Online (seller profile) * 1 of: Aeropress Filters 350 Pack Sold by: Liquid Planet Online (seller profile) Grand Total: $35.93 Sheesh. I buy straps daily for 5x that price. Thanks, SZ! @TMG: Cool! I'm still in the market for an electric one, because it's easier for my father (that's always a consideration in my home, since he's not as spry as he used to be...). The Aeropress will be for me. @Doc Savage: I must thank you first and foremost for the tip! ...got the filters too, and they say they're washable/reusable, so this is a highly practical implement. Love it. @DS Followup: Oh yes. Like all Brits, we have an electric kettle. No worries there! What with the 3-5 cups of tea, and 2-3 cups of coffee, now you understand why I am wired up at 4 AM.

I got it last Christmas from my boyfriend so I've had some experience with it. I mention this because his entire family only use Bialetti, and have used this before. It's big, bulky, DURABLE and has a capuccino mechanism, which when pressed, theoretically gives you a nice capu/latte. Theoretically, Deltatahoe, because the result is horrible, I'm afraid. For just plain espresso, not too bad. However, the smaller the brikka, the better the espresso, I've noticed. The crema is richer with those. This one has virtually none. EDIT: What I have been taught to do by a Cuban-American friend, to get a better crema with this Mukka, is to take a tiny bit of espresso in a cup, pour it on some granulated white sugar, and spoon it into a froth. Pour that on top of your espresso in the cup. Works well, but as you can see, a lot of extra work. Lastly, I find that you have to RELIGIOUSLY clean this Mukka more than other types, because calcium and mould forms if not. All in all, I would say buy this version only for the visual (it looks chic on one's countertop, I'll give it that; it's a party conversation piece). I would really stick to the basic one: http://www.bialettishop.com/BrikkaMain.htm instead of the Moocow. HTH, D! @Subzero1: Thanks! It's so affordable, that I believe I could buy that and an electric one. Darn the Scandinavian styling of the Bodum Santos though... @UB7: LOL. Happy cooking! BTW, another member raved about the Nespresso in PM. Very nice. But as mentioned, I got a Gaggia Evolution so I'm just looking for an American-style coffeemaker. Not Mr. Coffee though. EDIT: Wow, UB7 that's beautiful. I saw your component setup in another thread, so I can see you are into high-quality goods. What brand is that coffeemaker? I can't quite make it out. @Subzero1 followup: SOLD! That "heart" reference did it -- so evocative. I'm off to Fleecebay to find it.

LOL! That's fantastic, Rima. I will re-use that on my Christmas cards next year. (And the same to you, and yours!) Thanks for that tip. I once had a Krups which didn't last too long, but IIRC, it was a "dorm-type" 4-cupper, which cost about

Hey Dutchy. Thanks for trying to help the forum out. What Andy said is correct, of course, staff are entitled to holidays and indeed, many of them are away, overloading the time of those who remain. But then, you know that. Instead, usually I would tell you to check this part of your "My Controls" area: Options . Purchase Paid Subscriptions . Manage Your Attachments . Manage Friend List . Manage Ignored Users . Email Settings . Board Settings . Change Email Address . Change Password Unfortunately, when _I_ click on it, it refers me to the Admin team -- not the usual "renew subscription" pull-down menu which could also be the case for new subscriptions like yours. It's possible this is part of the "reducing RWG" measures employed by Admin, as he improves the site. To be practical, let me suggest you check out the main index page, and send a PM to one of the Mods once you see they are on same time as you are. Then they would tell you what's going on, better than just guessing as I am. Still, I thought you might be interested in some feedback, as I too waited to be upgraded for a while, and it was nerve-wracking. Funny, huh? Good luck! FOLLOWUP: Yay, I see Admin reading this. May I also inform the Tank Engine about a certain member who has been waiting patiently for an upgrade for a few months -- brsmith11, if memory serves. Thanks for the hard work during this off-period! @Dutchy below: That is unusual. Intuition/logic tells me the Payment methods are being revised, and therefore, your upgrade will be stalled. Hoping your upgrade, and that of others, goes through! Logging off for the day, but please PM if you need anything.

Hey Drhydro! I saw you composing and decided to stick around to see what you would say. Like many "Europeans" I have a Bodum, in fact two, such as this one. Americans call it the French press, as you did. It's a cafetiere for me. I see the advantages of having an electric one (in fact, I like that, thanks for pointing that out!), since I love scalding black coffee, but I find the Bodum gives a different taste to American-style coffee -- a little more full bodied than I prefer. Not that I'm a Folgers type of girl. My favourite are Sumatra blends. That said, I will investigate it. Thanks for the tip! P.S.: Forgot to mention that my "American-type coffee" is actually a misnomer, since my morning coffee of choice is pre-ground Tim Hortons. ...I grind other coffee beans later in the day.

I love coffee. I got a wonderful Gaggia Evolution 16100 as one of my Christmas gifts. My espresso needs are met, yay. But now, I need advice on a good American-style coffeemaker, so since RWG is slow, please help me out with this non-watch related question. BTW, saw this on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detai...PZ&v=glance Cuisinart DCC-1200 12-Cup Brew Central Coffeemaker, Black and Stainless Steel It's programmable, with all the bells and whistles. EDIT: That's a must for me. Only problem is, we have limited counter space in a smallish kitchen. TIA!

As I said too. However, you know how CERTAIN guys here can tell a rep Panerai or Rolex from across the room, or from the merest glance? Certain women are like that about handbags. No matter how good the copy, I can tell a rep from a gen LIKE THAT. My mother, even more. It's about the stitching, the detailing, the interior leather or backing, the size of the lock, the engraving on the logo, etc. etc. etc. Good rep handbags can indeed run you into the high 100s, even 1000s, but they all will have a tell-tale sign. Unfortunately, my talents are limited to seeing a handbag in person. Perhaps other guys here have that same ability with watches, but only in person because you get a better sense of a watch that way. Remember Tin Cup with Kevin Costner? He said you get a special feeling when you hit a ball cleanly -- a tuning fork vibration goes off inside you. Same feeling with me and gen/rep handbags (and paste jewelry, especially diamonds).