At the corner of Burlingame Avenue and Park Road in downtown Burlingame, California is Topper Fine Jewelers — a third-generation family-owned retailer of fine watches and jewelry — and for those in the know, a beloved pillar of the watch collecting community. The B&P Podcast explores this rich world, full of incredible stories, passionate characters, and the amazing watches that we all know and love. Hosted by Zachary Piña, along with Russ & Rob Caplan.
The Burlingame & Park podcast is a must-listen for watch enthusiasts looking for a wealth of knowledge and entertainment. Hosted by Rob, Russ, and Zach from Toppers Jewelers in Burlingame, CA, this podcast offers a unique blend of informative discussions and engaging banter. As someone who has been a happy customer of Topper for years, it's great to hear more about the rationale behind their collaborations and limited editions.
One of the best aspects of The Burlingame & Park podcast is the high level of knowledge that the hosts bring to each episode. It's clear that they are experts in the watch world and their passion shines through in every conversation. They go beyond just discussing the latest news and delve deep into topics like brands, media, design, and retail. Their guests have also been incredibly interesting, adding another layer of expertise to each episode.
Furthermore, what sets this podcast apart is its ability to keep things fun and engaging. While the hosts offer a wealth of information, they never take themselves too seriously. The chemistry between Rob, Russ, and Zach is evident as they play off each other's enthusiasm and share personal anecdotes. This balance between educational content and entertainment value makes The Burlingame & Park podcast a joy to listen to.
As for any potential drawbacks, it would be great if there were more frequent episodes. The listener who suggested a weekly pod definitely has a point - given the depth of knowledge that these guys possess, it would be fantastic to have more regular content from them. However, this can also be seen as a positive aspect because it leaves you eagerly awaiting each new episode.
In conclusion, The Burlingame & Park podcast is an exceptional resource for watch enthusiasts looking for informative discussions delivered with passion and humor. Rob, Russ, and Zach have created an environment at Toppers Jewelers that showcases their love for watches and they translate that same spirit into their podcast. Whether you're a watch aficionado or simply curious about the world of watches, this podcast is a must-listen.
Does micro-adjust actually matter? Should watch dials really have all that extra writing on them? Does the next Gerald Genta already walk among us? This week the boys are looking to ruffle some feathers around the #watchfam with our own spiciest subway takes, and who better to tap in for this one than our longtime pal and resident New Yorker, Worn&Wound co-founder Zach Weiss. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryj• Zach Weiss: @zswWrist check and other elements discussed on this week's episode: - Original review of the Oris Diver 65 Topper Edition by Zach Weiss- Roundtable on the new Omega Railmaster- Worn&Wound WindUP Watch Fair schedule- Worn&Wound 10th Anniversary Seiko 5 Limited Edition- Biwi Factory Tour on Worn&Wound- Russ: Fears Redcliff Confetti Burlingame Edition- Rob: Seiko Prospex 62Mas Re-Issue SJE093- Zach P: Breitling Aerospace Evo, also mentioned the Panerai Radiomir PAM655- Zach W: Otsuka Lotec 7.5- Seconde-Seconde collaborative watch designer...Oh, and by the way:- Zach: A Bit of Optimism Podcast feat. Cory Richards- Rob: Re-watching Rogue One with a new perspective- Russ: Rediscovering the Alfred Hitchcock filmography- Zach W.: Curated film collections streaming on Criterion
Lots to unpack in this week's jam-packed episode, where the boys take you through a few highlights on the ground at Topper's third annual First Look, before settling down in the Biergarten to chat about Rob's shopping adventures in Tokyo, and unbox an Omega watch that none of us had ever seen before. Spoiler alert: it's not a Speedmaster. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryjWrist check and other elements discussed on this week's episode: - Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Ultra-Cermet- Grand Seiko Spring Drive UFA- Topper-exclusive Devil's Canyon Brewing Company beers on tap- Zenith 160th Anniversary GFJ- Fears Arnos Pewter Blue- King Seiko VANAC Tokyo Sunrise Limited Edition- G-Shock MR-G Frogman 'Goliath Frog' (YouTube review in German)- Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Quantieme Perpetual Platinum (the 'mistake dial' story)- On Rob's wrist: Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Spring Drive Mistflake SBGE285 - On Russ' wrist: Armin Strom Gravity Equal Force 'Tranquility'- On Zach's wrist: Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT- Jackroad & Betty (Tokyo retailer for pre-owned watches & handbags)- Rob's unboxing: vintage Omega Seamaster 120 'Jacques Mayol'- The Big Blue freediving film inspired by Jacques Mayol...Oh, and by the way: - Russ: Cody Townsend and The Fifty project- Zach: Stream Last of Us, Season 2- Rob: Watch 'A Complete Unknown' a few more times
How do you beat jetlag? This week on Burlingame & Park, Zach shares the ultimate travel hack, Russ tries to find his voice in the bottom of a cup of Earl Grey, and Rob shares the latest on his beloved Washington Wizards. Of course we're also coming down from Watches & Wonders, and have a chance to unpack a few more thoughts – and one very special pair of watches that went undiscussed on our last episode, but for good reason. And don't forget to RSVP for First Look, coming to Burlingame on April 25th and 26th! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening!Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryjWrist check and other elements discussed on this week's episode: - Russ: Breitling Navitimer B01 43mm- Rob: Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow 3551.20.00- Zach: IWC Big Pilot Top Gun Ceratanium Double Chronograph- Breitling Top Time B01 cycling capsule collection- Omega Speedmaster Double Moonphase- Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic 42mm Stainless Steel- Singer Reimagined Heritage Chronograph- Nomos Club Sport Worldtimer- Bremont Altitude MB Meteor Silver Dial- Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Spring Drive VFA- Zenith 160th Anniversary GFJ Calibre 135- neo-vintage Perrelet Seacraft 777 Diver- Fears Arnos Pewter Blue- Topper First Look RSVP...Oh, and by the way:- Zach: Lifetime Grand Prix cycling documentary series- Russ: re-watching Ted Lasso- Rob: What Went Wrong Podcast: Mad Max Fury Road
This is it – Christmas in April, the global #watchfam's Super Bowl: Watches & Wonders is here, and Russ and Zach are chiming in live from the banks of the Rhone River on the famous QDB in Geneva (with Rob joining remotely) with all their picks, favorites, and show surprises. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening!Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryj
This week, the Topper Dunk Tank®️ makes its official debut on Burlingame & Park as we bring in a few members of the Topper family into the studio hot seat to answer a few of the most common questions they routinely get from the #watchfam. Of course that means our very own Jay (@shespeakswatch) makes a long-awaited return, and this time she's joined by fellow team members Sandy (@sandygmt), Joe (@chrono_joe) and Ron (@daddyloveswatch) who all share some unique perspective and insight for the first time on Burlingame & Park. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening!Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryjWrist check and other elements discussed on this week's episode: - The many micro-seasons ('Sekki') in Japan- Fears x Studio Underdog Gimlet- John Caplan talks about the Fears Redcliff 'Confetti' project- The Fears Redcliff 'Confetti' Burlingame Edition - The B&P episode covering the last two decades of the Seamaster Planet Ocean- Russ' wrist check: Omega Seamaster 300m Diver- Rob's wrist check: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 39.5mm Summer Blue- Zach's wrist check: Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Date Green- Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer
Longtime listeners know that we love Fears Watches, and folks close to the Caplan family know of the challenging journey that Rob and his son John have been on for the last four years, which is why this particular episode is all about a story that's been percolating for a very long time – one that's about more than just watches, and it's one that's truly a reason to celebrate. And of course it features our now four-time guest of B&P, the one and only Nicholas Bowman-Scargill, fourth generation Managing Director of the Fears Watch brand, who's here to walk us through the new Fears Redcliff 'Confetti' Burlingame Edition, available exclusively at Topper. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening!Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryj• Nicholas: @nicholasbowmanscargillWrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode:• Jackie & Shadow bald eagle nest cam (three eggs have now hatched!)• The Robert Fuller naturalist YouTube channel• Fears Redcliff Confetti 'Burlingame Edition'• Russ: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback Chronograph• Zach: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Shades 'Sandstone'• Nicholas: Fears Redcliff 39mm prototype• Rob: Fears Redcliff 'Confetti' Burlingame Edition prototype• Fears Redcliff Edwin Limited Edition• Confetti dial artwork done by @johncaplanart• Stanford Children's Hospital & the Lucile Packard Foundation...Oh, and by the way: - Zach: When Your Camera Saves a Mel Gibson Film- Rob: Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman streaming on Disney+- Russ: My Name is Asher Lev book- Nicholas: British gold in Fort Knox
When it was introduced in 2005, many of us might not have realized at the time, but we were privy to a front-row seat of the launch of what would soon become a proper modern dive watch icon. Flash-forward twenty years, the boys are here to embark on their first big deep dive into two decades of the Planet Ocean, calling out subtle differences in Co-Axial movement tech, aesthetic and design changes, and what they hope the platform could become for 2025 and beyond. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening!Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan• Rob: @robcaplan_topper• Zach: @zachxryjWrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode:- Rob: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 39.5 'Summer Blue'- Russ: Omega Seamaster Diver 300m- Zach: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Liquid Metal LE- New Grand Seiko 'Sekki' references in Ever-Brilliant Stainless Steel- Zenith Chronomaster Revival "Cover Girl" in forged carbon- The Essential Guide to the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, by Bilal Khan on ablogtowatch- Founder of parkour Sebastien Foucan in Casino Royale- Visual and timekeeping differences between Co-Axial Calibre 2500b, 2500c, and 2500d movements- Everything you need to know about how the Co-Axial escapement works- Omega Speedmaster Split Seconds 'Rattrapante' Limited Edition (2010)- Brushed silver and khaki-dialed Seamaster Planet Ocean 8900 Boutique Exclusives...Oh, and By the way: - Rob: Stream White Lotus Season 3 (Thailand) on HBO Max- Zach: Everyday carry: Anso Aros folding pocket knife- Russ: Hotly anticipating high-end skiing vaporware
The boys have braved the first big winter storm of 2025 and paddled their way to Burlingame to check out some of the coolest and newest arrivals to the store, wax nostalgic on their favorite casebacks of all time, and debate whether or not a pocket wrist shot is 'correct' when it's positioned upside-down to the camera (but 'correct' to the wearer). And listener take note: Zach is prepared to die on this hill. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Anniversary Edition - Russ: Bremont MB2 "Topper Edition" - Zach: IWC Top Gun Double Chronograph Ceratanium - Bremont ejection seat testing protocols - Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Titanium & Bronze Gold - Glashütte Original SeaQ 39 now available with a sapphire caseback - Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph Skeletonized - Casio Oceanus Manta SG1000 50th Anniversary Edition ...Oh, and By the way: - Russ: Stream Special Forces: World's Toughest Test on Hulu - Rob: Friends of Big Bear Valley Bald Eagle Webcam (Jackie & Shadow) - Zach: Artem FKM Loopless straps
2025 wasted no time in gifting us with plenty of exciting new watches, and this week on our first pod of the new year, the boys are tapping in with the Oris Diver 65 60th Anniversary Edition, a lovely tribute edition to an Oris original (the brand's 'little hero,' in CEO Rolf Studer's own words), and the not-so-distant-cousin of a Topper Edition we ourselves did, some 9 years ago. The boys also share a few predictions, along with their own release hopes and dreams for 2025 – with lots to unpack here, so settle in, and get a pen handy as their recommended "By the Way" watchlists are getting longer by the day. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Oris Diver 65 Topper Edition (2016) - Russ: Zenith Pilot Chronograph Flyback Grand Date - Zach: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 'Shades' Sandstone ...Oh, and By the way: - Zach: Day of the Jackal on Peacock - Rob: Landman on Paramount Plus - Russ: Classic Tahoe ski films like "Game of G.N.A.R." feat. Shane McConkey
Our final pod of 2024 is here, and we're tying one off with a few of our favorite watches of the year, including a breakdown of Omega's epic new Speedmaster Pilot – a reference illustrating the Bienne maker was really saving the best for last. All of our picks from this episode are pulled from our Top Ten roundup here on the site, so click through to see the full breakdown. Oh, and don't forget to RSVP for our final event of the year: our Holiday Party Presented by Oris, which happens on Saturday, December 14th at 5:30pm. This event will have refreshments, special gifts from Oris, and even a pop-up gift shop from IRL 'friend of the pod' Wesley, of Standard H. The list is almost full though, so if you haven't already, be sure to RSVP and we'll see you there! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Omega Speedmaster Apollo Soyuz Limited Edition - Russ: Omega Speedmaster Super Racing - Zach: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer - Deejo "Tattoo" Pocket Knives - Omega Speedmaster Solar Impulse HB-SIA - Omega Speedmaster Pilot 'Flight Qualified' - Omega Speedmaster 'Flight Qualified' leak on Fratello - Our Top Ten Watches of 2024 (feat. Blancpain, Grand Seiko, Oris, Seiko 5, Breitling, Parmigiani and more) - Watch 'Endurance' on Disney+ Oh, and by the way, our non-watch holiday gift picks: • Zach: Shackleton British-Made Hero Sweater • Rob: Flameless Candles • Russ: Akova Outerwear
It's our biggest NWA of the year as the boys unbox #001 of the DOXA Sub 300 'Great White' – our 15th collaborative edition, this time with a beloved and legendary dive watch maker. In this Episode, the boys share the inspiration for this special collaboration (the shark-infested waters surrounding the Farallon Islands), and go deep on the watch's unique design signatures to reveal the concepts behind them. And don't forget to RSVP for DOXA Day, this Saturday, December 7th as we celebrate this launch with a special in-store party! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf Topper Edition - Russ: Oris Diver Sixty-Five Topper Edition - Zach: Hamilton Khaki Field Engineered Garments - Grandma Shelly on 'Small Business Saturday' - RSVP for DOXA Day (Saturday, December 7th) - RSVP for Topper's Holiday Party Presented by Oris - Premium Standard H hats & ballcaps - The Devil's Teeth book - Ocean Adventures, Jean-Michel Cousteau Oh, and by the way: • Zach: Near Miss, a short film by Josh Berry • Rob: Skeleton Crew on Disney+ • Russ: old comfort movies on Tubi, like Almost Famous (bring your own turkey leg + mayo)
The boys can't seem to get enough of the Topper Biergarten while the weather is still great (make hay while the sun shines, right?), and are back recording outside talking about Burlingame Blue, some new fall arrivals, including an all-important fit check with the incredible new Parmigiani Toric. And be sure to stick around to the end for an exclusive inside scoop on Topper's next collaborative edition! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Summer Blue - Russ: Omega Speedmaster Super Racing - Zach: Tudor FXD GMT - Parmigiani Toric Petite Seconds - Oris Divers Date - GPHG 2024-nominated Grand Seiko SLGW003 - Grand Seiko SLGW005 Limited Edition - Zenith Defy Extreme Silver Diver - RSVP for DOXA Day (Saturday, December 7th) Oh, and by the way: • Zach: Hamburger America • Rob: Watching the Washington Wizards
The boys are back in the Biergarten watching our new mural come to life, and going deep on the complexity and technology powering the Grand Seiko Spring Drive movement. Once again, we're joined by our good pal Joe Kirk, Grand Seiko's Brand Curator who's got plenty of amazing insider insight on just what makes these movements so revolutionary. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Joe: @josep.kirk Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Russ: Grand Seiko SBGA387 'Kira-Zuri' Limited Edition (2018) - Zach: Grand Seiko SBGE285 'Mist Flake' - Rob: Grand Seiko SBGE285 'Mist Flake' - Joe: Grand Seiko SLGH005 White Birch & 8 Day Power Reserve SBGD202 - Grand Seiko canvas strap combo SBGV245 - Caterer (Jeff) wrist check (Grand Seiko SBGC017) - "Into the Mist" GS9 article (GS9 Club member login required) - LA Dodger Shohei Ohtani wearing the Grand Seiko SBGJ217 - Grand Seiko point of entry: SBGA211 "Snowflake" in titanium and SBGA413 "Shunbun" also in titanium - Grand Seiko Spring Drive 9R calibre - Burlingame & Park Episode 6 feat. Joe Kirk - Grand Seiko Master Craftsman Hiroki Soma Oh, and by the way: • Zach: new Scout Motors hybrid SUV • Rob: the fabulous future of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) • Russ: Grand Seiko and Godzilla • Joe: Midnight Diner on Netflix
Listen closely, and you might catch the faint whistle of the 3:58 Caltrain arriving at Burlingame Station – that's because this week, we're coming at you from our usual Burlingame home, but under the Northern California sunshine in Topper's brand new Biergarten, courtesy of our friends at Glashütte Original. And speaking of this amazing German maker, we're sitting down with Glashütte Original North American Brand President Stephen Kounas to learn about some incredibly cool easter eggs wrapped up in two incredibly cool watches. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Stephen: @stephen_kounas Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Zach: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph Titanium - Rob: Glashütte Original SeaQ Chronograph 'Silver Screen' - Russ: neo-vintage Glashütte Original Senator Navigator Panorama Date - Stephen: Glashütte Original PanoMatic Calendar Red Gold on an orange textile strap Oh, and by the way: • Zach: Cervelo Aspero-5 gravel bike • Russ: Re-watching Pulp Fiction • Rob: Midsommer (trailer only for the horror-squeamish) • Stephen: Topper Jewelers Dot Com
Many months in the making, our good friend Romain Marietta, Head of Product Design at Zenith finally made the long journey to Burlingame, and naturally, we're thrilled to have him back on the podcast (our first repeating guest) to chat about Zenith's not-so-distant past, its present, and some very exciting hints at its future. And per usual, Romain is not one to stay completely buttoned-up on brand secrets, making this an episode you don't want to miss. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Romain: @romain.marietta Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Russ: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback - Rob: vintage Zenith Respirator Automatic 28,800 - Zach: Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar Boutique Edition // Zenith Chronomaster Revival 'Safari' Boutique Edition - Romain: vintage Zenith A386 from 1969 - EP21 with Romain Marietta - Zenith Defy Classic Gold Tourbillon under Thierry Nataf - Zenith Defy Xtreme Tourbillon Zero-G - Zenith Pilot Doublematic (Chronograph, Alarm, GMT) - Red Bull Stratos Jump by Felix Baumgartner - Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Chronograph - Zenith Defy Revival Diver - Zenith CEO Jean-Frédéric Dufour moves to Rolex in 2014 - Zenith Defy Zero G with a sapphire case - Zenith Chronomaster Sport Gem-Set 'Rainbow' - Zenith Defy Skyline Tourbillon Filipe Pantone - Defy Extreme Filipe Pantone (Series II), Defy 21 Chronograph Filipe Pantone (Series I) ...Oh, and by the way: - Rob: The Penguin on HBO Max - Zach: The Color of Everything: Cory Richards - Russ: Acquired Podcast: The Complete History & Strategy of LVMH - Romain: "DJ Mehdi: Made in France"
Not to name names, but we *might* have gotten a little out over our skis earlier this summer when discussing the feature set of a certain soon-to-be-launched dive watch, and now that said watch has been released, we're here to set the record straight on a few details of its specifications that we didn't get quite right. (And Rob regrets the error.) As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Evan: @youreterrific1 Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Zach: Omega Seamaster 1200 "Ploprof" - Russ: Omega Speedmaster 'Super Racing' - Rob: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 39.5mm 'Summer Blue' - Breitling NFL Editions Collection - Longines Legend Diver 39mm Color Editions - Seiko Prospex 1968 Marinemaster Re-Interpretation SLA077 - Burlingame & Park EP31: The Final Word on Helium Valves with Jason Heaton - September 21st Breitling NFL Tailgate event at Topper - September 27th Zenith Gathering with Romain Marietta Oh, and by the way: - Zach: Twisters - Rob: Watching the San Francisco 49ers - Russ: Watching the San Francisco Giants
Long time listener, first time caller – this week on B&P, the boys are checking in with our good pal Evan (owner & host of the delightful You're Terrific YouTube channel) to talk about watch collecting and making YouTube watch reviews, along with his penchant for playing bad music (and curating great music), salsa dancing, and a whole lot more. Rob also tries to get to the bottom of "who is actually terrific?" As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Evan: @youreterrific1 Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Zach: Omega Seamaster 1200 "Ploprof" - Russ: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Titanium - Rob: Breitling Aerospace 'Repetition Minutes' - Evan: Parmigiani Tonda PF Micro Rotor - Evan's You're Terrific YouTube channel - Visit to the MB&F 'Mad Gallery' - H. Moser Streamliner Tourbillon Vantablack - Casio F91W Watch Review - You're Terrific Tees for Water Charity - A recap of the Grand Seiko night at Topper - MAT Watches from Paris, France (Mer, Air, Terre) - Cuban watchmakers Cuervo y Sobrinos
We're not sailors, but the boys are all back in California, recording remotely and happy to pretend for a day that we know how a regatta timer works, with the start of the America's Cup about to kick off in Spain. We're also checking in with all of the newest releases from Geneva Watch Days, the formal introduction of the fall launch calendar from all our favorite brands in Switzerland. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Russ: Parmigiani Tonda PF Annual Calendar - Rob: Omega Speedmaster Super Racing - Zach: IWC Aquatimer 35 Years Ocean 2000 LE - GPHG 2024 Nominated Watches - 2024 Omega Seamaster Diver 300m America's Cup - Omega Seamaster 300m Diver Chronograph America's Cup - Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Deep Black ETNZ Edition - Untold: The Race of the Century (Netflix) - Czapek Antarctique S Aventurine "Polar Sky" - DOXA Sub 300T Professional "Aristera" - Armin Strom Dual Time Resonance Masterpiece Sapphire - Zenith Defy Skyline Felipe Pantone Tourbillon Oh, and by the way: • Rob: The Rewatchables Podcast: Purple Rain • Russ: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington • Zach: Los Padres FKT: The Long Traverse cycling video
It's a special one in Burlingame this week, with Rob briefly joining us via telephone from his Olympic sojourn (moments after the historic men's basket ball final, no less), but sitting in his stead is none other than Wesley Smith, our good friend from Standard H who's here to do a live unboxing of his latest watch buy, and talk community building, watch collecting, and a bit about those "secret handshake" watches that always tend to delight those in the know. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Wesley: @standardh_ Wrist check, topics, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - the Standard H podcast - Wesley: DOXA Sub 200T Aquamarine - Russ: Omega Speedmaster Calibre 321 "Ed White" - Zach: Chopard Alpine Eagle Cadence 8hf - A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 - the @taupestrapclub - the Paris 2024 Omega collection at Topper - Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Armand Duplantis - Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Black Lacquer Dial - Breitling Navitimer B01 41mm - Breitling Aerospace Orbiter Limited Edition
With the 2024 Olympic Games going full speed ahead in Paris this week, the boys are tapping in with the world of Omega and the Bienne maker's longstanding relationship with timekeeping the games since 1932. Did you know that Omega isn't just the official timekeeper, but also the manufacturer of virtually all of the instruments used in timing the games? This includes the starter pistols, the scoreboards, and a whole heck of a lot more – tap in for the full story! And though the boys make their own speculations, for the record, Omega's first ever commemorative watch dates all the way back to the Melbourne Olympic Games in 1956. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj Wrist check, and watches discussed on this week's episode: - Rob: Omega Speedmaster CK2998 "Snoopless" - Russ: Omega Seamaster Diver 300m - Zach: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer Titanium - History of Omega's legacy of timekeeping the Olympic games
For the better part of the last decade or so, Oris has quietly carved out a reputation of being a leading independent with a heavy focus on watchmaking innovations driven by science and a startup mentality. Watches like the Aquis Depth Gauge and the ProPilot Altimeter immediately spring to mind, but newer innovations in carbon fiber casemaking and wild dial design are also being pioneered – all special projects being led by Oris Product Engineer Richard 'Ipy' Siegrist. This week on Burlingame & Park, the boys had a chance to sit down with Ipy to dig into that secret sauce and learn more about some of the most interesting projects he's had a chance to work on. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Ipy: @ipysiegrischt
What makes a great dive watch? How much water resistance do you really need? How exactly does a helium release valve work and do I really need one? We all love dive watches, but these are the questions that we hear regularly, and who better to answer them than *actual* friend of the pod, none other than author, adventurer, and diver Jason Heaton? Indeed – grab your mask and fins, and settle in, this was a delightful interview with one of the nicest guys in the industry, and it leaves no stone unturned on just what makes dive watches — and the sport of scuba diving, so cool. As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. Thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Jason: @jasonheaton —— Wrist check & watches discussed on this week's episode: - Russ: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Titanium - Rob: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 'Summer Blue' 39.5mm - Zach: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph Titanium - Jason: Blancpain Bathyscaphe Limited Edition for Hodinkee —— • Listen to more of Jason on The Grey Nato Podcast • Oris AquisPro 4000m • Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 'Ultra Deep'
So what's the deal with rainbow watches? This week, on the heels of a very cool new Breitling Superocean Rainbow launch, the boys peel back all the layers on this techinicolor trend, before checking in with all the newest arrivals to topperjewelers.com. You'll also not want to miss our June 29th event with author and diver Jason Heaton – this event will fill up, so RSVP here to get yourself on the list! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. As always, thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— Wrist check & watches discussed on this week's episode: • Russ: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback 'Rainbow' • Rob: Breitling Aerospace Repetition Minutes • Zach: Breitling Superocean "Outerknown" • New Breitling Chronomat 42mm on rubber • Longines 36mm Conquest • Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba • G-Shock MT-G Diffuse Nebula • new Summer 2024 Breitling Superocean collection (Rainbow & Superdiver) • gem-set Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch collection
We couldn't have called it, but after a relatively quiet start to the summer, all it took was one #SpeedyTuesday to set things abuzz. This week on Burlingame & Park, the boys are reflecting on what's turned into the busiest product launch week since Watches & Wonders, with new releases from Omega, Singer, Breitling, King Seiko, Oris, G-Shock, and more — and best of all, many of these watches are already in-store and shipping! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. As always, thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— Wrist check & watches discussed on this week's episode: • Russ: Parmigiani Tonda PF Annual Calendar • Rob: Fears Brunswick 40 Topper Edition Series II "Snowed In" • Zach: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph - Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Bi-Color (vintage inspiration here) - Singer Reimagined 1969 Bronze - New King Seiko KS69 Modern Re-Creation - New Breitling Chronomats (Giannis, Triumph, and more) - Oris 2024 Aquis "Watermelon" limited production capsule - G-Shock MR-G 'Casioak' in titanium & Cobarian
After a one-week hiatus, the boys are all back under one roof – Zach is back from Copenhagen, Russ is back from jort-skiing Palisades on the second-to-last weekend of the season, and Rob has returned from a journey through Omega's epic new manufactory – y'know, the solar-powered campus designed by renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, wherein a state-of-the-art robot tirelessly sorts over 30,000 boxes containing every watch part imaginable and delivers individual components to watchmakers who are hard at work building the Omega watches we know and love. In this episode, Rob takes us on a deep dive into historical vintage Seaamsters from the museum, talks about his impressions of the factory, and maybe even sets the record straight on just how special these Calibre 321 Speedmasters really are (spoiler: they're real special). Oh, and is it Biel or Bienne? Answer: Both! As always, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. As always, thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— Wrist checks on this week's episode: • Rob: Omega Seamaster 200m "Pre-Bond" • Zach: Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Date • Russ: Omega Speedmaster CK2998 'Pulsometer' —— Watches discussed on this week's episode: - 1970s Omega Seamaster 200 "Banana" - Omega Seamaster 'Baby Ploprof' 166.0250 - Vintage Omega Seamaster Calibre 321 Chronograph - Omega 70 Years of Seamaster book - Omega Seamaster Polaris Ana-Digital - vintage Seamaster Polaris ad campaign with John McEnroe - Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Only book (3rd Edition) - A glimpse of the robot at the heart of the Omega Manufactory
Two guests in one show? You better believe it – buckle up for a very special episode of Burlingame & Park, where we rescue our very good friend Joe Kirk from the Topper First Look mob to talk about his role as Brand Curator, and the most complicated dial Grand Seiko has ever made. Then a few short days later, we welcome our pal and Fears Managing Director Nicholas Bowman-Scargill back into Burlingame (this time in the studio) to talk about our latest Fears collab, the Silver Sector Topper Edition, and what it means to 'paint behind the radiator,' as he likes to put it. Pour yourself a cold beverage and strap in – this one's packed with gems. And remember, you can reach the boys for questions and comments at podcast@topperjewelers.com. As always, thanks for your support, and thanks for listening! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— Wrist checks on this week's episode: • Rob: Fears Redcliff Date (2016) • Zach: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Liquid Metal LE • Russ: Glashütte Original Senator Navigator Panorama Date • Joe Kirk: Grand Seiko White Birch SLGH005 & Grand Seiko Spring Drive 8 Day SBGD202 • Nicholas: Fears Redcliff Pewter Gray —— Watches discussed on this week's episode: • Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Caliber 9SA4 • Grand Seiko Caliber 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition SBGC275 • Fears Brunswick Silver Sector Topper Edition
You win some, you lose some. And somewhere between splitting the boys between time zones we ran into some technical difficulties in getting all of our Watches & Wonders thoughts transcribed, but fret not — all was not lost, and we are here with a very special episode that was recorded partially in Geneva, and partially back in Burlingame, with the boys sharing their initial reactions, and doling out a series of completely official and totally not made-up awards from another epic year at Watches & Wonders. Apologies for any redundant bits where some of the same thoughts are shared in both Geneva and Burlingame, as the boys did cover some of the same salient points twice. We're also on the eve of our second annual First Look event, where all the latest novelties from Watches & Wonders will be joining us here in Burlingame — you can learn more about this very special event and RSVP right here. —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— This week's wrist check: • Rob: Seiko Prospex SLA017 62MAS Re-Creation • Zach: Blancpain x Swatch Scuba "Ocean of Storms • Russ: Omega Speedmaster CK2998 ——
Wait, why not? Tap in and let the boys explain. Instead of dusting off the crystal ball, Rob, Russ, and Zach are taking a closer look at a few recent arrivals to the store, including one of the hottest modern Speedmasters ever: the Apollo 8, and the many differences that comprise its recent update, the über-cool Mark II. That's not the only cool new Omega in the store though, so listen on for the full rundown before we cast off for Geneva. As always, thanks for listening – we hugely appreciate your support, and love getting emails with questions or comments – you can reach the boys directly here: podcast@topperjewelers.com —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— This week's wrist check: • Rob: Grand Seiko Kira-Zuri SBGA387 • Zach: Panerai Luminor PAM531 • Russ: Parmigiani Tonda PF Annual Calendar —— Watches discussed in this week's episode: • Topper's 2024 Watches & Wonders novelty collection page • Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional White Lacquer • Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Paris • Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Boutique Exclusive • Glashütte Original Sixties Chronograph Annual Edition • the new 39mm DOXA Sub 200T Sea Emerald • Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8 Mk. II
Burlingame and Park officially turns one year old this week, and for this special birthday episode, the boys are embarking upon a deep dive on the legendary Blancpain Fifty Fathoms to go hands-on with the new, hotly anticipated 42.3mm 5010 Fifty Fathoms, taking all its crucial measurements, sharing on-wrist impressions, and speculating on the future of this mighty dive watch. We also explore the many functions of a good dive watch – many of these features being pioneered by Blancpain itself, with the original Fifty Fathoms of 1953. As always, thanks for listening – we hugely appreciate your support, and love getting emails with questions or comments: podcast@topperjewelers.com —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— This week's wrist check: • Rob: Omega Seamaster Diver 300m Diver • Zach: Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronograph Titanium • Russ: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic 45mm Titanium —— • Explore Topper's new 5010 Fifty Fathoms Ti23 collection • Betty Fiechter's tenure at Blancpain setting the stage for the Fifty Fathoms • The birth of the dive watch in 1953, from Jean-Jacques Fiechter
How does a chunk of iron that once hurtled through space over a million years ago end up as a tiny sliver in the dial of a modern Omega Constellation watch? This week, the boys of Burlingame are taking a deep dive into meteorite dials – where they come from, how they're made, and just what we love about them. However, along the way, we gladly digress with a conversation on subtleties in case design from Grand Seiko, share first impressions of the Fears Redcliff in the metal, and a whole lot more. As always, thanks for listening – we hugely appreciate your support, and love getting emails with questions or comments: podcast@topperjewelers.com —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— This week's wrist check: • Russ: Longines Hydroconquest GMT Diver • Rob: Seiko Prospex 62MAS Re-Creation SJE093 • Zach: Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronograph Titanium —— • 2002 Corum Padlock watch • The first Omega Constellation with an integrated bracelet • Episode 10 interview with Erik Strickland on the SJE093 • New 38mm titanium Grand Seiko "Sekki" references (SBGH341 Pink & SBGH343 Green) • Fears Redcliff Date (Pewter Grey) • Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 Bronze US-Exclusive • Omega Constellation with colored meteorite dial
Spoiler alert: we have. The boys are back in Burlingame, and this week, we partake in a spot of Wikipedia vandalism, and each tell a story that we might once have been too ashamed to share. We also share the origins behind our obsession with the "California dial" – a timely conversation with our Fears Topper Editions, and the Bremont x Bamford collaborative sequel which both just dropped. We also debate the merits of "Caller" vs. "Traveler" GMT functionality as we check out the new Ball Engineer III Outlier, which just landed in-store. As always, thanks for listening – we hugely appreciate your support, and love getting emails with questions or comments: podcast@topperjewelers.com —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— • The official Wikipedia page for "California Dial" • Worn & Wound's Guide to Modern California Dials • Interview with Nicholas about the Topper Edition California Dial • Zach's ABTW story about wearing his Geophysic while sheltering at home • Classic Hunter S. Thompson quote: "...Too weird to live, too rare to die..."
The boys are back, and this week they're split between three towns, led by Russ on the ground in Miami at LVMH Watch Week with Romain Marietta, Chief Product Officer for Zenith. Romain has been with Zenith for 16 years and counting – it's where his career began, so there are few people that know this brand quite like he does. We go over all of the Le Locle maker's newest launches, including the endlessly charming Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar, and the brand new titanium Chronomaster Sport, while trying to get him to spill a secret or two on what we can expect from this high-flying brand in 2024. Will Zach finally get his titanium Pilot this year? As always, we love hearing from you – shoot us a note at podcast@topperjewelers.com and maybe we'll read your question on air! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj • Romain: @romain.marietta —— Watches & stories discussed on this week's episode: • Rob's watch: Zenith Chronomaster C.01 for Collective • Russ' watch: Zenith Pilot Flyback Big Date • Zach's watch: Vacheron-Constantin Overseas Dual Time 'Everest' • Romain's watch: vintage Zenith Triple Calendar prototype • Our episode exploring the Zenith attic, featuring our own Jay Liu
The boys are back! We're kicking off our inaugural 2024 recording with a very special guest, and an equally special Topper Edition: the launch of our Fears Series II Capsule, codename "Project Shovel" by our good friend Nicholas Bowman-Scargill. Nicholas will be joining on this episode to take us through the inspiration and development of each of the four watches in the capsule, which pivots around a weeklong trip through some of our favorite places in Northern California. So settle in, pour yourself a cup of tea and be sure to explore the capsule collection right here before they're gone! —— Follow the boys on Instagram: • Russ: @russcaplan • Rob: @robcaplan_topper • Zach: @zachxryj —— Here are the watches featured in this week's wristcheck: • Zach: Panerai Radiomir 1940 ref. PAM655 • Russ: Fears Brunswick 40 Topper Edition - Black • Rob: Fears Brunswick 40 Topper Edition - White • Nicholas: Fears Brunswick 40 Topper Edition - Black And here are other elements discussed on the episode this week: • Sticker pack produced by John Caplan • Images from Nicholas from 'Project Shovel' • Roy Lichtenstein 1963 "WHAAM" painting in the Tate Gallery • The USGS definition of "Fool's Gold"
Rather than rehash all our favorite watches of 2023 (we recommend Episode 2 for our W&W picks, or Episode 18 for our holiday picks for these highlights), the boys are dusting off the old Topper crystal ball and looking into the future to make predictions and share hopes for what should be another very exciting year in watch releases. We also do a big deep dive into DOXA Watches – the latest brand to join the Topper stable. As always, thanks for all your incredible support in 2023. This will be our last episode for a few weeks as the boys recharge batteries, line up some new guests, and get prepped for an epic 2024. Of course we're thrilled to have you along for the ride. Questions, comments, or feedback can all be sent to podcast@topperjewelers.com. —— Here are the watches featured in this week's wristcheck: • Zach: Oris Diver's Seventy-Five for Collective • Russ: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 5015 Titanium • Rob: Omega Seamaster Diver 300m w/ Omega mesh bracelet And here are the other items discussed throughout the episode: • Our interview with Seiko collector Erik Strickland discussing the new 62MAS re-issue • The official "Tiffany Blue" Pantone® color is called “1837 Blue,” named after Tiffany's founding year • The new DOXA collection at Topper Jewelers • Our interview with Jason Lim of Halios • Our Top Ten Watches of 2023
We're just a few short days from Christmas, so in this episode, we get a surprise mystery guest dropping by the store to pick up a very special watch, then the boys tap in with their favorite gift picks – one practical choice, and one proper grail. Maybe these are gifts for loved ones, or we're just projecting and we're really just shopping for ourselves this year. And on that note, who do you think would be the most difficult to shop for in the Christmas season? As always, thanks for all your support this year — we're thrilled to have you along for the ride. Questions, comments, or feedback can all be sent to podcast@topperjewelers.com. —— Here are the watches featured in this week's wristcheck: • Mystery Guest: G-Shock 40th Anniversary Full Carbon Purple • Zach: G-Shock 40th Anniversary Full Carbon Black • Russ: Zenith Pilot Big Date Flyback • Rob: Breitling Superocean Heritage '57 Outerknown — And here are the watches featured in this week's holiday guide feature: • Zach's practical pick: Seiko 5 Sport GMT SSK017 • Russ' practical pick: Longines Mini Dolcevita Quartz • Rob's practical pick: Hamilton Khaki Field Expedition 41mm • Zach's grail pick: Breitling Avenger B01 Ceramic 'Night Mission' • Russ' grail pick: Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda Sport Chronograph • Rob's grail pick: Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonshine Gold
We're back! After an extra week pause for the Thanksgiving holiday, the boys are back on the mics for a very special interview with none other than Kikuo Ibe, the inventor and godfather of the G-Shock. Word on the street is that while Mr. Ibe has given plenty of interviews in his native Japan, this is the first time he's been on a podcast in the United States, and we're very lucky to have him. In this episode, he shares a little insight into the inspiration and development of the iconic G-Shock, and also shares his own favorite watch – it's one you just don't want to miss, so tap in! —— Here are the G-Shock watches featured in this week's episode: • Rob's pick: G-Shock MRG-B2000 "Kachi-Iro" • Russ' pick: G-Shock 40th Anniversary Full Carbon • Zach's pick: G-Shock Full Metal "Virtual Armor II" GMW-B5000TVB-1 • Mr. Ibe's pick: G-Shock GW-M5600 (Black)
As we get ready for an epic in-store event with G-Shock and its inventor Kikuo Ibe, the boys survey the G-Shock ownership experience as it spans the simple square-cased DW references favored the brand's godfather, and goes all the way up to the epic MR-G watches that you've just got to see IRL to fully appreciate. As always, thanks for listening! And don't forget to RSVP to our upcoming events — the G-Shock event discussed in this episode is full, but we have another epic gathering with Breitling slated for Thursday, November 16th! —— Here are the G-Shock watches featured in this week's episode: • Rob's pick: G-Shock Full Metal Porter Limited Edition GMW-B5000TFC-1 • Russ' pick: G-Shock G-Steel GST-B100 Carbon Series • Zach's pick: G-Shock Full Metal "Virtual Armor II" GMW-B5000TVB-1
Fresh off the heels of a very successful event with our friends at Longines, we thought we'd take a birds-eye view of this wildly underrated Swiss maker to explore how a brand with incredible history, unbeatable value propositions, and exceptional quality still manages to fly under the radar in 2023. ...Or does it? As always, thanks for listening! And don't forget to RSVP to our upcoming events — we have another epic gathering with Seiko slated for Friday, November 3rd! —— Here are the watches featured in this week's episode: • Rob's pick: Fears Brunswick Topper Edition (white lacquer) • Russ' pick: Zenith Pilot El Primero Flyback 'Rainbow' • Zach's pick: Breitling Navitimer B01 41mm on strap
We have a very special guest this week – a member of the Topper band, our very own @shespeakswatch (Jay Liu) is joining us in the studio to talk community, kung-fu legend Bruce Lee, and revisit her time in the hallowed halls of the Zenith attic where she re-tells the story of Charles Vermot, the guardian of the El Primero who helped make Zenith the powerhouse maker that it is today. Don't forget to RSVP for our upcoming Longines Heritage event, and as always, the B&P boys hugely appreciate your emails, comments and reviews – keep 'em coming! —— Here are the watches discussed in this week's episode: • Rob's Seiko Prospex 62Mas SLA017 Re-Interpretation as he impatiently waits for his SJE093 to deliver • Russ' Glashütte Original Senator Navigator originally owned by Bill Caplan • Zach's Longines HydroConquest GMT • Jay's Zenith Chronomaster Sport 'Panda' • Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback: Felix Baumgartner's watch from the incredible Red Bull 'Stratos' jump in 2012 • Seiko 5 x Bruce Lee Limited Edition
Spoiler alert: it's Russ. This week, the boys are kicking off Oktoberfest with a very special episode rounding up our top picks from the sleepy German watchmaking town of Glashütte, as we prepare for our 'Watchtoberfest' in-store event with Glashütte Original here at Topper. And don't forget to RSVP for that event right here once you're done with this week's listen. Oh, and once again, we have an official email, so shoot us a note: podcast@topperjewelers.com for comments, feedback, or to ask questions for the boys to be answered on air during a mailbag segment. And once again, as always, thank you for the comments and reviews – it helps us immensely and has put our little town of Burlingame on recommended lists for both Apple and Spotify. ——— Here are the watches discussed in this week's episode: • Rob's rare Glashütte 90's diver • Russ' Glashütte Original Senator Navigator • Zach's Jaeger LeCoultre Polaris Date • Rob's Two Glashütte Original Picks - 39.5mm SeaQ 'Reed Green' - Vintage Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date • Russ' Two Glashütte Original Picks - Senator Cosmopolite - PanoInverse • Zach's Two Glashütte Original Picks - Sixties Small Seconds in Red Gold - PanoMaticLunar in Stainless Steel
Feels a little bit like deja-vu, doesn't it? For Episode 12, the boys are reflecting on the last 18 months of the MoonSwatch while checking in with thoughts and impressions of the new Swatch x Blancpain collaboration. These are, of course not watches that are available at Topper, but how do they leave their mark in our space? Oh, and we now have an official email! Shoot us a note: podcast@topperjewelers.com for comments, feedback, or to ask questions for the boys to be answered on air during a mailbag segment. And once again, as always, thank you for the comments and reviews – it helps us immensely and has put our little town of Burlingame on recommended lists for both Apple and Spotify.
Don't worry, he's fine. Just a bruised ego and a cool scooter to get around the store for the time being. For the rest of Episode 11, the boys are sharing their final impressions of the 'Summer Blue' Seamasters, fresh off a visit to La Jolla to see the whole collection in the metal. We also revisit a brief segment with Joe Kirk from Episode 6 (now that we can talk about that US-Exclusive Grand Seiko capsule), and share our thoughts on the coolest new releases from Geneva Watch Days from Zenith, Czapek, and more. As always, thank you for the comments and reviews – it helps us immensely and has put our little town of Burlingame on recommended lists for both Apple and Spotify. ——— Here are the watches discussed in this week's episode: - Wrist Check: Rob (Grand Seiko Kira-Zuri SBGA387), Russ (Zenith Pilot Flyback 'Rainbow'), Zach (Breitling Superocean 'Outerknown') - Omega Seamaster 'Summer Blue' Capsule - Grand Seiko 2023 US-Exclusive Capsule - H. Moser Endeavour Vantablack Capsule - Zenith Defy 21 Chroma II - Oris AquisPro 4,000m & Oris Aquis Bracenet Edition - Czapek Place Vendome Complicite - Seiko 5 SSK GMT New Colors
Rob has made no attempt to hide his love for the new Seiko Prospex 62MAS re-issue ref. SJE093 but to be absolutely certain that he hadn't just drank a little too much Kool-Aid, we enlisted the help of our good friend and renowned Seiko expert & collector Erik Strickland to unbox the watch and get his unfiltered reactions, and learn just what makes this landmark re-issue so special for Seiko. Shout-out to our Scandinavian friends, as this week the boys will be taking a proper 'fika' at the end of the show.
Omega's epic 75th Anniversary Seamaster watches are finally landing in-store, and the boys are here to sing the many shades of "Summer Blue" found in the collection. We also discuss in greater depth the new Oris Hank Aaron Limited Edition, as Russ reminisces on seeing Aaron play at Candlestick, and his little league baseball career that never was. As always, thanks for listening!
How is July nearly done already? For Episode 8, the boys are checking in from the epicenter of the WIS empire with nine of their favorite new summer watch arrivals in every color under the sun, each with the specific goal of bringing as much fun to the wrist as possible. As always, thank you for the comments and reviews – it helps us immensely as our neat little pod is starting to land on recommended lists for both Apple and Spotify. ——— Here are the watches discussed in this week's episode: Rob's Picks: - Seiko 5 55th Anniversary SRPK17 - Longines Spirit Zulu 39mm - Oris Diver 65 'Cotton Candy' Steel Russ' Picks: - Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 'Shades' - Breitling Top Time Triumph - Armin Strom Lady Beat Aventurine Zach's Picks: - Zodiac Super Sea Wolf Ceramic - G-Shock MT-G Aurora Borealis Limited Edition - Bell & Ross BR05 GMT Ice Blue
How exactly does a super-collectable collaborative Topper Edition come to life? In this week's episode, Rob, Russ, and Zach chat with a longtime friend and beloved member of the Topper collecting community @watch_diversion to go inside a few of his favorite watches (see below for notes on the specific references pulled from his collection), his collecting philosophy, and how a special one-off Armin Strom project he commissioned turned into a spectacular, fully-fledged Topper Edition. As always, thank you for the comments and reviews – it helps us immensely as our neat little pod is starting to land on recommended lists for both Apple and Spotify. Oh, and PS: if you coined the phrase "WIS Empire" as it pertains to Topper Jewelers, help us settle a bet – shoot us a note! info@topperjewelers.com ——— Follow Rick at @watch_diversion on Instagram. Here are the watches from his collection that we discussed: • Omega Seamaster Chronograph 176.007 (vintage) • IWC Pilot's Chronograph 3717 • Arnold & Son CTB Chronograph • Glashütte Original Sport Evo Perpetual Calendar • Jaeger LeCoultre Amvox 2 • Blancpain Villeret Half Time Zone 8 Day • Fears Brunswick Topper Edition
Rob and Zach are back, recording from the center of the watch collecting universe at the intersection of Burlingame & Park, this time with a guest: our good friend Joe Kirk, Brand Curator at Grand Seiko. In this special conversation, Zach swears he does actually know Joe's last name, and we take a deeper dive on all the 2023 Grand Seiko newness. Buckle up, this is a fun one, and while you're at it, we love reading those reviews, and hugely appreciate the ratings!
Finally, we can lift the lid on a secret we've been keeping since 2019: our long-awaited collab with beloved Vancouver indie Halios Watches. For Episode 5, Rob and Zach check in with special guests Jason Lim (Founder of Halios) and our good friend OT – Halios collector and local community lynchpin, who was instrumental in helping bring the Halios Universa "Topper Edition" to life. We also learn about Rob's basketball obsession, make our predictions for the NBA Finals, and share a fun bit of listener feedback. Keep those reviews coming – Rob loves to read them!
Episode 4 takes Zach and Rob on-location to the San Francisco edition of the Worn & Wound WindUP show, where we link up with our first guest: Oris CEO of the Americas, VJ Geronimo to chat about the hottest Oris watch since the Diver 65, the Pro PilotX "Kermit Edition." But why Kermit? Why the Muppets? And what could be next for this wildly creative crossover? Well, Rob has some ideas, and you're not going to want to miss them. As always, thanks for listening, and many thanks to our friend VJ for joining B&P!
A day late, but not a dollar short – this week, Zach and Rob are holding court while Russ gets his spring skiing fix. We make outrageous claims about the origins of the term GADA (ed: Zach definitely didn't coin this – it appears previously on the web, as early as 2015) as we chat about the capability and many colors of the spectacular Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 'Shades' collection which debuted in the metal at Topper's inaugural First Look event. We also share our favorite impressions from this special community gathering, from the "technicolor dreamcoat" Zodiac Super Sea Wolf to the disruptive Oris Kermit to the wildly capable Blancpain Tech Gombessa. As always, thanks for listening!
The biggest watch tradeshow in the world is back for another lap, and Zach and Russ are on the ground in Geneva while Rob holds down the fort in Burlingame, to bring you the insider's scoop and their favorite picks on all the freshest novelties from Grand Seiko, Zenith, Oris, and much more. As always, thanks for listening!
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