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Vintage Grail gathers its cultivated community of watch aficionados for a night of camaraderie, appreciation, and delightful surprises
Beneath the twinkling lights of the Makati skyline, Blackbird at the Nielson Tower transformed into a haven of horological passion on the evening of February 15, 2024. The occasion? A specialised, homegrown hub for luxury watch connoisseurs was marking its fifth anniversary with a flourish, culminating in the launch of a limited-edition coffee table book and true labour of love.
Founded in 2019 by long-time collectors and friends Paolo Martel, Jesse Maxwell, and Franco Varona, Vintage Grail has had the most exciting of journeys. Despite the challenge of the pandemic in its earlier years, the company has emerged as a trustworthy platform for those looking to source, acquire, or trade coveted timepieces within the country and beyond. It has built a relentlessly dedicated team locally and overseas, with one of its most notable achievements in the past year being the launch of its Hong Kong operations, headed by Managing Director and partner Shaan Keswani.
Read more: The Tatler Guide to matching watches according to dress codes
The recent event served as a testament to this collective success, bringing together a community united by a profound love of horology. Comprising Vintage Grail’s loyal patrons and friends, guests came dressed to the nines as they arrived at Blackbird’s resplendent al fresco area, where cocktails and canapés were served. Laughter meld with the clinking of glasses as mingling ensued, anticipation buzzing for the beautiful night ahead. Ferrari and BMW also lent their support, showcasing their fine cars at the venue.
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The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Sen. Mark Villar, Doris Magsaysay-Ho, Ernest Cu, Lizzy Razon, Jay Ong, Mikee and Sheila Romero, and Inigo Zobel, just to name a few. When it was finally time for dinner—a sumptuous four-course feast complemented by exquisite wines—the co-founders of Vintage Grail took the opportunity to express their heartfelt thanks to everyone in the room. Maxwell extended a warm welcome to all, while Martel recounted early beginnings and shed light on the incredible journey they’ve had so far.
“Working closely with our clients, who have become friends, to curate their collections has been a remarkable privilege. Each one has somehow entrusted us to push boundaries and source some of the most exquisite timepieces, many with their own story. This has transformed several transactions into lasting relationships,” said Martel, who also serves as Managing Director of Vintage Grail. “This is the magic of watch collecting, turning moments into memories.“
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the unveiling of “Watches: A Journey through Time and Style”, a coffee table book made and wrapped exclusively for patrons of the hub. In his speech, Varona offered a glimpse into the year-long journey of producing the limited-edition volume with the support of accommodating clients and foreign watch experts, as well as Tatler’s very own Irene Martel Francisco. Adorned with stunning visuals and insightful narratives on each page, the book perfectly captures the art of watch collecting and the part that Vintage Grail eagerly plays in it. Each guest received a copy, leaving with a tangible memento of the evening and a treasured addition to any collector’s library.
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With the successful event and book launch, Vintage Grail underscores its position as more than just a store but a meeting point for kindred spirits. As the night drew to a close, one could not help but feel a renewed appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that lie at the heart of every great watch and for the community that Vintage Grail has so passionately cultivated.
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Credits
Photography: Mon Mangila, Ian Santos, Mike Lord Raymundo
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