Lip T18 - References, Prices and Owners' Reviews

The desire to treat myself to an elegant mechanical watch is at the origin of this acquisition. I wanted it to be rectangular, with European mechanics, both modern and retro. My patience was rewarded when LIP presented this limited series of 180 pieces. Today, it is the only one in my collection in this style, I wear it on rare occasions, mostly dinners and it is always with undisguised pleasure that I put it on my wrist. Mechanical, I have to wind it daily and the crown is very thin, which does not make winding easy. This is the only black point noted. It is not solid gold, it is a gold plating and not a pvd or dlc treatment.

LIP T18 watch, part of the first generation. This model was launched by LIP in the 1930s. We find several elements on the dial, first of all the old LIP logo, composed only of the 3 letters. Also a small second at 6 o'clock and the blued hands. I particularly like the patina caused by the life of the watch. Small watch that is worn rather with a dressy clothing style (suit shirt). This small caliber offers in particular great lightness.

In the history of LIP, the T18 has left its mark in a significant way. Indeed, this model from the 30s/40s, already appreciated for the quality of its caliber, was recognized when a solid gold copy was offered to Winston Churchill in 1948, becoming the "Churchill". It has been reissued since 1988, and is still in the LIP catalog, but with a Quartz (???!!) Ronda (?????????!!!!) movement. If you are looking for one, prefer an original like this one. Perhaps less precise, but more in the spirit of LIP. (To be completely objective and precise, LIP also reissued the T18 with a gold-plated case and a movement in every way identical to that of the 30s, limited to 180 copies, for around €2,500 (all sold)) I bought mine at least 30 years ago. This is a watch that has always attracted me: as legitimate as a Cartier Tank, but less expensive (less well finished too, but you can't have everything at this price!). Having lain dormant for about twenty years, it is a little worn, but it will be entitled to a complete overhaul by my watchmaker very soon. It will thus start up again more beautifully for several decades on my wrist.