RedBar x Diefendorff Launch — Collectors' Perspective

Oct 16

Oct 16 RedBar x Diefendorff Launch

In true New Yorker style the Diefendorff launch featured sweet treats, an amply stocked bar, live art, and even magic to celebrate the star of the show: the new Cornelius Collection. After much frivolity and shenanigans, Diefendorff founder James Reeves told us more about his company and its history. He revealed he drew inspiration for the creation of Diefendorff from his ancestor and sixth great grandfather Captain Henry, a Swiss immigrant who fought in the American Revolution and believed in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Rich with connectivity and nostalgia, the story of Captain Henry transfixed the crowd.

James Reeves was born 200 years to the day after his ancestor’s death during the Battle of Oriskany. This provided the inspiration for the 1776 and bezel design featured in the Cornelius Collection. With 17 larger lines and 76 smaller lines, this unusual approach is visually striking while once again tying into the history of Captain Henry. With naturally dyed leather bands, Swiss movements, and assembly in Ohio, you can rely on Diefendorff to provide quality and style. Possibly the most unusual thing about this watch is that it’s carbon neutral. In a world where it can be hard to go into any business and stay carbon neutral, Diefendorff stays true to its motto: “Rebel against the usual.”

Nika Kovalenko (@nika.k.art) painted a new piece live leaving no doubt even on arrival that most would stay until the end to see the result of her latest beautiful work. Magician Sam Gherman (@SamGherman) wandered the room, surprising guests with close-up magic before wowing the crowd with a grand finale, cleverly integrating watch design into his act. Music, entertainment, and drinks skillfully wove together to create a riveting evening with the launch as its focus.

The launch was hosted at the Fraunces Tavern. Not only is the restaurant a museum with connections to the Revolutionary War, but when all was done and British troops had evacuated New York, the Fraunces Tavern was the location of the “turtle feast” celebration. A tavern turned into a landmark signifying the victory of a war seems a fitting location for the victorious launch of a watch brand so heavily connected to a captain of the revolution.