Rago Auctions

Andrew Perez is a self-proclaimed watch nerd and is founder of Chicago-based Astor + Banks. A watch guy since his dad first showed him his Timex Indiglo, he purchased his first watch while stationed in Germany during his military service. His watches use mechanical and Swiss quartz movements that are all assembled in Chicago. Their company aims to make the finest timepieces using the highest quality materials for durability, reliability, and great design that you will enjoy for a lifetime.

This watch is a perfect representation of what every modern manufacturer aspires to, with a throwback design in a 40 x 44 mm case. The scarcer "Speed Timer" variant was only available to the Japanese domestic market. Made circa 1971, it is a tonneau style with rich colors, great lines, and an historic movement. The sub register adds great contrast, with a bright turquoise five-minute countdown and fifteen-minute divider. Atop the unpolished case is an inset and well-proportioned bezel that is finished with a glossy black inlay. The Speed Timer logo adds balance opposite the framed day/date (Kanji/English) window. An early variant, it is equipped with Seiko's first iteration of their premier automatic chronograph movement, the 6139A.

The Brian LaViolette Foundation was formed by the LaViolette family to honor the memory of their son, Brian, who passed away in a swimming accident in Green Bay, Wisconsin when he was just fifteen years old in 1992. Brian was not only an excellent student, athlete, and musician, but he loved watches, starting his own collection when he was four years of age.

Since 1992, the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation has presented 1,058 scholarships to deserving college-bound students in Northeastern Wisconsin, the United States, and other parts of the world. The Foundation continues Brian's legacy by helping high school seniors financially to achieve their educational dreams and, at the same time, providing them with encouragement and inspiration. 

Learn more about the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation