Ah, watch collecting—or more accurately, watch addiction—it’s like any other addiction: you seek out that next ‘hit’ to give you a high!

We’ve all been there, telling ourselves that the next watch we are lusting after will fulfill our every horological desire. Alas, that is never the case, is it? Just like chasing rainbows, there is no end to our addiction in pursuing that elusive timepiece that will tick every box!

But then, something extraordinary happened last week that took me one step closer to catching that ‘unicorn’ and heading straight to the top of the rainbow. Call it serendipity, call it destiny—I stumbled upon the highly sought-after Ball Engineer II Rainbow Limited Edition (reference: NM2028C-L28CJ-BK) watch at my favourite authorised dealer, StarBuy. For those who live and breathe Ball watches, you’ll know that this particular model has been sold out nearly everywhere. So, when I discovered the very last one, I was over the moon! I quickly contacted the folks at StarBuy to snag this rare gem.

Unboxing this watch was a moment of pure elation. The Ball Engineer II Rainbow is not just any timepiece; it’s a harmonious blend of technical brilliance and aesthetic elegance. The 43mm Titanium case with TiC – Titanium carbide coating, is perfectly proportioned, offering a robust yet sophisticated feel on the wrist. The dial is a mesmerising play of colours, with each hour marker illuminated by tritium gas tubes that glow in a spectrum of hues—hence the ‘Rainbow’ moniker.

Under the hood, this beauty is powered by the Ball RR1103-C Automatic Caliber, which is COSC certified, ensuring precision and reliability that Ball watches are renowned for. It boasts an impressive 38-hour power reserve, making it a dependable companion for any adventure. The anti-magnetic and shock-resistant properties further enhance its durability, while the sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating ensures clear readability from any angle – and yes, I love the cyclops on the date window.

The elegance of this watch is undeniable. The Nubuck leather strap is both sturdy and stylish, with a tang buckle for ensuring the Rainbow stays firm on your wrist. Whether I’m at a formal event or an outdoor escapade, the Ball Engineer II Rainbow seamlessly complements any setting, turning heads and sparking conversations.

In a world where watch collecting often feels like an endless chase, finding this limited-edition timepiece was like capturing a fleeting moment of magic. It reminded me why I fell in love with horology in the first place—the thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the sheer delight of owning a piece of artistry that transcends time.

So, here’s to the Ball Engineer II Rainbow Limited Edition, the watch that brought a rainbow into my life and rekindled my passion for collecting. If you ever get a chance to find one, don’t hesitate. Trust me, it’s a ‘high’ worth experiencing.

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