Simple Living

Reflection on the Zodiac SeaDragon The Zodiac SeaDragon was one of my first forays into watch collecting and marked my third or fourth watch since my venerable "first watch," a Guess Waterpro. At that time, I was particularly attracted to diver-style watches. Overview The SeaDragon was a very good watch, and I truly enjoyed wearing it. Unfortunately, since parting with it, I've learned that Zodiac has abandoned quartz watches in favor of automatic models, making these older quartz versions increasingly uncommon and potentially rare in the future. I recall selling it for around $40, and now I see them selling for close to $100 on eBay. I believe I paid about $119 to $129 retail. While I wouldn’t be surprised if it sells for more than MSRP in a decade, I don't expect it to fetch much more than that, as it is still just a quartz watch. Design Flaws One drawback of this watch is that the bezel is not unidirectional and can easily get jammed, rendering it primarily decorat

My Growing Headphone Collection My headphone collection has grown significantly over time. I've moved on from Skullcandy and Beats in favor of Audio Technica and Grado. In hindsight, I wish I had purchased a pair of M50s many years ago. Here are my current headphones in all their glory, from left to right: Audio Technica — M50x (Purchased 2014) Audio Technica — MSR7 (Purchased 2017) Grado — SR80e (Purchased 2016) Future Plans As for future acquisitions, I’m not entirely sure. I have both closed and open reference cans covered, so my next move will either be to go upmarket to the $1k range with brands like Fostex or Ultrasone, or I might consider the tier below with options like the ATH M70x, Sony MDR1A, or other brands such as Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, or AKG. Realistically, it will likely be another pair of Audio Technica headphones, possibly the M70s or an open reference model like the R70 or AD700.

Sampling Johnnie Walker Blue Label It seems people know I have a fondness for whisky, as a friend recently gifted me a small 200 mL bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. This is a fantastic opportunity to sample Blue Label without having to open the larger bottle. I plan to save it for something special, likely to enjoy it during New Year's celebrations.  

Review of Sony Earbuds MDR-EX15ap I picked up a pair of Sony earbuds, model MDR-EX15ap, over a year ago. They were on sale for about $5, and I couldn't resist the deal. While these earbuds are not great, they aren't terrible either. I keep them in the car as an emergency backup pair of headphones when I'm in a study session mood. Sub-Models From my research, I found there are two sub-models of the EX15s: AP : Android compatible LP : Standard version The 'AP' designation likely refers to the single push button on the in-line microphone, which is used for on/off functionality during phone calls or music playback. Basic Specifications Drivers : 9mm Frequency Response : 8 - 22,000 Hz Sensitivity : 100 dB/mW Impedance : 16 ohms Cable Length : 3.94 ft with in-line microphone Overall, the Sony MDR-EX15ap earbuds serve their purpose as a reliable backup option.

Highland Park New Packaging & Branding Highland Park has released new packaging and branding for their 10, 12, and 18-year-old single malt whiskies. I recently picked up the 12 Year Old - Viking Honour to replenish my stock, as it's been almost two years since I last enjoyed a dram of HP12. I’m eagerly waiting to give it a try later this month. Original Notes Highland Park 12 Year Old 2015   Update: 9/30/17 I popped it open and had two pours. Both were phenomenal, and I’m very happy I decided to pick up the Highland Park 12. It’s not as sweet as a Macallan, but it’s perfectly easy to drink neat. Update: 10/13/17 I’ve already consumed half the bottle and need to slow down. What’s particularly amazing about Highland Park 12 is the nose. I can’t get enough of the aroma, and drinking from a proper curved glass allows me to fully take it in.

Maintenance Cost Summary Total Maintenance Cost Lifetime: 2017: $0 2018: $58 2019: $134 2020: $1,328 2021: $379 2022: $1,448 2023: $1,960 2024: $333 2025:  $800 2026:  $200 2027:  $200 Total: $5,640 (+$1,400) This equates to an average of $705 per year, with approximately one-third of costs for preventive maintenance (oil and fluid changes) and the remaining two-thirds for consumables like tires and brakes. Maintenance Cost by Type Consumables (66%) New Tires : $2,073 Tire Rotations : $80 Brakes and Rotors : $1,430 Battery-Related Services : $142 Preventive (32%) Oil Changes : $1,257 Fluid Change/Cleaning: $530 Other Services : $428 Total Maintenance Cost : $5,640 Reflecting back on all the maintenance cost its actually quite good as most of it was either preventive (oil or fluid changes) or consumables like tires and brakes. Maintenance Log for 2016 Toyota Highlander 2017 Mar 2017 Service: Oil Change, Tire Rotation at 5,340 miles Cost: Free Oct 2017 Service: Oil Change,