Prediction Watch by Richard Gerlitz

Watches for the Mentalist seem to fall into two main camps: those based on the Stull Watch (invented by Bob Stull c. 1949) like this beauty from Richard Gerlitz and those based upon Collector’s Workshop Perfect Time c. 1982. In the former, the watch is gimmicked in such a way that you can predict what time the watch will stop at when set under cover by a spectator, and in the latter the watch can move quickly to any time chosen once a spectator says the time. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and to a certain extent it is really personal preference.

I think it is safe to say that Richard’s version of the Stull watch is the best. This really is the king of the prediction watch effects. Made in his own perfectionist style, Richard uses genuine vintage watches (such as this beautiful 1915 Waltham 14k Hunting watch) and gimmicks them to perfection using is advanced techniques, micro-engineering, and no expense spared. Richard sets out to build the best version of whatever he sets out to build, cost is always secondary so he makes the right decisions for the effect. In nearly all cases he is successful at his goal, and this beauty is a testament to that.

Effect: You can very cleanly predict the exact time they will stop at as they twist the hand without once touching he watch or getting close to it either. No electronics or magnets, just beauty and genius at work.

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