Welcome to Edition II of the Watch News Blog from the floor of the Basel Show. This one has many key introductions from the major watch brands, which should prove for very interesting reading. Again, we have asked the brands to pinpoint the single introduction they most want you to kno
w about today. Before we get to that, a few of quick, general observations about the fair...
The show seems active, but not very many Americans. I have seen several Caribbean buyers. The mood feels upbeat but cautious.
The weather has been cool, cloudy and rainy, whereas this time of year in Basel can provide absolutely beautiful spring weather. Not this year :-( To make matters worse, we all lost an hour's Sunday night as we moved the clocks forward one hour.
Now the meat of the story...what's happening with new watches?This blog is organized by price category alphabetically as follows: high watches over US $10,000; Watches from US $1,000-$10,000; Watches under US $1,000. The best way to read the material is to scroll down to the area you most want to review and stop to read about the names in which you have an interest. Here we go!
OVER US $10,000BLANCPAIN
500 FATHOMS AUTOMATIQUE
According to Blancpain, this new introduction presents the “big sister” of its now famous Fifty Fathoms watch: the 500 Fathoms.
More high-performance and high-tech than its predecessor, the new diver’s watch displays offers a decidedly sporting design. Water-resistant to 1000 meters, it is equipped with a helium decompression valve that is vital when diving in a closed environment. The 500 Fathoms is fitted with a large 48 mm-diameter brushed titanium case. Presented as the ultimate sports watch, the 500 Fathoms reveals a new face, a new size and new performances.
The case is equipped with a crown guard. Placed inside the case at 10 o’clock, an automatic decompression valve guarantees the security and the reliability. Large phosphorescent Arabic numerals that are hollowed into the sunray-brushed metal appliqués grace the dial. The luminescent coating on the hour-markers, bezel markings and hands, along with the red tip of the sweep seconds hand, ensure optimal readability. The date appears in white against a black background at 4 o’clock.
Crafted in titanium and sapphire crystal, the 500 Fathoms features a cambered relief that reduces the risk of impacts. The watch is powered by the self-winding Calibre 1315, specifically designed to equip sports watches. It incorporates a glucydur balance with micrometric regulating screws. Three series coupled barrels guarantee constant energy and a five-day power reserve. The calendar mechanism enables fast date adjustments in either direction. The 500 Fathoms incorporates a sapphire crystal allowing a view of the self-winding movement and engraved oscillating weight shaped like a boat propeller. The strap comes in rubber-lined black sail canvas with a new triple-blade folding clasp secured with two pushers on either side. An additional rubber strap is provided with each watch. Suggested retail is $22,100. For questions contact amy.chia@swatchgroup.com, http://www.blancpain.com/.
BREGUET
MARINE ROYALE 5847–ALARM
Breguet’s new Marine Royale 5847 comes with an underwater alarm device for divers. According to the company, due to water’s sound conductivity the alarm’s sound is perceived with greater clarity underwater.
The alarm setting crown and on-off push piece, in gold, are sheathed in rubber for easier handling. The watch offers a one-way rotating bezel inscribed with a graduated 20-minute sector. The bezel’s unidirectional rotation is secured by a blocking pawl, visible and located between the two winding crowns on the case flank. Shaped like a wave, it recalls the watch’s essential functions. Designed to overcome potential low underwater visibility, minute markers and hand along with the hour hand are coated with white luminous superluminova, while the hour and alarm markers glow blue. Represented by a blue triangular pointer at 10 o’clock, the power-reserve indicator is also luminous.
The Marine Royale 5847 possesses a date indicator and a self-winding mechanism. The white gold version comes with an 18 kt dial with black rhodium finish while the pink gold version features an 18 kt pink gold dial. Both are manually engine-turned with the collection’s dedicated wave pattern. Suggested retail $40,264. For questions contact infomarketing@breguet.ch or http://www.breguet.com/.
CARL F. BUCHERER
PATRAVI EVOTEC DAYDATE
Carl F. Bucherer’s decision in 2005 to manufacture its own original movement has led it on a course of continuous creative development of timepiece functionality with its CFB A1000 movement as a platform.
The Patravi Evotec Daydate is the first Carl F. Bucherer timepiece to deploy this new movement. The cushion-shaped case measures 44 x 44.5 mm. The most recent winner of Switzerland’s Golden Balance Wheel Award for high accomplishment in movement making, the CFB A1000 movement (with three worldwide patents) driving the Patravi EvoTec Daydate enables the watch to feature a small seconds hand at 6 o’clock, which echoes the shape of the case, a clearly formed weekday display at 9 o’clock, and a large date display in the upper-left quadrant of the dial.
The geometric index marks echo the slightly convex flanks of the case and underline the pared-down movement footprint. A module developed in the CFBT workshops (the St. Croix movement house acquired recently by Carl F. Bucherer) makes these two additional calendar functions possible. This module is positioned under the dial – in anthracite grey and black for the stainless steel version, and in warm brown tones for the rose gold model. The time indication ensemble (dial and hands) is framed by a broad rubber bezel. A sapphire crystal graces the front and back of the case to provide a view of the new movement.
The company states its goal is “to produce variety starting from perfect platforms, such as the new CFB A1000 automatic caliber.” In that context, the new caliber design permits a clear view of the bridges, bars and balance spring. The watchmaker has also turned away from the traditional central rotor, which normally covers half of the movement and requires additional height. In the CFB A1000 caliber, the rotor runs around the entire periphery of the movement, made possible by an “outrunner” mounting. The company says this new conception and design of self-winding mechanisms is regarded by watchmakers as being one of the most demanding and challenging creations.
The Patravi EvoTec DayDate has a 55 hour power reserve and retails for $15,500 in steel. For more information contact
asiragusa@cfbnorthamerica.com or
http://www.carl-f-bucherer.com/.
CENTURY SWISS
KARISMA
The new Karisma model comes in 18 karat red gold (shown) set with 101 diamonds (.68 carats) and features a Century sapphire with 60 facets cut and polished by hand.
The dial is decorated in Chinese lacquer, the movement is quartz and the piece comes with a satin strap. The case shape is an ellipse, and the 60 facets of the Century sapphire are designed to optimally capture the light.
The curved case is edged by diamonds. Against a back of 18 karat white or red gold, the sapphire comes in three shades: black with a bluish sheen; metallic; or red gold. The Dauphine hands rotate around a mother-of-pearl dial. Karisma is embellished with either oversized roman numerals or a delicate constellation of brilliant-cut diamonds and comes with a satin strap to complement the colour of the sapphire. Karisma has a suggested retail price of $15,800. For inquiries contact s.jaisli@century.com or http://www.century.com/.
CHOPARD
ELTON JOHN COLLECTION
This limited edition chronograph collection is meant to celebrate the company’s 10 years of support of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and was designed in a collaborative effort between Sir Elton John and Chopard co-president Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele.
The watch offers a large diameter, precious stones and rose gold and features black, brown or pink crocodile leather straps. Diamonds appear either alone or combined with sapphires, rubies and emeralds, or yellow, pink or black diamonds. The dial comes either in a tone matching the gems set around it or in a white or grey-rosé mother-of-pearl. The case and dial also come in plain white or rose gold variations.
The Elton John designed chronograph offers a self-winding movement, and comes in limited and numbered series. The watch is 42 mm in diameter with a thickness of 12.25 mm. It is water resistant to 100 meters. The crown and pushers are in 18 karat gold. The bezel is set in 2.8 carats of black diamonds and the case is set with 3.55 carats of diamonds. The back of the case is engraved with Elton John’s signature and the face is protected by a glare-resistant sapphire crystal. The movement is a 37 jewel self-winding chronograph with a 42-hour power reserve and a COSC certified chronometer.
The dial is set with 343 black diamonds (1.5 carats). The counter hands are in black mother of pearl and the hour, minute and chronograph are in rhodium. Functions and indications include central hour, minute and 60-second chronograph hands; 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock; 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock; and 60-second counter a 3 o’clock. The strap is black alligator leather. The 18 karat gold buckle is set with 56 diamonds (.66 carats). It will be made in a limited edition of 25 and sold through the company’s boutiques. For inquiries email sduffy@chopard.com or visit http://www.chopard.com/.
CHRONOSWISS
SAUTERELLE 70 (THE GRASSHOPPER)
A year ago at Basel, Chronoswiss made the announcement that it would manufacture its own movements within two years. An important step, it said, in attaining recognition in watch circles as being a true manufacture. One year later, the company’s Gerd-Rüdiger Lang has delivered on his promise with the introduction at Baselworld 2009 of Sauterelle 70 (The Grasshopper), which features Chronoswiss’ first in-house manufacture caliber that is “made in Germany.”
This new caliber comes in two model variations: a classic three-hand watch (with either black or white dial) or with an unusual regulator dial that is reminiscent of the brand’s origins. The former retails for $16,100 in steel and $24,300 in rose gold and the latter (Sauterelle 71) special edition retails for $25,800.
This fully mechanical movement reveals an unusual second hand that the movement’s design allows to move forward every second instead of the more typical every fifth of a second. This accomplishment is due to the new movement, which was developed in cooperation with watch technician Karsten Frässdorf.
Ease of maintenance is addressed by the Chronoswiss Sauterelle 70 with a unique integrated “spare-parts storage area” located inside the movement between the barrel bridge and the third-wheel bridge. The watch provides a 60-hour power reserve.
“With manual winding manufacture Caliber C.70/C.71, Chronoswiss has given a new face to the valuable commodity of time and reached a milestone on the road to becoming a manufacture,” says the company. For inquiries contact golze@chronoswiss.de or http://www.chronoswiss-na.com/start.php.
DE GRISOGONO GENEVE
FUSTO QUADRATO, TWO DIALS, TWO TIMEZONES
This new introduction allows the wearer to optionally show one or two time zones on the dial.
The watch employs a diaphragm mechanism with 12 titanium blades to reveal or hide the second time zone. The Fusto Quadrato model features a self-winding mechanical movement with a 42 hour power reserve. The hours and minutes of local time are shown by a pair of center-positioned hands and the second time zone is indicated on a 12-hour dial by a black frame hand.
Available in 18K pink or white gold with matching hour markers, the square case is 47 mm wide and the sapphire crystal is curved in harmony with the case profile. The watch is water resistant to 100’ and comes with an alligator strap fitted with a triple deployment clasp color-matched to the case. For suggested retail price and additional details, contact
gregorio@degrisogono.com or
http://www.degrisogono.com/.
DUBEY & SCHALDENBRAND
SPIRAL CHRONOGRAPH, RATTRAPANTE
The Spiral Chronograph rattrapante retails for about $10,700. It features a chronograph with 4 counters, split second chronograph self-winding mechanical movement made by Dubey & Schaldenbrand, a chronometer escapement, and stop second.
The watch presents a hand-engraved decorated movement with gold finish, a skeletonised rotor and blue-steel screws.
The 30-jewel movement has a 48-hour power reserve. Functions include hours, minutes, subsidiary seconds, date and split-second chronograph. Dial sports a guilloché finish. Hands are "Losanges diamantés" with super-luminova and Chronograph hand has vintage spiral (exclusively from Dubey & Schaldenbrand). The case is polished stainless steel with mobile lugs and a blue set crown. The piece sports anti-reflective sapphire crystals top and bottom to reveal the movement. It is water resistant to 30 meters. The band is Louisiana alligator or stainless steel and the buckle is 16 mm tang or deployant. For inquiries contact
j.gil@swissonline.ch or
http://www.dubeywatch.com/.
GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL
SENATOR CHRONOMETER
All manually wound calibers at Glashütte Original are tested by independent institutes for their timekeeping precision, and the Senator Chronometer is the first timepiece with official confirmation in the form of a certificate. The company reports that precise synchronization of the minute and second hands is driven by a redesign of its manual winding Caliber 58-01, which powers the Senator Chronometer model. The movement’s stop-seconds reset mechanism allows the wearer to easily set the precise time.
The Senator’s dial reflects the classic appearance of a pocket chronometer. Along its central axis, it reveals subsidiary seconds and power reserve displays (the Senator’s power reserve is 45 hours). Through a manufactory enhancement, the date display now changes precisely at midnight and a new day/night indicator added to the movement eases setting time in relation to the date change. The dial sports a frosted silver plating created through a traditional vintage technique called “l’argenture grainée.” The crystal is anti-reflective sapphire.
The Senator comes in rose ($26,900 suggested retail) or white gold ($28,000 suggested retail) and features a Louisiana alligator strap. For inquiries contact
amy.chia@swatchgroup.com.
GUCCI
MARINA CHAIN COLLECTION
The marina chain, a well-known Gucci symbol adorning accessories and jewellery, is now celebrated with a new collection of timepieces whose design features the iconic anchor chain sign. With its rounded links, this unmistakable signature punctuates the smooth bracelet, embracing the oval case and finishing with a clasp shaped like a leather belt buckle.
The marina chain motif was inspired in the 1960s by the world of yachting, another favourite pastime of the Florentine clientele of Guccio Gucci. The Marina Chain watch is available in two sizes and a rich choice of materials: steel, 18kt yellow gold (shown, or a combination of the two for a striking contrast between the reflections of the two metals. An elegant black enamel coating can further accentuate the sophistication of this model, adding a glamorous look to the bangles. Diamonds can also elegantly adorn the black lacquered or white mother of pearl dial, the case or the bangle.
Retailing for $16,800 in yellow gold, the Marina Chain collection features Ronda movements, an oval case, black lacquered dial and a sapphire crystal. The bangle and clasp are in 18 karat yellow gold. The piece is water resistant to 100’. For questions visit
http://www.gucci.com/ or call 1-800-456-7663.
HUBLOT
GOLD KING POWER
This new watch design from Hublot is like company’s successful “Big Bang” model on “steroids,” according to a spokesperson.
Reminiscent of the original fusion between rubber and gold of the first Hublot watches, its current lines, with a design pushed to the extreme, reflect the fusion between power and elegance. Traditional and avant-garde, combining on its dial additional elements and cut-outs, the King Power also owes its name to the red gold from which it is made. This gold is a new alloy developed for Hublot and used by the brand for the first time. With its split-seconds self-winding, mechanical foudroyante chronograph movement, the King Power really looks the part, says the company.
Retailing from $21,000 to $33,000, the Gold King Power features a 48 mm diameter case; a bezel with black rubber moulding with six black titanium raised H-shaped screws. The sapphire crystal offers interior and exterior anti-reflective treatment. The piece is water resistant to 100 meters. The hands are gold plated and black nickel. King Power comes with an adjustable, jointed black rubber strap. The collection will include a total of 500 numbered pieces. For inquiries contact
mmargolis@hublot.ch or visit
http://www.hublot.ch/.
MAURICE LACROIX
MASTERPIECE LE CHRONOGRAPHE SQUELETTE LIMITED EDITION
An in-house mechanical movement, the ML 106-7 caliber, stars in new mechanical skeleton chronograph design by Maurice Lacroix. Limited to 250 pieces, the Masterpiece Le Chronographe Squelette offers fresh functionality for the measure of short time intervals.
The patent pending mechanism stars in the timepiece’s openwork design, which features sapphire crystals front and back with double anti-reflective coating. The slate gray metallic sapphire dial offers applied time indicators and luminous spurs on the hour and minute hands. The movement features gold colored gears housed within its 45 mm case, as well as a 60-minute counter function. There is also a Maurice Lacroix patent on the lever located under the hammer), which provides security for the watch during interlocking and releasing.
Functions include hours, minutes, small seconds and chronograph seconds and 60-minute chronograph at 3 o’clock. It features a 42-hour power reserve and 22 jewels. The piece is sports hand-decorated bridges plated with black gold and a large snail-like pattern ML wheel design that matches the look of hands and disks. The steel case offers a combination of sunray, circular and brushed surfaces. The watch is water resistant to 100 meters. The strap is black hand-stitched porous crocodile-skin with large scales, black calfskin lining and matching stitching. Suggested retail for this limited edition is $20,000. For inquiries contact
alexandre.gannac@mauricelacroix.com.
MILUS
TIRION ‘TRIRETROGRADE SECONDS SKELETON’ TITANIUM
The corporate philosophy of being totally oneself is expressed in the new Tirion “ TriRetrograde Seconds Skeleton” Titanium watch from Milus. The exact rhythm of the retrograde seconds function in three sectors of 20 seconds each is given by a Swiss quality mechanical movement in an exclusive special version with automatic winding.
The 45 mm titanium case is round and inside the core of the watch is built up of two layers: the movement base covered by genuine carbon fiber and the second level composed of a carbon fiber plate. The Arabic numerals and markers are large, as is the date at 6 o’clock. The three seconds-display sectors are at the center of the dial and feature hands mirroring the shape of an oscillating rotor. They continuously tick off their 20-second intervals in relay style.
Convex round sapphire crystals top and bottom reveal the movement. And a carbon look leather strap completes the look. The Tirion “TriRetrograde Seconds Skeleton” Titanium retails for $13,500. For inquiries contact
doron@milususa.com.
U-BOAT
U-1942 LIMITED EDITION
The new U-1942 limited edition watch from U-Boat retailing for $40,000 comes from a 1942 design that was commissioned by the Italian Navy of U-Boat owner Italo Fontana’s grandfather’s watch company, Officine Fontana, but never executed for political reasons. It presents a 65 mm dial and at total of 29 pieces will be made in Tuscany. Above all other requirements, the guarantee of maximum visibility in any light condition was paramount for this 1942 design.
In fact, the inspiration for U-Boat—Italian design and craftsmanship and Swiss movements—as a company came when Italo Fontana came across these and other plans of his grandfather in 2000.
Technical details include the following: titanium case and bezel; brass dial; steel charge axis, crown, stop crown lever, stop glass handles, bezel runners, quarters pointers, 5 minutes pointers and strap pivots; German silver hands; case thickness is 18.5 mm; height is 21.8 mm; maximum width is 69.5 mm; water resistant to 400 meters; power reserve is 46 hours; movement is mechanical, hand-winding with 17 rubies; oversized strap is brown “shell cordovan” leather with large titanium buckle. Before final assembly, each watch is assembled without movement or dial and put in an autoclave under 40 bar pressure to verify the press resistance and ermeticity.
For inquiries contact
serge@infinitytimegroup.com or
http://www.u-boatwatch.com/.
ULYSSE NARDIN
EXECUTIVE DUAL TIME
The Executive Dual Time watch from Ulysse Nardin marks the introduction of ceramic for this watchmaker. The watch come in either stainless steel retailing for approximately $8,000 or in 18 karat rose gold as shown for approximately $20,000. The watch combines a ceramic bezel and pushers on its new 43 mm case.
The unique black dial and exhibits oversized Roman numerals and three-dimensional chiseled hands. Also featured are a traditional oversized small seconds register and a big date display in a double window. Comprised of the patented Dual Time system, the plus and minus pushers at 8 and 10 o’clock instantly adjust the hour hand to another time zone while the home time indicator at 9 o’clock continues its 24-hour cycle.
The self-winding movement mechanism offers a 42-hour power reserve and is visible through a sapphire crystal on the back of the watch and the dial is protected by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment. Each case is individually numbered and equipped with a black lacquer screw-crown. The bracelet comes in alligator leather or rubber strap with folding buckle. For inquires contact
pph@ulysse-nardin.com or
http://www.ulysse-nardin.com/.
WYLER
CODE S CHRONOGRAPH
The new Wyler Code S Chrono introduced at Basel makes a focused effort to appeal to female watch lovers by making half of its introductions in this series with feminine characteristics. There are 17 new models in the Code S series. The design shown retails for approximately $21,450 and is in 18 karat red gold with a white ceramic bezel and bracelet white rubber and 18 karat red gold clasp.
For the new Code-S collection, the brand’s familiar tonneau case has been reduced in size to 42.5 mm and its lines have been rounded. It uses the same sandwich construction as its bigger brother, the Code-R, with two metal plates fixed to a composite case middle by means of four polished titanium screws. All models feature Wyler Genève’s patented crown protector, which must be opened on both sides (using the sliding pins) in order to manipulate the tyre-like rubber-coated crown. Concave chronograph pushers resembling a car’s foot pedals blend into the case, with three horizontal stripes following the contours around the case middle punctuated by the “WYLER” engraving on the opposite side.
The Code-S dial sports an applique comprising surrounds for the chronograph counters, an oversized 12 and an inner oval ring. It is available in black and white as well as brown, taupe, gray and mother-of-pearl (in ladies models). The bezel allows further color-coding possibilities the ladies’ jewelry models are set with 140 precious stones. All models feature a domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inside.
Further emphasizing ladies’ options, two models offer a white dial and choice of bezel in polished stainless steel or white ceramic. Diamond possibilities include white dial with bezel set with 140 white diamonds or metallic grey dial set with 140 white or black diamonds. Three mother-of-pearl dials are also available with matching stone-set bezels: white with white diamonds, blue with blue sapphires and pink with pink sapphires. Movements are self-winding swiss mechanical with 42-hour power reserve. For inquiries contact
paul.oneil@wylergeneve.com or
http://www.wylergeneve.com/.
FROM $1,000-$10,000
ALPINA
ALPINA EXTREME 12 HOURS OF SEBRING LIMITED EDITION TIMEPIECE
Carrying a suggested retail price of $2750, this new model was created to commemorate the 57th Running of the 12 Hours of Sebring road race. Alpina Geneve is official timekeeper for this race. The race took place on February 28 in Florida and it was won by Audi, for its 9th win in this race.
The watch capitalizes on the brand philosophy of Alpina, combined with the important requirements of the drivers in the race: highest level of accuracy, extremely high readability, shock resistance, sturdiness and reliability. The timepiece, with a case diameter of 48mm, is made out of black steel and has a mat black dial – expressing the tarmac of the track – and features clear indexes with a bold red ‘12’, commemorating the twelve exhausting hours of the race.
Inside a durable, fully handmade Swiss automatic movement keeps track of time and shows the date. This high tech “engine”, with its black signature Alpina oscillating weight is visible through the exhibition case back. Both front and reverse sides are equipped with sapphire crystals. To honor the 57th race, the watch was presented in an exclusive limited and numbered edition of only 257 pieces worldwide. For questions contact ralph@alpina-watches.com or
http://www.alpina-watches.com/.
BELL & ROSS
INSTRUMENT BR 01 AIRBORNE
Limited to 500 pieces, this new introduction projects a passion for military watches. It comes from a project to create utilitarian watches suitable for professional use. According to the company, it is an inspiration to create such an aeronautical instrument. “Aeronautical instrumentation is the absolute reference point in terms of readability, reliability and performance.”
The new BR 01 AIRBORNE model is directly inspired by a historical military symbol and is the most unique watch in the BR 01 collection. It carries a $5,000 suggested retail. Technical specs: Movement is automatic mechanical ETA 2892; offers hour and minute functions; case is 46mm diameter. 316L glass bead blasted steel with black finishing type «carbon powder coating»; Dial is black. Photo-luminescent hands and skull for optimum night readability; glass is anti-reflection sapphire crystal; water resistant to 100 meters; bracelet comes in rubber, leather or heavy-duty synthetic. For inquiries contact acastro@bellrossusa.com and http://www.bellross.com/.
BERTOLUCCI
NEW GIRO CHRONOGRAPH COLLECTION
Here is what the company has to say about its new introduction: “The latest Bertolucci creation, Giro, typifies the brand’s Casual style: elegance and simplicity as a daily luxury. Dedicated to both men and women, Giro is offered in a large selection of movements, combinations of finishes and dials. Simple with a subtle uniqueness, Giro is a contemporary yet timeless collection with a stylish look and sober elegance to be worn on any occasion and match every moment and mood of the day.”
The watch comes with a quartz movement and anti-reflective sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 5 ATM. Model shown comes with a polished stainless steel bracelet, steel case, opalin dial, and optionally 64 diamonds (.43 carats) around the bezel. Suggested retail ranges from approximately $4300 to $4600 in chronograph. For questions contact vopland@bertolucci-watches.com or http://www.bertolucci-watches.com/
BREITLING
CHRONOMAT B01
According to Breitling’s spokesperson, this new mechanical watch model reflects the company’s celebration of its 125th anniversary.
The in-house self-winding chronograph movement was five years in the making and is the first in the company’s history.The movement features a column wheel device and is distinguished by its vertical coupling clutch for “clean” startups with no jump of the hand. The movement also offers a 70-hour power reserve and a new patented self-centering device for the resetting hammer.
The exclusive index-assembly system means the watch rate can be rapidly personalized to suit each owner. Designed for optimal functionality, the Caliber B01 movement has an instant date-change calendar.
Built to provide a high degree of sturdiness, water-tightness and shock resistance, the case features a new elongated profile that smoothly molds the wrist. The unidirectional rotating bezel is adorned with exclusive engraved numerals. The subtly designed volumes and proportions of the case are highlighted by meticulous polishing.
The circle of engraved numerals features a depth effect and a matt finish that contrasts with the polished surface of the bezel. The dials with hour-markers or Roman numerals are adorned with an unusual geometric design characterized by a grid-work pattern.
The Pilot bracelet sports slanted-cut polished links, adding a dynamic touch on the wrist. The piece is also available with a leather strap. The Chronomat B01 is available in four versions: all steel; steel with a bezel bearing four solid gold quarter-hour markers; steel with a gold bezel; and all gold. The precious metal is all 18 karat rose gold. The Chronomat B01 range retails for between $6,800 and $11,000. For questions contact lisa.roman@breitlingusa.com or http://www.breitling.com/.
CUERVO Y SOBRINOS
TORPEDO HISTORIADOR SEMANAL
The Torpedo Historiador Semanal is a revival of the Cuervo y Sobrinos (CyS) watch dating back to the 1940s. The original mechanism was created and subsequently patented in 1944 by a Fontainemelon manufacturer of Swiss movements. Cuervo y Sobrinos was using this original movement during many years between 1945 and 1955. The Swiss watch manufacturer decided to reproduce this calibre, creating their own module to enhance the original product. Two years’ research was devoted to developing this model and the result was well worth the effort.
The CyS module offers immediate reading of the weekday and date. Introduction of the week number has been added to the original movement design. It is this detail which gives it its name “Semanal” (weekly). The indications of days, dates, months and weeks of the year, are arranged in a circle around the dial.
Two crowns are placed at 8 and 10 o’clock. One regulates the month and week, and the other regulates the date. The crown at 3 o’clock regulates hours and minutes.
The case, created in both steel and 18k rose gold is slighter larger than the original 40s’ design, while maintaining a vintage touch in the dial graphic, available in two versions – black or white. The watch movement is an automatic CyS 2853 with 27 jewels and 44 hours of power reserve. The watch sports an anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Strap is Louisiana alligator with stainless steel folding buckle.
The Torpedo Historiador Semanal retails for $5220 in stainless steel and $14790. For inquiries contact lfarace@cuervoysobrinos.ch or http://www.curevoysobrinos.ch/.
FRÉDÉRIQUE CONSTANT
MAXIME MANUFACTURE AUTOMATIC
As a follow-up to its successful move into the creation of its own in-house movement with the Heart Beat Manufacture in 2004, Frédérique Constant has introduced at Basel its new Maxime Manufacture Automatic with FC-700 caliber. Watches with this new in-house movement retail for approximately $2550 in steel, a price point the firm feels places it squarely in the accessible luxury segment.
The new movement has also yielded a new case design, combining straight lines with round surfaces requiring extensive hand polishing. According to the company, “The combination of matte and polished case parts, a silvered, guilloché dial and an integrated alligator strap results in a collection of classical yet contemporary timepieces, radiating a sober but elegant style.”
The new collection comes in multiple versions, two with steel bezels and two with 15 micron, 18 karat gold-capped bezels.
For inquiries email pedrini@frederique-constant.com or
http://www.frederique-constant.com/.
FUEL SWISS QUALITY WATCHES
MILANO-2
The 24-year-old company has introduced in Basel its new Milano-2 watch, featuring 224 diamonds, a stainless steel case, sea shell mother of pearl dial that comes in grey, blue or brown. Swiss quartz movement and Italian leather strap available in black, dark red, blue or brown. The dial features 4 black Arabic numerals in an unusual design extending beyond the bezel. The 3, or quarter-hour marker, also houses the time-setting mechanism. The case is also available in a combination of rose gold and black; gold or rose gold. Model shown retails for $3675. For further information contact info@fuelwatches.com.
ORIS
BOB DYLAN LIMITED EDITION WATCH
In one of his greatest hits, Bob Dylan sings that "The Times They Are A-Changin" but the great man himself remains constant. He is a multi-talented living legend: singer-songwriter, poet, musician, author and painter.
As a tribute to Bob Dylan, Oris has created a special edition Rectangular model, limited to just 3000 pieces worldwide. The stainless steel cased watches carry Bob Dylan’s signature on the finely patterned dial. The cases are 37.8 mm by 39 mm and house an automatic mechanical movement with centralized hour, minute and second displays. Dylan’s portrait is engraved on the case back along with the limited edition number of the watch. A small glass window offers a glimpse of the complex mechanical movement with the famous Oris red rotor.
This exclusive Oris limited edition comes in a presentation box set with a Hohner Marine Band harmonica – the instrument for which Dylan is best known. The watch dial is black patterned with applied numerals and nickel hands with luminous inlay. The crystal is sapphire, domed on both sides with inner and outer anti-reflective coating. The strap is black leather with a stainless steel folding clap. The limited edition timepiece is also water resistant to 3 bar. Suggested retail price ranges between $2,000 and $3,000. For inquiries contact jessgurd@aol.com or http://www.oris-watches.com/.
PHILIP STEIN
FIRST AUTOMATIC WATCH
Philip Stein, which has made a name for itself with watches and other lifestyle products using its proprietary natural frequency technology, has introduced its first automatic timepiece featuring two Swiss made movements at Baselworld 2009. The new watch also employs the firm’s natural frequency technology. The new watch is called the Prestige Automatic.
“By designing the automatic watch and embedding it with the natural frequency technology, we have kept our commitment to create watches people both want and need, and now offer our discerning customers the precision of a Swiss-made timepiece,” said Philip Stein President Will Stein. The line features Roman numerals and two-tone dials available in black and ivory and navy blue and ivory, with the blue dials sporting royal blue hands.
The Automatic Watches are also available with interchangeable watch straps and metal bracelets. Each watch has two automatic Swiss movements that are visible through a center skeleton dial.
The Prestige Automatic retails for $2,500-$2,800. For inquiries contact Laura@VPNYC.com or http://www.philipstein.com/.
RADO
‘TRUE’ CHRONOGRAPH PLATINUM MATT
Rado has introduced a new chronograph to its True Collection. The round piece will be made in a limited edition of 800 pieces and retails for $2,800.
Entirely ceramic, the Rado True Chronograph Platinum Matt Basel Special 2009 is platinum color, purposely treated to evoke a unique, dull luster. The material absorbs light, enriching the intensity of its grey-brown hues. Beneath the domed sapphire crystal lies the galvanic dial which underpins its monochromatic nature along with special graphic nuances. Ease in legibility is achieved through 5N gold highlighting. On the chronograph’s slightly iridescent surface appear three counters with the date at four o’clock, finely outlined circles, each with a central hand, reinforce the shape of the dial and round push-pieces add to the design’s coherence.
Two rows of indexes measure the seconds and minutes. The model is also available in a three-hand version with two size options limited to 1,000 and 500 units. For inquiries contact miche.hueter@rado.com or http://www.rado.com/.
RAYMOND WEIL
NABUCCO RIVOLUZIONE
Raymond Weil has added a new design to its men’s mechanical Nabucco collection with the addition of the all-black Rivolutionize automatic chronograph with 46 hour power reserve.
The 46 mm-diameter case, with its circular bezel and tachometer, is made from steel and titanium. Ultra-light, hi-tech carbon fibre is used to decorate the case sides, providing added strength and styling. The watch's use of black is made possible by the PVD metallic coating process: a technique involving the application of a thin film of chromium and titanium carbide. The design also features an exterior ring around the bezel with alternating polished “godron décor” and brushed vertical bands as well as fluted push-pieces and crown.
The dial of this mechanical timepiece is capped by a sapphire crystal, 2.5mm thick, with double-sided anti-glare treatment. Coated in black, the three subdials (30-minutes at 3 o'clock, 12-hours at 6 and 60-seconds at 9), along with the date-window at 4:30, are positioned on a central zone in relief embellished with three screws. The indexes are integrated into the darkness of the dial; only the blue hands of the subdials, and the blue chronograph-hand provide contrast.
The watch provides an exclusive, saddle-stitched, black crocodylus niloticus leather strap with folding clasp and double push-piece security. Nabucco Rivolutionize is water resistant to 200 m. For inquiries contact j.beretta@raymond-weil.ch or http://www.raymondweil.com/.
TAG HEUER
AQUARACER 500M CALIBRE 5
This new introduction from Tag Heuer is inspired by the extreme requirements of professional deep sea diving. Offering a Caliber 5 automatic movement, the Aquaracer 500M sports a 43 mm case as well, and is designed to fit the rugged sports lifestyle consistently portrayed by the brand.
TAG Heuer’s strong links to the high-pressure world of watersports began in 1895, the year it patented its first water-resistant case. In 1950, it launched the Mareograph, the world’s first chronograph with tide and regatta indicators. In 1982, it launched the 2000 collection, its first professional diving series and the precursor to the Aquaracer line.
Aquaracer 500M features the following attributes: Guaranteed water resistance to 500 meters--Subjected to the Swiss watch industry’s manufacturing and operating tests – the most exacting and rigorous in the world; Unidirectional turning bezel--An essential safety feature that makes the model easily recognizable as a diving watch. With brushed steel numerals surrounded by rubber molding; Easy-grip studs and oversized screw-in crown—The 43mm brushed-steel case is fitted with six studs to facilitate handling with diving gloves. The fine-brushed, color-coated, screw-in crown has double safety gaskets to prevent dust or water penetration.
Other features include: Dial with vertical streak effect—Special luminescence markers on the hands and indexes and an orange-tipped secondhand make reading easy in dim light or under water. “500 M” appears next to the large date window at 9 o’clock, which is magnified. “Calibre 5” and “Automatic” appear at 6 o’clock; Automatic helium release valve—Providing functionality for professional divers operating at great depths for prolonged periods of time; Scratch-resistant domed sapphire crystal and case-back—For better visibility, the crystal’s interior is anti-reflection treated; Tag Heuer automatic Calibre 5 movement—Swiss-Made Automatic 26mm movement (Calibre ETA 2836-2) with engraved “Côtes de Genève” oscillating mass; Folding clasp safety bracelet or strap—In three-row fine-brushed steel or high-grade rubber, with solid-steel clasp and safety push buttons to prevent accidental opening, and an integrated diving extension that allows it to be worn over a wet suit for diving or surfing.
The Aquaracer 500m Calibre 5 comes in black dial with rubber strap; silver dial with steel bracelet or rubber strap; or blue dial with steel bracelet, as well as steel & gold with black dial and unidirectional turning bezel in fine-brushed massive rose gold (18K 5N shown), and a steel bracelet or rubber strap. Piece retails for $3950. For inquiries contact stephanie.cariglio@lvmhwatchjewelry.com or http://www.tagheuer.com/.
TECHNOMARINE
UF6 38MM
The UF6 38mm is the newest member of the UF6 family by Technomarine. This piece, embellished by a white diamond encrusted bezel and mother of pearl dial, offers a sporty and technical design for its round case, natural rubber strap and chronograph functions.
TechnoMarine specifically created this Swiss made timepiece to serve today’s woman who enjoys the pleasures of wearable luxury, according to the company. The watch features a stainless steel case with 2mm diameter full cut white diamonds that add sparkle. The watch is water resistant to 100 m and employs an ETA 254.471 movement with hour, minute, second and chronograph functions.
Either a white fiber or black carbon fiber side plate is used, as well as sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment. Dial is white mother of pearl with or without diamonds or black with or without diamonds. Bezel is stainless steel or black carbon fiber or stainless steel with diamonds. Strap is white or black rubber with stainless steel fastner.
The UF6 38mm is available in various versions from models with diamond indexes, diamond bezel and indexes to super luxury timepieces with full pavé dial. Suggested retail for UF6 38MM design shown is $4100. For inquiries contact emille.princep@technomarine.com or http://www.technomarine.com/.
TIFFANY WATCH CO. LTD.
ATLAS LADY
A new collaboration between Tiffany & Co., New York, USA and The Swatch Group, Biele/Bienne, Switzerland, has resulted in the formation of the new Tiffany Watch Co. Ltd., whose designs debuted at Baselworld 2009.
Among the new introductions was the Atlas Ladies Collection shown in rose gold bezel with black dial and strap. This collection retails for between $4350 and $13,920.
The Atlas Lady features hallmark Tiffany & Co. design motifs and feminine touches. The large Roman numerals and round dial have come to characterize the Atlas line and are the key visual feature of this 36 mm 18-carat red gold model with 42 diamonds (0.39 ct) and in a 30 mm stainless steel version with a powder pink dial.
Tiffany Watch Co. Ltd has created an original bezel for both Atlas Lady models: the half-sized Roman numerals applied on the bezel extend the numerals on the dial. They are inspired the Atlas at the entrance to Tiffany & Co.’s flagship store on New York’s 5th Avenue.
Polished and raised for greater contrast and depth, the top part of the numerals sit on a matte bezel. The circumference of the deep case has been embellished with matching black or pink ceramic details that offset the crown bearing the Tiffany & Co. logo and the lugs that link the case to the strap. In the case of the gold timepiece, the lugs have been adorned with a diamond.
The glossy black lacquered dial of the 36 mm red gold model features applied red gold Roman numerals and hour markers, each one set with diamonds.
The faceted Dauphine hands and the details of the dial are protected by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on the inside. The heart of the Atlas Lady beats to a precision Swiss quartz movement and both models are water-resistant to 30 meters. The smooth powdered satin strap is attached to the wrist by means of a fold-over clasp with ceramic inserts and, in the case of the red gold model, a diamond on either side.
A wide selection of models are available ranging from a 30 mm or 36 mm white or red gold model with diamonds, a 30 mm or 36 mm stainless steel model, a 30 mm two-tone automatic and a 36 mm steel quartz chronograph. For inquiries contact marco.turro@tiffanywatch.com.
UNDER $1000
DELMA
ORLANDO MODEL
The Orlando marries complimentary classic and modern elements. The maker says it is an extravagant watch with a resolute presence and that the interaction of straight and curved lines is the underlying theme that also extends into the guillochéd dial.
The Orlando comes in a chronograph version or as a model with a smart business look. Water-resistant to 50 meters, this timepiece comes with either a steel bracelet or a rubber strap with steel inlays. The case is stainless steel with a sapphire crystal. Movement is either a Ronda quartz chronograph or quartz 3 hands. Dial comes in silver and black with indexes. Hands offer minute and hour and are luminous. The Swiss made Orlando retails for between $395 and $470. For inquiries contact leibundgut@delma.ch or http://www.delma.ch/.
FESTINA
TOUR EDITION 2009
Festina continues its long-time role as Official Timekeeper of the Tour de France, with news reports of late placing famed rider Lance Armstrong back in the Tour this year. New to the sport collection for 2009 is a retrograde chronograph with rubber strap and carbon fiber accents. The collection retails for between $400 and $500 and offers a quartz movement; chronograph with calendar; stainless steel case; steel top ring with six screws; black rubber strap with carbon fiber; black dial and water resistance up to 10 ATM. The watch also comes in stainless steel case and bracelet and white dial. According to Festina, “Every single model of this 2009 edition is composed of a round steel case with 6 screws in the shape of a wheel in its bezel, which bring up a design that resembles the movement of a wheel.” The spheres may be silver, anthracite, orange or yellow, depending on the versions, and in them there are 3 sub-faces that resemble the bolts, radius and chain of a competition bicycle.
Festina has been the Official Timekeeper the Tour de France since 1994. It slso sponsors the Tour de Suisse and Tour de Romandie, as further examples of its commitment to the world of sports and cycling. The company began in Spain under the Lotus brand in 1980.
For inquiries contact watches@festina.com.
SWISS ARMY
JUBILEE POCKET WATCH ALARM 1884 LIMITED EDITION
Inspired by the Original Swiss Army Knife and to celebrate the 125th anniversary of its parent company Victorinox, the maker of the Original Swiss Army Knife, the watch design team at Victorinox Swiss Army has successfully combined a timepiece with the folding system invented for the Victorinox pocket knife in 1884.
Joining their forces, the technical teams of both the knife and watch divisions have applied the principle of the retractable blade to the design of a commemorative pocket watch. The resulting Pocket Watch Alarm features the same spring effect and “click” sound as the Original Swiss Army Knife, the same red side-panels made of MABS plastic composite, and even includes the famous toothpick and tweezers found in all Victorinox pocket knives.
The Pocket Watch Alarm sports a Swiss-made quartz movement with an alarm feature, activated by a pusher at 2 o’clock, a date calendar and the functional design and high legibility typical of Victorinox Swiss Army timepieces. This very special model is limited in 1884 pieces worldwide in honor of the founding year of Victorinox.
Suggested retail price is $550. For inquiries contact renee.hourigan@swissarmy.com or http://www.victorinoxswissarmy.com/.
TOY WATCH
NAKED COLLECTION EXPANDS
Toy Watch has expanded its Naked series of watches with the addition of new Naked Round and Naked Small models, available in steel, pink gold or black. The new watches have an automatic mechanism; the polycarbonate case makes them light and they feature a dial with hex screw closing. Sword-shaped hands and Arabic numerals decorate the dials.
The new Naked Plasma model differentiates itself starting from the mechanic-automatic movement: the dial is enriched by a moon phase indicator and mounted stones. The straps are all in black rubber, plain for the Small models, or intersected with steel, with a deployant buckle with safety clasp in the Round and Plasma models.
ToyWatch reports it has become a global company and is present in the five continents with over 900 stores including jewellery stores, fashion and department stores and three flagship stores in Italy in Milan, Rome, and Porto Cervo.
Large square model shown retails for $550 ($495 in plain strap). For inquiries contact amyb@vpnyc.com or http://www.toy-watch.it/.
WENGER
AEROGRAPH COCKPIT CHRONOGRAPH
Retailing for approximately $375, the new Wenger Aerograph Cockpit Chronograph takes its inspiration from the aviator’s flight deck and instrumentation.
The 42 mm case exhibits a dial with Superluminova covered markers for quick visibility. The quartz timepiece offers chronograph functions including 30 minutes, 1/10th second and 60 seconds, add and split time functions, as well as analog time display and date. The piece also features a scratch-proof crystal, stainless steel case, water resistance to 100 meters and a leather or polysiloxane strap. Piece comes as shown with black dial and black PD coated stainless steel, or with brown or black dial and brushed stainless steel case. For inquiries contact nicole.frey@wenger.ch or http://www.wenger.ch/.
More watches to come tomorrow
Suunto X6
Suunto X10
