Horozima

BUBEN&ZÖRWEG opens a new boutique in the Russian city of Krasnodar

2012-02-14T10:37:00.001-06:00

For BUBEN&ZÖRWEG there is a special reason to celebrate the beginning of the new year. A new boutique was opened in the Russian city of Krasnodar.

With its approximately 710,000 inhabitants, Krasnodar is considered one of the big cities of Russia. In the city initially founded as a fortress in 1793 by the Russian Czarina Catherine II under the name "Jekaterinodar", BUBEN&ZÖRWEG has opened a new boutique.

Here passionate lovers of exquisite watches and luxurious lifestyle objects can experience masterpieces "first hand". Items on display are, for example, the exclusive masterpieces Vanguard, X-007, Python, Objet de Temps I, Ellipse, Grande Précision, Objet de Temps II and a Phantom – to name only a few of the eye-catchers in the impressive surroundings.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre à Sphérotourbillion

2012-02-14T10:31:00.004-06:00

Legendary Swiss watch brand Jaeger-LeCoultre adds a new chapter to watchmaking history, by presenting a a new generation complication " Duomètre à Sphérotourbillon", from its successful line named "Duomètre" based on Dual-Wing concept.

The Duomètre à Sphérotourbillon is a truly original model uniting peerless technical performance, elegance and a spectacular complication, thereby meeting the expectations of the most demanding connoisseurs and collectors.

Gyrotourbillon 1, Reverso Grande Complication à Triptyque, Reverso Gyrotourbillon 2, Duomètre à Grande Sonnerie, Master Grande Tradition à Grande Complication, Reverso Répétition Minutes à Rideau… Over the past decade, the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre, building on a longstanding tradition of inventiveness and unique expertise, has displayed exceptional creativity, achieving technical performances that have enabled it to develop some of the most noteworthy complications of the early 21
st century.

Armed with exceptional horological know-how, Jaeger-LeCoultre gladly starts with a blank page for each new creation in order to combine aesthetic elegance, technical performance and unique functions. This approach has given rise to the Gyrotourbillon, the Crystal Gong, the expression of civilian, celestial and perpetual time on three separate faces, the tourbillon that won the first timing competition of the 21 st century, the Tourbillon with cylindrical balance-spring, the Flying Tourbillon indicating celestial time, the Minute Repeater activated by a metal curtain, as well as the Grande Sonnerie faithfully reproducing the Westminster chime.

When Jaeger-LeCoultre began reflecting in parallel on a new chronograph movement capable of maintaining the same precision, whether or not the chronograph function were activated, watchmakers did not imagine that they were going to create a whole new watch movement concept. The latter proved so innovative that it paved the way for unprecedented functions and gave rise to the Duomètre line.

The principle behind the revolutionary Dual-Wing concept involves two independent mechanisms, each with its own source of energy, but sharing a common regulating organ. This principle gave rise to the first chronograph maintaining the same level of precision whether in chronograph on or off mode , the first calendar-display watch adjustable to the nearest 1/6 th of a second, and the first Grande Sonnerie model to faithfully reproduce the tune chimed by Big Ben.

Another distinctive feature of the Duomètre line is the arrangement of the dial displays, which reflects the dual structure of the Dual-Wing concept. An hour display off-centred along the 3 – 9 o’clock axis; twin indications of the respective power reserves; hands in two different colours; grained silver-toned finish: all these fascinating details combine to endow each of the Duomètre models with a unique aesthetic and a strong identity.

A striking design, a unique function and an aura of refinement in harmony with the finest watchmaking traditions: the new Duomètre à Sphérotourbillon combines all these ingredients. This Grande Complication model vividly demonstrates that it is in fact possible to combine technical performances, discreet aesthetic elegance and spectacular horological complexity.

The Sphérotourbillon : a precision-adjusted tourbillon
Precision is the cornerstone of the Dual-Wing concept and was the watchword for the Jaeger-LeCoultre watchmakers in their reflection leading to the creation of the Duomètre à Sphérotourbillon. The result is a watch that can legitimately claim to be the first tourbillon watch adjustable to the nearest second. For what’s the point of precision if you can’t display it?

There are indeed very few tourbillon models with an extremely readable display of the seconds in a dedicated subdial, and even fewer with a stop seconds device. Certainly none until now had ever enabled the user to stop the seconds hand and bring it back to zero in order to perform an ultra-accurate time setting.

Using the Dual-Wing concept enabled the Jaeger-LeCoultre watchmakers to create the first precision-adjusted tourbillon. A push-piece at 2 o’clock serves to bring the small seconds hand positioned beneath the tourbillon back to zero, according to the flyback principle.

One special feature of this flyback system is that it does not halt the operation of the regulating organ. The small seconds hand is reset to zero and begins running again instantly. This means the watch maintains optimal precision even when accurately adjusting the time to the nearest second.

A multi-axis tourbillon
Above and beyond its exemplary reliability, the chief characteristic of this Sphérotourbillon
watch, the fourth exceptional model in the Duomètre line, is its tourbillon.

Initially devised for pocket-watches, the traditional tourbillon does not serve to compensate for the effects of gravity in all positions. An additional rotation axis must be added in order to achieve a three-dimensional rotation movement and thus prove itself more effective in all positions that a wristworn watch may adopt.

The openworked dial provides a fascinating view of the tourbillon performing an extremely unusual rotation movement. As well as revolving around the axis of its titanium carriage, the tourbillon also spins around a second axis, inclined at a 20° angle. The combination of these two distinct and fast rotations (respectively 30 and 15 seconds per revolution) serves to free the watch from the effects of gravity.

This spectacular tourbillon incorporates all the innovations that enabled Jaeger-LeCoultre to win a brilliant victory in the first official timing competition of the 21st century. The carriage machined from a single block of titanium features a combination of lightness and extreme precision. The cylindrical balance-spring with its two terminal curves beats with a concentricity impossible to achieve with a traditional balance-spring. The balance with its generous inertia oscillates at a cadence of 21,600 vibrations per hour. The balance-spring stud-holder is protected by a screw-locking system from the effects of shocks and vibrations to which the watch is subjected.

For enhanced visual pleasure, a transparent caseback provides an admirable “backstage” view of the intricate working of the hand-assembled and decorated movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 382.

Making complexity beautiful
This technological complexity nonetheless remains extremely beautiful. The innovative spirit of the watch merges with an inspired design inspired by vintage pocket-watches and designed to endow it with a blend of elegance and refinement.

The level of finishing of the ébauches made in non-treated nickel silver accentuates the sense of exclusivity exuded by the Duomètre à Sphérotourbillon. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s signature “côtes soleillées”, clean-cut exterior and internal angles, harmonious shapes: the appearance of Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 382 is the very epitome of the watchmaking art.

Demonstrating profound respect for ideal proportions and watchmaking design codes, expressed through the sophisticated pink gold case, the restrained, highly readable dial, the polished bezel and lugs, and the satin-brushed case middle, the signature aesthetic characteristics of the Duomètre are meticulously preserved in this model and create a striking contrast with the level of complexity of the movement housed within.

The Dual-Wing concept is reflected on the dial by the presence of two separate zones: to the left sits the opening revealing the secrets of the Sphérotourbillon; and to the left the main dial indicating local time and the date, subtly placed on a lower level all around the dial. An additional 24-hour subdial occupying the upper part of the dial serves to display the time in another time-zone, while the small seconds appear in the lower part.

In developing this Duomètre à Sphérotourbillion, the first tourbillon accurate to the nearest second thanks to the Dual-Wing concept combined with the small seconds flyback function, did the Jaeger-LeCoultre watchmakers realise that they were in fact creating one of the most exceptional models of this early 21 st century?

Technical specifications
Movement
 Mechanical manually-wound Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 382, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand, nickel silver bridges and mainplate
 2 barrels
 50-hour power reserve
 460 parts
 55 jewels
 10.45 mm thick
 33.70 mm in diameter

Sphérotourbillon
 105 parts
 Tourbillon carriage: grade 5 titanium
 Total rotation speed: 30 seconds for a complete revolution
 2 combined movements. Carriage axis rotation speed: 15 seconds for a complete revolution. Carriage rotation speed: 30 seconds for a complete revolution
 Carriage inclination: 20°
 Carriage diameter: 11.50 mm
 Carriage mass: 0.518 grams
 14-carat gold balance with eccentric inertia blocks in 14-carat gold, inertia = 12.5
mg.cm
2
, 21,600 vibrations per hour
 Cylindrical balance-spring

Functions
 Hours (travel time), minutes and small seconds with flyback function
 Power reserves (indications and movement)
 Pointer-type date display
 24-hour reference time-zone
 Sphérotourbillon

Case
 18-carat pink gold
 Diameter: 42 mm
 Thickness: 14.1 mm (including the sapphire crystal)
 Polished and satin-brushed finish  Domed glareproofed front and back sapphire crystals, hardness n°9
 Water resistance : 5 bars

Dial
 Crystalline grained
 pink gold appliques
ands
 Hours and minutes: “leaf” type
 Small seconds: baton type with pear-shaped counterweight, blued steel

Crowns
 One crown to wind the watch, set the time (travel time-zone), adjust the date and
adjust the travel time-zone
 One push-piece at 2 o’clock to activate the small seconds flyback mechanism

Strap
 Hand-sewn crocodile leather, 18-carat pink gold pin buckle

Reference:
 605 25 20

F.P.Journe Octa Sport

2012-02-14T09:56:00.001-06:00

After the launch of the innovative Centigraphe Sport in June 2011, first mechanical wristwatch ever in aluminium, F.P.Journe now introduces the second model of the “lineSport”, the Octa Sport in a high technology aluminium alloy used in the Aeronautics.

This exclusive new watch of an astounding lightness for absolute comfort weighs only 53 grams. Conceived specifically for a sportive lifestyle, it is coupled with an automatic movement of authentic high horology. The Octa Sport with its 120 hours power reserve features central hour and minutes, small second at 5h00, power reserve at 10h30, day/night indication at 8h00 and a large date at 1h00.

The passage from 18K rose gold - used for all other F.P.Journe movements - to a high technology aluminium alloy was not easy for obvious technical reasons. The brand perfected different methods of processing in order to make the aluminium scratch resistant and give it anti-corrosive and anti-allergic properties while maintaining the standards of high horology so specific to the F.P.Journe Manufacture. F.P.Journe took his research one step further to complete an appropriate contrast in the colour of the aluminium, never sacrificing the element of design.

The Octa Sport aluminum movement, reserved exclusively to the lineSport, still preserves the properties of all F.P. Journe Octa calibers, with a five day power reserve and a variable inertia balance wheel for an optimum yield and an irreproachable stability. This allows for any slight movement of the wrist to automatically wind the watch. The rotor of the Octa Sport is also made of aluminum alloy with the addition of a tungsten segment to increase the winding speed.

To efficiently protect the watch from any shocks, rubber inserts are fixed with an outstanding process to the sides of the case and the end of each link of the bracelet. The crown and the folding clasp, engraved with the F.P.Journe signature, are also covered with a rubber coating. The folding clasp offers an adjustment system of a half link size (4mm approx.).

The Octa Sport, like the Centigraphe Sport are also available with a black rubber strap.

Technical details

Movement

Automatic Calibre FPJ 1300-3

Unidirectional automatic winding

Movement in aluminium alloy

Dimensions of the movement

Overall diameter: 30.80 mm

Casing-up diameter: 30.40 mm

Overall height: 5.70 mm

Height of winding stem: 3.00 mm

Diameter of stem thread: S0.90 mm

Balance

Four adjustable inertia weights

Anachron free-sprung flat balance spring

Mobile stud holder

Free Sprung

Nivatronic laser soldered balance spring

Pinned GE stud

Frequency : 21'600 Alt/h, 3 Hz

Inertia : 10.10 mg/cm2

Angle of lift : 52°

Amplitude : 0 h dial up : > 300°

24 h dial up : > 280°

Main characteristics

Three position crown:

Winding of the watch in position 0, clock wise

Correction of date in position 1, anti clockwise

Correction of time in position 2

Instant jump calendar

Off centre winding rotor in Titanium with

Tungsten segment

Barrel with slipping spring

Escapement 15 tooth

Indications

Centred hours and minutes

Small second at 6h00

Day/Night indication at 9h00

Power reserve at 10h30

Large date at 1h00

Autonomy: 120+/- 12 hours

Winding Speed on watch winder: 274 rotations / 24 hours

Decoration

Circular Côtes de Genève on bridges

Partly circular graining on baseplate

Polished screw heads with chamfered slots

Chamfered and circular grained wheels

Steel components hand polished and chamfered

Case

Aluminium alloy with rubber inserts

Diameter: 42.00mm

Total height: 11.60mm

Dial

Aluminium alloy and sapphire

Superluminova hands

Superluminova appliqué indexes

12 luminescent points

Number of parts

Movement without dial: 286

Cased up with Aluminium bracelet: 510

Cased up with rubber strap: 354

Jewels : 40

Rubber: 72

Weight

Total weight: 53 g

Movement alone: 11 g

Sapphire glass sub dial: 2 g

Nautica NMX 650

2012-02-14T09:28:00.003-06:00

Nautica introduces a new sport watch, the NMX 650, that is big, bold and ready for action. Continuing the brand's tradition of watch designs that are crisp and clean, this latest style showcases an innovative resin strap that is both aesthetically attractive and functional. The distinct ripple strap is designed to flex and expand to fit cleanly over a wet suit.

The NMX 650 is strong and masculine with authentic diving details like the specially designed silicone strap, turning bezel with notched edge, clean dial design, and water resistance level of 200M. The oversized 50mm stainless steel case sports a matte black dial to offset its bold luminescent hands and markers for enhanced visibility in bright sun or under water.

True to the Nautica heritage, the NMX 650 is available in bright and basic colors: black, blue, orange, green and yellow. Markers and numerals on the turning bezel match the strap color and second-hand, pulling the elements together in an eye-catching design. The ultra-comfortable and confident timepiece has the look of adventure and is ready-for-action.

NMX 650 features a simple, three-hand movement and a protected crown that integrates seamlessly into the steel case. The signature sailboat logo etched on the crown is a reminder that the NMX 650 continues the Nautica brand's heritage of authenticity inspired by the sea.

Roger W. Smith honoured with BHI Silver medal for outstanding achievements in horology

2012-02-14T09:10:00.000-06:00

The British Horological Institute have awarded Roger Smith the Barrett Silver Medal of the BHI at their recent annual awards and new members day at Upton Hall, Newark.

The award is in recognition of Roger Smith’s “Dedication to and successfully continuing the finest traditions of English watchmaking”.

First awarded in 1987, The BHI Silver Medal is only awarded to members of the British Horological Institute and, although presented at the annual event, it is not necessarily an annual award, requiring a justifiably outstanding achievement in the opinion of the panel. In fact it has only been awarded six times since 2000.

Kenneth Lloyd Jones, in presenting the prize to Roger, noted his exceptional story of devotion to the pursuit of making watches by hand, and extraordinary determination during the many years it took him in doing so. Roger was commended for bringing his work into the commercial industry, and for his success therein.

Ahead of the prize-giving,the event also gave Roger Smith the opportunity to address the new members as well as the recently successful exam candidates. During his speech, Roger remembered his own studies for the BHI qualification at the Manchester School of Horology almost 25 years ago, remarking that his first day on the course was ‘the most enjoyable day in education that I had ever had’ and from that day, he knew that he ‘had been gripped by this fascinating and multi faceted occupation of horology’. Roger was awarded the BHI Bronze Award on graduating in 1989, for ‘The most outstanding student of the year’.

Having been recognised for his own continuation of the finest traditions of English watchmaking, Roger shared his belief with the new members that, despite the current economic downturn, there has never been a better time for the horologist; “In the past 15 or so years we have all witnessed a rapid expansion of the Swiss watch industry and its renewed interest in the modern mechanical wrist watch along with the ever increasing numbers of watches and clocks that are now becoming collectable”.

In wishing the new members of the BHI well in their chosen profession, Roger reminded them that they are the future face of British horology ascribing professionalism as the key the success.

In joining other ‘horological greats’ such as Jonathon Betts and Derek Pratt who have previously received the BHI Silver Medal, Roger also provides an inspiration to young horologists who might also one day find themselves accepting the award.

Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest watch manufacturer, Opens an Exclusive Boutique at Wynn Macau

2012-02-14T09:05:00.000-06:00

Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest Haute Horlogerie manufacturer with over 250 years of uninterrupted history, opened its latest exclusive boutique at Wynn Macau. It is the brand’s 29th boutique, following on from others such as Geneva (its birthplace), New York, Moscow, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Dubai. This new opening sets another milestone of the brand’s worldwide expansion; further reinforce its presence in the global map.

The new boutique creates an intimate and welcoming space for watch enthusiasts and collectors, displaying its exquisite timepieces in refined showcases. The interior design of the boutique incorporates contemporary elements into the traditional design through an architectural perspective that reveals the brand’s constant research for excellence and aesthetic perfection. The finishing has been created according to a detailed and elegant color scheme, emanating a contemporary, cosy and serene atmosphere.

To celebrate the opening of the new Vacheron Constantin Boutique at Wynn Macau, special collectors’ favorites will be showcased including the Patrimony Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 and Malte Tourbillon Regulator Boutique Exclusive timepiece, the stunning Métiers d’Art Lady Kalla Flame and the Métiers d’Art La Symbolique des Laques set. These timepieces are a representation of the unique watchmaking know-how and craftsmanship mastery of Vacheron Constantin in the world of decorative applied arts.

Mühle-Glashütte Terranaut I Trail

2012-02-11T00:45:00.000-06:00

Terranaut I Trail is on the go: its design embodies excitement, dynamic power and the charm of adventure. It carves out a truly unique path, nestled between the elements. With Terranaut I Trail, Mühle-Glashütte presents an energy-charged instrument watch with a down-to-earth design.

The uncompromising instrument-like character of Terranaut I Trail is evident at first glance. Instead of having a small seconds display, this chronograph with pilot’s watch characteristics comes with a large rotating and luminous function display. With the help of this display, the timepiece confirms that it is functioning reliably and reveals its fundamental philosophy: combining the earth and skies to create something completely new. The rotating triangle gives the watch its pulse rate, breathes life into it and creates its unmistakeable character.

To ensure that time can be adjusted to the exact second using the function triangle, an arrow-shaped marker has been added to one of the tips. This corresponds to the 15-second markings in the form of a grey cross. The latter is a design element which also features in other models within the watch family.

At the heart of Terranaut I Trail is the chronograph movement MU 9408 with its woodpecker neck regulation, the Glashütte three-quarter plate, the characteristic surface refinements and a 48-hour power reserve. The patented woodpecker neck regulation from Mühle ensures that the movement remains unaffected by any knocks or uneven terrain and guarantees a high level of accuracy even under difficult operating conditions. The same applies to all the watches in the ‘Trail’ family. The 44 mm robust case in brushed stainless steel is also available with a black PVD coating and leaves no room for scratches.

Terranaut I is equally uncompromising when it comes to implementing the ‘trail’ concept in terms of design and colour. The hands, numbers and indices come in a luminous sand tone, ensuring that they stand out clearly against the black face. Together with the minute graduation, this colour distinction guarantees optimal readability of the time at a glance – by day and night.

A week day and date display at the 4 o’clock position complete the scope of functions offered by Terranaut I Trail. The distinguished design is also continued in the black Russia leather strap which comes with a stainless steel clasp.

Just like the other members of the Terranaut Trail family, this timepiece strives for the outdoors. Here in a place where paths are called ‘trails’ and the boundary between the earth and the sky is blurred. Terranaut I Trail has a resilient construction, functional appearance and lively nature. A characterful timepiece which goes its own way.

Movement
MU 9408, automatic with woodpecker neck regulation, Glashütte three-quarter plate and characteristic surface finishes, quickset mechanism, stop second, 48-h power reserve.

Case
Brushed stainless steel or stainless steel with black PVD coating. Anti-glare sapphire crystal. Transparent
case back. Screw-in crown. Ø 44,0 mm; H 13,6 mm. Water-resistant to 5 bars.

Strap
Russia leather strap with stainless steel pin buckle.
Stainless steel strap with butterfly clasp

Dial
Black. Hour markers and hands coated in Super LumiNova

Price
2,350 € (stainless steel)
2,450 € (stainless steel with black PVD Coating)

GRIEB& BENZINGER, Rolls-Royce Motorcars and Revolution Magazine presented the three heaviest platinum watches in the world valued at a combined 1,200,000 euros (US$ 1,500,000)

2012-02-11T00:36:00.002-06:00

In an exclusive preview in Singapore, select guests from Rolls-Royce Motorcars and Revolution Magazine had the opportunity to marvel at two world firsts in the BLUE DANUBE(a unique skeletonized minute repeater split-seconds chronograph) and the BLUE WHIRLWIND(a unique tourbillon minute repeater)as well as the legendary BLUE SENSATION(the only split-seconds skeletonized regulator chronograph on the market) by GRIEB & BENZINGER.

Each of these unique watches is based on a rare Patek Philippe caliber, which has been fully disassembled, modified and recreated in the typical style of GRIEB & BENZINGER. More than twelve months of lavish restoration using classic horological crafts were invested in order to create these one-of-a-kind pieces in solid platinum cases with a combined total value of 1,200,000 euros / US$ 1,500,000.

Unforgettable highlights among these watches are the refined guilloché, hand-skeletonization and hand-engraving as well as the skeletonized Sterling silver dials with original Breguet frosted finish as only GRIEB & BENZINGER does. Once again the company proves that the complicated masterpieces of GRIEB & BENZINGER are just as much objets d’art as simple watches. Like the most desirable works of art, such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or van Gogh’s Sunflowers, the timepieces by GRIEB & BENZINGERPlatinumare one-of-a-kind, which will increase their collector’s value in the future.

The BLUE DANUBE is a unique skeletonized minute repeater split-seconds chronograph powered by a base movement that was made in about 1890 and fully restored. Keeping in mind that this movement is already about 120 years old, the detailed restoration of the more than 400 components of this movement required intense attention. The result, housed in a 43 mm-diameter solid platinum case, is doubtlessly a sensation and a tribute to historic watchmaking. It retails for about350,000 euros orUS$450,000.

The BLUE WHIRLWIND is a unique tourbillon minute repeater based on the legendary Patek Philippe Caliber RTO 27 PS. This very same movement recently caused a giant sensation as it sold within a one-of-a-kind Patek Philippe Tourbillon Minute Repeater in stainless steel, which was donated to the ONLY WATCH charity auction in Monaco 2011. The result was literally sensational: the hammer fell at 1.4 million Euros. This is a really breathtaking timepiece as it is the world’s first watch powered by a visible tourbillon movement by Patek Philippe. In addition, a mysterious wheel visible on the back replaces the original gold drive wheel for the tourbillon. Who else would be brave enough to rework such a movement if not the folks at GRIEB & BENZINGER? With a value of 650,000 euros (about US$850,000) this was without any doubt a highlight for the watch connoisseurs present.

The third one-of-a-kind piece, BLUE SENSATION, isthe only split-seconds skeletonized regulator chronograph on the market with a base caliber that was manufactured in1890 and fully restored and technically modified. With a 49-millimeter diameter and a total weight of 230 grams, it is the giant among these ultra-luxurious watches – though the most affordable one with a value of 200,000 euros (US$ 260,000).

These astounding timepieces are once more confirmation of GRIEB & BENZINGER’sdetailed concept, which includes the masters’ the outstanding abilities to create such astonishing watchesand the world’s heaviest platinum watches.In fact, this is not just restoration, it’s art at its finest. And only for one lucky collector worldwide.

Blancpain Villeret retrograde small seconds (PRE-BASELWORLD 2012)

2012-02-11T00:26:00.002-06:00

In 2012, the Villeret collection welcomes its first model featuring a flinqué lacquered dial. Several layers of translucent blue lacquer applied to the dial create an incomparable depth effect. Blancpain adopts a subtly balanced approach by introducing this original touch while preserving the pure lines of its most classic collection.

Housed within its 40 mm-diameter white gold case, the ultra-slim Calibre 7663Q with its 244 parts and 34 jewels has a three-day power reserve. This new self-winding movement powers hour and minute hands as well as an equally central serpentine date pointer, while the retrograde seconds appear at 6 o’clock. The under-lug corrector at 5 o’clock enables fast date adjustment, while the sapphire crystal caseback reveals the collection’s distinctive guilloché oscillating weight.

This new model, water-resistant to 3 bar, is accompanied by an alligator leather strap with an alzavel lining, matching the dial colour and fitted with a folding clasp to ensure enhanced wearer comfort.

Ref. 6653Q-1529-55B

Franck Muller Group announces partnership with Roberto Cavalli

2012-02-11T00:17:00.002-06:00

For its 20th edition, the World Presentation of Haute Horlogerie (WPHH) took place in
Genthod from Saturday 14th to Saturday 21st January. The event brought together the Franck
Muller Group’s nine brands - Franck Muller, Backes & Strauss, Barthelay, ECW, Martin
Braun, Pierre Kunz, Pierre Michel Golay, Smalto Timepieces and Rodolphe - as well as its
jewellery line, Franck Muller Jewellery, Valmont, the leading Swiss cosmetics brand and
partner of the Rodolphe brand, and, finally, the young and innovative horological brand,
Cvstos.

Over 7 days, the exhibition received more than 2,500 professionals, distributors, retailers,
journalists and brand representatives from around the globe. These visitors had the
opportunity to discover and enter into the creative and innovative worlds of the exhibited
brands as well as to view the highly skilled jewellery and watchmaking craftsmanship
displayed throughout the collections.

On the occasion of the WPHH, on Sunday 15th January 2012 the Franck Muller Group
announced a partnership with the Roberto Cavalli Group. The exclusive licence agreement
was signed by Mr. Roberto Cavalli, Mr. Franck Muller and Mr. Vartan Sirmakes, CEO of the
Franck Muller Group, in the presence of Mr. Gianluca Brozzetti, CEO of the Roberto Cavalli
Group, in front of an audience of press members and guests. The first "Roberto Cavalli by
Franck Muller" models will be unveiled and released during the course of 2012.

In order to highlight its new high complication, the Franck Muller brand presented a new
“Giga Tourbillon” area that was particularly well received by visitors, as was the exceptional
timepiece itself, which, with 6 versions featuring different movements, instantly captivated
the expert audience. The outcome of this year's event is very positive with an increase in
attendance and growing business volume. The next World Presentation of Haute Horlogerie in
Genthod will take place in January 2013.

Blancpain Saint-Valentin 2012

2012-02-11T00:11:00.001-06:00

Faithful to its annual rendezvous, Swiss luxury watch brand Blancpain once again presents an exclusive creation for Valentine’s Day.

This limited series of 14 watches, each set with 2.95 carats of precious stones, offers a fresh take on the refined aesthetics of the Blancpain Women collection, while associating it with the technical subtlety of the flyback chronograph.

With its diamond-set bezel and lugs, caseband set with four diamonds and a heart-shaped ruby, crown adorned with a diamond and pushpieces covered with cabochon-cut rubies, the white gold case of this Saint-Valentin Chronograph 2012 sparkles with dazzling splendour. Its engraved mother-of-pearl dial, featuring a marquetry-work motif composed of three white mother-of-pearl hearts and set with 8 diamonds, highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of the master-dialmakers of the Manufacture. In an additional nod to Cupid, the heart-shaped counterweight of the central sweep seconds hand is delicately hand-painted with a feather, thus endowing it with a distinctive convex shape.

The sapphire crystal back of the 36 mm case reveals the complexity of the movement with its 308 parts and 37 jewels, along with the oscillating weight clothed in pink mother-of-pearl.

The Saint-Valentin Chronograph 2012 houses the self-winding Calibre F185 that drove the very first ladies’ flyback chronograph model. It features central hour and minute hands, seconds shown on a subdial at 6 o’clock and the date appearing through an oval aperture at 12 o’clock. The chronograph function is displayed by a central sweep seconds hand, while the elapsed minutes and hours are counted off on totalizers at 3 and 9 o’clock. Two pushpieces serve to control the measurements: the first at 2 o’clock starts and stops the chronograph, while the other at 4 o’clock handles the flyback function. A single press on the latter pushpiece stops measurement of the first time interval and resets the hands to zero, and the timing begins again as soon as the pushpiece is released.

This delightful model, fitted with a white alligator leather strap and presented in a precious wooden box delicately lined with white nappa leather, is available exclusively from Blancpain boutiques.

BENTLEY GMT "V8" by Breitling for Bentley

2012-02-10T23:15:00.001-06:00

To celebrate the launch of the Continental GT V8 with its ultra-powerful new 4.0 V8 engine – the latest tour de force from the Bentley engineers – Breitling has created a 250-piece limited series of the Bentley GMT chronograph. Its signature feature is the mobile inner city bezel distinguished by a metallic red shade creating a powerful and sporting contrast with the black dial. This vivid touch of colour reflects the red background of the Bentley emblem that sets the Continental GT V8 model apart from other models by the British carmaker. The original and daring design of the steel case with its asymmetrical lugs is teamed with a bracelet or a rubber strap exclusive to this model.

A natural-born traveller, the Bentley GMT boasts an ingenious multiple timezone display system. It is equipped with a red triangulartipped additional hour hand completing one rotation every 24 hours. The pushpiece housed in the left side of the case serves to move this hand forward in one-hour increments in order to display the second timezone – while distinguishing between day and night hours. Thanks to a rotating inner bezel bearing the names of the 24 cities, the user can also instantly read off the time in all the world's timezones in relation to that shown by the 24-hour hand.

The selfwinding chronograph movement, chronometer-certified by the COSC, offers another technical asset exclusive to the Breitling for Bentley collection: a “30-second chronograph” with a sweep seconds hand making one full turn of the dial in half a minute and thus enabling readings accurate to the nearest 1/8th of a second. With the Bentley GMT “V8”, it's definitely time for performance.

Gergé Type-M Series Metropolis automatic mono-pusher Type-M3 chronograph, C.O.S.C

2012-02-10T23:11:00.000-06:00

Gergé Swiss Timepieces, the Neuchâtel-based brand developed its expertise deep in the heart of the Jurassian arc and is now proud to present for the first time in Switzerland, the Metropolis collection. The name is inspired by Fritz Lang’s cult movie and the description applied to the city of La Chaux-de-Fonds, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since June 2009.

The C.O.S.C. certified Metropolis Type-M3 chronometer, like the other Type-M1 and M2 in the family, celebrates the contemporary and embraces the eternal. The ultra-complex cases, which like most of the watch components, hails from Swiss industrial territory. It enhances a design that combines affordability and elegance. Natural shapes such as square, circular or oval, slender lines and curves without beginning or end. Like the sleek highways of an urban metropolis suspended in time, herald the coming of a new era of inescapable truths, a return to watch making basics and a projection beyond time itself. Its architectural and urban flavor gives a new look and classicism to make it a pleasing antidote to the ordinary everyday watch… …

Gergé Swiss Timepieces and the Metropolis Collection also deliver another promise: to uphold the age-old values of a watch making industry born essentially of Jurassian soil, from the coast through the mountains of Neuchâtel to the outer reaches of the Jura. It is to this land of expertise, overflowing with sites of interest for watch making technology and precision industries in the perpetual pursuit of the perfectible, that the timepiece attributes the subtlety of its finishes, such as the unusual vertical lines of its guilloché Côte de Genève decoration on a dial accented with luminescent marker.

The 45mm diameter timepiece houses the workshop-crafted 13 ! “ Concepto 2021 caliber with automatic winding. It is water-resistant to 100 meters, and apart from a variety of chronograph functions operated by a mono-pusher, also boasts a date feature between 4 and 5 o’clock, a power reserve of 46 hours and a chronometer certificate awarded by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (C.O.S.C).

New Edox "Dakar Limited Edition"

2012-01-11T08:25:00.001-06:00

The new Edox Dakar Limited Edition timepiece possesses the brand's much-prized values: strength and technicity.

Boasting the attribute of the perfect sporting vehicle, the new Dakar Limited Edition is imbued with the same steel as are the nerves of the Dakar drivers.

With its solid 42mm diamter, the quartz movement is robust, made to withstand extremes of temperature, impacts, sand and earth. The dial faithfully depicts the route of the South American tour. The black back offers perfect visibility, and sets off the white detail of the dial magnificently.

The Dakar is a 500-piece limited edition, each piece supplied in an exclusive presentation box.

Edox is the official timekeeper of the Class-1 World Powerboat Championship and official timing partner of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).Edox is the official timekeeper of the Dakar Rally Raid in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Technical Specifications:
Functions: Display of hours, minutes, small second and big date
Calibre: Edox 64, based on Ronda 6004B
Movement Height: 3.3mm
Case Height: 11.8mm
Diameter: 42mm
Water Resistance: 100 meters / 10ATM
Finish: Stainless steel 316L, numbering engraved on a plate affixed on the side of the case
Dial: Black carbon fibre, white details (2012 Dakar road map, Chile, Argentina and Peru flags, indices) Glass: anti-reflective, scratch resistant sapphire
Bracelet: stainless steel 316L, deployement clasp
Available worldwide January 2012

Exhibit Artists Series by Ecko UNLTD

2012-01-11T08:16:00.000-06:00

Unlimited expression has always been the point. Now, Ecko UNLTD. unveils a fresh canvas for creativity: its own product line. Ecko UNLTD. introduces the street inspired Exhibit Artists Series. The Exhibit Artists Series features the original artwork of top graffiti artists representing countries and cultures around the globe, articulating a cohesive story through this urban art form.

The Exhibit Series showcases timepieces, t-shirts, footwear, hats, backpacks and an assortment of items across the Ecko UNLTD. product categories. Exhibit Series timepieces feature eight leading graffiti artists' original designs. Each artist worked with one color using a tone-on-tone format to tell their distinct story. Collaboration with the global fashion brand, Ecko UNLTD. will give the artists more visibility and more opportunity to make an impact on the unlimited generation.

For UNLTD. timepieces, each artist will display their art on the newly launched Tran, a street inspired timepiece that displays its cool factor through translucence. The simplicity and transparency of the Tran makes it the perfect platform for artistic expression. The timepiece features a lightweight integrated plastic and metal case with soft silicon straps. Its 48mm thermoplastic case is framed by a metallic top-ring. Simple 3-hand movement and subtle hour markers give the artists a clear space to work.

HERE ARE THE EIGHT ARTISTS FEATURED IN THE EXHIBIT TIMEPIECE COLLECTION. Askew One: One of the driving forces behind New Zealand's graffiti art scene, his color story is green.

Superblast: Berlin-based graffiti artist, worked with groundbreaking artists and companies. Superblast is feeling blue.

Cope2: From the Bronx, NYC, internationally recognized for his distinctive "Wildstyle." Based in black.

SUIKO: From Hiroshima's streets to the UK, Brazil, LA and NYC, he's tagged the world. Working in red.

PEZ: Born in Barcelona, known for the good vibrations of his infamous smiling fish. In yellow, of course.

KENOR: From Spain. Color, life, parallel worlds, smiles and light create beauty wherever he goes. Purple works for him.

ERMS: Based in Paris, ERMS is an artist and graphic designer colored by the hip hop and skateboard scene. Pink.

123KLAN: From France, this innovative graphic team birthed a brand new visual movement. Shades of Gray.

Jordi presents its “Icons of the World” collection at GTE 2012

2012-01-11T08:06:00.001-06:00

On the occasion of the Geneva Time Exhibition(GTE 2012), Swiss luxury watch brand Michel Jordi is unveiling a new facet of the JORDI Swiss Icon brand concept. Because icons know no borders, the brand pays tribute to legendary locations around the world through a collection enriched with eight exceptional watches, each limited to 3 unique pieces.

JORDI, founded in Geneva in 1988, is a brand of passion for watchmaking, bold creativity combined with Swiss tradition, as well as a concern for detail and for excellence.

For the Geneva Time Exhibition, JORDI Swiss Icon is introducing a Fine Watchmaking collection named “Icons of the World” and which pays homage, through beautiful designs and horological complications, to some of the world’s most legendary places.

To create this exceptional collection of eight models, each produced in a series of three unique and signed watches, Michel Jordi has called upon the talent of the brilliant watchmaker and developer Jean-François Mojon from Le Locle. Awarded Best Watchmaker Prize at the 2010 Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix, he is known for his ingenuity in a wide range of exceptional horological creations.

For the “Icons of the World” collection, he has created an original gong-striking alarm movement. Instead of the traditional vibrations of the case-back, a hammer strikes the gong at the low rate of one impulse per second. In this instance, Jean-François Mojon’s art consisted in slowing down the striking mechanism to the point where it echoes the characteristic cadence of a mountain chapel bell. The finely crafted anthracite hand-wound movement with complication features superb finishing with black and red engravings. Visible through the sophisticated multilayer openworked dial, it radiates a truly harmonious visual appeal.

The design, bearing the signature of Christophe Moinat, reflects the key identity codes of the JORDI Swiss Icon collection: the domed sapphire crystal evokes the shape of a Rhone River pebble, the source of inspiration for the collection and the cylinder-shaped crown housing a decomposed Swiss flag. The art of paper-cut design, the popular Swiss art revived and updated by JORDI Swiss Icon, lends a subtle touch to the dial while making a powerful match for the resolutely contemporary design.

On each “Icon of the World” watch, the moon-phase display creates a surprise by revealing the place or the monument that gives a country iconic stature: the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, Mount Fuji, the Sugar Loaf Mountain of Rio de Janeiro, the Kremlin in Moscow, while Switzerland is represented by Interlaken with the Eiger and the Jungfrau, and Geneva with the “Jet d’Eau” water fountain and the Mont-Blanc. The USA are closing the scene with the iconic Statue of Liberty. The combination of titanium and red gold for the case accentuates the unmistakable strength of character of this chronograph. It is fitted with a dedicated “Icons of the World” genuine leather strap.

Each year, JORDI Swiss Icon will introduce an original and innovative complication model, so enthusiasts can already look forward to following the ongoing parade of authentic icons.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire 40.5

2012-01-10T08:52:00.000-06:00

Running an elaborate complication such as a calendar within a classic watch always has a detrimental effect on the precision of the time indications. However, the highly experienced watchmakers at legendary Swiss watch brand Jaeger-LeCoultre now come with a Dual-Wing concept, an instrument capable of creating a perfect alchemy: a calendar watch that was as accurate as a chronometer.

Arranged on the elegant and easily readable dial, the hours, minutes, seconds and moon-phase displays appear to make the Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire a classic watch model. But inside the case and partially hidden from view beats Calibre 381, a prodigious movement boasting unprecedented precision based on the Dual-Wing concept and which propels the watch firmly into the spheres of Haute Horlogerie. The truly extraordinary appearance of the watch lies in the actual concept behind the Dual-Wing movement, which is distinguished by the presence of two independent energy sources: the first, regulated by the escapement and the balance, is entirely dedicated to the precise measurement of the passing of time; whereas the second source of energy is devoted to the display of the functions: hours, minutes, seconds, calendar and moon phases for both hemispheres. Their synchronisation is ensured by the jumping seconds hand mechanism. This Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire brilliantly illustrates the extreme research undertaken in the laboratory-workshops of Jaeger-LeCoultre: this watch reaches the heights of precision with a jumping seconds hand moving in sixth of a second increments while displaying the date and the moon phase on a separate subdial. Through in-depth study and a willingness to challenge the fundamental principles of horological theory, the Jaeger-LeCoultre specialists have succeeded in creating a calendar watch in accordance with the Dual-Wing concept – a principle featuring exceptional characteristics that enable a degree of rating precision that was previously the exclusive preserve of timepieces free of any complications. Movement • Mechanical manually-wound Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 381, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand • 21,600 vibrations per hour • 50-hour power reserve • 367 parts • 40 jewels • 7.25 mm thick • 33.70 mm in diameter • Two independent barrels Functions • Hours, minutes, seconds, and jumping stop seconds with zero/reset system, date, age and phase of the moon (for both hemispheres), power reserve • Regulator power reserve Dial • Crystalline grained • Pink gold appliques Hands • Hours and minutes : “leaf” type • seconds : baton type with pear-shaped counterweight Crowns • One crown to wind the watch and adjust the hours and minutes • One push-piece to adjust the date • One corrector to adjust the moon phase Case • ø 40.5 mm, thickness : 13.07 mm • 18-carat pink gold • Polished and satin-brushed finish • sapphire crystal, cambered on the dial side, hardness no. 9, glareproofed on front and back • water resistance : 5 bar Strap • in chocolate-toned alligator leather with 18-carat gold pin buckle Reference • Q6042521, 18-carat pink gold

T-Fun collection by TF Est. 1968

2012-01-10T08:19:00.000-06:00

Swiss watch brand TF Est. 1968 presents The T-Fun collection, boldly coloured watches on a carbon ground. The global brand TF Est.1968, a figurehead of flawless Swiss quality and affordable luxury, has launched T-Fun, a colourful, bang-on-trend collection of watches, available in 2 versions: a three-hand automatic (high-quality decorated Swiss movement ) and a chronograph. Signature identity codes include dials and bezels sporting a genuine carbon finish and highly luminescent hands and logo … Enjoying worldwide distribution thanks to its famous cufflinks housing a Tourbillon style watchmaking mechanism, the lifestyle brand TF Est.1968 has moved into the field of watchmaking armed with some highly convincing arguments and a particularly seductive colour palette, not to mention attention-grabbing aesthetics. A member of the mechanical family, the T-Fun automatic, water-resistant to 150 metres, 45 mm in diameter In an exceptional move for a mechanical timepiece available at an incredibly affordable price that will test anyone’s powers of resistance, this T-Fun timepiece houses a 100% Swiss made decorated and circular-grained, Côtes de Genève finished three-hand automatic calibre. Personalised down to the surfaces of its oscillating weight, the movement is open to view through a transparent back. Fitted with a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, water-resistant to 15 atm, the case crafted in 916L steel or 5N gold plate transcends even the eye-grabbing chocolate brown and apple green colour scheme, shot through with flashes of vivid orange or white. Genuine carbon coats the dial and the circular grained matching bezel. The virile screw-down crown, struck with the identity-rich TF logo, makes a proud linear statement. > Swiss made automatic calibre, Côtes de Genève finish and circular-grained decoration, personalised oscillating weight open to view through the transparent back. Screw-down crown.

Interchangeable straps, the ultimate finishing touch. The models come with Two straps, one in felt-touch rubber bearing the TF stamp, rounded off with an Ardillon buckle sporting the TF Est. 1968 brand colours, the other a NATO style nylon strap. A ring echoing the chosen colour extends and highlights the bezel surround in a particularly attractive aesthetic touch. A great watchmaking success for a global lifestyle brand that stands out from the crowd. Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, transparent back. Recommended retail price: CHF 1,450.00 T-Fun chronograph watches, sporty timepieces, 45 mm in diameter, bold colours, seductive aesthetics, water-resistant to 150 metres!!!

> The T-Fun collection goes for bold colour pops for the chronograph version, making it sporty and aesthetically desirable. Highly luminescent indices and logo, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, Swiss Ronda quartz movement, screw-down crown struck with the TF logo, matching carbon back and bezel, water-resistant to 150 m. Comes with 2 straps: felt-touch rubber strap and NATO style nylon strap. Recommended retail price, CHF 890.00

RenaissanceTourbillon Minute Repeater by Speake-Marin

2012-01-10T08:00:00.002-06:00

Independent luxury watch maker Speake-Marin unveils Renaissance, an open-dial, tourbillon minute repeater that announces the time as spectacularly as it announces an important new dawn for Speake-Marin. Renaissance incorporates an accumulation of knowle-dge and experience, and takes the classical Speake-Marin elements to another level: another level of ele-gance, with its slim design; another level of mechanical complexity, with its tourbillon and minute-repeater; and another level of aesthetic sophistication, with its open-dial architecture featuring harmonious bridge design and superlative finishing. Back of each Renaissance movement is decorated with a different intricate hand-engraved design making each one a unique piece. With this Renaissance timepiece, Peter Speake-Marin has embarked on his own intellectual journey of redisco-very to harness the classical elements of Speake-Marin and reinterpret them to extraordinary effect.

In Renaissance tourbillon minute repeater, all of the quintessential Speake-Marin qualities are there to behold, qualities that go right back to the Foundation Watch, the very first timepiece to bear the Speake-Marin name. Renaissance features the iconic Piccadilly case; cha-racteristic pleated crown; signature Foundation hands; intricate hand-engraving; and, as with the Foundation Watch and many subsequent models, the signature Speake-Marin topping-tool motif, here in the form of the tourbillon cage. In addition to retracing all that he has worked on and developed since the inception of the eponymous Speake-Marin brand over a decade ago, Peter Speake-Marin has also drawn on his formative years working in an-tique timepiece restoration in Piccadilly, London where he worked extensively on minute-repeaters.

Tourbillon The Renaissance movement was developed to Speake-Marin’s specifications by La Fabrique du Temps in Geneva. The 60-second tourbillon at 5 o’clock maximises timekeeping precision by averaging the effects of posi-tional variations caused by gravity. But the tourbillon provides esthetical as well as technical benefits as it rotates, catching the light and the eye thanks to the fine finishing of its topping-tool shaped cage, with a heat-blued hand indicating seconds. Timekeeping precision is also ensured thanks to an isochronism-improving free-sprung balance and the lightweight, energy-effi-cient silicon escape wheel and anchor. Minute Repeater The minute repeater, activated by a slider on the case band at 9 o’clock, chimes the hours, the quarters-hours and minutes after the quarter-hours so enabling the ‘reading’ of the time without having to look at or see the dial. The Renaissance minute repeater features an all-or-nothing mechanism, found on the highest-quality minute repeaters, which avoids the incorrect time being chimed if the slide is incompletely activated. The regu-larity of the chimes are silently and precisely controlled by a centrifugal inertia regulator, that can be apprecia-ted through the display back thanks to its large trans-parent sapphire bearing. The display-back also reveals the repeater hammers and gong with ‘London-Geneva’ engraved on the repeater mainspring bridge, while the straight drum-like sides and form of the Piccadilly case and the open dial act as the perfect amplifier for the crystalline chimes. Open-dial architecture The technical, visual and aural theatre of Renaissance’s tourbillon and minute repeater is complemented by a daring open-dial architecture in which the Speake-Marin bridge and component designs are in full resplendence. And where carefully-contoured curves are juxtaposed with straight-angled lines, all parts beautifully hand-be-velled and superlatively finished. Superb legibility for reading the time is provided by heat-blued Foundation-style hour and minute hands coupled with engraved indices on the chapter ring with engraved and lacquered Roman numerals at 12, 3, and 9 o’clock. Unique hand-engraved movement If the open dial – with its exposed micromechanics, repeater and tourbillon – is a horological work of art, turning over Renaissance reveals more superb artwork in the form of unique intricate hand-engraved designs on the movement back plate. Speake-Marin designed the back movement bridges so that the whole of the surface of the back of Renaissance is like a canvas where the master watch maker himself could fully maximise the possibilities of engraving. It has given him the liberty to be able to explore many different artistic avenues. For him these unique hand engravings complete Renaisance on both technical and aesthetic levels. Engravings of this sort are also a classic Speake-Marin element. Many of the early pieces he created were dragon-orientated, working with either Japanese artists or European engravers but often in an Asiatic style and first two Renaissance pieces bear beautiful dragon engravings. Every Renaissance Tourbillon Minute Repeater is a unique piece.

Features and indications: • Foundation-style, heat-blued hour and minute hands • Heat-blued second hand on tourbillon cage at 5 o’clock • Open dial revealing finely-finished movement Dial and hands: • Hours, minutes and small seconds (on tourbillon cage) • Minute repeater featuring an all-or-nothing mecha-nism and centrifugal inertia regulator • 60-second tourbillon • Each piece features a unique, hand-engraved mo-vement Case and Strap: • Iconic Piccadilly design • Dimensions: 44.0mm x 11mm • Three-piece case crafted in 18k red gold • Two-position Speake-Marin crown • Minute repeater slider on case band at 9 o’clock • Sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective coating • Water resistance: 3atm/30m/100’ • Display-back • Case-back circumference engraving: “Speake-Marin - Minute Repeater - The Pic-cadilly- Tourbillon” • Strap made from natural alligator skin with gold tang buckle Movement: • Dimensions: 32.4mm x 5.36mm • Power reserve: 100 hours • Jewels: 29 • No. of components: 330 • Speake-Marin signature motif topping tool design tourbillon cage • Tourbillon cage: 13.59mm • Free-sprung balance • Balancefrequency: 21,600vph / 3Hz • Balance diameter: 8.8mm (9.6mm with regulating screws) • Balance inertia: 10mg/cm2 • Silicon anchor and es-cape wheel • Two-hammer minute re-peater featuring all-or-nothing mechanism • Speake-Marin bridge design and hand-finishes • Unique, hand-engraved motif on back plate • The latter includes “Speake-Marin - Piece Unique Gravée Main” • Minute repeater chime mechanism engraving: “Ge-neva-London”

Tiret Gotham Power Reserve with Floating Diamonds

2012-01-10T07:30:00.001-06:00

This new addition to Gotham Power Reserve family has floating yellow diamonds. Diamonds float freely in special oil through each section throughout the bezel. Declaring an art deco aura with its unbroken flow of definition, linear curves, geometric motifs, color palette, mixed materials and extended capabilities, the Tiret Gotham Power Reserve is a lyrical performance of time. Its purpose is its essence, its philosophy an admired lifestyle. Luxuriate in what you treasure with the comfort of knowing accuracy is certain for a marked duration. The ability to attend to all the fine details of an upscale agenda is a genuine gift in time management. Relying on superb mechanics offers a freedom to enjoy it all. Such a pleasure exists in the Tiret Gotham Power Reserve, 42 hour with automatic winding. Elegant strength in a continuous flow and sweeping imagination fill a definite 2,520 minutes of bliss.

A combination of amazing and pristine Swiss engineering contained in a timepiece filled with your personal delights makes a very expressive landscape for the wrist. Enjoy your priorities with a relaxed contentment knowing that inside this generous yet poised silhouette reliability has been perfected for Tiret. TIRET GOTHAM POWER RESERVE Movement: ETA 2897 Power reserve; rhodium; visible Tiret New York engraving; additional train wheel bridge with Tiret New York engraving on side; oscillating weight surface smoothed, with engraving SWISS 21 JEWELS.

Bell & Ross BR 03-92 GIGN

2012-01-09T09:59:00.001-06:00

The exceptional men and women of the National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN) specialize in combating terrorism and organized crime. United and experienced, they are the National Gendarmerie’s elite unit and are at the forefront of international high-risk operations. Having decided to create a watch bearing their insignia and embodying their values of cohesion and professionalism, the GIGN naturally approached the Swiss watch brand Bell & Ross to produce a special edition timepiece. In France and abroad, the GIGN’s « Super Cops » confront extremely dangerous situations. The missions they are sent on require total commitment and special training. Their equipment must be ready to face every danger. Bell & Ross is a designer of functional instruments for professionals working under extreme conditions and manufactures watches with a high level of reliability that are recognized for their unparalleled qualities: easy-to-read, functional, precise and water-proof. This makes them perfectly suited to the needs of the GIGN. For these professionals, a watch is not only a tool to assist them in their work, it is also a constant ally and part of their identity. Air force pilots, bomb-disposal experts, professional divers and counter-terrorism experts already work with the Bell & Ross brand, which is proud to be producing another prestigious product for the men and women of the GIGN whose values and courage inspire respect. Bell & Ross has always designed watches for professionals and its creations are based on an immutable principle: functionality drives design. The clean lines of the watches in the Instrument BR collection – which have become the brand’s iconic models – authentically echo the design of a plane’s cockpit clock. Designed for men of action looking for precision and ruggedness, they are extremely readable as well as highly reliable. The 42-mm diameter BR 03-92 is a functional watch par excellence, the ideal, discreet tool for professionals for whom each second may be a matter of life or death. Perfectly readable day or night because of its matte black dial, anti-glare sapphire crystal and imposing photoluminescent hands, the BR 03-92 GIGN is also water-resistant to 100m and powered by a high-precision Swiss mechanical movement with a power reserve of 40 hours. Simple and discreet, it is fitted with a black rubber or heavy-duty canvas strap guaranteeing durability and comfort.

The dial of the BR 03-92 proudly and elegantly bears the GIGN insignia, placed at six o’clock. More than just a logo, this emblem is the symbol of membership in the National Gendarmerie’s elite. It is built on six core values. • The circle represents the cohesion of the operational unit and its ability to tackle every aspect of a crisis situation. • The crosshair symbolizes the primary discipline practiced by members of the GIGN: shooting accurately and effectively. • The parachute, which is inside the circle, represents the GIGN’s membership in the military family of airborne troops. • The blue of the emblem’s background is a subtle reminder of the unit’s skill and ability underwater. • The carabiner represents the elite unit’s skill in various high-risk climbing techniques including the hazardous practice of rappelling. • The two stars between the words « Gendarmerie » and « Nationale » symbolize the « second generation » GIGN after the 2007 reforms. Produced in a limited edition of 200 units and engraved with a three-letter acronym or certification number of each recipient, the BR 03-92 GIGN instrument is exclusively available to members of the Gendarmerie Nationale’s elite unit. Technical details Movement: mechanical automatic with power reserve of approximately 40 hours. Functions: hours, minutes, seconds. Case: satin-brushed steel with a 42 mm diameter. Dial: matte black with GIGN insignia at six o’clock; numerals, index and hands covered in a photoluminescent coating. Crystal: anti-reflective sapphire. Water resistance: 100 meters. Strap: black rubber and black heavy-duty canvas.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso 1931 Rouge

2012-01-09T09:46:00.001-06:00

The Grande Reverso 1931 Rouge pays tribute to the many artists and intellectuals who, during the period of intense effervescence surrounding the birth of the Reverso, proudly wore a red dial on their version of this model, thereby asserting their dandyism and their uncompromising liberty of style. Since 1931, the Reverso watch has consistently reinvented itself, while never betraying its identity. Interpreted through classic, sporting, Grande Complication and jewellery versions, it has housed over 50 in-housed made calibres. It has also featured several hundred dials displaying a wealth of nuances that continue to stir the passions of collectors and devotees of fine objects. The Grande Reverso 1931 Rouge pays tribute to one of the rarest and most sought-after historical Reversos. In the 1930s, the Manufacture offered a broad palette of dial colours. The vast majority of those acquiring a Reverso opted for white, cream-coloured, black or gold-toned dials. The reversible nature of their watch, its instantly recognisable Art deco aesthetic, and its personalised back, all vividly expressed the elegance tinged with originality that such individuals were seeking. Even during this period referred to in French as the “Années Folles” (Crazy Years), it took a distinctly non-conformist attitude to add a colourful dial. Whereas only a very small number of people chose chestnut brown or blue, those who opted for red displayed an exacerbated dandyism, thereby asserting their pioneering nature and their sense of well-assumed elegance tinged with a hint of casual charm and freedom – because red is a definite eye-catcher. Positioned at the far end of the colour spectrum, it conveys powerful symbolism embodying life, blood, desire, power, danger, love and fire. The Grande Reverso 1931 Rouge reinterprets the red dials of the 1930s. Equipped with manually-wound Calibre 822, it features an extremely large yet extremely slender case, and offers an unprecedented blend of passion, classicism and originality. Just as in the 1930s, it expresses uncompromising stylistic liberty. After a preview showing at the new Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique in Milan, the Reverso Rouge will find exactly the setting in which to express its personality pervaded by unique style and Italian-inspired elegance.

Technical details Movement • mechanical hand-wound movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 822 • 21,600 vibrations per hour • 21 jewels • 2.94 mm thick • 134 parts • 45-hour power reserve Functions • hours, minutes Dial • red lacquered • silver-toned hour-markers Case • steel • 46 mm long • 27.5 mm wide • 7.27 mm thick • “1000 Hours Control” indication on the caseback • water resistance: 3 bar Boutique edition

Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to “Mad Men” edition

2012-01-09T09:32:00.000-06:00

Jaeger-LeCoultre, known for aesthetic influence and refinement in the world of watch-making, announced today the creation of a special limited engraved design of their iconic Reverso watch for a Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to the award-winning AMC series “Mad Men.” Twenty-five custom-created and numbered pieces of The Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to “Mad Men” will be available in February 2012. Honoring Jaeger-LeCoultre’s legacy of design expertise and the iconic style of “Mad Men,” the limited edition will be presented in a distinctive, custom-designed walnut commemorative box featuring the Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce logo embossed on the top as well as hand-inscribed on the back of each numbered piece. Additionally, each piece includes a personalized commemorative letter from Roger Sterling, several high quality Jaeger-LeCoultre advertisement reproductions, pictures of the Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to "Mad Men", and a copy of Roger Sterling’s book “Sterling’s Gold”, autographed by show creator and executive producer, Matthew Weiner.

The Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to “Mad Men” edition tells a story like no other timepiece. In 1931, a technically advanced watch was developed for polo players with a dial that could flip, protecting it from damage while also offering a personalized engraved case-back. Protected by patent, its art deco style and solid functionality was received with instant praise. The Reverso has evolved over the past eighty years with new faces, sizes and complications. Today, wearing one is an entry to an exclusive world – in terms of watch-making history and aesthetic refinement. Since its premiere in 2007, “Mad Men” has established itself as one of television’s most honored series. It reigns as the only cable series in history to ever win the Emmy® Award for Outstanding Drama Series four years in a row, as well as the Golden Globe® Award for Best Television Series - Drama for three consecutive years. “Mad Men” is produced by Lionsgate and premieres its fifth season on AMC in March, 2012.

Blancpain Saint-Valentin Chronograph 2012

2012-01-09T09:18:00.000-06:00

Faithful to its annual rendezvous, Swiss luxury watch brand Blancpain once again presents an exclusive creation for Valentine’s Day. This limited series of 14 watches, each set with 2.95 carats of precious stones, offers a fresh take on the refined aesthetics of the Blancpain Women collection, while associating it with the technical subtlety of the flyback chronograph. With its diamond-set bezel and lugs, caseband set with four diamonds and a heart-shaped ruby, crown adorned with a diamond and pushpieces covered with cabochon-cut rubies, the white gold case of this Saint-Valentin Chronograph 2012 sparkles with dazzling splendour. Its engraved mother-of-pearl dial, featuring a marquetry-work motif composed of three white mother-of-pearl hearts and set with 8 diamonds, highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of the master-dialmakers of the Manufacture. In an additional nod to Cupid, the heart-shaped counterweight of the central sweep seconds hand is delicately hand-painted with a feather, thus endowing it with a distinctive convex shape. The sapphire crystal back of the 36 mm case reveals the complexity of the movement with its 308 parts and 37 jewels, along with the oscillating weight clothed in pink mother-of-pearl.

The Saint-Valentin Chronograph 2012 houses the self-winding Calibre F185 that drove the very first ladies’ flyback chronograph model. It features central hour and minute hands, seconds shown on a subdial at 6 o’clock and the date appearing through an oval aperture at 12 o’clock. The chronograph function is displayed by a central sweep seconds hand, while the elapsed minutes and hours are counted off on totalizers at 3 and 9 o’clock. Two pushpieces serve to control the measurements: the first at 2 o’clock starts and stops the chronograph, while the other at 4 o’clock handles the flyback function. A single press on the latter pushpiece stops measurement of the first time interval and resets the hands to zero, and the timing begins again as soon as the pushpiece is released. This delightful model, fitted with a white alligator leather strap and presented in a precious wooden box delicately lined with white nappa leather, is available exclusively from Blancpain boutiques.

Perrelet Turbine XL Gold

2012-01-09T09:05:00.000-06:00

With the new Turbine XL Gold, Perrelet is lending a touch of chic to its provocative 50 mm-diameter creation. The daring Turbine, with its slanted blades, is poised to cre-ate a sensation. Carved in solid rose gold, like the case, it is transfigured by the sun as soon as it starts to move, lighting up the dial with rays shining beneath an inner bezel ring bearing black Arabic numerals standing out against a gold-toned background. The red and white hands and hour-markers provide a contrast ensuring the perfect readability of the hours, minutes. The self-wind-ing P-181 Double Rotor movement, visible through the back of this watch fitted with a rubber strap, is adorned with Côtes de Genève admirably revealed thanks to the open-worked rotor with its polished and black lacquered surfaces. This 77-piece limited edition features an har-monious blend of eccentricity and elegance.

Technical details MOVEMENT : mechanical self-winding, P-181 Double Rotor, a Perrelet exclusive FUNCTIONS: central hour, minute and seconds hands CASE -(4N) rose gold -50 mm in diameter - 14.30 mm thick anti-glare sapphire crystal on both sides DIAL : black background, Turbine in 4N rose gold, inner bezel ring with black numerals on a gold-toned background and red and white hour-markers matching the hands WATER RESISTANCE : 5 ATM STRAP:natural black rubber, steel pin buckle with black DLC coating