Posts filed under Watches & Wonders

Introducing: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 Worldtimer Tourbillon

Since the 1930s, Jaeger-LeCoultre has been creating timepieces able to display several time zones simultaneously. From dual-time watches to the Géographique and the remarkable Calibre 948 world timer, Jaeger-LeCoultre La Grande Maison makes time truly universal. For 2022, Jaeger-LeCoultre presents a magnificent new artistic interpretation of the Universal Time, the Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 in a limited edition of 20 pieces, embellished with great finesse by the artisans of the Manufacture’s Métiers Rares atelier.

Introducing: Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Perpetual Calendar

Jaeger-LeCoultre introduces a perpetual calendar to the Polaris line for the first time, enriching the collection with one of horology’s most complex, useful and prized complications. With a deep gradient-blue lacquer dial amplifying its sporty-elegant style, the Polaris Perpetual Calendar takes its aesthetic cues from the Polaris Mariner Memovox. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Perpetual Calendar is available in either stainless steel or 18K pink gold with rapid-change interchangeable straps.

Introducing: Cartier Privé Tank Chinoise. Six Ultra Classic New Models.

Each year, the Cartier Privé collection, a celebration of collectors, celebrates the Maison’s iconic models through limited edition numbered watches, rare watches that bridge the gap between Cartier’s watchmaking heritage and today’s aesthetic vision. After the Crash, Tank Cintrée, Tonneau, Tank Asymétrique, and Cloche Cartier watches, the Tank Chinoise watch will mark the sixth chapter of Cartier Privé. Six new watches are being presented under the Cartier Privé Tank Chinoise line.

Posted on April 5, 2022 and filed under Cartier, Watches & Wonders.

Introducing: Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph GMT 15th Anniversary Limited Edition SBGC249 and Spring Drive Chronograph GMT SBGC251

The Evolution 9 Collection represents the future of Grand Seiko. Based on the Grand Seiko Style which has inspired each and every creation since 1967, the Evolution 9 Collection takes the legibility and comfort of Grand Seiko to a new level. One of the first Evolution 9 Collection watches was the Hi-Beat 36,000 80 hours which won the Men’s Watch prize at the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.

Introducing: Laurent Ferrier Classic Origin Blue

Twelve years after its launch in 2010, Laurent Ferrier is maintaining its momentum with an intense blue version of one of its latest emblematic models, the Classic Origin. Equipped with a 40 mm titanium case, this ultra-light watch was initially developed to pay tribute to all the aesthetic codes created by Laurent Ferrier himself in 2010, the Classic Origin has succeeded in becoming an icon of the LF collection. The new Classic Origin Blue not only represents Ferrier’s favorite color but also a must have in any collection.

Introducing: Hermès Arceau Le Temps Voyageur. Two Models and Two Sizes.

The Arceau watch designed by Henri d’Origny in 1978 lends itself to a new expression of style and evokes the spirit of travel according to Hermès. A perfect addition to the Arceau line offering now a world-timer complication. Two models in different metals and different sizes. One is crafted in platinum and titanium with a 41 mm case, and the other in stainless steel with a 38 mm case. The traveling time mechanism in this watch was developed exclusively for Hermès.

Insider: Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222. Like Holding a 222 'Safe Queen' from 1977.

Vacheron Constantin presents a contemporary re-edition of the 37 mm 18K yellow gold 222 "Jumbo”. The 222 was an emblematic sporty-chic model launched in 1977 that marked a turning point in Vacheron Constantin's classic creations and that was designed by Jorg Hysek —not by Gérald Genta as many like to believe. For this reinterpretation, Vacheron Constantin maintained all the original design cues down to the case size but added a new type of clasp —triple-blade rather than double-blade— to the bracelet, as well as a display case back that allows for a full view of the new-generation calibre 2455/2.

From the Editor: Tudor Black Bay Pro. Without a Doubt a Must-Have for Me.

As soon as I received the press release from Tudor and the doors opened at Watches & Wonders 2022, I knew that it was love at first sight when it comes to the new Tudor Black Bay Pro. For more than a decade I have been on the hunt for a vintage Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655 Steve McQueen. Well, after perusing this new watch in Geneva, I am happy to say that the wait is over and I rather have this Tudor than a 1655.

Posted on April 4, 2022 and filed under Tudor, From the Editor, Watches & Wonders.

Introducing: Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Unique Piece

Up until last week Piaget held the record for the thinnest mechanical watch in the world at 2 mm thick. With the release of the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra at 1.8 mm in thickness, the Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept has been dethroned from holding the record for the thinnest mechanical watch. Despite that, we still like the AUC better and we think it will always remain as the watch that became the thinnest mechanical watch before any other.

Introducing: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 Atomium

Highlighting its expertise in celestial complications, Jaeger-LeCoultre reinterprets its Grande Complication Calibre 945 with two magnificent new interpretations for 2022. The Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 Galaxia in 18K pink gold and the Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 Atomium 18K white gold that we have here. Each offered in a limited edition of five pieces and with a 45 mm case, these new works celebrate La Grande Maison’s artistic creativity and mastery of the decorative crafts while reaffirming its technical ingenuity.

Introducing: Patek Philippe ref. 5270P-014 Lacquered Green Dial

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph ref. 5270 was originally launched at Baselworld 2011 to replace the iconic Patek reference 5970 and for Watches & Wonders 2022, Patek Philippe is presenting a new iteration in platinum —in addition to the Salmon dial and diamond baguette set— sporting a gorgeous green lacquered dial. With a platinum case measuring 41 mm in diameter the new reference ref. 5270P-014 has to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

Introducing: A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus Titanium Limited Edition

The new A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus in titanium is designed for ambitious individuals who want a watch that accompanies them in life’s most memorable moments. Its development is inspired by the concept of an artisanally perfected timepiece which is so robust and water resistant that it can also be worn in leisure and sports settings. The large day and date display can be conveniently adjusted with the prominent tapered buttons.

Introducing: Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro eSteel PAM 1287, PAM 1288 and PAM 1289

Panerai presents three new watches in eSteel with colorful dials and bezels. All cased in 44 mm diameter cases in eSteel —proprietary Panerai recycled steel alloy—, the new PAM 1287 Verde Smeraldo —green very similar to a Rolex Hulk—, PAM 1288 Grigio Roccia —gradient grey— and PAM 1289 Blu Profundo —blue— are really gorgeous.

Introducing: Tudor Black Bay Pro. Reminiscent of the Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655.

Very reminiscent of the vintage Rolex Explorer II ref. 1655 Tudor presents a new technical model with a whole new aesthetic named Black Bay Pro. This new watch has a 39 mm stainless case, a fixed 24-hour graduated steel bezel, an orange 24-hour hand and is powered by the in-house calibre MT5652 with built-in GMT function.

Posted on March 30, 2022 and filed under Tudor, Watches & Wonders.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Salmon Dial

Vacheron Constantin presents a new signature timepiece combining a 43 mm platinum case with a salmon-colored dial. This classically inspired combination is available in limited annual production exclusively from Vacheron Constantin boutiques. This Traditionnelle perpetual calendar chronograph with a new face is powered by in-house Calibre 1142 QP, one of the most prestigious chronograph movements enhanced by the perpetual calendar complication and crafted in the purest tradition of Haute Horlogerie.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Split-Seconds Monopusher Chronograph

Beating to the rhythm of the new manual-winding in-house Calibre 2757, this unique Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Split-Seconds Monopusher Chronograph is in keeping with the grand tradition of Vacheron Constantin's complicated watches. True to its imaginative approach to High Watchmaking, the Manufacture has combined a minute repeater and a split-seconds monopusher chronograph within a single tourbillon-regulated timepiece.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Ladies Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin

The new Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar ultra-thin watch displays its technical nature in an eminently feminine manner. This is the brand’s response to women wanting more complicated timepieces besides those that only tell time. The new Traditionnelle perpetual calendar ultra-thin watch, equipped with in-house Calibre 1120 QP, is offered in two gemset 36.5 mm versions in white gold and pink gold respectively.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Ladies Patrimony Self-Winding

The attention that Vacheron Constantin has devoted to women's timepieces for more than two centuries is freshly interpreted through the models presented at Watches and Wonders 2022. The new Vacheron Constantin Patrimony self-winding watch flaunts a minimalist silhouette exuding a timeless elegance symbolizing a distinctive kind of watchmaking classicism.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin Skeleton

Vacheron Constantin is offering a new interpretation of its Overseas perpetual calendar ultra-thin skeleton model in 18K 5N pink gold with a blue dial. The watch, which won a prize in the 2020 Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève, is equipped with Manufacture Calibre 1120 QPSQ/1 measuring just 4.05 mm thick. The hand-finished skeletonized movement, a favorite with collectors, is highlighted by the grey tone of the NAC treatment given to the mainplate, bridges and oscillating weight.

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon Skeleton

Vacheron Constantin continues the travel spirit of the Overseas watches with this new tourbillon skeleton model, a first in this collection launched in 1996. Beautifully streamlined with its entirely openworked movement; sophisticated with its robust case; rigorously disciplined with its tourbillon-driven movement ensuring a comfortable over three-day power reserve, this timepiece is designed for the finest journeys – exactly as François Constantin, the tireless traveler who signed an enduring alliance with Jacques-Barthélémi Vacheron in 1819, would doubtless have presented it.