Cool Watch – Page 2 – Pax Journal

Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas

Baselworld 2015 is all about excellence in watchmaking. And when it comes to excellence horology, you can be sure to hear of Manufacture Royale.

The Swiss luxury watch brand has delighted fans with a new collection at Baselworld 2015 called the 1770 Micromegas. The Micromegas collection stands out as one of the few which boast a dual tourbillion where each of the tourbillions has a different spin rate. One of the two tourbillions spins a full rotation every five seconds while the other makes a full rotation once every 60 seconds.

In terms of appearance, this new Manufacture Royale model offers the same build quality the Swiss brand have gotten their users used to but with a more reserved design than usual. The name of the new collection has interesting roots as well. It translates to “small large” and is inspired by a short story written by the French philosopher Voltaire. In fact, Voltaire was a watch aficionado during his day and even launched his own company in Ferney, France, with the first watch being produced in 1770, just eight years before he died.

The 1770 Micromegas collection will debut with three models, one that comes in a case made entirely of titanium, one with an 18k gold case or a third in an 18k rose gold case. The watches will have a diameter of 45 mm as swell as a thickness of 11.8mm, making them large timepieces. While Manufacture Royale has gotten fans used to unusual, sometimes flat out odd design for their watches, the Micromegas is one of the more restrained models.

While the two tourbillions don’t necessarily add anything to the timekeeping qualities of the watch, the brand’s respect for the art of manufacturing quality time pieces is kept alive in this Manufacture Royale model.

The Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas boasts the Manufacture Royale caliber MR04 automatic movement. It has a power reserve of over 80 hours allowing users to go well over 3 days without any intervention. The hands of the watch are made from blue titanium giving an interesting modern as well as a timeless look. The 18k rose gold Micromegas model comes with a white inner dial, the gold and titanium model comes with an orange dial while the all-titanium model boasts a blue dial. The inner dials have a LumiNova effect as well as a rubber lacquer which aid the visibility of the watch during darker conditions. The prices vary starting from $151,000 for the all-titanium model and maxing at $181,000 for the 18k rose gold model.

Zenith El Primero Striking

Zenith El Primero Striking is not a completely new watch, actually all watches aficionados will definitely see the resemblance between it and the El Primero that was manufactured in 1969. What most people don’t know is the fact that Zenith is behind a lot of famous watches; for example, many of Rolex watches had El Primero movements and there have been many other brands that used their revolutionary mechanism. This didn’t happen in the past, in fact, Rolex only started making their own mechanism in the 2000s, so Zenith was a pretty important part of high end brands, even those as big as Rolex.

The Zenith El Primero Striking is a celebration of the first automatic chronograph created with high beat. The watch comes with a lovely sub-dial layout, sweep seconds and a sweeping hand that adds so much to the design. You will notice that the dial on this watch is not just well made; it’s exquisite in terms of design. It also features a simple and elegant white background, beautiful rose gold hands and darker elements that enhance certain functions. You will notice that the watch doesn’t register hours with its chronograph function as it focuses on tracking factions of seconds. Actually the seconds hand beats ten times per seconds due to the 100 teeth wheel created from silicon, which is a lightweight material allowing the watch achieve so many beats. This limited edition watch is definitely a new beginning for the brand that focused all their efforts in making this beautiful watch.

Zenith El Primero Striking also comes with a 42 mm case, which makes the watch average sized and perhaps a bit on the large size for those who are used to older watches. But it can be worn by all wrist sizes without any worries.

The back of the case is see-through so you can actually watch the superb mechanism that leads to such performances. Expect however to pay about $ 10 000 on this watch, which some say it’s a very good price for a limited edition timepiece.

If you want a mesmerizing elegant watch with spectacular design and a great value for your money, the Zenith El Primero Striking might just be the right candidate. Not to mention the fact that this watch was voted the best watch in 2010.

Slimline Collection by Frederique Constant

Frederique Constant is a high end brand that manufactures exquisite watches for those who have a sophisticated taste when it comes to the timepieces they choose. The brand has revealed the beautiful Slimline Collection and with it the popularity of the simple watches rose. All the watches presented come with a selection of elements that not only makes them unique but also classy in the most exigent definition of the term. With beautiful curves and clean lines, any of the watches presented in this collection is worthy to be a masterpiece. They also come in a clean design that shows how simplicity can sometimes be more sophisticated than the most intricate designs. However, one shouldn’t consider the watches old looking, as they combine the right amount of modern elements within the timeless look.

The watch presented here is a limited edition watch called the Slimline Tourbillon; adding a Tourbillon on a simple design seems to be an extremely well thought idea and while maintaining the timeless factor the watch is improved to levels of elegance one can only dream about. The model only shows that Frederique Constant is not just a company that produces watches, it is a group of artists and engineers that have managed to fuse superbly crafted design with high end technology. This gives the watch a fresh look within a classy frame. Obviously a limited edition watch such as this one can only come packaged with the most beautiful box and it does so, each watch being presented in a wooden box that enhances its graceful design even more.

The Slimeline Tourbillon comes with silicium movement and a fast 28,800 beats per hour. With a 48 hour power reserve, this watch is more than reliable. Rising up to its name, the watch is very thin and the body will measure less than 1 centimeter. The model presented here is a beautiful stainless steel watch that has been adorned with 18 ct rose gold bezel and a see-through back of the case that shows the fine-tuned mechanism that comes along with this exquisite work of art. The dial has gold plated marks that have been hand applied by the artists within the Frederique Constant Company, so it doesn’t get fancier than this.

The alligator leather strap with classic folding buckle is just what this watch needs to stand out and feel comfortable on its owner’s wrist. And speaking about wrists, the watch case comes with a case of 43 mm being a bit on the larger size. However, the simple design will not let this watch become too much even on a smaller wrist.

Panerai Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT

The Panerai Luminor 1950 Tourbillon is a watch worthy of praise, a watch that has great history and tradition behind it. When it comes to its value, the watch definitely appeals to collectors and with its simple to use interface it can also be a perfect classic watch for those wanting to accessorize themselves in style. But don’t be fooled about this, even though the watch looks simple, the price is not low, especially since it is a very popular timepiece.

An interesting fact about this watch is the fact that the case shape might not appeal to a lot of people; however, being a very classy model, those who are looking for something they can pass on from generation to generation will surely love it. If you want something that works great with simple functions, this watch is perfect for you. But if you are the type of person who would like something more modern, something a bit edgy, you might have to look somewhere else. Also, the watch might be a tad too big for most men since it comes with a 48mm case, but there are some who might be looking for an oversized watch and in that case, the Panerai Luminor 1950 is right up their alley. However, despite its size, the watch is extremely light and comfortable to wear; if you have a bigger wrist you might enjoy the way the watch looks and feels. But on a medium and small wrist, the watch might not look as elegant as you want it to look, and it can be a bit too oversized. The watch comes with bowl shaped sides, sweeping lugs, all disposed in a pretty interesting design.

What you will love about this watch is the manual winding which gives it a very traditional touch but also the color combination that makes this watch look almost retro. The golden-black combination will give it an interesting allure and together with the perfect brown leather strap will make it seem like that old family heirloom watch that a grandfather passes to their grandson. The back of the watch is clear and you can easily see the mechanism working perfectly inside. Along with the tourbillon function, the watch has a 24 hour function, a power reserve indicator and a second time zone.

Overall the Panerai Luminor is a nice looking watch that not just comes with great design but also a fine tuned mechanism.

Bell Ross Red Radar

When you first encounter the Bell Ross Red Radar be prepared to be blown away; the watch comes with great design that is extremely unique and unconventional for most watches out there. If you didn’t know Bell Ross is a company that makes pretty amazing watches. There are a few companies that put this much effort in design and the technology behind their pieces. What you probably don’t know about this company is the fact that they have been on the market for only 20 years and have created perfect watches since they started. They raise their standard with each collection created, bringing more innovative watches almost every year. It needs to be said that Bell Ross definitely creates watches for professionals so you will definitely find something that will satisfy your needs when you need resilient watches even in the most extreme conditions.

The Bell Radar watch presented here is one of those extremely cool watches that take watchmaking to a whole different level. There are many colorful watches out there, but this watch goes beyond in excelling how to attract attention to itself with its interesting approach to horology. The watch also comes with an interesting disc that has various hour markings while the middle disc shows minutes and the central one shows seconds.

The watch uses an interesting mechanism with a disc system mounted to a traditional ETA movement to create the whole look everybody is talking about. The model actually looks like a red radar screen and comes with a red crystal on the top and also different elements that make it look very realistic. For those looking to buy such a watch, they should know that it is in limited series and it might be a little bit harder to find one available. The watch comes with a 46 mm case so it might not be extremely fitted for those with a small wrist; however, if you are looking for an oversized watch, this is definitely the perfect one to have. The strap is made of rubber which adds to the modern look of the watch and it’s also a very comfortable strap with simple design.

So if you want something that screams unconventional, this has all the elements that make a watch stand out.

Solar Turbine Steampunk Pocketwatch

Steampunk is a subculture that emerged in the 80s and 90s and it still manages to have a lot of followers nowadays. There are many items that are especially made for these people and they all resemble 19^th century time and culture with a futuristic touch. However, the steampunk culture cannot only be seen in fashion but also movies, games or books.

For all the geeks out there, steampunk is definitely a subculture that has amazing items. If you needed just one item to complete your steampunk attire, you can get now a beautiful accessory that will definitely impress your friends. The Solar Turbine Steampunk Pocketwatch is now available online and offline to help you create the perfect steampunk look. This beautiful watch can also be used as a gift if you have a friend who is into this style and it seems that more and more people are discovering steampunk culture and what it has to offer. Let’s see what this beautiful 19^th century style watch is capable of.

The Solar Turbine Steampunk Pocketwatch has a nice spinning inset metal plate with a beautiful brass finish that resembles a turbine; it also has an English pewter casing with copper accents to make sure that it goes well with your steampunk attire. When it comes to the mechanism the watch has a quartz movement, a magnetic fastening hatch and it is solar powered. It was created by Ezekiel Empire Rosenstein, a company that makes Goth and other subculture related (like punk or cosplay) items and it is the second in their series. The amazing watch comes in the brass and yellow tones with a dial that symbolizes the Galvanic scale. It comes with a box as amazing as the watch in a bag made from velvet, just like a proper 19^th century man should have.

The Solar Turbine Steampunk Pocketwatch can be a great gift for a watch collector or a steampunk enthusiast. This unique watch will not only give you style but it will also manage to express your personality and tell time in a pretty special manner. Also, you will manage to stand out wearing such a cool item on your wrist.

Pebble Smartphone Watch

There are various types of watches nowadays, some are more interesting than the others while some are just pretty and they are meant to look good as accessories. Whether you are trying to get something for a friend who is into smartphones or you simply want to have an amazing watch on your wrist, the Pebble Smartphone Watch is the product you need. It looks cool and it’s also pretty cool when it comes to its mechanism and the things it can do. Let’s take a look at a watch that is truly smart and capable of doing things a smartphone would do.

The watch is compatible with iPhone 3GS, 4, 4S running iOS 5 or any iPod Touch with iOS 5. Android devices running OS 2.3 and up but also Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich). and it will actually make your whole life easier with its cool features. You can create emails, send SMSs, you have calendar alerts and a caller ID; it also comes with a filtering option for emails which can be very useful if you have a lot of them. You can also customize it and choose various fonts and colors for it.

When it comes to design, the Pebble Smartphone watch is pretty amazing: it is 5 cm long, 3.6 cm wide and 1.2 cm thick. It comes with 144 x 168 pixel display black and white e-paper. It comes with Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR and 4.0, it has a vibrating motor and you can also set different vibrating profiles for it. It also has a cool 3 axis accelerometer that will detect your gestures. It is water resistant but just enough for you to swim, shower or be in a rainy environment, diving with the watch is not really recommended. You can easily charge it through an USB cable that can be used on your computer and the battery will go for about 7 days.

This is by definition a cool watch, probably the coolest watch on the market since it has defied the purpose of the watch a long time ago. If you want something that will really change your life, Pebble is definitely the watch for you.

Horological Machine No. 2

If you have a weak heart, you are advised to stop reading the following article because the watch we are about to present will make your heart skip a beat at least. This is not just a watch, this is almost an industrial plant as it contains hundreds of pieces and technologically advanced mechanism that will show you time in the most unique manner. The Horological Machine No.2 comes from MB&F, which is a company that goes beyond just manufacturing watches; they are truly artists that make concept watches and try to come up with different ways of enhancing time telling. This and the fact that they choose an amazing futuristic, avant-garde direction when it comes to style, makes their watches truly unique.

The Horological Machine No.2 comes with two portholes that tell time in a different manner. The one on the right contains jumping hours and concentric retrograde minutes while on the left side it manages to give its wearer quite a view with the retrograde date and Bi- Hemisphere Moon Phase. This watch has been created to show time in a three dimensional manner and it was designed by Jean Mark Wiederrecht. The features that are stated above are the first of this kind created in the world, a characteristic that gives this watch a truly unique feeling. Some of the features are: an energy efficient mechanism with asymmetrical-tooth gear wheels that manage to give it the best precision. The case is also amazing as it has quite a steampunk design with lots of elements and details, so it’s safe to say that this is a piece of art. The innovation when it comes to the Horological Machine No.2 is the fact that its movement manages to keep the jumping hours functioning simultaneously with the retrograde minutes that go from 60 to 0.

What will probably blow your mind is the fact that the watch has been created with over 450 components, which makes it stand up to its name and truly being a machine.

If we managed to convince you buy this watch, you should be expecting to pay for it somewhere around $60,000 because a time telling machine like this doesn’t come cheap.

Fossil PH1096 Philippe Starck Watch

Fossil is a watch manufacturing company that was founded in 1984 and since then they managed to create great price to quality ratio watches that are quite fashionable nowadays. They managed to attract customers and get themselves known through their amazing designs and their collectible boxes that came with their various watches. They had different messages or cool designs that people remembered. Since then, they have kept their unique style and still continue to impress watch enthusiasts. This particular watch can be considered truly unique as it manages to show time by using dots and incorporating that into a cool minimalistic and futuristic style. Fossil managed to create a lot of unique watches over time with the help of the well-known watch designer Philip Starck , who also created this watch. However the Fossil Men’s PH1096 Philippe Starck O-Ring is definitely one of the most unique watches he created and we are proud to say that you can easily buy it for an affordable price, about 125 dollars which is definitely a bargain for such a cool watch.

Nowadays, Fossil manages to produce about 300 different styles of watches and has also managed to design amazing technologies over the years. This minimalistic watch comes with a case diameter of 43 mm and a case thickness of 12 mm, made from stainless steel. The band is made from leather with a width of 30 mm with a fold over clasp and the dial window material is mineral. This incredible watch has a bezel material made of stainless steel with a stationary bezel function. The movement is with quartz, making it even more reliable at telling time. If you plan to go swimming or just dance in the rain while wearing this watch, you are in luck as it comes with 99 feet water resistance.

If you are looking for a cool and unique watch, the Fossil Men’s PH1096 created by Philippe Stark is definitely the watch you have to buy. Not only it manages to tell time in a really cool manner but the company is known to produce high quality watches so it won’t just look amazing.

Abacus Watch – Going Back In Time

If you ever wondered how a sundial would look on your hand, you can get an Abacus watch as it manages to look the same. This watch is pretty cool because it doesn’t have any hands so you will have to learn how to read time differently than you were used. It has an orb that marks the passage of time and it will show you how time passed if you tap the case. It can work perfectly as a gift and it will surely impress your friends if you choose to wear it as an accessory. If you are the type of person who seeks to surround themselves with more minimalistic elements, the Abacus watch is definitely the right accessory for you. However, you might have a lot of explaining to do when people will ask you why your watch has no hands.

When it comes to the technical part, the Abacus Watch has a size of 42 mm by 9.5 mm with a light 55g weight. If you plan on using it while being in a wet environment, you should know that it is only water resistant to 30 m. The movement is with Quartz and it comes with a leather strap made of tanned calfskin that has a thorn buckle and hidden lugs. The crystal is sapphire so it means that the case is durable even with minimal care

One of these watches goes for about 250 dollars so it’s definitely not an expensive watch. It looks extremely classy and you will be able to impress people if you plan on wearing it. However, you should remember that if you are a more casual person or a sporty person this may not be the watch for you at it really goes well with more elegant attire.

In the end the Abacus Watch is probably one of the coolest watches you will be wearing if you choose to buy it. If you have a friend who is fond of watches, they will be more than happy to have this watch in their collection so you should at least consider it as gift.