Category: Cool Watch

Louis Moinet Memoris – 200th Anniversary
Paris, 1816

Louis Moinet invents the chronograph – an artistic and technological masterpiece beating at a rhythm of 216,000 vibrations per hour, designed to observe the orbits of the planets in the heavens.

Geneva, 2016

Louis Moinet lights up the stars by presenting Memoris, the first chronograph-watch, clothed with light. The first limited edition marks the start of a series of commemorative pieces dedicated to the bicentenary of the invention of the chronograph.

The “Memoris 200^th Anniversary” uses a fixed graver engraving technique that is unprecedented in the history of watchmaking. Each star is worked on individually; never before has there been a starry sky with such a natural sparkle.

Watchmaking art that repurposes guillochage

The “Memoris 200^th Anniversary” can be summed up in three points:
- A new hour dial – made in enamel for the first time in history of the piece
- A new mainplate, painted and decorated with star constellations
- A new translucent flange and counter bridge
The starry back consists of a brass plate coated in a translucent blue. The stars have been created using an entirely new fixed graver process. Devised by one of Louis Moinet’s craftsmen, this involves attaching a specially-made lathe to a traditional rose engine (also known as a guillocheuse).

The idea is to combine the power of the rose engine with the precision of a handheld graver. The result differs from that produced by milling or stamping: while it resembles the effect traditionally associated with a guillocheuse inasmuch as material is removed, here this is focused on a tiny area with varying levels of depth – two characteristics that traditional engine turning seeks to avoid at all costs.

What is more, individual stars are all fashioned to feature different angles and depths, so that each and every one captures as much light as possible. Several fixed graver sessions are required per star. The process used is unprecedented in watchmaking – and the outstanding result gives the novel impression that certain stars really are shining.
January 15, 2016
Ulysse Nardin Anchor Tourbillon

What Baselworld would be complete without a new watch by Ulysse Nardin and when it comes to the 2015 edition of the Swiss exhibition nothing changed as the famous brand offered its fans the Ulysse Anchor Tourbillion.

The beautiful Ulysse Nardin maintains a good balance between technical innovation, beautiful design and a classic quality that only a brand like Ulysse Narding could pull off.

The Ulysse Narding Anchor Tourbillon has a 44mm case which, while on the larger side, will look good on just about any size wrist. The same case has been used in the brand’s Classico collection. The Anchor Tourbillion’s case will come in either white or rose gold. The dial is no simple glossy white model; it is made from Frand Feu enamel by Donze Cadrans a dialmaker which operates under the Ulysse Nardin company.

In order to best protect the watch from the normal wear and tear while also allowing its users to have the very best visibility this model boasts a sapphire crystal both for the front and back of the watch. The watch is also quite thick thanks to the tourbillon; however, the thickness doesn’t take away anything from the look of the watch, particularly when paired with a leather strap.

The watch is powered by the caliber UN-178 which is a manually wound 3.5 Hz movement with two barrels. The movement offers an impressive power reserve which spans over the course of a week. The watch also comes with a power reserve indicator, a 60 second tourbillon and a highly spectacular constant Ulysse Anchor escapement system.

The constant-force escapement was developed by Ulysse Narding and Sigatec, a company that manufactures and designs silicum micro components. The constant-force escapement in the Anchor Tourbillon is made entirely from silicium with research being carried out for well over 8 years in order to create this model.

The Ulysse Nardin Anchor differs from other Swiss anchors by using a circular frame which supports a centered fork that is made stable by two blade springs. The blade springs are remarkably thin, 1/10^th the thickness of a string of human hair.

The Ulysse Nardin Anchor Tourbillon will be available in a limited edition of just 36 pieces. Out of the 36 pieces, 18 will be available in rose gold while the other 18 in white gold. The watches are priced at $84,000 and are available for purchase since May of 2015.

December 30, 2015
Korona K0 Northern Lights

The Baselworld exhibition has shown numerous new watches and trends during the last couple of years yet few have been as original and innovative as the Sarpaneva Korona K0 Northern Lights.

This Finnish luxury product made by watchmaker Stepan Sarpaneva is a new addition to the already established Korona family. The watch is named after the Aurora Borealis, which are naturally occurring lights that can be seen at high altitudes in the northernmost regions of the Northern Hemisphere. This theme is represented in the luminous dial with its intricate pattern and diverse colors. The watch offers models for blue, green and violet luminosity. While most watches have certain elements on the dial coated in luminous dust, the Sarpaneva Korona K0 Northern Lights watch brings things to another level by lighting up the entire dial once all other light sources go out. The watch also includes a moonphase element to add to its beautifully intricate dial.

The Northern Lights collection offers three watches each with its own unique lume color coating. The lume aspect of this beautiful Finnish watch is no simple application, it is however, a complex process which involves several companies specialized in the field. The coating is in fact a composite that is located just beneath the top portion of the dial. It is produced by Black Badger Advanced Composites and Ambient Glow Technology. It offers extended durability and a far stronger lighting effect when compared to conventional lume coatings, even when it isn’t fully charged.

The open top part of the dial provides sufficient space for the lume to shine through while also giving the watch an interesting pattern. The hour markings are placed on the top layer of the dial and shine green against the other lume coatings.

We can also find the trademarked Sarpaneva moonphase complication at 6 o’clock, where Stepan’s face can be seen in a stylized design of course, in either red gold or white gold.

Like most Stepan Sarpaneva watches, the K0 Northern Lights is powered by a Soprod A10. The dials are beautifully crafted while the Korona case is an impressive 46mm, making this Finnish beauty quite a large accessory, one that will certainly attract a lot of attention, both to its size and the lume feature.

Each of the four colors offered for this model will come in a limited edition of eight models and will be priced starting with 14,500 Euros.

November 21, 2015
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.

October 9, 2015
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.

November 8, 2013
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.

October 17, 2013
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.

September 29, 2013
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.

July 23, 2013
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.

May 21, 2013
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.

April 30, 2013