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Breguet Tourbillon Messidor

The Breguet Tourbillon Messidor 5335 is a beautiful skeletonized watch that encapsulates the vintage sophistication of tourbillon timepieces. The exuberance of the intricately designed elements that define the design of this brilliant model are simply fascinating and eye-catching. Nevertheless, this model offers more than just stunning aesthetics. Its looks are matched only by its impressive precision and outstanding durability.

The sleek automatic platinum case of the watch measures 40 mm in diameter and 9,65 mm in thickness. The round and slim case exudes elegance and an incredible sturdiness that augment the value and utility of the watch. It is more than a luxury timepiece created to impress. It is a precious jewelry that was constructed to feel lush and comfortable on the wrist, a magnificent heirloom able to withstand to decades of daily wear. Also, the case is water resistant to 30 meters.

The Messidor mixes traditional influences with a contemporary interpretation of the classic skeleton tourbillon. The result is a baroque style tourbillon display that hypnotizes. The distinctive thing about Breguet skeleton watches is that they feature a complex tourbillon case fitted on sapphire discs, creating the illusion that the tourbillon is floating. Modern watchmakers have perpetuated this patented floating tourbillon by adding their contemporary horological expertise. As seen on this Breguet dial, the design has a distinctive personality that encapsulates the brilliant Montres Breguet’s watchmaking philosophy.

The mechanism and the dial plate of the Classique “Grande Complication” open worked are manufactured from platinum. The chromatics enhances the distinction of silvery tones by using intensively brushed pieces which are in a splendid contrast with the purple, blue and yellow parts that adorn the floating tourbillon.

The actual watch dial is located at the 12 o’clock position and it has vivid blue hours and minutes hands. The tourbillon regulator with running seconds is displayed at 6 o’clock where it is attached by using two sapphire crystals over a gold bezel. To offer a better legibility of the very complex tourbillon dial, the watch comes with pink gold studs hour markers located on the sapphire crystal.

The Messidor comes with a 558 SQ2 caliber mechanical self-winding movement that has a remarkable 50 hours power reserve. With 25 jewels, 201 components and a 2.5 frequency, this hand wound mechanism is fitted with running seconds on the tourbillon shaft, an invisible tourbillon bridge and a compensating balance spring with Breguet overcoil.

Considering the elegant and sophisticated dial of the watch it is really no surprise that Breguet opted for the classical black crocodile leather strap with black stitching on the margins. This choice is perfect for perpetuating the refined look of the model. The band is attached to the round simple case by using very prominent straight lugs and its ease of use is enhanced by the platinum pin clasp.

Exquisitely preserving Breguet’s identity and heritage, the Tourbillon Messidor 5335 embodies the expectations and necessities of modern watch passionate people. The spirit of contemporary times is reflected by n the traditional tourbillon core of the timepiece, an artful representation of vintage inspired aesthetics and perennial functional perfection.

July 15, 2016
Vacheron Constantin Fabuleux Ornements French Lace

One of the most interesting and spectacular collections created by the famous Vacheron Constantin brand is the Métiers d’Art. This line is unique due to its focus on extraordinary artistic complications based on intricately constructed automatic movements. One of the newest additions to this splendid collection is the Fabuleux Ornements, an exclusivist series that was launched at the SIHH 2016 show. The beauty and sophistication of these models have attracted only favorable reviews from fans and critics around the globe.

The craftsmanship of the Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Fabuleux Ornements French Lace is remarkable and fascinating. This special timepiece showcases decorations inspired by French lace-work, an art that is recognized worldwide as a métier d’art. The brand intended this model as a cultural symbol that combines the art of crafting intricate watches with the one of creating romantic adornments such as the well-known French lace.

The dial of the watch is decorated with a translucent hand-guilloché grand feu enameled dial. The beautiful enamel work is added over an elegant gold dial that features distinctive guilloché motifs. To accentuate the sophistication of this design, the transparent enamel is enriched with diamonds and garnet-colored sapphires. To obtain a spectacular effect, Vacheron Constantin’s watchmakers have hand added 5 sapphires and round-cut diamonds across the exquisite French Lace dial.

The timepiece is available with a very thin hand engraved SQRH2 1003 Calibre. This mechanical manual winding movement has been developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin. The mechanism has 18 jewels, indicates hours and minutes, and it has a 31 hours power reserve. Also, it is entirely made from 18 k gold and it features a 60 round-cut diamonds set ring.

The case of the Fabuleux Ornements French Lace measures 37 mm in diameter and 8 mm in height. The precious materials used for manufacturing it are 18 k white gold. The case back includes a transparent sapphire crystal that offers another splendid view of the inside mechanism. Around the dial there is a luxurious bezel adorned with 64 round cut diamonds.

The romantic flowery dial adorned with blue and purple jewels is enhanced by an extravagant purple alligator Mississippiensis leather strap. This beautiful band comes with an 18 k white gold Ardillon buckle. The luxurious color of the strap and the elegance of the leather are a perfect match for the overall style of the watch.

The Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Fabuleux Ornements French Lace is a very refined and exclusivist timepiece. This model has been produced in a limited series of 20 pieces. It is not a watch meant for the masses, but for watch fans that prefer luxury and uniqueness both in terms of aesthetics and craftsmanship. The model comes with a dedicated brochure that emphasizes its distinction and preciosity.

Surprising today’s watches enthusiasts isn’t such an easy thing to do. There are countless luxury timepieces out there designed by utterly famous brands that have been manufactured from the rarest materials and embellished with the most precious stones. Nevertheless, out of this endless sea of extravagant and sophisticated watches, the Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Fabuleux Ornements French Lace differentiates itself due to an artsy crafted dial that evokes the complexity and refinement of the fabulous French lace. It is an amazing timepiece that inspires style, finesse and richness.

June 19, 2016
Saint Honore Quartz Gmt Lutecia

Saint Honore is one of the few brands that are able to encapsulate the charming Parisian style in every single timepiece they manufacture. Since 1885 it has been the main supplier of chic luxury watches of unrivalled design. The Saint Honore Quartz GMT Lutetia is one of its contemporary models that attract lovers from all over the world due to the elegance of its style and unparalleled watchmaking expertise. Swiss Made quality is the essential attribute of these timepieces which enjoy distinctive aesthetics, classy materials and extravagant details.

Lutetia GMT comes in a splendidly constructed cushion shaped stainless steel case with rounded edges that are very interestingly paired up with a gold rectangular bezel. The contrast between the different colors and geometry are simply hypnotic, thus augmenting the sophisticated look of the watch. The design is complemented by a round silver winding crown with easy-grip gradations and a scratch-proof sapphire crystal. The watch is built to withstand to pressure associated with water depths of 50 meters.

The dial of the timepiece is very elegant and classy. The combination of colors is what really sets in motion its distinctive beauty. The white dial plate is adorned with gold color Roman numerals that mark 12 hours and a grey inner disc that includes white Arabic numerals for indicating 24 hours. The hands are considerably prominent and showy. The “glaive”-style minutes and hour hands are gold color and quite bulky and the GMT hand is in a vivid gray color. For enhanced night legibility, there are 12 small squares coated with luminescent material next to every hour marker, a thin lume line in the middle of the minutes and hour hands, and a glow in the dark arrow tip on the GMT hand. This makes it possible for the wearer to read the time even in the dark.

The Lutetia is the first Saint Honore timepiece that offers the GMT function. This model has been developed and created for travellers who can’t and won’t compromise style. The local time is displayed on the main dial by pointing at one of the Roman numerals while the home time is shown in the gray disc around the dial by indicating one of the 24 hours Arabic gradations. The model also offers a date function represented by the wide date window located at 6 o’clock. All the functions available on this watch can be easily controlled by using the winding crown.

The timepiece comes with a high quality quartz movement that offers all the precision and functionality one needs from a modern GMT watch. As always, Saint Honore has designed this model with timeless perfection in mind.

Fitted with an elegant black leather strap, this new GMT watch is suitable both for passionate travellers and adventurers as well as for fashionable city men, who appreciate the charm of a Parisian style piece. The strap is beautifully accessorized with a stainless steel deployant buckle.

The Saint Honore Quartz GMT Lutetia is more than just a time keeping instrument. It is a beautiful jewelry that captures the essence of modern horology. Its unique character is the result of a brilliant combination of fine craftsmanship and a passion that remains as fresh as ever.

May 27, 2016
The Grey Watches Market

The grey watches market is often misunderstood by people. It does not involve fake timepieces, but rather genuine watches that are sold by a non-authorized dealer. These types of products can be second hand watches or timepieces sold by an authorized dealer to an unauthorized one. Simply put, they are not fakes, but authentic watches that may not be brand new, do not have a manufacturer warranty and do not enjoy all the privileges of a genuine watch.

It is called a grey market because it is somehow located at the limit between the black market where the fake timepieces are being sold and the white market where the authorized products are available. The retailers that operate on the grey market have no connection with the production, purchase or selling of counterfeit knockoffs. These are individuals that are looking for opportunities of profiting from the retail of designer timepieces which have considerably lower prices and are more attractive for prospect buyers.

There are many ways of telling if a watch is being sold on the grey market or not. For instance, an authorized dealer will never advertise a designer watch at a major discount. Such promotional discounts damage the image and reputation of the brand. This is why, in almost all cases, if a luxury watch has a price reduction of more than 25%-30% then the website offering it is most likely selling a grey market timepiece. Also, the warranty policy is very important when buying a designer watch so be sure to verify the disclaimer on the authentic brand’s website and confirm that it matches with what it is stated on the dealer’s page.

There are numerous online large retail sites like Amazon, eBay and Overstock where you will find grey watches markets. The retailers that have an account on these websites offer genuine products, identical to the ones you would buy from a jeweler’s store, but at a significantly lower price. Other advantages are the free delivery and the absence of the sales tax. All these aspects make the grey market watches incredibly tempting for fans of luxury timepieces that are looking to make important savings. The downside is that if you buy the watch from an online unauthorized dealer then the product won’t have a manufacturer warranty. Since you did not buy the item from an authorized dealer, no servicing center in the world will accept the watch for repairs and usually local jewelers refuse to work on authentic watches because this process is either too complicated or they don’t have the necessary parts to repair them.

If an unauthorized dealer offers to repair the genuine watch in its own service center then you should really reconsider your purchasing decision. They are most likely to use a mediocre skilled watchmaker that doesn’t have access to authentic parts and the result will be disastrous for your watch. After all, even a grey market watch costs a couple thousand dollars so why would you throw this money out the window when you know that the product won’t come with a factory warranty?

April 20, 2016
Breguet Classique Hora Mundi

With a very stylish and unique design, amazing functionality and four patents, the Breguet Classique Hora Mundi 5717 is a statement of subtle elegance and imaginative modern watchmaking. It is the fine line where horology and jewelry blend in a sweet balance of perfectly studied forms and impressive performances. After all, it is the world’s first mechanical timepiece with instant jump time zones.

The watch comes in an exquisite platinum case that encapsulates the classical beauty of traditional pieces. Its round shape, the 43 mm large size diameter and the 13,5 mm thickness recreate a wonderful model that enjoys the timeless elegance of vintage designs. Another great aspect of this artfully designed platinum case is the ability of enduring water pressure associated with diving to depths of 30 meters.

The highly decorated dial of the Breguet 5717 is truly distinctive. The silver and blue representation of the globe that includes even the continents and the ocean’s waves are a very nice touch. Its intricate looks capture the old charm of vintage watches. The picturesque face of the watch offers very complex details without compromising legibility. To guarantee perfect readability, the brand decided to go for an atypical layout. At 6 o’clock there is a window that displays city names in blue on silver by using a rotating disc. At 12 o’clock there is a date display with vivid blue numbers and at 4 o’clock there is a day/night indicator that functions similar to a moon phase indicator. But the true beauty of this model consists of its richness of decorative touches recreated from stunning blue and silver combinations.

The Breguet Classique Hora Mundi includes elegant black Roman numerals and small dotted minutes markers printed over a brushed silver disc that highlights the central globe representation. The world map comes in three different versions. One shows the American continent, one shows Asia and the Pacific, and the third one shows Europe and Africa.

The watch is equipped with the 77F0 Calibre, a mechanical self-winding movement that delivers perfect accuracy and amazingly complicated functions. Not only, the Hora Mundi is a very precise timepiece, but it is also the world’s first mechanical watch that has an instant jump time zones. This means that all the displays can be changed instantly by simply pushing the left side button. Simply said, the model tells time in two of 24 times zones at your request.

This very complex and spectacular automatic mechanism is fitted with an in-house balance-wheel, a Swiss silicone escapement straight-line lever and a flat balance-spring. This artful movement contains 362 components, 43 jewels and offers a 55 hours power reserve. To allow its wearer to catch a glimpse of the impressive 77F0 Calibre, Breguet has created the watch with a sapphire case back that shows the hand engraved silver mechanism with “wave” motif coated with translucent lacquer.

The platinum case version of the Breguet Classique 5717 comes with a black crocodile leather strap that has black stitching on the sides. This classical band is extremely comfortable and stylish, enhancing the classy look of the watch.

Breguet Hora Mundi is an exceptional timepiece that captures the essence of contemporary horology. It combines the fascination of an intricate design with the utility of innovative functions that are crucial for the modern traveler, in love with style and sophisticated luxury watches.

March 30, 2016
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées

The Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées is a very unique, interesting and complex timepiece that was introduced at the SIHH 2014 show. This refined and exclusive skeleton model was designed for classy gentle with a fine taste in intricate watches with a classic twist.

The particularity of this timepiece consists of its one of a kind design that combines Gothic inspired elements with amazing open-working and elegant grand feu enamel accents. By creating an 18 k white dial which reveals the intricate and fascinating automatic mechanism that animates the watch, Vacheron Constantin manages to get our complete attention and admiration. It is a model that appeals to all types of watches enthusiasts, a watch that provokes your imagination.

It is a well-known fact that the brand has a preference for skeleton watches, but the Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées is a remarkable achievement. This model is a brilliant interpretation of the 4400 SQ Calibre which has been spectacularly skeletonized. This manual winding mechanism with 21 jewels and a 28,800 v.p.h frequency offers a 65 hours power reserve. Only the architecture of the movement is complicated whereas the functionality is as simple as it gets. The watch displays only minutes and hours. There is no seconds hand on the dial.

As far as the aesthetics of the 4400 SQ Calibre go, this mechanism is anything but ordinary. Its base plate and skeleton bridges feature arched, curved lines which are incredibly similar to the ribbed vaults that adorn the ceilings of Gothic-inspired nineteenth century buildings. To enhance the unique design of the watch, the surface of the movement is engraved with elegant vaults. Vacheron Constantin’s watchmakers need approximately three days to decorate and engrave the 4400 SQ Calibre used on the Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées.

Another Gothic architecture inspired detail is the enamel ring below the mechanically skeletonized Roman numerals. This grand fey enamel chapter ring is usually colored in grey, blue or black, and is pretty narrow.

The watch has been developed and manufactured to impress its wearer from all points of view. Even the size of the case fulfills this objective. With a 40 mm diameter and a 7.5 mm height, the model has a formal, slim and traditional looking case. The material used for manufacturing it is white gold, but the color for the enameled chapter rings is optional. You can choose from black, grey or blue. Vacheron Constantin also offers a version that has a bezel decorated with additional jewelry such as baguette-cut diamonds.

To complement the extravagant look of the timepiece, the brand decided to offer this model with an alligator Mississippian strap in dark grey color. This stylish and comfortable band comes with an Ardillon buckle manufactured from 18 k white gold. The clasp is very elegant and easy to use.

For decades, Vacheron Constantin has been a symbol for quality, excellence and tradition. Its watches are truly spectacular and iconic and the Métiers d’Art Mécaniques Ajourées is one of its most recent successes. This amazing timepiece is the perfect example of superlative watchmaking skills.

March 2, 2016
Van Cleef & Arpels Midnight Nuit Australe

The Van Cleef & Arpels Extraordinary Dials collection is a proof of fine watchmaking. Every detail of its intricate design is a true work of art. Every single one of these pieces is the result of the extensive work of a very skilled team of artists- the engraver, the enameler, the lapidary, the stone-setter and the miniature painter are just a few of those who have invested their artistic touch into crafting these exquisite watches.

At the SIHH 2014, the brand unveiled one of the most fascinating designs that evoke the theme of Poetic Astronomy. The Van Cleef & Arpels Midnight Nuit Australe is a very rare luxury watch that was manufactured in a limited number of 22 pieces. This timepiece has a remarkable dial that was created just like a miniature picture, just that its complexity is astonishing. A wide range of traditional crafts and inspirations were combined to depict the excellence and creativity of the Van Cleef & Arpels house. Every dial illustrates a beautiful astronomic poetry through the use of very complex techniques like engraving on a gold mother of pearl dial, hard stone marquetry, stone-setting, hamplevé, vallonné and grisaille enamel.

The constellations are the inspiration for the Van Cleef & Arpel Midnight Nuit Australe. The midnight sky was the object of fascination and curiosity since ancient times, and its symbolism is still a sensitive theme for the brand’s creativity. By using unique watchmaking skills, Van Cleef & Arpel transcends through the limits of time and space and constructs this timeless design which reflects the evolution of the way mankind has seen and understood the midnight sky.

The Midnight Nuit Australe is the model that is dedicated to the Southern hemisphere and evokes the discoveries of explorers and scientists from the 16^th to the 18^th century. The Argo and the Telescope constellations as well as the Vela and Puppis constellations are reminiscent to the work of French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille whereas the Toucan and Swordfish constellations are the result of the observations of the Amsterdam cartographer and astronomer Petrus Placius.

This Extraordinary Dial watch is decorated with the masterful use of a very rare process that is usually applied for depicting constellations and maps of the sky. This unique technique is called grisaille enameling. The result is a subtle gradation that imitates beautifully the mysterious nocturnal glow. The astronomic theme is continued beyond the dial. On the back of the case there is the engraving of Acrux which represents the brightest star in the Southern Cross constellation.

The Van Cleef & Arpels Midnight Nuit Australe is available in a 42 mm pink gold case with a pink gold bezel and pink gold crown decorated with a midnight blue enamel cabochon. The timepiece comes with an automatic mechanical movement that features a 72 hours power reserve. Furthermore, it has a matte dark brown alligator strap and a pink gold folding clasp.

A poetic interpretation of the mysterious midnight sky and its amazing constellations, the Midnight Nuit Asutrale is a fascinating timepiece that was designed to enrich the wrists of the wealthiest and most prestigious people on the planet. It is a truly extraordinary design dedicated to the most beautiful astronomical discoveries.

February 9, 2016
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