The Watch Blogger

Casio EDIFICE Sebastian Vettel Edition

2009-09-29T22:07:00.005-04:00

A couple weeks ago I was contacted by a PR company named LaunchGroup, who work with Casio watches. They told me about a new special edition watch being released by Casio, which will be limited to 100 pieces. An exclusive Red Bull Formula 1 inspired racing EDIFICE chronograph watch in honor of Casio ambassador, Sebastian Vettel, who is the youngest Grand Prix winner ever. Since Sebastian drives for Red Bull, they decided to add a splash of red and blue into the dial. Engraved on the case back is Vettel’s signature and logo. After looking deeper into this commemorative piece I was very impressed with the technology and overall design of the watch.

The 45mm case contains a solar powered cell and is water-resistant up to 10 bar (100 meters), but given the nature of the watch I wouldn’t do anything more than snorkel with it. Also inside the case you’ll find a radio signal receiver that uses Wave Ceptor technology. The watch updates itself six times a day, talking to multiple international satellites to provide the most accurate reading of time depending on where you are in the world. Not stopping there, Casio listed the names of 29 cities worldwide around the dial just in case you are curious what time it is in Tokyo.

The glass is mineral, not impossible to scratch, but it is resistant to scratches. The Casio EDIFICE features the date at the 7 o’clock position on the dial and a full automatic calendar. Keeping time isn’t the only precise characteristic of the watch though. The timer function and stop watch offer extremely accurate measurements. The stopwatch records with an accuracy of 1/20 of a second and shows the start and stop time, while the timer records at a 1/1-minute and can be set to the nearest minute up to 24 hours in advance. It seems that this racy sports watch truly captures the essence of the racetrack and the spirit of Sebastian Vettel. Casio watch reference: EQW-M1000SV-1AER

Cartier Rotonde de Cartier central chronograph

2009-09-19T14:06:00.004-04:00

Celebrating their 100 years, Cartier has been unveiling several unique timepieces. One that I am particularly a fan of is the Cartier Rotonde de Cartier central chronograph. The creative design of the dial is what caught my eye. It actually features a two-level dial. The lower dial displays the time, featuring Roman numeral hour markings and blue colored hands. Partially covering the hour hands is the upper dial, operating as the chronograph. The arc shaped aperture displays the 30-minute counter while the second hand sweeps along the upper dial.

The eye-catching dial isn’t the only new element of the Cartier Rotonde de Cartier central chronograph. Inside the 42mm pink gold case lives the new 9907 MC caliber movement, designed and manufactured in house by Cartier. The new movement contains 272 parts and is designed to reduce the energy consumption of the chronograph function. Instead of a cam system, the movement features a column wheel with vertical coupling system for the chronograph.

Usually extending out fairly far from the case, the crown is one of the most unique characteristics of a Cartier watch. Consistent with other models, the elegant Rotonde de Cartier features a classy screw in crown with the typical blue cap on the end. As mentioned earlier, the design is extremely creative. Cartier has registered for a patent on the design of the dial as well as the position of the chronograph.

Linde Werdelin Element and Instrument

2009-09-09T22:41:00.021-04:00

Just recently, a company by the name of Totally Worth It (TWI), based in New York City, contacted me. For more information about TWI, you can e-mail them at info@totallyworthit.com or call 1-888-TWI-4ALL. They came across my site and wondered if I would be interested in doing a review on a particular watch. TWI deals with brands such as IceLink and Armin Strom, but the watch they wanted me to look at was unlike anything I have ever heard of or seen. They wanted me to look at a Linde Werdelin Biformeter watch and the clip on sports instrument, which I will explain later. Linde Werdelin is an extremely innovative watch company that makes the ultimate luxury sports watch, which could be worn with a suit or while skiing in the Alps.

Of course I accepted the invitation to review one of these incredible timepieces. TWI sent me a packet with some information about the company. The extreme sports nature of the watches is depicted in the unique cartoon advertising of the marketing packet I received – I was very impressed so far. Learning about the two childhood friends, Jorn Werdelin and Morten Linde, I was able to see how these beautiful watches were inspired. I was then put in contact with the jewelry store where I would be able to see the watch and instrument. There are only two places in the country that feature Linde Werdelin watches and to my surprise, he was right in my back yard.

Located in Manayunk, a trendy borough of Philadelphia is Martin Pulli Timepieces and Fine Jewelry. I stopped in to Martin’s shop on a Saturday and even though I live near the store, I have never been in there. Shame on me because I had a great time talking to him about watches, he is very knowledgeable, as well as looking at his collection of vintage Omega watches, the Bell & Ross display and of course the Linde Werdelin pieces. After talking for a while, it was time to see the watch and instrument. Martin already had a light box set up for me, so I knew I would get some good pictures.

Martin first showed me the Linde Werdelin Biformeter Element watch, a classic and unique design to Linde Werdelin. There was not one thing I didn’t like about this watch. Everything from the look and feel of the case to the durability of the strap was quality. The 46mm case is made of 316L steel and sits up 11mm from the wrist. It houses the automatic ETA 2892-2 movement with a 42-hour power reserve and is water-resistant up to 300 meters (1,000 feet). The top and sides of the case have a brushed finish, while the facets on the outer edges are polished. Behind the unidirectional bezel sits a double anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

The color of the dial might look white, but up close you can see some properties of silver. Linde Werdelin calls this a silver galvanic dial. The dial is accented with 12 super luminova hour indicators, which overlap a sporty 60-division minute track. The date is indicated in the aperture at the 4 o’clock position. The polished, diamond cut hands on the dial are also equipped with super luminova, making it extremely easy to read in the darkness. As I mentioned before, I was very impressed with the durability of the strap. The Biformeter Element had a heavy-duty black textile strap, so thick a great white shark couldn’t chew through it. The strap is decorated with hexagonal screws and has a steel deployant buckle. Other options offered by Linde Werdelin are rubber straps in black or red, alligator straps in brown or black and finally a steel bracelet.

Now, let’s talk about what the watch can really do. As I mentioned earlier, there is a clip on sports instrument, which looks like something from a James Bond film. Linde Werdelin offers two types of instruments, land or sea, the land instrument is what I got to experience. To attach it to the watch, first clip it into the two holes on the left side of the watch (at the 9 o’clock position), and then clip it in to the two holes next to the screw in crown. Inspired and intended for skiers, the land instrument is constantly tested by professionals in the mountains. Offering guidance and protection, the instrument will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience on the slopes.

Some of the features offered are chronograph, compass, altimeter, barometer, heart rate monitor and frostbite alarm along with calculating the snow temperature and inclination of the slope. The feature that impresses me the most is the instruments ability to combine the snow temperature and inclination of the slope and determine a possible avalanche. It contains a Lithium-Ion battery, so just make sure you have your instrument charged up before you carve some fresh powder. If you do not want to clip it onto the watch, there is the option to clip it onto your jacket. Taking your own body heat out of the equation, clipping the instrument to your jacket will provide a more accurate reading of the outside temperature. Linde Werdelin will soon be releasing a new version of the land instrument, known as "The Rock". I will be given the chance to review and write about that model as well.

To say the least, I was blown away by the quality and functionality of the Linde Werdelin Element watch and the land instrument. The design and construction of the watch are nothing short of incredible. When Morten Linde and Jorn Werdelin set out to create the ultimate luxury sports watch, they succeeded. Not one aspect of quality is sacrificed on a Linde Werdelin watch and I am honored to have experienced one. Thank you to TWI for the invitation to review the watch as well as Martin Pulli for allowing me to take pictures and experience the watch.

Maurice Lacroix Le Chronographe

2009-08-30T21:30:00.006-04:00

I’m sorry this is overdue; I had a request to write about a Maurice Lacroix watch, which I did not forget about and as promised, I would like to write about any watches you request. Again, I am sorry for the delay, but this watch might have been worth the wait. I decided to review and write about the Maurice Lacroix Le Chronographe, which is part of the “Masterpiece” collection. The elegant 45mm case is attached to a hand sewn crocodile leather strap with a folding clasp closure. An anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal sits inside the stainless steel case and is water-resistant to 100 meters (328 feet).

This breathtaking chronograph is brought to life by a hand wound, hand decorated ML 106-2 calibre movement, which is manufactured by Maurice Lacroix. As you can see from the pictures, the bridges and screws are PVD coated. According to Maurice Lacroix, the movement also includes, “2 gold 18K 750 chatons, gold-plated wheels, 20 jewels, column-wheel, swan neck precision adjustment, KIF shock protection, polished steel pallet and escapement wheel, Glucydur coiled balance wheel, 18,000 a/h”. The chronograph movement gives it a sporty personality, but the black and anthracite dial with the Arabic numerals against the leather crocodile band gives the Maurice Lacroix Le Chronographe an elegant feel and look.

Pictures from Maurice Lacroix

Daniel Roth Perpetual Calendar Time Equation

2009-07-17T13:41:00.006-04:00

Due to a comment recently posted, I have been looking more at the Daniel Roth collection of watches. All Daniel Roth watches are made by hand and feature the same curved case shape. There are two different collections of these elegant pieces. The first is the Masters and the second is the Academie. From platinum to pink gold, from leather to steel, Daniel Roth offers many variations of their timepieces. The one particular model that stood out in the Masters collection was the Daniel Roth Perpetual Calendar Time Equation. This magnificent piece not only looks good, it features many complications, one being very different. As stated in the name, this Daniel Roth watch features a Perpetual Calendar and a Time Equation indicator, which is located at the ten o’clock position.

Time equation is the difference between apparent solar time and mean solar time (read more about it here). In addition, the Daniel Roth Perpetual Calendar Time Equation features the day, date, month, moon phases and finally, an indicator that shows the number of days in the month. The 44mm case houses the Daniel Roth 114 self-winding movement finished with the elegant "Côtes de Geneve" and offers a 44-hour power reserve. Aside from everything else, I really like the “Mother of Pearl” finish at the twelve o’clock position where moon phases are shown, but this beautiful Daniel Roth piece really comes together, around the wrist that is, with a classy hand stitched aligator strap and folding clasp. Daniel Roth reference: 121.Y.60.721.CN.BD

Graham Tourbillograph Woodcote

2009-07-07T23:37:00.003-04:00

As I was reading and responding to the comments on this blog, I was asked if I had ever reviewed a Graham watch. Realizing that I have not yet posted an article about this brand, I thought I would do some looking. What I found was a brand new watch introduced to the Tourbillograph series as a limited edition. It’s called the Graham Tourbillograph Woodcote. As mentioned, this black and gold beauty is limited to only 50 pieces. The case is 46mm and is water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet). This classy chronograph houses the Graham Calibre G1780 movement, a chronograph function with a tourbillon and has a 42-hour power reserve.

I thought there was a lot going on when I first looked at the Tourbillograph Woodcote dial, but it is a classic display of a luxury watch with the sporty look. On the outside of the 18kt red gold case there is a carbon fiber bezel. The black dial features two sub-dials, also made of carbon fiber. The first is a 30-minute counter at the 3 o’clock position and the second is a 12-hour counter located at the 6 o’clock position. The red gold hour and minute hands are white luminescent, as well as the sweeping second hand, which also has a red pointer. This unique Graham timepiece is offered with a large black crocodile strap or available with a hypoallergenic black rubber strap. Graham watch reference: 2TWAE.B02A.K49B

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak "End of Days" Offshore

2009-06-19T00:02:00.005-04:00

As I was flipping through the channels on the T.V. a couple of days ago, I came across the movie “End of Days” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Three quarters of the way through the movie there is a scene where Arnold pushes his leather jacket sleeve over to see what time it is. The camera holds for a couple seconds, showing the watch that he is wearing. It is an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore chronograph. This collectible timepiece is know as the End of Days model, which is limited to 500 pieces. The case is 44mm (48mm if you include the crown), which houses the Audemars Piguet chronograph Caliber 2226/2840.

Aside from the white gold screws in the bezel, the case is PVD black coated. Arnold must have gotten a decent workout wearing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “End of Days” because this black beast weighs in at a whopping 134 grams (almost 5 ounces). The dial features a very attractive Clous de Paris pattern with a nice contrast of the distinctive yellow hands and numbered hour markers. In addition, it shows the magnified date located at the three o’clock position. The unique, luxury sports chronograph has a very durable black Kevlar strap with a Velcro closure and a PVD black AP buckle. Audemars Piguet reference: 25770

IWC Aquatimer Deep Two

2009-06-18T22:18:00.005-04:00

Even though I am not a scuba diver, nor do I have my license, I love learning about the instruments that divers use. Now, even though this particular diving watch cannot be taken to depths deeper than 120 meters (393 feet), I would not say that is not worth taking a look at. After all, we know what kind of watch IWC makes and they are nothing short of exceptional. The watch I am referring to is the IWC Aquatimer Deep Two diving watch. Similar to the GST Deep One, a discontinued model, the Deep Two features a built-in depth meter that can record up to 50 meters. There are two indicators, one that is blue and the other red, located on the outer ring of the dial. The blue indicator represents the current depth and the red indicator displays the maximum depth that has been reached by the diver. Notice on the left side of the case, at the eight o’clock position, there is a small button. Push this, and you reset the maximum depth achieved, sending the red indicator back to the “home” position.

You will notice that there is another crown located on the left side of the new IWC Aquatimer Deep Two. This crown houses a special membrane, where the measurement device is built around. How it works is, the deeper the watch is submerged into the water, the stronger the membrane is forced into the case triggering the blue and red indicators. This new attractive diving watch has an immense case size of 46mm, which houses IWC’s automatic Caliber 30110 with a 40-hour power reserve. Consistent with the rest of the IWC Aquatimer watches, the Deep Two features a beautiful PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coated bezel providing outstanding water resistant properties. The IWC Aquatimer Deep Two is offered with a rubber strap, weighing in at $14,900, or one with a steel bracelet, which breaks the bank at $15,900.

Pictures from IWC

Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Chronograph

2009-06-09T20:56:00.011-04:00

Being one of the top watch brands in the world, Audemars Piguet has been creating precise, well-crafted watches since 1875. As soon as I layed eyes on this exquisite, off-white lacquered dial watch I fell in love with it. It is one of the latest creations by the prestigious label known as the Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Chronograph. The 41mm case has an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, which also features a transparent sapphire crystal caseback, showing off the 18kt gold rotor. I'm not recommending that you get this watch wet, but if it's good to know that that is water-resistant up to 20 meters. As mentioned, the dial color is a beautiful, unique looking off-white lacquer. The watch displays the hours, minutes and a central chronograph seconds hand along with two sub dials, which show the small seconds and a 30-minute counter.

There are two variations offered for your liking. Whether it is black leather and white gold you fancy or brown leather and pink gold, the Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Chronograph can accommodate your preference. This classic timepiece houses the self-winding caliber AP 3124/3841, which has a power reserve up to 60 hours. The crocodile leather strap, available in either black or brown, is fastened by an 18kt white gold or pink gold folding clasp. All parts featured on the watch are decorated by hand. I have yet to come face to face with this handsome piece, priced at around $32,000, but maybe in my journeys I will have the pleasure. Audemars Piguet 26100BC.OO.D002CR.01

Pictures from Audemars Piguet

Bvlgari Diagono Calibro 303

2009-06-04T14:38:00.010-04:00

Combining the unique Italian design and the Swiss art of watch making, Bvlgari watches are a personal favorite of mine. They have recently released a watch to celebrate not just their 125 years, but also the 20 years of the Diagono model. It is the new Bvlgari Diagono Calibro 303 chronograph. According to Bvlgari, they “devoted 6,740 hours to develop the 506 components.” The 42mm case features a glistening 18kt white gold bezel with a beautiful steel bracelet. This astonishing chronograph has a triple layered dial. Featuring Satine Soleil and vertical treatments, the Diagono dial flaunts two rose-gold sub dials at the three and nine o’clock positions.

The hour, minute and second hands are also rose-gold toned. The Bvlgari Diagono Calibro 303 has an anti-reflective sapphire crystal with a transparent caseback showing the automatic winding Caliber BVL 303. It is water-resistant up to 100m and has a power reserve of 45 hours. Even with keeping the classic look of the Diagono, Bvlgari really made the Calibro 303 stand out. I love every aspect of the timepiece. From the three-layered dial with the contrasting gold sub dials to the shinny stylish bezel, it all comes together to form an elegant, yet sporty, watch. This Bvlgari Diagono has a retail price of $10,700.

TAG Heuer Monaco 40th anniversary editions

2009-05-26T09:21:00.003-04:00

Years ago, it was very rare that you would come across a square faced watch. Therefore, when TAG Heuer released the Monaco, it really stood out from the crowd. Not just for the fact that it was a square faced watch, but that it was one of the first water-resistant watches in the world. Now, years later, TAG Heuer brings to us special limited editions for the 40th anniversary of the TAG Heuer Monaco. Yes, you read it right; I said editions with an “s.” The first is a limited series model of only 1,000 pieces weighing in at $10,000. It resembles the exact watch seen in the 1971 movie, Le Mans, worn by Steve McQueen. It houses the Caliber 11, the original movement, which has a microrotor winding and features the crown on the left side of the case. To honor “The King of Cool,” engraved on the back of the watch is, “In tribute to Steve McQueen,” as well as the signature of Jack Heuer.

The case is 38mm and features a blue dial, the same shade as the watch in Le Mans, the red chronograph second hand and is water-resistant to 50 meters (164 feet). It offers two different types of straps. The first is a blue alligator band and the second is a punched calfskin band, resembling the one on the original Monaco. The second anniversary edition of the TAG Heuer Monaco is slightly different and not limited. It has a bit bigger case, 39mm, the crown is on the “right” side, and it features the Caliber 12 movement. Also, it is has a higher water-resistance of 100 meters with a sapphire crystal caseback. The biggest difference of all is the price. This second edition comes in at a much lower price tag of only $4,500. There is a certain uniqueness, as well as history, that follow these four-sided chronographs, and no matter which one you fancy, the TAG Heuer Monaco is bound to catch the eye.

Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea

2009-05-22T14:34:00.005-04:00

In 1926, Rolex introduced the world’s first truly water-resistant watchcase, the Oyster. The Submariner, Rolex’s first diving watch, was presented in 1953. Now, fifty-six years later, they continue to create breakthroughs and first time introductions for their watches. Just recently, Rolex has introduced the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, which offers a water-resistance level of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), but that is what the bezel states. The watch is actually tested at 4,900 meters (16,000 feet), a 25 percent higher water-resistant pressure than the guarantee. The only watch to every achieve a greater depth was in 1960 when Jacques Piccard (Swiss scientist adventurer) and Don Walsh (U.S. Navy lieutenant) descended 10,916 meters (roughly 35,800 feet) into the Marinas Trench, the deepest point in the earth’s surface. They brought with them the Rolex Deepsea Special, which never was series produced because it was too massive for everyday wear. Now, years later, with much dedication and diligence Rolex brings us a very robust diving watch that combines a classic everyday look with the highest water-resistance available than any other mechanical watch in the world!

It was not easy for Rolex to make a sports watch that offers so much and is still wearable. Implemented, is the new-patented “Ring Lock System,” which consists of three pressure-absorbing elements: the 5.5-millimeter thick sapphire crystal, the 3.28-millimeter thick Grade 5 titanium caseback, and a ring, made of BioDur 108 steel. The ring is set inside the case middle as extra support for the crystal and caseback. Both the case and bracelet are made of 904L steel. Unlike the commonly used 316L steel, 904L steel is less likely to corrode from saltwater. Another new aspect, called “Glidelock,” is featured on the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea, which refers to one of two ways to extend the bracelet. Still offering the “Fliplock” feature, the 1.8-centimeter fold-out section, the Glidelock enables you to expand the bracelet in increments of 1.8-millimteres up to a total of 1.8-centimters. One of the greatest improvements on the beautiful timepiece is the ceramic bezel. Unlike the previous bezel used in the Sea-Dweller, which had an aluminum insert that lost its appearance easily, the Deepsea features a bezel made of Cerachrom, a high-tech scratch resistant ceramic.

In addition, there are minute markers all the way around the bezel that are, as well as the numerals, filled with platinum. Depending on how the light hits the bezel, it can look either black or gray. In regards to the sapphire crystal, I am sorry to say that it is not anti-reflective, and therefore shimmers as much as the bezel. I was very surprised to find this out; however, the positive aspect is the dial has a matte black finish, opposite to the glossy finish offered by other Rolex diving watches, so the readability is not sacrificed. The one thing I really like about the dial is that it illuminates blue instead of the previous green. The reason for this is because blue light is easier to distinguish when underwater than green light. Expecting nothing less, the Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea houses the caliber 3135 movement, one of the most well-built and accurate automatic movements available. Combing the quality of the balance bridge and hairspring to the overall thickness of the movement, it is sure to offer durability. Even though this shinny steel timepiece has a hefty price tag of $9,250, the improvements made and quality offered by Rolex is unsurpassed.

Pictures are from Rolex

Tissot T-Touch Expert

2009-05-19T22:10:00.009-04:00

A guy that I work with just recently got back from a cruise and purchased a watch on the ship. When he was wearing it on his first day back, other people in the office were admiring the touch screen watch he had on. When I walked over to his desk to check out the watch, I saw he was wearing the Tissot T-Touch Expert titanium. The T-Touch Expert is a great rugged sports watch that is well equipped for outdoor adventures. Both the case and bracelet are titanium, making the watch very light, but still durable. It offers a sapphire crystal glass with a black carbon dial. It is much more than a watch; it is the perfect instrument for orienteering, trekking and even skiing. In addition to telling time, the Tissot T-Touch offers six different operations, which are activated by just touching the screen.

The main functions are located around the dial. You can activate any of the functions by pressing the main button at the 3 o’clock position. Once you press the button, you will see a flashing “T” at the bottom of the screen. At that point, you are able to choose what function you want the watch to display. The six functions available (clockwise on the dial) are labeled Meteo, Altimeter, Chrono, Compass, Alarm, Thermo. Meteo, also known as weather mode, displays weather trends, relative pressure, and absolute pressure. If the trend is improving (getting sunny), the hands will turn to the right from 1-6 minutes, and if the trend is deteriorating (precipitation), the hands will turn to the left from negative 1-6 minutes.

The Altimeter calculates the atmospheric pressure to give you an altitude reading in either meters or feet. You are able to get more altitude data by touching the Altimeter area again. Every two seconds the information will display: elapsed time, total gain in altitude, vertical speed of ascent, total loss in altitude, speed of decent, and back to stopped or elapsed time – very impressive! Moving along the dial of the Tissot T-Touch Expert, the Chrono function (chronograph and timer) can measure a short time with an accuracy of 1/100th of a second, as well as obtain cumulative, and split time readings. As stated before, this watch is ideal for trekking and orienteering because of its unique compass feature. While in Compass mode, the hour and minute hands straighten out, having the minute hand pointing north. You can also use the rotating bezel to help with navigation. In addition, while still in Compass mode, you can access Azimuth mode by touching the Compass a label a second time. Azimuth mode is used for navigation purposes and provides a given angle showing which way to travel.

The Alarm feature is self-explanatory, but I think it is useful that it offers a second reminder alarm, just in case. This would be ideal for those who like to hit the snooze button before getting up. The final indicator on the face of the Tissot T-Touch Expert is Thermo, which stands for thermometer. The Thermo function will read the outside temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius. To get an accurate reading, you should take off the watch fifteen minutes prior to measuring. Otherwise, you the results could be inaccurate due to your body temperature. It was fun learning and messing around with all of the features this watch has to offer. I am very impressed with the watch and I am confident in saying that if I were to get lost while on an outdoor adventure; this titanium timepiece would bring me back to civilization.

Breitling Navitimer 125e Anniversaire

2009-05-19T10:20:00.007-04:00

To celebrate 125 years of their dominance in the aviation world, Breitling has unveiled the Breitling Navitimer 125e Anniversaire watch. Recognizing five generations, from 1884 – 2009, Breitling limited this watch to only 2,009 pieces. This exclusive special edition is a 43mm steel case with sapphire crystal and features alternating satin-brushed and polished surfaces. To compliment the case, the watch features a new original bracelet called Air Racer. The Air Racer bracelet is a sleek, steel band with punched holes. The Breitling Navitimer 125e Anniversaire is a self-winding 38-jewel chronograph, chronometer and geared up with the exclusive Breitling Caliber 26 movement.

Because the Breitling Navitimer chronograph plays an essential role in its industry for pilots, it is considered the Bentley of watches. Of course, a Navitimer would not be the same without the slide rule rotating bezel. The highly functional bezel allows pilots to compute all airborne navigation calculations, which I have listed in my previous post about the Breitling Navitimer Datora. The Breitling Navitimer 125e Anniversaire is a commemorative piece, which acknowledges the dedication and precision that Breitling has put into their watch making for over century. It is no surprise that Breitling has earned the pleasure of being the ‘official supplier to world aviation’.

Patek Philippe Seal

2009-05-14T15:23:00.004-04:00

In the spring of 2009, a new tradition will begin for Patek Philippe. Each mechanical movement on all of the watches will contain an imprinted, exclusive Patek Philippe Seal. For over a century, the criterion of the Geneva Seal has been acknowledged in the development and completion of Patek Philippe’s mechanical movements. The seal classifies the minimum quality levels to be attained and being true to its tradition of ongoing innovation, the Patek Philippe never stops its quest for continuous improvements regarding the performance of its timepieces. Patek Philippe is a "complete" manufacture that produces its watchcases and other key exterior elements in-house.

Consequently, the quality requirements at Patek Philippe communicate not just about the movements, but also to the entire finished product. The Patek Philippe Seal is the watch industry’s most exclusive trademark of quality. It not only applies to the movements: it encompasses cases, dials, hands, pushers, spring bars for straps, etc, as well as the aesthetic and functional aspects of the finished watches. Furthermore, given the fact that a Patek Philippe watch is primarily a device that measures time, the Patek Philippe Seal makes a statement regarding its rate accuracy.

The rate accuracy of Patek Philippe timepieces is checked in several phases during the development of the watch. Initially it is tested with an uncased movement and later with the finished watch. Additionally, the Patek Philippe Seal guarantees the quality of all materials used. This applies to the precious metals and stones that are used, which are always of the finest quality. The diamonds selected by the manufacture are marvelously cut, flawless, and pure white Top Wesselton grades. The Patek Philippe Seal, starting in the spring of 2009, will progressively replace the Geneva Seal; currently the trademark of all mechanical movements designed by Patek Philippe.

TAG Heuer Carrera: why go fake?

2009-05-12T15:43:00.004-04:00

I think any watch lover can recall a time where they encountered a fake or replica watch; they might even have a story behind it. I was reading an article on a watch blog I enjoy following, Fratellowatches.com, I saw that there is an anti-counterfeiting campaign named “Fake watches are for fake people” launched by Haute Horlogerie and the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, which I too, sincerely support. After reading this, I remembered a similar situation I was in when I came across a man wearing a fake TAG Heuer Carrera chronograph. Even worse than buying the replica watch, the man was acting as if it were the real deal. One night my girlfriend and I went out for dinner and a movie. As we were sitting in the theater, waiting for the movie to start, I noticed a younger couple in front of us. Assuming from the conversation I would say this was their first date. I noticed a TAG Heuer Carrera chronograph with the black dial on the man’s wrist. The girl he was with must have noticed his watch as well because, not even three minutes later, he started telling her how much he spent and how he obtained the watch.

As I was listening to the elaborate story he was telling his date, I noticed some discrepancies with the watch. Sitting behind him, of to the side, I was in a perfect position to see the face of the watch. I noticed that that the two white dials on top of each other were a lot smaller than normal. In fact, they should appear bigger than the dial on the left, but instead they were the same size. In addition, the hash marks at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 positions were the same size as the others. On a real TAG Carrera, those hash marks are shorter. At that moment, I thought to myself, “Is this guy wearing a fake TAG Heuer and pretending it is real, just to impress his date?” I thought the deception had ended, but then came my final confirmation that this guy was wearing a fake watch. He told her that he paid over $4,000 for the watch. She might have been impressed, because now she thinks he has money, but I know that a TAG Heuer Carrera chronograph retails for $3,200. The picture I have displayed is the what the real model looks like. As I said before, I do not condone buying a replica of any brand. I would not feel comfortable going out somewhere and having someone compliment me on my watch, knowing that it is not real.

Hublot Black Caviar Bang

2009-05-08T11:07:00.005-04:00

As I was reading about Hublot watches one night, I came across a watch that was said to be worth a million dollars. I read it a second time just to be sure then asked myself, “One million dollars?” I know time is money, but I did not know it was worth that much. The watch having this value is the Hublot Black Caviar Bang. I learned that the Hublot Black Caviar Bang is part of the "million dollar watch club”, which refers to a number of various watch companies who have presented watches with prices of one million dollars or more. The reason for the hefty price tag is that it features an 18K white gold case with 531 precision cut black diamonds.

There are 322 diamonds on the case, 179 on the bezel, and 30 on the clasp of the black rubber strap, totaling 34.5 carats! As you can see on the face, this unique masterpiece shows the one-minute tourbillon and a power reserve meter. The Hublot Black Caviar Bang is a manual hand winding movement, which has an estimated power reserve of 5 days (120 hours). Creatively, the power reserve meter is displayed with an arc of black diamonds. Over 2000 meticulous hours were required to set each diamond. If there was even the slightest misalignment, the whole setting had to be redone. This rare and sumptuous watch is so limited; it is the only one of its kind.

Rolex Datejust

2009-05-07T13:15:00.005-04:00

Every day I take the train into the city to go to work. As I was on the train heading home one night, I was looking at the April issue of Watch Time magazine. The man sitting to my left, who I recognized from taking the train every day, said to me, “That’s a great magazine isn’t it?” After agreeing with him, he introduced himself as Kevin. He complimented the watch I was wearing, which was my gold Bulova watch with a rectangular black dial. As we started talking watches, he pointed out his Rolex Datejust that his wife had bought him for an anniversary gift. It is a self-winding, official chronometer, 36mm with a fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet, and has a silver dial with a Cyclops date magnifier. When his wife gave it to him the original dial had the numbered hour markings, but Kevin replaced the dial showing the Roman numeral hour markings.

He was saying how he always wanted a Rolex watch because he felt it made a statement. I understand what he was talking about, but personally, I enjoy watches for different reasons. As well as the history behind some great timepieces, the time and dedication put into perfecting the movements and precision of a watch is amazing. For example, I told Kevin something that he did not know about his watch, which was that the Rolex Datejust that launched in 1945 was the first watch to display the date. As the conversation continued, I told him about my watch blog. At first when I told him about the blog he looked puzzled, but went on to say he thought the concept of posting my pictures and stories about watches was a great idea. When I asked him if I could do a post on his watch, he responded with an enthusiastic, “Absolutely!” The next time I saw Kevin on the train, a few days later, he told me that he was now looking at watches differently; not as much as a personal statement, but as he said, “A work of art.”

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ

2009-05-06T12:47:00.009-04:00

Every time I see this watch, my eyes cannot look away, as if I am mesmerized. This watch is truly striking! I have always loved seeing a skeletonised movement through a transparent watchcase. There are similar looking timepieces by watchmakers such as Breguet and Maurice Lacroix, but this particular watch, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ, is unique. From the look to the function, it is a very creative and extremely decorative watch. It features 260 moving parts and is the only manual winding perpetual calendar watch to have an 8-day power reserve.

Each openworked movement of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ takes two months to create. It has a platinum, 42mm case with a leather double folding buckle. As stated previously, this watch features a perpetual calendar, which shows the date, month, year, and the day of the week. In addition, it displays the moon phases, a day and night indicator, and power reserve meter. Each feature has a transparent disc that rotates over a lighter-colored component, which then reveals the value. From the unmatched nature to the artisanship of this watch, this meticulously crafted work of art truly stands out from the crowd. Jaeger-LeCoultre reference: Q16164SQ

Breitling Navitimer Datora

2009-05-01T13:11:00.014-04:00

After a full day of work, some friends and I wanted to hang out and get some drinks. As we walk up to the bar, we notice there are three chairs open next to these two younger businessmen. We figured they were lawyers because as they were eating, we heard them talking about winning a big defense case that day. The gentleman on the end asked my friend, Bryan, if he could pass down the ketchup. As Bryan reached out to hand him the bottle, they guy was distracted by my friends watch. Bryan has the two-tone Citizen Eco-Drive sports watch (which I will feature in a later post). It is a 44mm, perpetual calendar chronograph with a white dial and because it is the Eco-Drive, you never have to change a battery. The businessman said, “You have a Breitling too?” We couldn’t tell if he was being smug or not, because the Citizen watch could look like a Breitling Avenger at a quick glance. Bryan responded with, “No, it’s a Citizen Eco-Drive” and the guy was shocked.

He said he just bought his Breitling watch, and thought that the watch Bryan has looked similar to another model he was considering. With me being a watch enthusiast I asked, “Which model do you have?” He pulled his sleeve up and showed us a Breitling Navitimer Datora. It is a 43mm steel watch with a bidirectional, slide rule bezel. The day and month are displayed next to each other in their own aperture and the date is located in the inner dial indicated by the red half moon pointer. The Breitling Navitimer Datora is a very impressive watch, which is used by many pilots. You are able to multiply, divide and calculate ground speed, miles per minute, gasoline consumption along with rate/distance of climb or decent. So, it turned out the guy wasn’t being smug, he really enjoys watches. I told the guy about my blog and he thought it sounded great, so he had no problem when I asked to take some pictures of his watch. Bryan had his camera in the car and I set up my gray fleece as a backdrop. I am really pleased with the pictures I got. I think that they are good quality considering the lighting. Breitling reference: A21330

Omega Speedmaster Professional

2009-04-24T16:06:00.025-04:00

I mentioned in my first post I would feature this watch and here it is. Behold, the Omega Speedmaster Professional chronograph, also known as the “Moon Watch”. I love the look and the history behind this beautiful timepiece. This particular watch belongs to a friend of mine, which I have gotten to wear and experience and I have to say, it is an amazing watch. It is a 42mm that features a manual-winding chronograph movement, hesalite crystal, solid case back and is water resistant up to 50m. However, there is a variation with sapphire crystal and a transparent case back, which is the 3573.50 model. Aside from precision and reliability, the history of this watch is what makes it truly special.

NASA had taken several different chronograph watches to see which one would be suitable for its astronauts on their space missions. These watches had to stand up to rigorous tests that included passing grades for extreme shocks, vibrations, and temperatures ranging from -18 to +93 degrees Celsius. After undergoing two years of extensive tests, in 1965, NASA declared that the Omega Speedmaster Professional chronograph was officially "flight-qualified by NASA for all manned space missions". As a result, on July 21, 1969, the Omega Speedmaster Professional became the first watch to ever be worn on the Moon, hence earning the nickname, “Moon Watch”. Omega watch reference: 3570.50.00

Chanel J12 Intense Black

2009-04-17T08:56:00.015-04:00

Being a watch fan, I love learning more about unique or new and upcoming watches and this one really caught my eye. I happen to come across an article not too long ago about a Chanel watch that is covered in black baguette cut ceramic stones. As I continued on I found out that for this particular watch Chanel had partnered up with one of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world, Audemars Piguet. This sporty yet classy watch is called the Chanel J12 Intense Black.

It uses the Audemars Piguet 3125 automatic movement and is covered with 724 of the black ceramic stones. The 3125 movement is the union of the AP 3120 and the ceramic of the Chanel J12, which Chanel has redesigned the balance bridge and made the rotor out of black ceramic. The J12 Intense Black is 18K white gold with 502 ceramic stones set in the bracelet, 48 in the bezel, 96 in the dial and 78 ceramic pieces set in the watch case. Unfortunately, Chanel only produced five of these exquisite timepieces and exclusively available at Chanel stores. Maybe one day I will have the luxury of crossing paths with one of these black beauties. Luxury watches, Designer watches, watches

Patek Philippe: World Time

2009-04-09T11:08:00.010-04:00

A couple weekends ago, trying to think of what to do on a Saturday night, my girlfriend and I decided to drive down to “America’s Playground”, Atlantic City, with some of our friends. We hadn’t felt the excitement of legal gambling in a while, so we headed for the Borgata casino. Normally we would go to play Texas hold ‘em, but this time we decided to head over to roulette. After playing for thirty minutes a man dressed in an Armani suit comes over to join us. He is a Borgata black card holder, a high roller and one of the poker tournament winners from the day before who was trying his luck in roulette. Everything about this guy was vain. From the language with the waitress, the bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label he ordered and to top it off, he announced to the table that he would be starting with $5,000. As he goes to pour his top shelf scotch, I’m blinded by a reflection of light. It was the crystal from one of the most distinctive watches I have ever seen, the Patek Philippe World Time.

I have never seen the World Time watch in person, just in pictures. Also, this wasn’t the older World Time with the Guilloched dial; this was the new 2009 model with the “Europe/Asia” dial. This watch had a classy, black leather band with a fold-over clasp closure and could tell you the time of 24 different time zones. Only being five feet away from this exceptional $40,000 watch, the man noticed me looking at it. He said, “Nice huh? I just got it a month ago”. After telling him I had never seen a Patek Philippe in person, to my surprise he took it off and handed it to me saying, “Have a look”. As we started talking about the watch, he was surprised as to how much I knew about it and at the same time he liked the similar interest we both shared for the watch. He then asked the waitress to bring over an extra glass with ice in it. As we were sitting there sipping on JW I had brought up the watch blog I started up and he was very intrigued. Unfortunately, I did not have my camera to take pictures of the watch, but I told him I would be posting a story about this. Needless to say, even though I didn’t have a lot of luck in roulette, I got to experience one of the most elegant and carefully crafted timepieces in the world, the Patek Philippe World Time. Patek Philippe reference: 5131G

Omega Planet Ocean

2009-04-03T10:14:00.029-04:00

As many of you might know, Omega watches are built like tanks and have delivered precision timing for many years. The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is the watch of choice of Mr. Bond, James Bond. The Planet Ocean is featured in the newest Bond movie: Quantum of Solace. Omega was also the brand chosen by NASA when deciding on a chronograph that would be suitable for the astronauts on their space missions. Even though the “Moon Watch” was the Speedmaster Professional Chronograph (which will be shown in a later post), it is a great honor for Omega watches.

Getting back to the main topic, the Omega Planet Ocean is a very spirited divers’ watch, which is often compared to the Rolex Sea-Dweller. The model that I featured is 42mm, Automatic Co-Axial movement, official chronometer, stainless steel case and bracelet, unidirectional rotating bezel, helium escape valve and is water resistant up to 600m (2,000ft) (the highest resistance offered by Omega). Even though I do not personally own this model, I love the new look of the Omega Seamaster, especially this model showing the orange numbers. It also offers the very attractive big arrows on the hands, the date shown at the 3 o’clock position and has an impressive power reserve of 48 hours. Omega watch reference: 2201.51.00