Emmanuel Dietrich is a Swiss-based, French-born designer with French and German roots and an unrelenting drive to craft his ideal watch, who presented his first creations as an independent brand in 2014. His debut collection, the Dietrich OT, for Organic Time, was nothing short of a bold design experiment. It was curious, somewhat avant-garde, a …
First Look – The New Dietrich ED-1, Made for Daily Wear Read More »
An emblematic name for the dive watch community, Squale has gained great credibility with its solid, no-nonsense models and recognition from military forces. Created in 1959, when Charles Von Büren registered the Squale name, this year, the brand celebrates its 65th anniversary. A few months ago, Squale released the Master Titanium 120 ATM, an appealing …
Introducing – The Squale 1521 Marina Militare Limited Edition Read More »
Most days, you’ll catch me wearing a dive watch or a classic chronograph. This is what I most enjoy as a watch collector (yes, we are first and foremost watch fans at MONO). I like to wear watches that I don’t have to worry about, and I love a timepiece with some heft. Not necessarily …
Hands-on – Love at First Sight, the Chopard L.U.C XPS Forest Green Read More »
Hermès has a talent for infusing a light-hearted and contemporary touch into its beautifully crafted luxury products. As a brand that started life as a purveyor of the finest quality saddles and harnesses in Paris in the mid-19th century, equestrian motifs abound at Hermès. The latest Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider watch features a champlevé …
Introducing – The New Hermès Slim d’Hermès Pocket Mysterious Rider Read More »
It wasn’t so long ago when LVMH, the French luxury powerhouse, announced shifts in top management positions. In January 2024, the group announced the creation of a new entity, LVMH Watches, as well as its CEO, Frédéric Arnault, the son of the Group’s owner Bernard Arnault and ex-CEO of TAG Heuer. As a consequence, Julien …
Industry News – Management Reshuffle at LVMH Watches, New CEO for Hublot and TAG Heuer Read More »
This task is no easy feat, for the story unravels like a rich tapestry woven with history, adventure, and revival. The latest Sherpa offering is the uncoated edition of the OPS, a version of a piece we reviewed last year alongside the Ultradive, made in collaboration with The Real Time Show (TRTS, a twice-weekly podcast). …
Hands-on – A Closer Look at the Sherpa OPS Compressor, with the Newest TRTS Edition Read More »
Today, for our latest in-depth video, we’re going technical. This is what MONOCHROME is all about, after all. Sharing the knowledge behind fine horology and understanding how our beloved mechanical watches actually work. Today’s topic is one dear to our hearts, as it combines everything we love in fine watchmaking: high-end finishing, mechanical ingenuity, profound …
Dutch watchmaker Christiaan van der Klaauw started producing astronomical complications in 1974 and earned worldwide acclaim following his creation, in 1999, of the smallest mechanical planetarium in the world with real-time orbits of the planets in the confined dimensions of a wristwatch. Ten years later, in 2009, Christiaan van der Klaauw handed over the reins …
First Look – The Bold New Burgundy Dial of the Christiaan Van der Klaauw Ariadne Read More »
1972 was the year of the final Apollo mission, the dramatic Summer Olympics in Munich and the Watergate scandal. For what concerns us here at MONOCHROME, it was the year when a certain Ferdinand Alexander “Butzi” Porsche became independent and founded the Porsche Design Studio. His first product was a watch, the first black-coated watch …
In May of this year, we introduced Jiro Katayama, an independent watchmaker from Japan, and his brand Otsuka Lotec, which, despite its distribution being limited exclusively to his home country, has gained recognition across the continents. We had the pleasure of experiencing one of his models, the recently updated Otsuka Lotec № 6, and here …
Hands-on – The Updated Otsuka Lotec № 6 by Japanese Watchmaker Jiro Katayama Read More »
Co-founded by Swiss industrial designer Andrea Furlan and watch collector Hamad Al Marri, Furlan Marri launched on Kickstarter in 2021 with a beautifully designed vintage chronograph powered by a hybrid mecha-quartz engine. The next act, in 2022, was an equally handsome vintage black sector dial equipped with a mechanical movement that won over the MONOCHROME …
Following the announcement yesterday of decreasing sales for the Swatch Group, particularly impacted by the industry’s challenging situation in China and South East Asia, it is time today for one of its main competitors, Richemont Group, to announce its sales for the first quarter ended 30 June 2024. Contrary to expectations, global sales are to …
Industry News – Richemont Reports Stable Sales For Q1 2024, Results Down for Watches Read More »
Released last year, the Tissot Heritage 1938 COSC is a watch that’s hard to not objectively find brilliant. Combining a nice retro design with modern specs and a truly fair price, it even comes equipped with a chronometer-certified movement – making it one of the most accessible Swiss chronometers on the market. This handsome, affordable …
Céladon is a project established in 2012 by watch aficionado and collector Benjamin Chee. It is part of his small group of watch brands, alongside BCHH and Milléchron. If these two relate to Europe and Switzerland, Céladon was created to celebrate Chinese artisanship, with watches “Made in China with pride.” In particular, the brand’s timepieces …
First Look – The new Editions of the Proudly-Chinese Céladon Century Collection Read More »
Together with sister-brand Glashütte Original, Union Glashütte represents the German side of the Swatch Group. Positioned as an attainable luxury watchmaker, delivering excellent quality for the price, Union is steadily growing and continues to bring fresh, appealing new models to the market. The latest in line is a handsome chronograph with vintage vibe and linked …
First Look – The Union Glashütte Noramis Chronograph Sachsen Classic 2024 Read More »
Nothing does more for a brand’s image than having a famous name spontaneously endorse your product. Although Doxa was not the first Swiss brand to produce a professional dive watch, it was the first to introduce a dive watch with a unidirectional rotating bezel to ensure safe no-decompression ascents in 1967. Doxa’s SUB 300, with …
At CHF 3,445 million, the sales of the Swatch Group, the Swiss powerhouse owner of Omega, Longines or Tissot, are down 14.3% at constant exchange rates and 10.7% at constant rates. The declining sales strongly impact the operating profit at CHF 204 million against CHF 686 million for the previous year. Swatch Group advises that …
Industry News – Swatch Group Reports Sales Down 14.3% for the First Half of 2024 Read More »
Considering how time is indicated on most watches – hands rotating 360-degree around the dial – it is no surprise that the vast majority of timepieces available on the market have round cases. But there is always room for creativity, originality and audacity. Watches don’t have to be round to be either striking or elegant. …
Buying Guide – Originality Done Right – 5 Watches With Truly Audacious Case Designs Read More »
For the second week running, I’m going to cover the fast-paced world of Formula 1, as I was lucky enough to be invited by H. Moser & Cie and the BWT Alpine F1 team for a factory tour and a one-day visit to the 2024 Silverstone Grand Prix. For those who have been following our …
The Petrolhead Corner – Dipping Our Toes Into The World Of H. Moser & Cie and Alpine F1 Read More »
Introduced in the 1970s during the rise of quartz movements, which were poised to dominate the industry, threatening to eclipse and eradicate mechanical mechanisms almost entirely, the ETA 2892 has become one of the most renowned and widely used self-winding calibres produced by the Swatch Group’s giant movement maker. Like the ETA 2824, the 2892 …
In-Depth – The History of the ETA 2892, The Enduring Elite Movement from ETA Read More »
A masterpiece of ingenuity and complexity, the GNS1 dazzled the watchmaking scene with its incredible free-moving train travelling around the two central counters on the dial like a mechanical caterpillar. Marking the indie brand’s debut in 2019, the GNS1 was ten years in the making and protected by two patents. Earlier this year, Genus introduced …
Hands-on – The Genus GNS2, Sleeker but Still Mechanically Fascinating Read More »
Certina’s robust and affordably priced DS-1 is a descendant of the brand’s pioneering DS (Double Security) concept introduced in 1959. Back then, much like a turtle’s protective shell, the DS concept was engineered to enhance the resilience, reliability, and water resistance of watches against external threats by incorporating O-ring seals. This versatile and straightforward timepiece …
First Look – The New and Affordable Certina DS-1 Day-Date Read More »
Evolution, not revolution. It’s a well-known strategy that has been applied by so many brands, and not just in the watch industry. The idea of gradually updating/upgrading your most emblematic product without drastically changing it is at the heart of the success of icons such as the Porsche 911, the iPhone, the Nike Air Max …
Video Review – What Has Changed…? The New Oris Aquis Date Compared to the Old Model Read More »
Let’s go straight to the point. Bremont, one of the foremost British watch brands, is changing. The founding brothers, Nick and Giles English, are no longer the faces of the company, which has had a new CEO for about a year now: Davide Cerrato. As expected, his arrival has meant a new strategy, starting with …
Hands-on – The Breakpoint Watch… The Entirely New Bremont Supermarine 300m Read More »
German brand Stowa was founded in 1927 and became one of the five official suppliers of B-Uhren to the German Luftwaffe. Capitalising on the brand’s rich aviation history, Stowa, now in the hands of Tempus Arte Group, released its first batch of contemporary pilot’s watches in 1997. While the reissues capture the classic looks of …
Introducing – A Trilogy of Olympic Medal-Inspired Stowa Flieger Watches Read More »
This spring, Montblanc introduced the latest addition to the Unveiled Minerva series, the Unveiled Minerva Monopusher Chronograph. Like the 2022-2023 releases, the Unveiled Secret Minerva Monopusher Chronographs, it showcases the beautiful mechanics of the underlying movement in an exciting and visually captivating way. The new Unveiled Minerva Monopusher Chronograph continues the inverted calibre concept with …
Hands-on – The Delightful Montblanc 1858 Unveiled Minerva Monopusher Chronograph Read More »
Founded in 1934, Airain was one of the original suppliers of the iconic Type 20 chronograph issued to French military pilots in the 1950s and 60s. The brand was dormant until its resurrection in 2020 by Dutch entrepreneur Tom van Wijlick, who also spearheaded the 2014 relaunch of Lebois & Co, which brought back the …
First Look – The New Airain Type 20 “Up in the Air” with seconde/seconde/ Read More »
Ulysse Nardin has always been associated with the sea, from its early days as a purveyor of precision marine chronometers to its current nautical-inspired collection, which includes classical references like the Marine Torpilleur or more contemporary, high-performance Divers. Offered in three case sizes, the more compact 39mm model returns with a stunning mottled neon blue …
Introducing – The Ulysse Nardin Diver Atoll with a Mesmerising Chrysocolla Dial Read More »
Parmigiani Fleurier, the upscale watch brand founded by master restorer and watchmaker Michel Parmigiani in 1996, changed management in 2021 with the appointment of Guido Terreni. Since Terreni’s arrival, the collections have been streamlined, and all efforts have been focused on developing the Tonda PF Collection (and the Toric recently). This collection, derived from Michel …
First Look – A New Trilogy of Precious Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Automatic 36mm Read More »
Oris remains committed to its Change for the Better mission, whether by introducing a smaller, lighter, fully recyclable Sustainable Watch Box, celebrating Local Heroes who embody the watchmaker’s honourable values, or partnering with the social enterprise Bracenet. This July, in support of the Australian non-profit Reef Restoration Foundation, Oris presents the Great Barrier Reef Limited …
Introducing – The New Oris Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV Read More »
Dual regulators were invented by horology’s illustrious grandfathers to improve accuracy and stability. Names like Huygens, who introduced the concept of resonance inside his movements, and others like Breguet, Berthoud and Janvier are all associated with this alignment of double regulators. Coveted by collectors, this rara avis is not extinct and reinterpreted by contemporary wizards …
First Look – The New Czapek Complicité Place Vendôme Stardust Cobalt Read More »
Since its comeback in 2020, Nivada Grenchen has become one of the most active accessible brands on the scene, with a focus on reviving classic designs of the past in faithful vintage-inspired watches. After bringing back icons such as the Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver, the Depthmaster Pac-Man dive watch or the Super Antarctic, it is …
Introducing – Nivada Revives a new 1970s Prototype With the new Chronosport Read More »
Following a complete and welcomed overhaul of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Automatic collection in 2021, last month the brand introduced its latest updated models in the series, with five new Aquaracer Professional 300 Date and three Aquaracer Professional 300 GMT versions, with captivating new dials, slightly reduced case sizes, and powered by the …
Hands-on – The Revised TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Date Read More »
Longtime Singaporean collector Benjamin Chee had a dream of creating beautiful, high-end watches. To manifest his vision, he created the BCHH (Benjamin Chee Haute Horlogerie) brand and reached out to master watchmaker Svend Andersen of Andersen Genève to create the Celestial Voyager, a sophisticated world timer with a handcrafted enamel dial. Following the sold-out success …
Ace Jewelers, the family-owned Dutch jewellery and watch retailer, has been a prominent name in the industry for almost half a century. The company’s reputation has made limited-edition collaborations with watch brands possible, such as special Amsterdam editions of Ace together with Frederique Constant and Nomos; there was also an Amsterdam-themed “Ace” watch with Cedric …
Introducing – The New Ace Jewelers x Nivada Grenchen F77 Amsterdam Read More »
It’s a commonly known fact the current trend for brands is to downsize watches to more compact dimensions, often to 40mm or below. This shift is natural to the industry, and it’s not the first time we’ve seen it, although this time the push seems stronger than in the past. In the late 1990s and …
Buying Guide – Size Still Matters: Some Watches Need to be Big to be Brilliant Read More »
If you’ve been paying attention to Formula 1, you might have witnessed something odd over the past 12 months or so. While officially there are 10 teams putting two cars each on the grid, an eleventh team has been spotted! And no, it’s not Mario Andretti and his Cadillac-backed Formula 1 plans making an early …
The Petrolhead Corner – Piecing Together the Upcoming APX GP F1 Movie Read More »
For watch enthusiasts like me and the rest of the team of MONO, the name Angelus is synonymous with splendid vintage chronographs. Yet, the modern side of the brand, which is under the umbrella of La Joux-Perret (and thus Citizen), was until recently fairly different. The resurrection of the brand in 2015, which was done …
In-Depth – The Angelus Instrument de Vitesse and the Story of its Monopusher Movement Read More »
Norqain has consolidated a repertoire of watches to tackle the great outdoors. Robust, well-designed, contemporary models that can take their fair share of adversity and still look good, Norqain is back this summer with a versatile GMT travel companion and a rugged three-hander, both from the brand’s Neverest collection, fitted with high-performance, chronometer-rated Kenissi manufacture …
First Look – The New Norqain Neverest GMT Glacier 41mm and Glacier 40mm Read More »
Founded in 2016 by Sébastien Muller in the Swiss Jura, Brellum is a niche independent brand that uses a direct distribution model. Specializing in crafting vintage-inspired chronographs at attainable prices, Brellum produces only a few hundred watches annually, with no more than 299 pieces a year, including limited editions. The brand now proudly introduces its …
First Look – The new Brellum Pandial Bicompax Titanium Read More »
The countdown is almost over, the athletes are ready, and the timers are set to begin. In a few weeks from now, on July 26th, the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will ignite a summer of sporting action in the heart of the French capital. For the 31st time since 1932, Omega will fulfil the role …
In-Depth – Get Ready for Paris 2024, And Explore Omega Timekeeping for the Olympics Read More »
Founded in 2017 by Etienne Malec and friends, Baltic continues its rapid expansion to the point of not being able to use the term micro-brand anymore… Now an established watch brand with a comprehensive collection, ranging from racing chronographs to dive watches and adventure-themed models, Baltic also ventured into the world of dress watches with …
First Look – The new Baltic MR Roulette Collection, Bringing Vintage Calatrava Vibes Read More »
With its Ocean Star collection, Swatch Group-owned brand Mido has long demonstrated its ability to combine cool designs, great quality, proper diving credentials and fair prices. Take a look at the Ocean Star 600 Chronometer or the Decompression Timer 1961, you’ll see what I mean… It should be remembered that the Ocean Star collection is …
First Look – The New, Compact and Slim Mido Ocean Star 39 Read More »
For obvious reasons, the watch world tends to glorify complexity and the accumulation of functions into a single watch. We, at MONOCHROME, are no better than the rest of the crowd and we can spend days contemplating a Grande Complication watch, or a timepiece with a novel, ultra-complex escapment. However, we also tend to forget …
Hands-on – The New MeisterSinger Neo Collection Exemplifies the Beauty of Simplicity Read More »
Released in 2022, the Defy Skyline collection was Zenith‘s answer to the large demand for sports watches with integrated design and bracelet. Since its initial introduction, we have seen multiple new editions of this watch, including compact versions, ceramic models, a chronograph and even a high-frequency tourbillon. But one of the most impactful models was …
First Look – The Zenith Defy Skyline White Ceramic Skeleton Read More »
A few months ago, just ahead of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Tudor announced a rather unexpected partnership, signing its return in motorsport. The brand indeed announced its official partnership with Red Bull’s second team, Visa Cash App RB Formula One team, with drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda behind the wheel. Only a couple …
News – The F1-Themed Tudor Black Bay Ceramic Blue, Now Available to the Public Read More »
MELB, does that mean anything to you? The acronym hides a discreet family group, active in various high-added-value fields including, of course, watchmaking. However, one of its components is well-known, through its collections: Endeavour, Streamliner, and Pioneer to name just three. We are talking about H. Moser & Cie and MeylanEdouardLeonoreBertrand (MELB), founded by the …
Interview – A Business-Oriented Conservation with Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser & Cie Read More »
Customisation has fast become a watch industry standard, offering buyers a host of case materials, dial colours, strap options, etc… However, it’s not often that you come across a watch with four different faces, or rather, four different fonts for four revolving numerals on the dial. Designer and former watch restorer John Byrne’s Gyro Dial …
Hands-on – The Slimmer and Smaller Byrne Gyro Dial Meca Read More »
Two years ago, Tudor announced its entry into the world of cycling, partnering with cycling legend Fabian Cancellara to create the Tudor Pro Cycling Team. Tudor soon developed a special edition Black Bay Chrono Dark for the team, which we discovered during a training camp with the team in early 2023. Just a few weeks …
Hands-on – Chasing Cancellara and Testing the Tudor Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition Read More »
Chronoswiss was founded in 1983 in Munich by the late Gerd R. Lang, a celebrated watchmaker with a penchant for classical regulators. Now in the hands of Oliver Ebstein and based in Lucerne, Switzerland, Chronoswiss maintains its repertoire of dynamic regulator layouts with old-school decorative techniques jazzed up with wild colours. The Chronoswiss Delphis, launched …
Introducing – The New Chronoswiss Delphis Dracula, Horizon and Dune Read More »
First introduced in 2021 as the Continuum, the C by Romain Gauthier series showcases a contemporary titanium case with a unique bezel. It is crafted by machining a circular shape before cutting six facets into the bevelled edge. The C by Romain Gauthier Titanium Edition Six is the final instalment in the series of sporty, …
Introducing – The C by Romain Gauthier Titanium Edition Six, the Last of the Series Read More »
Following the appointment a few weeks ago of Nicolas Bos as the new CEO of the Richemont Group (replacing Jérôme Lambert), the luxury conglomerate once again announces changes in managing positions, with a new CEO for its jewellery/watchmaking brand Cartier. Effective 1st September 2024, Louis Ferla (ex-Vacheron Constantin) will take over Cyrille Vigneron as Chief …
Industry News – Louis Ferla Appointed CEO of Cartier, Replaces Cyrille Vigneron Read More »
Mr Roger Dubuis founded his eponymous brand in 1995, swiftly achieving success with timepieces that deftly balance traditional watchmaking craftsmanship and bold, expressive designs. Since 2003, the brand has been renowned for its expertise in tourbillon watches, starting with the calibre RD03. This fully integrated manufacture has since become a specialist in architectural skeletonised tourbillons, …
Hands-on – The Bold and Ultra-Modern Roger Dubuis Excalibur Titanium Monotourbillon Read More »
In recent years, Swatch Group-owned brand Certina has demonstrated its capability of creating powerful, capable and nicely designed dive watches at fair prices. Take the example of the DS Super PH500M, the DS PH200M, or the DS Action Diver to understand my point. Last year, the brand pushed things even further with a watch drawing inspiration from …
First Look – The Accessible Yet Powerful Certina DS Super PH1000M STC Edition Read More »
Audemars Piguet powerfully demonstrates the theory that “two is better than one” in the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked, a coveted collector’s model with two balance wheels for increased chronometric precision and viewing pleasure. Following the recently released 37mm tone-on-tone gold version, AP proposes a trilogy of 41mm models in steel, black ceramic and …
First Look – Three New Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked 41mm Read More »
“Racing is life; anything that happens before or after is just waiting.” Famous words by Michael Delaney, Steve McQueen’s character in the legendary 1971 movie Le Mans. And while there’s far more to life than racing, to a Petrolhead, it does make absolute sense. It’s the thrill of fast-paced cars being pushed on winding roads …
Buying Guide – A Selection of Fuel-Injected Watches, from Fairly Simple to Ultra-Complex Read More »
It’s hard to imagine that the record-setting and boundaries-pushing Bugatti Veyron has already been with us for close to two decades. After years of testing, teasing and fine-tuning this mindblowing hypercar, the EB 16.4 Veyron was officially unveiled in 2005, carrying a bonkers 8.0 litre quad-turbocharged W16 powerhouse of an engine in the back, producing …
Known for its countless (and often appealing) vintage re-editions, inspired by some glorious watches of the past, Longines last year relaunched an important historic pilot watch, the Czech Pilot watch known as “Majetek Vojenske Spravy” or more simply, the Pilot Majetek. A follow-up to a model of 2014, this re-introduction was done with style and …
First Look – The Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition, now in Titanium Read More »
Five years ago, Kari Vouitilainen‘s atelier unveiled an exciting evolution of the brand’s signature time-only Vingt-8 series, the Voutilainen 28TI model with an inverted calibre. The 28TI (Titanium Inverse) watch, with its sumptuous detailing and delicate decoration, brought to the fore movement components that were previously visible through the sapphire caseback, allowing an impressive display …
Introducing – The New and Superb Voutilainen KV20i Reversed Read More »
One of Hublot’s more recent specialities has been the Essential Grey treatment of popular models, which essentially turns them into monochromatic variants for collectors. This started with the Big Bang Unico Essential Grey and continued with the Spirit of Big Bang Essential Grey, and now we have a third instalment, the Classic Fusion Essential Grey. …
Introducing – The Hublot Classic Fusion Essential Grey (Volume III) Read More »
Released in 2018, the Khaki Field Mechanical quickly became a hit for Hamilton. And when you wear this watch, you quickly understand why. The essence of a military/field watch with a vintage-inspired design, it is rugged, simple, legible, well proportioned and comes with a genuinely accessible price tag. And it sure looks good! Following the …
First Look – New Colours for Hamilton’s Accessible Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm Read More »
Alain Silberstein and Louis Erard are at it again! One of the brand’s most veteran collaborators, Alain Silberstein has collaborated with Louis Erard since 2019, dialling up the colour of watches with his original design language. Following the Tourbillon Regulator, Silberstein’s latest Smile Day collaboration continues in the wake of earlier three-hand with day and …
First Look – The New Grey Dial Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein Smile Day Read More »
Based in Kuala Lumpur, Ming is an independent watch brand with a cult following. Frustrated by not finding a watch he liked at a price he could afford, multi-talented founder Ming Thein decided to create his own brand. Design is king at Ming. Contemporary styling, luminescence, layering and colour are key aesthetic directives of the …
Introducing – The Skyward-Bound Ming 37.08 Starlight Read More »
You thought all dive watches were the same round watch topped by a unidirectional bezel with a classic time-only display over a black dial, right? Well, Benoît Mintiens from Ressence is here to prove you wrong. Not all dive watches need to look like a Submariner or a Seamaster. Not all dive watches need to …
Introducing – The Full-Lumed Ressence TYPE 5 L Dive Watch Read More »
A more streamlined and less instrument-oriented take on one of the most emblematic dive watches ever created (the Fifty Fathoms, if you ask), the Blancpain Bathyscaphe collection continues its evolution initiated a few years ago with the introduction of new materials and redesigned dials. This year will be all about ceramic. First, Blancpain introduces a …
Released in 2022, the Defy Skyline was Zenith‘s answer to the growing demand for sports watches with integrated bracelets. Blending historical cues of the late 1960s Defy model with modern mechanics and design elements, it fuses the styles of the Defy Classic and Defy Extreme into a new interpretation of a luxury sports watch. As …
Introducing – The France-Only Zenith Defy Skyline Edition Paris Read More »
Abraham-Louis Breguet is often regarded as one of the founding fathers of modern watchmaking. Through numerous inventions and the so-called unmistakable signs, he firmly imprinted his mark on the industry. On this date, June 26th, 1801, A.L. Breguet patented what would become his most famous invention, the tourbillon regulator. As a tribute to the genius …
First Look – A New Rose Gold Breguet Classique Double Tourbillon “Quai de l’Horloge” Read More »
A little under a year ago, revered independent watchmakers Armin Strom relaunched a watch that has been vital in the brand’s watchmaking activities since Claude Greisler and Serge Michel took the company’s reins. Known as the One Week, this watch will run for a full week, literally, when it’s kept wound. Introduced as a First …
Introducing – The New Armin Strom One Week Manufacture Edition Read More »
Introduced just four years ago, H. Moser & Cie‘s luxury Streamliner sports watch debuted with a flyback chronograph and swiftly expanded its complications repertoire to include perpetual calendars, tourbillons and skeletonised models. The latest Streamliner ascends the complications ladder with the combination of a sophisticated minute repeater and flying tourbillon. While Moser’s resilient Streamliner case provides a …
First Look – The New H. Moser & Cie Streamliner Concept Minute Repeater Tourbillon Read More »
Known as the largest luxury group in the world, owned by the Arnault family, LVMH continues its development in all fields related to rare and artistic crafts. Already the owner, through its Watches Division, of TAG Heuer, Hublot and Zenith (as well as jewellery brands Bulgari and Tiffany, not included in this division), the group …
Industry News – LVHM Acquires High-End Clockmaker L’Epée 1839 Read More »
With ArtyA, founder Yvan Arpa has formed a truly unique vision of watchmaking. ArtyA watches are undoubtedly spectacular pieces that boldly venture beyond the mainstream. The independent watchmaking brand now unveils 3 different and original takes on a rare, haute horlogerie classic. Its elaborate movement unites two “grandes complications” in one calibre: a minute repeater …
First Look – Artya Presents 3 Unique Executions of the Minute Repeater Tourbillon Read More »
Oversized watches are a thing of the past…? Well, on paper yes. For two to three years now, many brands have been scaling down their watches. Timepieces can move back to 40mm or sometimes even less. Yet, some models are made to be big and bold. 1990s and early 2000s Panerai, the IWC Big Pilot …
Hands-on – Impressions about the Rubber-Clad AP Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding 43mm Read More »
Using its classic codes, De Bethune merges the sleek profile of the ultra-thin DB28XP with the captivating blue hue debuted on the DB28T Kind of Blue to present a quintessentially De Bethune creation. As one of De Bethune’s most iconic models, the DB28 showcases the brand’s signature floating lugs, a crown positioned at 12 o’clock …
Introducing – De Bethune DB28XP Kind of Blue Tourbillon Read More »
While the Aquis, which has been recently revised, represents the modern side of dive watches at Oris, the Divers Sixty-Five collection is, as you might have guessed by the name, its vintage-inspired counterpart. An instrumental model for the brand’s recent history, the ’65 has been presented in dozens of editions, with manufacture movement, a chronograph, …
Introducing – The new Gradient Green Oris Divers Sixty-Five Date 40mm Read More »
Garrick, a distinguished brand from Norfolk, England, offers a limited series of fine timepieces for collectors who value its origins, unique character, and commitment to the “handcrafted in England” philosophy. Founded by David Brailsford, an experienced watch consultant and collector, and Simon Michelmayr, an accomplished British watchmaker, the brand has made significant strides since its …
Introducing – The New Version of Garrick S3, the Enhanced S3 MK2 Read More »
In 2017, Bell & Ross launched the BR03-92 Diver, bringing the “circle in a square” aesthetic to the underwater world. It was a proper dive watch with a rotating bezel and 300-metre depth rating, and it met the international standard ISO 6425 requirements. There are now five new models for 2024 that bring improvements such …
First Look – The Updated Bell & Ross BR 03 Diver Collection Read More »
In 2020, Jacob & Co. and Bugatti forged a partnership resulting in the creation of one of the most spectacular automotive-inspired watches ever, the Chiron Tourbillon. This not only carried over plenty of design cues from the record-breaking hypercar but also a detailed and working miniature interpretation of its W16 engine, crafted in sapphire crystal. …
First Look – The New And Hyper-Impressive Jacob & Co Bugatti Tourbillon Read More »
Ludwig Oechslin’s ochs und Junior original designs offer unique solutions to traditional complications. The ochs und Junior luna sole, a recent addition to the collection, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to a minimalist style and the simplification of astronomical indications. This new watch elegantly combines timekeeping with date, sun, moon phase, and the …
Introducing – Oechslin’s Ochs und Junior Luna Sole, the Three-Body Problem Read More »
One of my most memorable experiences when tumbling down the mechanical watchmaking rabbit hole is handling my very first tourbillon watch. I had already been writing for MONOCHROME for a while when it happened, and I knew about the complication and its function, but I had never handled one in person. It was at the …
Buying Guide – Six Recent Tourbillon Watches To Honour A Very Personal Memory Read More »
I recently had the chance to see one of my car-related dreams being partially fulfilled; experiencing the Mille Miglia! It was a last-minute arrangement for me so I sadly could not get behind the wheel of a vintage sports or racing car, but it was a scintillating experience nonetheless. Spending a day-and-a-half in the rolling …
One of the oldest watchmaking brands in Switzerland, Bovet was taken over by Pascal Raffy in the early 2000s. Since then, the brand has consistently invested in a holistic approach to watchmaking. Bovet develops and produces its watches in-house with a rare level of vertical integration, combining expert craftsmanship and technical expertise. Bovet timepieces are …
The Seiko Presage Style60’s collection is both popular, growing fast and a nice throwback to a bygone decade (yes, the 1960s, obviously). The latest pair of watches, ref. SRPL07 and SRPL09, don’t reinvent the wheel, but add classy touches with a slightly smaller case, a very nice new bracelet and a fixed bezel. Dial colours …
First Look – The Amazing Value-for-Money Seiko Presage Style60s SRPL07 & SRPL09 Read More »
The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra has carved out a unique spot in the Seamaster family as a stylish, versatile, and durable everyday watch, perfect for both land and sea. While not classified as a professional dive watch, it offers a comfortable 150m water resistance (aqua), classic aesthetics, and a precise movement that seamlessly transitions from …
First Look – The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra with new Glossy Black Dials Read More »
The Frederique Constant Highlife collection launched in 1999 with an interchangeable, integrated strap/bracelet at an affordable price, making the desirable “luxury Swiss sports watch” accessible to many. The collection ultimately went dormant but was relaunched in 2020 to great fanfare with musician, producer and brand ambassador The Avener. In 2022, the brand introduced the Highlife …
First Look – The Updated Frederique Constant Highlife Chronograph Read More »
Audemars Piguet introduced the Royal Oak Selfwinding 34mm in 2020 as the smallest-sized option with mechanical movement. Since its debut, AP has expanded the range with several variations, ranging from simple stainless steel to diamond-covered pink gold versions. For 2024, Audemars Piguet added two new models to the Royal Oak Frosted Gold Selfwinding 34mm series—one …
Cuervo y Sobrinos is the only major watch brand with solid Cuban roots, celebrating specific time periods and locations in Cuban history. For example, the previous Robusto Churchill Limited Edition honoured Winston Churchill’s fondness for Havana tobacco. The new Robusto Sans Souci looks back at 1950s Cuba, specifically the Sans Souci night venue just outside …
Introducing – The Cuervo y Sobrinos Robusto Sans Souci and Robusto 1935 Read More »
I’ve been saying it for years now; watchmaking is a universal trade. Gone are the days when it was for the Swiss only, or even Europe for that matter. These days, with virtually no boundaries thanks to the online world, there’s surprising and exciting watchmaking to be found all over the globe. Take China for …
Introducing – Chinese Indie Watchmaker Qin Gan Releases The Delectable Pastorale II Read More »
Changes to the appearance are often a more frequent feature of the TAG Heuer Monaco series than groundbreaking innovation in its mechanics. And over the years the brand almost always successfully implemented the use of new materials and updated designs, with the recent 2023 introduction of open-worked dials to the collection preceding the launch of …
Hands-on – The Appealing looks of the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton Dark Blue Read More »
Since founding Code41 in 2016, Lausanne-based designer Claudio D’Amore has set his brand apart through transparency, community engagement, and fair pricing. From a product perspective, Code41 has developed a unique portfolio of watches with distinct aesthetics, sporty vibes, and often featuring openworked dials. The brand’s latest collection, UNIFY, is somewhat more approachable and consensual. However, …
Introducing – The Code 41 UNIFY Calls For Tollerance, Equality and Diversity. Read More »
Gérald Charles Genta, one of our time’s most respected and well-known watch designers, sold his eponymous brand Gerald Genta to Bulgari in 2000. However, instead of resting on his laurels and enjoying a stress-free retirement, he created a new brand, naming it – again – after himself; Gerald Charles. In 2003, Genta sold the company …
On its own, a Laurent Ferrier Classic Micro-Rotor is already a true thing of beauty. The ultra-smooth, almost pebble-like case, the refined architecture of the dial and of course that superbly finished micro-rotor movement with natural escapement. There’s genuinely nothing we would change. However, Laurent Ferrier’s latest iteration of the Classic Micro-Rotor shows it can …
MeisterSinger hardly needs an introduction. This award-winning German brand is renowned for its distinctive single-hand time display design, which makes it instantly recognizable. The latest additions to the MeisterSinger lineup are blacked-out versions of the robust and solidly built Unomat series, featuring generous splashes of colour – with a twist. The two new Unomat watches …
Introducing – MeisterSinger Releases Two Vibrant Unomat Limited Editions Read More »
Recently, we co-organized a watch event with ten independent watch brands, welcoming close to 200 guests and spoiling everyone with Michelin-star food and bites, bubbles (and beer), and great coffees prepared by a barista. During the two-day event, appropriately named Taste of Time, the presentations given by the participating brands garnered as much attention as …
Recap – Making Ever-lasting Memories at our Inaugural Taste Of Time Event Read More »
The Oris Divers Sixty-Five resurfaced in 2015, fifty years after its inaugural splash. Leaning on the design cues of its ancestor, the revisited Divers Sixty-Five oozed vintage pedigree. Although the looks of the first models were faithful to their ancestor, the watch was built with contemporary materials and powered by an outsourced movement (Sellita). The …
First Look – The New 38mm Oris Divers Sixty-Five Calibre 400 Read More »
French brand Yema keeps pushing the quality of its watches higher and higher, and the recently released updated and refined Superman Slim CMM.20, featuring a proprietary automatic micro-rotor movement, rightfully received overwhelmingly positive reviews. Today, the watchmaker from the Morteau region presents a new interpretation of the brand’s emblematic 1960s skin dive watch series, the …
Imagine yourself being completely immersed in something of the utmost importance. Every single fibre is zoned in on the task at hand, whatever that may be. The outside world has ceased to exist for you in that moment of complete concentration. And then…. an alarm goes off, rudely breaking your concentration and bursting your zen-bubble. …
Introducing – Quiet Club Stays Quiet No More as it Debuts the QC01 Fading Hours Read More »
If you ever had doubts about it, the Olympic Games are getting closer and closer… And, as so many times in the past, Omega will be the official timekeeper of Paris 2024. But today’s topic, even though related to one of the sports that will be represented in the French capital city, isn’t about the …
So, we have another first watch from a new microbrand, but this one truly stands out with a unique, retro/contemporary approach that drew inspiration from the early space race. Cherkas was founded by Vasily Kuybar, born in the USSR and fascinated by aerospace, who designed the Cherkas Module One with a retro sci-fi aesthetic that’s …
Introducing – New Microbrand Cherkas Launches with an Original Watch, the Module One Read More »
Retter isn’t a brand that many are familiar with as its first watch launched only a couple of years ago, the 22 Automatic. It was a solid first effort with the always popular integrated sports watch aesthetic, but the follow-up Mistral is a more mature and elegant dress watch, with a truly ultra-thin case (a …
First Look – The Retter Mistral, An Accessible Thin Dress Watch with Style Read More »
Like seasons throughout the year, there’s a constant ebb and flow in terms of design, shapes, colours, sizes and materials in watchmaking. Colour is perhaps the easiest to change for brands, but also the one that’s the most susceptible to the public’s opinion and demands. With green being “the hottest thing since sliced bread” over …
Every year, a very select group of vintage cars and their owners are invited to the shored of Lake Como, for one of the most prestigious events on the calendar. The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, which we were lucky enough to attend several times before, is one of the highlights of the classic car world. …
The Petrolhead Corner – The Showstopping BMW Concept Skytop & R20 Concept Bike Read More »
The ETA 2824 movement was a groundbreaking invention that left a lasting impact on the watchmaking industry. Introduced in the 1970s, the ETA 2824 quickly set the standard with its efficient mass production and reliable performance. It retained its popularity for over fifty years until the circumstances and demand for innovation led to the creation …
In-Depth – The History of the ETA 2824, the Workhorse Calibre that Shaped the Industry Read More »
While its name dates back to 1954, the Longines Conquest as we know it now is the brand’s vision of an everyday, versatile watch. Combining robustness with casual elegance, these watches effortlessly adapt to any occasion, from business attire to a weekend at the beach. Fully revamped in 2023, it became more appealing and more …
First Look – Longines Expands the Conquest Collection with New Sizes and Colours Read More »
Just ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (this Saturday), Roger Dubuis fetes its partnership with Lamborghini Squadra Corse with a special Verde Mantis version of its Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph. This year, Lamborghini will compete in the Le Mans Daytona Hybrid Series with its first hypercar, the SC63. Flying the SC63’s signature paintwork, …
The name Kollokium might not sound familiar to most of our readers. What is Kollokium…? Is it a brand? Not really. It’s a collaborative project between three friends, all fairly established names within the watch industry. Even the good people behind this venture aren’t sure what Kollokium really is. “This is where it all begins …
Hands-on – The Puzzling, Distinctive Kollokium Projekt 01 Variant B Read More »
Singer Reimagined, founded by Rob Dickinson of Singer Vehicle Design fame and Marco Borraccino, a watch designer, raced into the watch world with the Track 1, an incredible 1970s-inspired chronograph with a high-end movement designed by watch wizard Jean-Marc Wiederrecht (Agenhor). Capitalising on the profound ties between petrol heads and cog heads, Singer Reimagined is …
This weekend, on Saturday the 15th, we’ll be attending one of the most legendary car races of all time, the 101st edition of the 24h of Le Mans. And just like in Formula 1, watches are everywhere. While Rolex is the official timekeeper of the event, many watch brands are also sponsoring teams, such as …
First Look – Ready for Le Mans, The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Porsche 963 Read More »
When relaunched in 2019, the accessible Seiko 5 Sports collection was focused on bringing back the flair of the beloved SKX series, with a diving-oriented look. Since then, the collection has massively expanded, with field models, more compact watches and even GMT versions. We’ve also witnessed the return of historic designs, including that of the …
Introducing – The Seiko 5 Sports Heritage “Kamen Rider” SRPL03 and SRPL05 Read More »
To many, watches are all about creating memories and lasting experiences. I still vividly remember where, when and how I bought one of my most precious watches, the Tudor Black Bay 79220N. It’s that connection that keeps me from ever selling it. But what if you wanted something more than just a ready-made product? What …
Hands-on – Going Full Watchmaker with the DIY Watch Club Bluing & Luming Kits Read More »
Rado is synonymous with high-tech ceramic, which is used to great effect on its sleek, geometric designs and vintage models alike. Rado’s 1962 Captain Cook dive watch, resurrected in 2017, was given a high-tech plasma ceramic makeover in 2021. Not only did it feature a ceramic case and bracelet, but its dial was also skeletonised …
With the appearance of so many niche indie brands, it can be hard to keep track of who’s who. Based in the UK, the Schofield Watch Company was not founded by a watchmaker but by the hip product designer Giles Ellis. Cultivating his British eccentricity to the max, Ellis’ self-described “British coastal styling” is inspired …
Introducing – Eccentric Indie British Watchmaking Personified by the Schofield Obscura Read More »
Mido’s decision to revisit some of its vintage models and update them with contemporary specs has resulted in some very attractive yet affordable pieces. Models like the 1960s-inspired Ocean Star Decompression Timer with its colourful dial, the 1930s-styled Patrimony Chronograph and the more recent Multifort TV Big Date are winning combinations of retro details and modern …
Introducing – The Mido Multifort TV Big Date Tunes into a More Luxurious Channel Read More »
Eliminating the need for regular hand-winding, the automatic watch harnesses the energy from the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind the mainspring that powers the watch. In general, it contains a rotor, a semi-circular piece of heavy metal that rotates with the motion of the wrist. As the rotor spins, it winds the …
A Technical Perspective – A Comprehensive History of the Automatic Watch Read More »
With the launch of the Tambour integrated luxury sports watch last year, Louis Vuitton introduced a whole new strategy for its watch division. No more linked to fashion, the brand wants to be part of the higher-end watchmaking league, thanks to its manufacture, La Fabrique du Temps. Now, it’s time for the second step, with …
First Look – The New Louis Vuitton Escale Time-Only Collection (Incl. Video) Read More »
The “Baby Reef” series of Formex 39.5mm dive watches, comprised of four watches distinguished by dial colour, was presented at the end of 2023. Now, in time for summer, it gets a new and very fresh-looking reference. It’s everything the brand enthusiasts appreciate about the collection, only brighter. Here’s the Reef 39.5mm Bahama Blue 300m …
Introducing – The new Formex Reef 39.5mm Bahama Blue Automatic COSC Read More »
Under its Presage Craftsmanship Series, Seiko has demonstrated its expertise in manufacturing handsome dials, using traditional techniques and paying tribute to its country of origin, Japan. Beautiful dials with significant added value using Shippo enamel, Urushi lacquer and Arita porcelain, are at the core of this collection. Last year, Seiko launched a trio of Presage …
First Look – The Seiko Presage Craftsmanship Arita Porcelain Dial SPB445 Read More »
The Manero is a pillar of the Carl F. Bucherer collections. This higher-end, contemporary line with elegant details showcases some of the brand’s best complications and some of its most striking movements, in particular those with the peripheral technology. The brand just released several new models for the Manero Flyback, Manero Peripheral and a new …
Like watchmaking, gastronomy demands extreme precision and excellence. Both Haute Horlogerie and Haute Cuisine aim to evoke emotions through their craft. Unsurprisingly, many of the world’s best chefs have become ambassadors for some of the most prestigious watch brands. Hublot counts Yannick Alléno, Anne-Sophie Pic, Clare Smyth, and Andreas Caminada among its ambassadors. Caminada, awarded …
Introducing – The Hublot Big Bang Unico All Black Schloss Schauenstein Read More »
Union Glashütte, one of Swatch Group’s brands located in the Saxon town of German watchmaking fame, returns with a refreshed version of its retro Belisar Chronograph. Taking advantage of the exceptional product placement afforded by the upcoming Silvretta Classic vintage car rally in July, Union Glashütte revisits its Belisar Chronograph in copper-coloured tones. Since 1998, …
Introducing – The Stylish Union Glashütte Belisar Chronograph Silvretta Classic 2024 Read More »
As we’re obsessed with fine mechanical watches, and preferably independent watchmaking, we feel obliged to showcase never-seen-before projects by people you also may have never heard of. And if it weren’t for me stumbling on an Instagram post by a befriended Japanese journalist, you might never have come across Quiet Club. A bit of an …
Portrait – Independent Startup Quiet Club is about to Make Some Noise for its Debut Read More »
Dive watches, pilot watches or luxury sports watches are some of the most popular types of watches, but when it comes to complications, the chronograph probably reigns supreme. However, even in the field of chronograph watches, there are a lot of differences to be found! With that in mind, we go beyond simple manual and …
Buying Guide – Dissecting the Intricate World of Complicated Chronographs Read More »
The words “Alfa” and “Romeo” are enough to get most car lovers and petrolheads drooling with excitement. The famous Italian manufacturer is loved for its gorgeous designs, lively driving characteristics and boatloads of charm. But, despite their reputation for glorious cars such as the 8C, Giulia, Disco Volante and many others, there have been plenty …
The legendary Italian Mille Miglia vintage car race, from Brescia to Rome and back, is just around the corner, drawing crowds of car lovers and drivers from around the world. As the sponsor and official timekeeper of this race since 1988, Chopard enjoys one of the longest-standing alliances in classic motorsports. The brand’s co-president, Karl-Friedrich …
First Look – The Race-Ready 2024 Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph and GTS Chrono Read More »
Maen, a young watch brand that quickly found its niche after launching on Kickstarter a few years ago, is back with an exciting new release. Maen just unveiled the Manhattan Project, marking its second collaboration with the renowned designer Romaric André, a.k.a seconde/seconde. While André is famous for his humorous dial designs, this new watch …
Introducing – The New Maen x seconde/seconde Manhattan Project, a Doomsday Watch Read More »
Founded in 1927 and headquartered in Pforzheim, Germany, Stowa is mainly known for producing accessible and robust military- and pilot-inspired watches. Its Flieger line, based on a classic B-Uhr concept, is both its cornerstone collection and its most relevant range, as Stowa was one of only five watch manufacturers commissioned to build these military watches …
Introducing – The Flieger Verus 40 Baumuster B, the Modern B-Uhr by Stowa Read More »
Mister Gérald Genta needs no introduction anymore. One of the most famous watch designers of its time, responsible for the creation of icons such as the Royal Oak or the Nautilus, the man also created watches under his own name as of 1969. There, he produced exceptionally complex watches (incl. an automatic tourbillon grande sonnerie, …
Introducing – The Return of Gérald Genta, with the new Gentissima Oursin Read More »
Many may look at the pocket watch as a relic of a bygone era… But what happens if it is reimagined by Daniel Arsham, an artist known for ideating “fictional archaeology” through which he transforms everyday objects into future relics? Well, you get the Hublot Arsham Droplet, a fascinating mechanical sculpture merging the past, present …
Introducing – The Hublot Arsham Droplet, the Pocket Watch Reimagined Read More »
There’s no stopping the rise of small, independent brands hoping to secure a footing in the tricky world of watchmaking. While many fledgeling brands will pop up briefly and then fade into oblivion, we try to select brands with potential staying power. The latest to brave the scene is Anoma and its sculptural A1 watch …
Introducing – Anoma, a New Microbrand, Unveils its Sculptural A1 Watch Read More »
Behind the name Jacques Bianchi is actually a man who, during the 1980s, in his workshop based in Marseille (south of France) produced watches for French military divers. Working closely with COMEX and Jacques Mayol or Captain Cousteau, he was an important figure there. In 2021, the brand made a resounding comeback, faithfully reissuing the …
Introducing – The Fratello x Jacques Bianchi JB200 PoulPro “Night Diver” Read More »
One of the main topics of Seiko in recent years, besides renewing its classics and applying a downsizing strategy, has been to bring the GMT complication to its most affordable collections. It all started with the Seiko 5 Sports GMT, which made quite a solid impression on the team. The same concept has then been …
First Look – The new Seiko Presage Cocktail GMT Watches (SSK037, SSK039 & SSK041) Read More »
A true household name for Seiko enthusiasts, the Marinemaster has long been synonymous with the higher-end, professional-oriented dive watch of the brand. First released in 1999, the Seiko Marinemaster SBDX001 (and subsequent variations) became one of the most emblematic divers of Japan, only to be discontinued a few years ago. Last year, Seiko brought back …
First Look – Seiko Adds Two Colours to its Marinemaster Line, with the SJE117 & SJE119 Read More »
A name with great importance for the Japanese watchmaker, King Seiko was created in 1960 alongside Grand Seiko as the result of a competition to create the best, most accurate watch the Seikosha brand could manufacture. The internal rivalry will be beneficial to GS, while KS would fall into oblivion a few years later. In …
First Look – The new King Seiko KS1969 Series, Reviving the Vintage King Seiko 45KCM Read More »
One of the Japanese watchmaker’s most emblematic modern dive watches (probably only rivalled by the Turtle), the Seiko Samurai was first introduced in 2004. A large, robust and angular model, this modern-looking watch soon became a classic, only to be discontinued. After almost 10 years of absence, it resurfaced in 2017 in a slightly updated …
Founded in 2017 in Paris, we came across this relatively young and unusual brand in 2022 and can assert that Beaubleu has been a pleasant surprise. Elegant, original and different, there’s something arty and truly imaginative in the design of all collections, particularly in how the hands (a crucial element of a watch, don’t you …
A young French brand with a name derived from Delage, Panhard and Facel Vega (three of the most respected French car manufacturers), Depancel has specialized in racing-inspired watches and has recently focused on developing its chronograph collections. Mostly seen in the 1960s-inspired, traditionally round Allure range, Depancel has used several well-known calibres, ranging from an …
First Look – The new Depancel Serie-R Tangerine Chronograph Automatic Read More »
As we’ve recently seen, colours are everywhere. From accessible to high-end timepieces, watchmakers dare to explore the entire colour spectrum, bringing boldness and fun to all sorts of watches. With summer right around the corner, it is the perfect time for Hamilton to add a splash of colours to one of its classics, a go-anywhere-do-anything …
Value Proposition – Hamilton Brings Bright Colours to its Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm Read More »
One of the most revered and respected names in the world of watchmaking, and certainly in the independent watchmaking scene, is Kari Voutilainen. The Finnish watchmaker is an expert in ‘wrapping’ the most brilliantly hand-finished movements in beautiful discrete cases with tear-drop lugs. With 20 years of track record as an Independent watchmaker and more …
Speake Marin’s One & Two Dual Time Openworked model was released in 2019, a sophisticated GMT with retrograde date combined with the brand’s eccentric layouts and distinctive Piccadilly case. For summer 2024, Speake Marin turns up the volume with the vibrant terracotta-orange tones of the Openworked Dual Time Terracotta. Following the first Openworked Dual Time …
Introducing – The Speake Marin Openworked Dual Time Terracotta Read More »
While mostly known as a stainless steel watch, the Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch has been seen in multiple precious metals over the years, including recent Moonshine, Canopus or Sedna gold alloys. With two-tone watches somehow making a comeback in the past few years, it’s without much surprise that Omega releases today a new duo of …
Introducing – The New Steel-and-Gold Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch models Read More »
Most of Delma’s repertoire is sporty, verging on instrument-style watchmaking incarnated by the highly impressive 5,000m-rated Delma Blue Shark IV. The brand has long demonstrated its ability to create robust and capable watches at fair prices. But today, Delma has decided to embrace the other end of the spectrum with its answer to the highly …
Introducing – The 1980s-Inspired Delma Midland Automatic with Integrated Bracelet Read More »
Piaget has been busy celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. As a precursor of ultra-thin movements since the 1950s, Piaget has recovered its throne and is basking in the limelight with its world record-breaking 2mm-thin Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon. While it does not hold a world record, Piaget’s flamboyant 1979 Polo watch has also been …
Introducing – The Rose Gold & Brown Dial Version of the Piaget Polo Date Read More »
Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s dream of mechanical independence materialised in 1996 with the presentation of Chopard‘s first in-house movement known as calibre 1.96. Produced in Chopard’s Fleurier manufacture, the calibre was fitted inside the first L.U.C 1860 watch, writing a new chapter in the brand’s high-end watchmaking journey. Recognised as one of the finest ultra-thin micro-rotor automatic …
First Look – The Discreet Luxury of the Chopard L.U.C 1860 Flying Tourbillon Read More »
Praesidus has become well known for affordable World War II-inspired collections. Recent examples include the A-11 Marston Mat Limited Edition (with actual D-Day Marston Mat dials) and The Type A-11 DD-45 (based on World War II Dirty Dozen combat watches). A new pair of limited-edition models pay homage to D-DAY for the 80th anniversary and …
TAG Heuer is renowned for its automotive heritage and racing chronographs, but the brand also boasts a strong nautical and water-sport legacy, particularly with its Aquaracer dive watch collection. Introduced in 2004/2005 as the direct successor to the 2000 series, the Aquaracer line has become a cornerstone in TAG Heuer’s portfolio. The collection was fully …
Even though the watch industry is often regarded as quite conventional, and focused on tradition and history, there is a far more forward-thinking side to it as well. People and brands that are not afraid of experimenting to bring never-before-seen stuff genuinely excites us. The resulting watches might not be to everyone’s liking, but you …
Birthday celebrations are fast becoming a tradition at Oris. Known as the Hölstein Editions, after the town in the Swiss Jura mountains where the brand was founded on June 1, 1904, the watches are generally modified variants of existing pieces. Coinciding with the brand’s 120th anniversary, the brand issues a special version of its Divers …
Introducing – The Black-on-Black Oris Hölstein Edition 2024 Read More »
Now, quite a while ago we shared a story about racing drivers and teams crossing the line. Not in the sense of crossing an actual finish line, but more in the vein of crossing moral lines. There have been plenty of examples where criminal activities entered the world of motorsports, and I’m sure that there …
The Petrolhead Corner – Racing High as a Kite: the Don & Bill Whittington Story Read More »
Earlier this year, alongside multiple new watches such as the RO Perpetual with John Mayer and the Sand Gold alloy applied to an RO Openworked Tourbillon, Audemars Piguet also presented an unexpected and entirely novel multi-coloured ceramic called chroma ceramic featuring a polarising but cool camouflage pattern. In the same vein, Audemars Piguet now applies …
Just Because – Audemars Piguet Unveils an Unprecedented Polychrome Camouflage Gold Alloy Read More »
Openworked or skeletonised watches are treats for the more mechanical-minded admirers of watchmaking, and the more complex the movement, the better. In 2016, Audemars Piguet increased the viewing pleasure two-fold when it unveiled its Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked ref. 15407. As its name indicates, the movement was equipped with two balance wheels, one …
One of the now well-established independent watchmakers of the Dutch scene, Holthinrichs has been from the earliest stages of its development focused on a rather unique feature; 3D-printed cases made in all sorts of materials (including steel, titanium, bronze or gold). Of course, there’s more to the brand than just that, including a strong design …
First Look – Holthinrichs Launches the Signature Series, its new Entry-Level Model Read More »
Audemars Piguet launched its first [Re]Master model with the recreation of a superb chronograph from the 1940s. For the second chapter of this historical collection, the brand reimagines one of its most expressive designs from the 1960s. A model of brutalist inspiration, the reference 5159BA stands out with its yellow gold asymmetrical case and eccentric …
First Look – The Brutalist Audemars Piguet [Re]Master02 (Incl. Video) Read More »
Recently, luxury brand Chopard expanded its presence by opening a prestigious hospitality establishment at Place Vendôme 1, in Paris. This boutique hotel offers five rooms and ten suites, each uniquely decorated. To mark the opening of the Chopard Hotel, the brand has introduced the Chopard L.U.C XPS 1860 Officer Vendôme One, a special edition watch …
First Look – The Chopard L.U.C XPS 1860 Officer Vendome One Limited Edition Read More »
Kauri is an independent watchmaking brand recently founded by Samuel Gillioz. This young watchmaker studied at the École d’Horlogerie de Genève before gaining experience at Timelab and Vacheron Constantin in the highly respected Cabinotiers workshop. In 2019, Samuel Gillioz launched Kauri with the vision of creating something unique and original. The main specificity of his …
One of the rising stars of the young Dutch independent watchmaking scene, De Rijke & Co. Watches, founded by Laurens De Rijke, started as a fun project during a… vintage Vespa moped road trip through eastern Europe. From there, what was a side project turned into a more prolific indie watch brand with always a …
Introducing – The De Rijke & Co. Amalfi Enamel Series Made with Illustrator Guy Allen Read More »
Designed by Michel Parmigiani, the classic Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda went through a tasteful facelift as an integrated sports watch following the appointment of Guido Terreni at the helm of the brand. The collection quickly proved to be a hit, which was further supported by the introduction of several new models, including the smart and innovative …
First Look – Parmigiani Introduces Three Fresh Colours to the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Read More »
Gerald Genta is surely mostly known for his work with Audemars Piguet (1972, Royal Oak), Patek Philippe (Nautilus, 1976) or his own bold and original creations. There is, however, much more to the man than just these two icons of the luxury sports watch category (think Universal Geneve Polerouter, Omega Constellation or Rolex King Midas). …
Introducing – The Return of the Gerald Genta-Designed Credor Locomotive Read More »
Beyond their cultural and aesthetic value, luxury and high-end watches have increasingly become recognised as a viable investment asset class, offering the potential for both financial returns and personal enrichment. Indeed, watches can be a way to invest while enjoying the passion for beautiful objects. But the topic can be controversial. Just like any investment, …
Louis Erard pursues its mission of delivering traditional handmade decorative techniques at accessible prices. Usually the preserve of top-tier brands, dials decorated with métiers d’art techniques like guilloché or enamel command hefty prices. Luckily, Louis Erard thinks differently and is determined to offer its appreciative public original watches with beautifully executed dials that won’t break the …
First Look – Louis Erard Unveils its First Regulator with a Grand Feu Enamel Dial Read More »
The words ‘contemporary’ and ‘sporty’ are hard to apply to Breguet, but barring the aviation-inspired Type 20, the Marine collection is as close as you’ll get to a luxury sports watch collection inspired by the brand’s legitimate and longstanding maritime ties. Introduced in 1990 and refreshed over the decades, Breguet’s sporty Marine collection welcomes two …
First Look – New High-End Breguet Marine Chronograph 5529 & Dame 9518 Read More »
While most have the highly successful and appealing Aikon collection in mind, the brand’s vision of an accessible luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet, Maurice Lacroix has more items on the menu. Specifically, there’s a watch that we’ve long appreciated here at MONOCHROME, a rather unique take on the diver with a bit of …
Today is an important moment in the history of a 60-year iconic sports car. The new generation of Porsche 911, dubbed 992.2, has just been revealed and, as anticipated, it comes with hybrid power. Not full hybrid, but more of an electric assistance to boost the performances. What will it give on the road…? That …
The aphorism “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is not often used by watchmaker Stephen McDonnell, the mastermind behind MB&F’s most complex timepieces enhanced with his innovative technological breakthroughs. Responsible for the 2015 LM Perpetual and the LM Sequential EVO, fans of MB&F’s wonderful watches will be delighted to learn that Stephen McDonnell is …
2024 marks a significant milestone for the Tornado multirole combat aircraft: 50 years ago, on August 14, 1974, the first Tornado prototype took off from Manching, Germany. This event launched what would become Europe’s most extensive military aircraft collaboration program, resulting in nearly 1,000 Tornados delivered to the air forces of Germany, Italy, the United …
Introducing – The New Hanhart 417 ES Tornado Maiden Flight Flyback Read More »
Scandinavian design is often laureled for its simplicity and functionality, but in watches, that doesn’t always seem to stick. Finnish independent watchmaking stars like Stepan Sarpaneva are mostly known for more intricate and expressive watches with striking appearances. Stemming from “the land of a thousand lakes” now comes a new brand, that on surface seems …
Portrait – Scandinavian Two-Man Show Vuollé Watches Impresses With The KURIMUS Read More »
The BR 01 is the face that launched a thousand ships for Bell & Ross, capturing the military and aviation inspiration that has come to define this brand. Unveiled in 2005, the BR 01’s distinctive square case with four screws and a round, cockpit instrument-inspired dial became the brand’s foundation watch. With its oversized 46mm …
First Look – The Stylish new Bell & Ross BR 03 White Steel & Gold Read More »
The use of luminescent materials on watches is far from new… Soon after the discovery of radium and its properties (and dangers…) by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898, watch dials – markers, numerals and hands – have been coated with radium and then different substances (tritium, Super-LumiNova) to produce light in the dark. Fully …
William Wood is well known for its firefighter-themed portfolio like the Fire Exit Watch, Triumph Chronographs and The Red Watch, but this latest piece goes above and beyond the norm. The brand is calling it the “greatest watch in our company’s history” and it’s certainly worthy of that title. Jonny Garrett, grandson of William Wood …
For regular readers, it’s no real surprise that we have a deep-rooted passion for indie watchmaking; in fact, it is the very reason for our existence. Although we tend to cover much more than high-end artisanal watchmaking, independent watchmaking forms part of our core. Uncovering new brands and projects from all corners of the globe genuinely …
Both Morgan and Pininfarina are household names when it comes to car design. The British firm is known for its hand-built retro-styled roadsters and three-wheeled playthings, while the Italian studio is arguably one of the best in the business of designing show-stopping and supremely elegant cars. Both share over 200 years of coachbuilding history and …
The ETA Valjoux 7750 chronograph movement is well-known in the world of watchmaking for being tough, reliable, and versatile. Since it was first introduced in the early 1970s, it has gained a strong reputation for being accurate and long-lasting, which has made it a favourite chronograph calibre among both watchmakers and enthusiasts. In addition, the …
Summer is in the air, and the holiday season is just around the corner. As a brand that has never been shy of colour, Oris proposes two watermelon-coloured models for its versatile Aquis Date 41.5mm dive watch. Perfect for outdoor activities but smart enough to wear daily, the Aquis Date collection was recently refreshed. The …
Introducing – Summer Beckons with the Oris Aquis Date 41.5mm with Watermelon Dials Read More »
Long associated with motorsport, TAG Heuer keeps maintaining its racing heritage with its emblematic Carrera and Monaco collections. Born in 1969 and one of the most symbolic chronograph watches in modern history, the latter has been a canvas for innovation in recent years, including a complex and bold split-seconds version a few months ago. With …
Introducing – The new Dark Blue TAG Heuer Monaco Skeleton Chronograph Read More »
Let’s get straight to the point, as there are a few important things to know about this watch. This is a new, unprecedented watch, despite being a commemorative and limited piece. It is also the first hand-wound chronograph (no split-seconds) of F.P. Journe. It is released in the frame of the 20th anniversary of the …
Despite being a relatively young brand (founded in 2019), Serica already carries a consistent collection of retro-inspired sports watches – field, dive and GMT. A project of Jérôme Burgert and Gabriel Vachette (both behind French magazine Les Rhabilleurs), all watches are designed to be used and abused with sturdiness, precision and style in mind. Today, …
First Look – The Serica 6190 Chronomètre M.S.L, the Updated Field Watch Read More »
Independent, Malaysian-Swiss brand MING is not necessarily associated with dive watches… At least, it might not be the first style of watch that you would imagine the brand creating. Thin, elegant watches with a twist, or maybe an ultra-light watch… Sure. When it comes to dive watches by MING, we have to go back to 2019 …
Introducing – The 37.09 Bluefin is the New, Compact Dive Watch by MING Read More »
Sustainability is a big trend in watchmaking today as brands jump on the bandwagon of environmentally friendly products. Some, like Chopard, ensure the sustainable source of their gold, while others look to innovative recycled materials with a lower carbon footprint. As a brand with legitimate and historical maritime ties, Ulysse Nardin’s environmental focus is the …
First Look – Military Gear for the Ulysse Nardin Diver Net OPS & Diver X Skeleton OPS Read More »
A classic that has been in the collection for over 12 years and, without a doubt, the brand’s cornerstone model, the classic 41mm Tudor Black Bay is now in its third generation. If design-wise not much has changed at first sight, the watch you see today is, in many ways, a much more advanced instrument …
Hands-on – The New Tudor Black Bay Master Chronometer is a Classic Monochrome Diver Read More »
What started as Massena LAB’s venture to create watches in collaboration with accessible niche brands or renowned independent watchmakers has grown to another level. Now, the horological creative studio not only designs and develops watches but has gotten to the point of co-developing its own proprietary movements. First seen with the Old School watch, made …
Introducing – The Absinthe Watch by Massena LAB and Raúl Pagès Read More »
Bulgari celebrates Rome, la città eterna, with a spellbinding collection of high jewellery watches congregated in the 2024 “Aeterna” collection. This year also marks Bulgari’s grand 140th anniversary. To celebrate, creative director Fabrizio Buonamassa brings out the big guns with some of the most extraordinary timepieces dripping with the brand’s signature coloured gemstones and his …
While its primary focus has been the highly successful PRX collection for a couple of years, last year, Tissot decided to go back to basics by discreetly reinterpreting one of its classics, the Chemin des Tourelles collection. Subtly redesigned, upgraded mechanically with a Powermatic 80 movement and offering new and elegant dial designs, the revamped …
First Look – The New Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Skeleton Collection Read More »
Jaeger-LeCoultre is probably not the first brand that springs to mind when it comes to sports watches. Fair enough, the Reverso was initially designed for polo players, but by today’s standards, it is far closer to being a dress watch than a sports watch. To amend this situation, Jaeger-LeCoultre turned to its Memovox Polaris, an …
Introducing – The New Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Geographic Read More »
Following the release of the Conical Tourbillon in black with green dial-side animation and the vibrant, multi-coloured Conical Tourbillon Infinity Sapphires, the brand continues its innovative exploration of fluid time presentation and bold colour combinations. Indie watchmaker HYT‘s latest creation is the Conical Tourbillon Panda, a cultured black-and-white version of this complex watch, limited to …
Introducing – The New HYT Conical Tourbillon Panda Read More »
Founded in 1983 by Gerd R. Lang in Munich, Chronoswiss has quickly become one of the leading representatives of a classic complication, the Regulator – a type of display that splits the three main indications of time and pays tribute to master clocks of the old days of watch regulation. As you can imagine, the …
Introducing – Chronoswiss Unveils Three Spectacular ReSec Manufacture Models Read More »
There was a time when Tudor, just like mother brand Rolex, only released new models during watch fairs and only watches available in the permanent collection. These days are long gone, and Tudor has decided to fly solo, changing from the usual yearly releases to a more constant flow of novelties, now including special or …
French brand March LA.B was founded in 2008 by three partners with a strong focus on retro design and a passion for surfing. With roots in Los Angeles and Biarritz (hence the LA.B acronym), March LA.B is not the easiest brand to pigeonhole. Its repertoire of shaped watches and surf watches have a twang of …
Introducing – The March LA.B Bonzer Bronze Edition Read More »
Are you done with in-your-face splashes of colour? Are you fed up with blue, yellow, red, green or perhaps even pink and purple? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve been eyeballing a couple of very impressive watches with simple yet ever-fashionable pristine white dials. This almost literal blank canvas can serve any purpose, from simple single-handed …
If you were to say one thing about the TWR Supercat that’s on your screen right now, it would be; Ferocious! And it would be a perfectly sensible way to describe the Supercat, as it is based on the XJ-S, essentially one of Jaguar’s last V12-powered ‘Big Cats’. This luxury Grand Tourer was built between …
The Petrolhead Corner – The TWR Supercat Brings Back The Jaguar XJ-S As A 600hp Restomod Read More »
Omega is one of the largest luxury watchmakers on the market, carrying multiple emblematic models (Seamaster and Speedmaster, to name a few). However, one vital element of the brand’s success lies in its almost unique take on precision. Omega has long been a pioneer in this field, often ranking first in chronometry contests and introducing …
Nivada Grenchen was something of a secret among seasoned collectors of instrument dive watches from the 1950s and 1960s, but with ever-increasing exposure on specialised websites, you could say that the cat is out of the bag. Founded in 1926, Nivada Grenchen produced its first waterproof automatic watch in 1950 – the Antarctic – that …
Introducing – The Powerful Nivada Depthmaster Pac-Man now in Bronze Read More »
A few months back, we delved into our impressions of the refreshed Belisar Chronograph series and while we’ve been pleased with the design and impressed by the overall quality, the dimensions were on the large side. Now, it’s time to unveil the latest iteration of another Union Glashütte classic: the Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase, presented …
Introducing – The New Union Glashütte Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase Read More »
While the global economic situation might feel rather pessimistic, the luxury business and the watch and jewellery industry continue to post strong results for the year 2023. Following the announcement of a record year for Swiss watch exports in 2023, as well as strong revenues for both LVMH and the Swatch Group, it is now …
“It’s just a new dial colour…” is probably the first thing you’ll assume when looking at this new watch, and you’re not a Speedmaster fan. In a way, I can’t really blame you for that, as it is exactly what we’re talking about here: there is a new white dial for the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch …
Hands-on – Impressions About The White Dial Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Read More »
Awake, a spirited French watchmaking brand, initially grabbed our attention with its NASA-themed series (now sold out), followed by the Time Travellers collection featuring meteorite dials (also sold out). Towards the end of last year, Awake unveiled the Summetria collection, boasting dials adorned with coloured guilloché patterns, which are still available. Now, the brand introduces …
Introducing – The Awake Dare & Dream with a Doodle Art Dial Read More »
Hamilton’s background in military and pilot’s watches is irrefutable thanks to its collaboration with the U.S. Armed Forces during both World Wars. With the advent of aviation, Hamilton took to the skies, providing pioneering pilots and U.S. Airmail pilots with watches from 1918. Developing partnerships with military squadrons, air rescue services and aerobatic pilots over …
First Look – The Titanium Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Air Glaciers Special Edition Read More »
A highly important model within the brand’s collection, the Piaget Polo was born in 1979 as a vision of a luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet. Its distinctive design, which was re-edited in an opulent, faithful full gold model earlier this year (in the frame of the brand’s 150th-anniversary celebrations), the Piaget Polo is …
Introducing – The Piaget Polo Chronograph, Now in Emerald Green Panda Read More »
Moser’s Streamliner collection, a luxury sports watch with integrated bracelet, made a resounding entry in 2020 with a Flyback Chronograph. Unlike many luxury sports watches on the market, which vie for attention with their formulaic solutions, Moser’s design was fresh, verging on sensual thanks to its sleek, aerodynamic personality. A few months later, Moser unveiled …
By now, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that Rado, a brand part of the Swatch Group, has gained (well, self-labelled, but justified) the title of The Master of Materials, being one of the main representants of the ceramic watch – thanks to sister company ComaDur. Ceramic has multiple qualities (durability, scratch resistance, …
Indie watch brand Byrne may have only emerged on the scene in 2022, but its innovative concept of “one watch, four faces” creates an impression of a more extended presence, almost as if there are four times as many references in its collection. The brand’s distinctive Gyro Dial complication is the key here, allowing the …
Founded in 1961 by former military pilot Helmut Sinn, German watchmaker Sinn has long specialised in crafting rugged sports, pilot and instrument watches with a slightly military approach. Emblematic models such as the U1 (and its smaller version, the U50), the Bundeswehr chronograph or the 103 St have forged the brand’s reputation. There’s another watch …
Introducing – The New Generation of Sinn 903 St Navigation Chronograph Read More »
With their single-handed time indications, MeisterSinger’s watches offer a refreshing change of tempo to our fast-paced, hyper-accurate digital universe. Founded in 2001 by Manfred Brassler in Münster, Germany, the brand’s inspiration resides in the sundials and single-hand tower clocks of the Middle Ages. In 2004, the brand released a special watch called the Edition 1Z. …
Introducing – The Charming Old-School Spirit of the MeisterSinger Enamel Edition 1Z Read More »
