News: Patek Philippe ref. 2499 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph with Moon Phases Fetches Over $2 Million Dollars at Christie's Important Watches Auction in Geneva.

Today, November 11, 2013, another historical day is setting records in Geneva at the Christie's Important Watches Auction. This time the auction comprising 406 lots overall, is led by an exceptionally rare 18K pink gold Patek Philippe perpetual calendar chronograph with moon phases, ref. 2499, manufactured in 1951 and encased in 1957 with an original estimate between $1,101,301-1,651,951 USD, that has fetched the incredible amount of $2,186,081 —inclusive of buyer's premium.

The Important Watches auction is still in progress and during intermission at this time. The auction will resume at 3pm —Geneva time— for the lots 194-406. We will be reporting the results upon completion of the auction as there are other very rare and important timepieces being auctioned today. Stay tuned!

For more info on Christie's click here. 

Posted on November 11, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Patek Philippe, Watch Auctions and tagged Patek Philippe ref. 2499 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph with Moon Phases Christie's Important Watches Auction Geneva 2013.

Making History: Rolex Daytona Paul Newman ref. 6263/6239 From 1969 Sells for $1,089,186 USD at Christie's Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" Auction in Geneva. Over $13 Million Dollars Sold in 50 Timepieces.

Today, November 10, 2013 Surpassing all expectations, the Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" Auction —a prestigious single-themed evening auction featuring 50 exceptional examples of the world's most celebrated chronograph wristwatch, totaled CHF 12,032,850 —$13,248,167 USD— selling 100% by lot and by value, at Christie's Geneva. 

The watch that fetched the highest amount was an all original Rolex Cosmograph Oyster Paul Newman ref. 6263/6239 Case No. 2,197,870 manufactured in 1969 with box and papers selling for $1,089,186 USD. This amount —inclusive of the buyer's premium— as well as the price for any other Rolex Daytona sold at this auction, breaks all previous records set on any auctions of this reference up to date.

Created by Aurel Bacs to mark the 50th anniversary of Rolex's most iconic model, this unique sale presented only the best and most mythical Daytona wristwatches ever produced. Aurel Bacs, who is the International Head of Christie's Watch Department, commented: “Christie's first ever evening auction dedicated to wristwatches proved an unprecedented success. With four hundred people in the saleroom and plenty more queuing outside, I rarely experienced a similar rock concert atmosphere from the rostrum. Possibly the most rigorously curated watch auction ever staged, each lot was selected by Christie's watch department in partnership with Mr. Pucci Papaleo according to a disciplined approach to originality, condition and provenance. Setting 50 world records for 50 watches as well as achieving an absolute record price for any Rolex Daytona ever sold at auction, Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" will be remembered as an historical event”.

Along with this amazing ref. 6263/6239 Paul Newman from 1969, other fascinating Daytonas fetched serious money above the $150,000 USD range all of them exceeding their estimates. In second place comes an extremely rare Rolex Daytona ref. 6263 from 1974 especially made for Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said with box —sold by Asprey to Oman— selling for $864,521 USD —inclusive of the buyer's premium. 

In third place, an extremely rare Rolex Daytona with pulsations dial from 1967 ref. 6239 sold at $838,090 USD —inclusive of the buyer's premium.

Below you will find six other Daytonas that fetched the highest amounts above the $400,000 USD range. The estimates on all these watches were exceeded, fetching amounts two to three times higher than those estimates.

For more info on Christie's click here.

Posted on November 10, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex & Tudor, News and tagged Christie's Auction Geneva Rolex Paul Newman ref. 6263/6239 Rolex Daytona Lesson One Christie's Auction Geneva Rolex Daytona Pulsations Dial ref. 6239 from 1967 Rolex Daytona ref. 6263 Sultan of Oman from 1974 2013.

Experience: Three Fairly Unknown Long Filler Habanos Alongside Three Very Well-Known Jaeger-LeCoultre Watches.

If you like good cigars, you definitely can appreciate the difference between Habanos and cigars made outside of Cuba. These three fairly unknown Habanos pictured here —Diplomaticos 'No. 2', Juan Lopez 'Coronas' and Quai d'Orsay 'Coronas Claro'— are as amazing as any of the most popular Cuban brands that even non-connoisseurs know about.

While these cigars are not as well-known as Montecristo, Cohiba, Partagas or Romeo y Julieta, these three cigars can play at the level of those very well known brands. Unfortunately, today only refined Cuban cigar connoisseurs know them well. Alongside, these fantastic Habanos, we have three very well-known classic Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces that embody the essence of their manufacture as well as these Cubans embody the essence of Habanos S.A.

Let's start talking about Diplomaticos 'No. 2'. This brand fairly unknown outside of Cuba and hard to find is somewhat of a recent brand dating from the 1960s. It bears a marked resemblance to Montecristo and it uses numbers instead of names to describe its sizes. This delicious cigar is completely handmade with long fillers a.k.a. 'tripa larga' using leaves from the renowned region of 'Vuelta Abajo'. This is a long cigar measuring 6.14" in length with a 52 ring gauge. With hints of leather, pepper and coffee this cigar is rich and medium to full flavored. The flavor profile stays even for the first two thirds of the cigar and becomes stronger on the last third. Around one full hour of burning time in a perfectly rolled cigar with perfect draw and very even burn. 

Juan Lopez 'Coronas' is a full-bodied cigar that evokes the notes of a Partagas. This is another brand fairly unknown outside of Cuba as it is considered more of a local brand and very limited amounts of it are ever exported. This cigar is named after its founder, Juan Lopez Diaz, a Spanish businessman that founded the brand in the 1870s. This superb cigar is also handmade with 'tripa larga' from 'Vuelta Abajo'. This cigar measures 5.6" in length with a 42 ring gauge. With hints of cocoa and leather this cigar is quite rich but not overpowering. The flavor profile is very even throughout the whole cigar and it provides around 45 minutes of burning time. A nice long white ash characterizes this delicate cigar.

Lastly, let's talk about Quai d'Orsay 'Coronas Claro', another very local brand that owes its origin to the refined taste of the French market. Created in the 1970s, the name is taken from a well-known street in Paris right next to the left bank of the Seine river. This brand has become increasingly popular among French connoisseurs that visit the island and among those that can find it in limited quantities outside of Cuba. This mild cigar measuring 5.6" in length with a 42 ring gauge is made of a light tasting blend of long filler leaves from 'Vuelta Abajo' and its wrappers are mainly distinguished by their 'Claro' — light brown— and 'Colorado Claro' —mid-brown— colors. Hints of caramel and leather come to mind when smoking this cigar with a very creamy flavor profile. The flavor evolves after the first half and the burning time is approximately 35 to 40 minutes. This is a perfect cigar for the inexperienced cigar smoker or for the ladies that enjoy the good life.

If you have the refined taste to appreciate fascinating timepieces like these three Jaeger-LeCoultre, you definitely understand that certain things in life need to be experienced at least once. Therefore, find these three Cubans and have yourself a wonderful evening in the company of your timepieces and your favorite drink. 

For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.  

Posted on November 10, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Sybarite Guide and tagged Quai d'Orsay Coronas Claro Juan Lopez Coronas Habanos Diplomaticos No. 2 Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Duoface Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Calendar 2013.

Insider: Romain Jerome Spacecraft. Like Wearing a Mini Spacecraft on The Wrist.

With a shape somewhat reminiscent of the shape of the Bulova Driver with red LED from the 70s —first watch that comes to mind, no pun intended—, the Romain Jerome Spacecraft ref. RJ.SC.AU.001.01 is a watch that needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Below you will find two images of the Bulova Driver to see the similarity in the shape and of its retro-futuristic design. While the Romain Jerome stands apart from the Bulova at a very different level due to its design, craftsmanship, materials, horological complexity and price point, we feel the similarity is there.

This fascinating unconventional watch is product of the work between Manuel Emch —CEO of Romain Jerome— and two of the top names in the watch industry: Eric Giroud and Jean-Marc Wiederrecht. The three men pooled their ideas and their creativity to give rise to a unique timepiece they named Spacecraft. Right from the first sketches, Manuel Emch and Eric Giroud imagined a very different type of product, combining retro-futuristic aesthetics and horological complexity. “The design evolved in step with our discussions and our numerous exchanges. That is what makes it such a singular object”, explains Eric Giroud.

The Romain Jerome Spacecraft is an unusual trapeze-shaped watch featuring a black PVD-coated titanium case measuring 50mm x 44.5mm x 18.5mm, that surprises and intrigues. To add to the complexity of this watch, the case is fitted with black PVD-coated titanium elements, beadblasted titanium plates and anti-reflective metallised sapphire crystals. With its rectilinear profile and its faceted surfaces it clearly echoes the aesthetics of a spacecraft. The black rotating disc with white numbers and a red indicator transferred on the sapphire crystal indicates the minutes on the top of the case, while the linear red lacquered retrograde jumping hour display is read off laterally, giving time telling a whole new dimension.

As expected from this manufacture, the level of design, the finish of the case and the intricate components of this watch are not only mesmerizing but worthy of admiration. The watch is fitted with a black polyamide mesh strap with titanium pin buckle that wears quite comfortably while maintaining the sidereal look and feel of this timepiece. The black PVD-coated titanium crown almost appears as if it were made of ceramic and it accentuates the facets on the top of the case superbly. The faceted design of the watch also prevails on the case back that protects the automatic calibre RJ2000-A fitted with 54 jewels and which provides a power reserve of 38 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph. Additionally, the watch is waterproof to a depth of 30 meters.  

Because of its design the watch wears big and high on the wrist but very comfortably. In all honesty, the only way you can fully appreciate the craftsmanship behind this watch is by seeing it in person. We really consider ourselves very lucky to have been able to peruse one in person and work on this review with no stock images. If you used to watch the original Star Trek series while growing up, we are confident that this watch will fascinate you as much as it fascinated us. This watch is available in a limited edition of only 99 pieces.

Sticker Price $24,900 USD. For more info on Romain Jerome click here.  

Posted on November 8, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Other Brands, Romain Jerome and tagged Romain Jerome Spacecraft ref. RJ.SC.AU.001.01 Bulova Driver Manuel Emch Jean-Marc Wiederrecht Eric Giroud Posts 2013.

Insider: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe. Commemorating 60 Years of the World's First Modern Diving Watch.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms —the world's first diving watch—, this manufacture presented the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe ref. 5000-1110-NABA during Baselworld earlier this year. Now, here's our review with live pictures and the mandatory wrist shot.

This watch, features a 43mm in diameter satin-brushed stainless steel case with anti-magnetic protection, display case back, a flat black ceramic rotating bezel with a meteor grey sunburst dial with applied markers, rectangular shaped hands with luminescent material and a date aperture between the 4 and 5 o'clock markers.

The tip of the seconds hand features a luminous dot and a red tip to provide some contrast to the dial and the somewhat bland or simple look of the timepiece. Now, don't misunderstand us, the watch might look simple; however, the craftsmanship, history and Blancpain in-house workhorse movement are present in this timepiece. Depending on the lighting conditions and the angle, the bezel can appear black, grey or sometimes even somewhat brownish.

The watch features very sharp angles on the case, lugs, buckle and on all steel fittings on the strap, a perfect satin-brushed finish, a large easy-to-use crown and a black NATO strap or sail-canvas strap —straps also available in olive green. The Bathyscaphe looks like a rugged timepiece made to take on the abuse of the most experienced divers and non-divers. With its look completely reminiscent of 'tool watches', the Blancpain Bathyscaphe pays solid tribute and homage to the most legendary of all diving watches.  

Just as in all other modern Fifty Fathoms, the beating heart inside this timepiece is the  the legendary Blancpain calibre 1315 with a 5-day power reserve —120 hours— that can be fully appreciated via the display case back. The movement features a blackened 18K gold rotor, 227 parts and 35 jewels. 

On the wrist, the watch wears true to its size but unfortunately not very comfortable due to the NATO strap fitted on it. The wrist presence is nice but somewhat 'too shiny' due to the shape of the raised markers on the dial, other than that, this watch is sure to become one of the legendary modern Fifty Fathoms in no time. For those of you that use mechanical watches for your dives, the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe is waterproof rated to a depth of 30 bar —300m/984 ft. This watch is also available in a ceramised titanium case with black dial and olive green NATO strap as ref. 5000-12C30-NAKA.

Sticker Price $10,500 USD. For more info on Blancpain click here. 

Posted on November 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Blancpain and tagged Blancpain Calibre 1315 Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe ref. 5000-1110-NABA Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe ref. 5000-12C30-NAKA.

News: MB&F Unveils the Horological Machine No.5 RT in Red Gold. A New Limited Edition of Only 66 Pieces.

Press Release

Horological Machine No.5 is back 'On the Road Again', with a new 'RT' limited edition in red gold. After the original HM5 in zirconium presented in 2012, most would wonder why is the manufacture crafting another 66 pieces in red gold? Well, gold is highly resistant to corrosion; it conducts heat or electricity and reflects infrared radiation. Gold is highly malleable: a single gram can be beaten into a sheet of 1 micron. Gold is precious: all the gold ever mined in human history would fit in a cube of just 21 meters on each side. But let's get to the point: the real reason why MB&F is crafting this edition in red gold is because they think it looks damn beautiful!

HM5 RT is full of surprises: Hour and minute displays look straightforward, but they are bi-directional jumping hours with indications inverted, reflected 90° and magnified 20%. HM5 RT has a futuristic case design, but it’s from the 1970s. HM5 RT has a mechanical movement, but inspired by an era when quartz was King. The rear louvers on super cars block light, but on HM5 RT they let light in. Befitting its automotive heritage, HM5 RT has exhaust pipes, but they drain water. The gold endowing the HM5 RT case with such a rich lustrous glow was found on earth, but was actually created billions of years ago in deep space.

While we might still be waiting for flying cars, with the HM5 RT you can put a high-tech golden super car on your wrist! As with any super car, the best often lies under the hood and ‘lifting the hood’ of the HM5 RT case reveals a surprise: an inner case! Like a Russian Matryoshka doll, peeling away one layer reveals a second case in titanium. The reason for housing the Engine in an inner container is for water resistance. Those super car louvers let in water as well as light —the reason for those dual exhaust ports— so to protect the high-performance Engine from moisture as well as shocks, it is housed in its own titanium shell. This inner case is similar to the rigid chassis of a car on which the external coachwork/body is attached. Jean-François Mojon, Vincent Boucard and the team at Chronode developed the HM5 Engine. It may appear simple, but it’s complicated! Jumping hours are bi-directional, enabling the time to be easily set both forwards and backwards. The two mineral glass disks of the hours and minutes are supported by a flat wide bridge. The disks overlap to maximize their diameter and space for large legible numerals. Turning HM5 RT over reveals the Engine, with its 22k gold battle-axe shaped ‘mystery’ winding rotor, fast oscillating balance and stunning hand-finished bridges, through a sapphire crystal display back that is set into the water resistant container.

Horological Machine No. 5 RT retains all the key features of  the HM5: a hand-finished automatic movement with bi-directional jumping hours; a vertical time display reflected and magnified by a sapphire crystal optical prism; 'light convector' flaps which allow to charge the superluminova hour and minute discs and to compensate for the higher weight of the external red gold case, they've modified the inner protective compartment from stainless steel to titanium. While HM5 RT has a generously sized 51.5mm x 49mm case and gold is known for its weight as much as its beauty, thanks to the discrete use of ultra-light titanium, HM5 RT is a very comfortable machine to wear.

Technical Specifications

ENGINE

Three-dimensional horological engine developed by Jean-François Mojon and Vincent Boucard of Chronode. Powered by a Sowind gear train. Battle-axe 22k gold ‘mystery ’ automatic winding rotor.

Power reserve: 42 hours

Balance frequency: 28,800bph/4Hz

Number of components: 224

Number of jewels: 30

Engine housed in a water resistant, titanium inner container

FUNCTIONS / INDICATIONS

Minutes and bi-directional jumping hours displayed by reflective sapphire crystal prism with integrated magnifying lens. Slide to open/close louvers on case top.

CASE

18K Red gold and titanium with internal water resistant titanium engine container. Slide button to open/close louvers. Exhaust ports to drain water.

Dimensions: 51.5mm x 49mm x 22.5mm

Number of components: 80

Water resistance of engine container: 30 meters

SAPPHIRE CRYSTALS

Smoked optical grade sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and 20% magnification. Sapphire crystal on back with anti-reflective treatment on both faces.

STRAP & BUCKLE

Sculptured rubber strap, titanium tang buckle.

 

Sticker Price $82,000 USD. For more info on MB&F click here. 

Posted on November 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, MB&F and tagged MB&F Horological Machine No.5 RT MB&F HM5RT Red Gold MB&F HM5 RT Limited Edition 66 Pieces Chronode Jean-Francois Mojon Vincent Boucard Maximilian Büsser & Friends Eric Giroud.

News: Armin Strom Presents the Gravity Fire. A Limited Edition of 100 Pieces with a Micro Rotor.

Armin Strom Gravity is the first watch from the Biel-based Manufacture to feature an automatic winding mechanism with a micro-rotor. With this first series of automatic watches driven by the Manufacture’s new AMR13 calibre, Armin Strom wanted to express the essence of a fundamental law of physics —that of gravity. Thus, the laws of gravity are used in an automatic watch to transform movements into a mode of indicating the time. However, the Armin Strom Gravity does not simply provide a glimpse of how this transformation works, rather, the dial is designed to proudly display the micro-rotor, which captures the power of the movements and transforms them into energy. The visibility of this mechanism is made possible thanks to an innovative concept of transmission for the rotor, which remains smaller in size than the diameter of the going barrel.

The Armin Strom Gravity collection is available in four colors that represent the four elements: Fire, Earth, Water and Air. The Armin Strom Gravity boasts the same exceptional level of finishing that has contributed to the reputation of the brand and of its eponymous founder. This is a timepiece that will appeal to connoisseurs of fine watchmaking wishing to celebrate the movement in all its forms.

Technical Specifications of the Armin Strom ref. RG13-GF.90 Gravity Fire

Manufacture movement
Armin Strom Calibre AMR13: Automatic, 5-day power reserve, small seconds and off-centered time indications
Frequency: 18,000 A/h
Jewels: 32
Number of components: 171

Case
18K Rose gold
Sapphire crystal and case back with anti-reflective treatment
Diameter: 43.40 mm
Total height: 13.00 mm
Water-resistance: 50 m

Dial ring
Black with founded appliques

Hands
Mirror polished

Straps
Delivered with a genuine brown alligator horn-back strap and 18K rose gold ardillon buckle as well as an additional brown rubber strap. A double-fold clasp in 18K rose gold is available on option.

Edition
Limited to 100 pieces

For more info on Armin Strom click here.  

Posted on November 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Armin Strom and tagged Armin Strom Gravity Armin Strom AMR13 Calibre Armin Strom Micro Rotor Armin Strom Fire Earth Water Air Armin Strom RG13-GF.90 Gravity Fire 2013.

News: Jaeger-LeCoultre is The Official Sponsor of the 120th Argentine Polo Open of Palermo.

Press Release 

In 2013, Jaeger-LeCoultre enjoys the honour of becoming the official sponsor and timekeeper of the 120th Argentine Polo Open of Palermo – the oldest polo tournament in the world, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. From November 16th to December 7th 2013, polo aficionados will be able to enjoy this fascinating championship featuring three weeks of competition pitting the world’s eight best teams against each other. The event created in 1893 was initially named the River Plate Polo Championship and acquired its definitive name in 1923 when the River Plate Polo Association became the Argentine Polo Association. Ever since, the Open of Palermo is held each year at the Campo Argentino de Polo in Palermo, a Buenos Aires district popularly known as the 'Cathedral of Polo'. The polo stadium can accommodate up to 16,000 spectators during the tournament around the two grass playing fields providing an oasis of greenery amid the Buenos Aires skyscrapers. 

Organized by the Argentine Polo Association —AAP—, the Argentine Polo Open of Palermo is the world’s most prestigious polo tournament. Together with the Tortugas Open-Argentina and the Hurlingham, the Argentine Polo Open of Palermo form the famous Argentine Triple Crown, one of the most spectacular and eagerly awaited fixtures on the annual polo calendar and reserved exclusively for teams with a 28 to 40-goal handicap.

No watch can claim to be as closely linked to the world of polo as the Reverso by Jaeger-LeCoultre. It was created in 1931 at the request of British colonial army officers in India who were tired of seeing their watches damaged by their polo matches – thereby sparking the invention of the famous swiveling case that protected the glass and dial by exposing only the metal back to potential knocks. Ever since, the ties between the legendary reversible case and polo have remained deeply embedded in the DNA of the Reverso watch, which has constantly evolved and adapted to changing times. Today, Jaeger-LeCoultre is more inseparably bound up than ever with polo through its regular involvement in sporting partnerships around the world thanks to its internationally recognized ambassadors such as Argentinean polo player Eduardo Novillo Astrada.

For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here. 

Posted on November 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Jaeger-LeCoultre and tagged Eduardo Novillo Astrada Argentine Polo Association Argentine Polo Open of Palermo Tortugas Open Argentina 120th Argentine Polo Open of Palermo Cathedral of Polo Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso 2013.

Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual. An Impressive, Easy-to-Read Perpetual Calendar in a Very Thin Case.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual ref. 1302520 is nothing but elegant and a very easy-to-read perpetual calendar featuring the traditional Jaeger-LeCoultre one push piece corrector for all complications on the calendar. Once the calendar is set, it needs no adjustment until 2100. The perpetual calendar mechanism takes into account the length of each month and takes into account the 29th of February for every leap year.                                                                                                             

This elegant watch is fitted with a very thin rose gold case measuring 39mm in diameter and only 9.2mm in thickness. The cream color eggshell dial is perfectly balanced with an uncluttered configuration featuring rose gold applied markers, recessed indicators for the moon phase at 12, day of the week at 9, date at 3, month at 6, a small year aperture between 7 and 8 o'clock and a small night/day indicator via a very small aperture above the central pinion. To round up its elegant look, the watch is fitted with dauphine hands and a blue anodized seconds hand that provides the ultimate contrast.

This watch is fitted with a dark brown alligator strap with pin buckle that is comfortable but somewhat short. Those with wrists larger than 7-7.25" will find it difficult to wear this watch unless the strap is secured on its last hole.  

The Master Ultra Thin Perpetual is fitted with a display case back that allows for full view of the beautifully finished Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic calibre 868 composed of 336 parts, 46 jewels and which beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph providing a power reserve of 43 hours when fully wound. 

On the wrist, the watch wears very light —it weighs only 77 grams— and true to its size. The wrist presence and understated elegance of this timepiece is unparalleled. A fascinating perpetual calendar that wears as nice with a suit, as it does with casual clothes, which is something we don't say often about timepieces that are this elegant. This watch is also available in white gold —featuring a silver moon on the moon phase disc— and in stainless steel which is the best value for your money when it comes to a perpetual calendar with this pedigree priced right under $20,000 USD.

Sticker Price $31,600 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.  

Posted on November 6, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Jaeger-LeCoultre and tagged Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Calendar Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual ref. 1302520 Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 868 2013.

News: The Poinçon de Genève Launched New Website Today. More Than a Million Timepieces Bear the Poinçon Today.

Press Release

More than 125 years after its promulgation by the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Genève, the Poinçon de Genève remains the oldest watchmaking certificate in the world, issued by a neutral and independent organization operating under State control. Since it was updated in 2011, it is also the only official certification that guarantees a watch’s quality of craftsmanship, chronometric precision and principal functions by checking each timepiece individually.

At the end of the 16th century, Geneva acquired a reputation of excellence in international watchmaking. Its name alone had a magical effect, and was soon being exploited by unscrupulous manufacturers. To combat such abuse and counterfeiting, the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Genève officially introduced the Poinçon de Genève on 6 November 1886. Generally stamped on one of the watch components such as the bridge or baseplate, the Poinçon de Genève was exclusively reserved for mechanical watches that had been assembled, adjusted, cased up and checked in the Canton. More than a seal of approval, it embodied the spirit of the 'cabinotiers': the independent watchmakers based in the Saint-Gervais district who formed the dedicated aristocracy of the working class and who elevated watchmaking to an art form. 

The Poinçon de Genève is currently the only watchmaking label to benefit from State guarantee. Today, this responsibility is fulfilled by TIMELAB, the Geneva Laboratory of Horology and Micro-engineering. The inspection criteria are drawn up by a Technical Commission made up of seven experts appointed for their knowledge and expertise in fine watchmaking. Their purpose, according to Jean-Marc Wiederrecht, founder and director of the company Agenhor and member of the Commission, “is not so much to define standards as to ensure the great tradition of Swiss watchmaking is preserved and respected. The Poinçon de Genève offers the assurance that a watch has been designed and manufactured according to the rules.”

In 2011, to mark the Poinçon’s 125th anniversary, the Technical Commission announced it was updating the rules to take into account technical progress and recent developments in the watchmaking industry. To complement the rigorous criteria of craftsmanship set out in 1886, it added tests on the finished watch: functions, water resistance, power reserve and accuracy. The Poinçon de Genève now covers the aesthetic, technical and functional aspects of the watch and is the only watchmaking certificate that guarantees the quality of decoration and the proper functioning of the watch, which is fully tested and checked individually in simulated on-wrist conditions.

The incredibly strict criteria of the Poinçon de Genève mean that certification is the prerogative of fine watches made by "manufactures" and independent watchmakers based in Geneva. The brands that comply with the certification standards undertake to respect its philosophy, right down to the design and development of their timepieces. In return, the Poinçon and accompanying certificate provide their clients with objective, irrefutable and internationally recognised proof of the quality of their craftsmanship and the correct functioning of their timepieces.

Since 1886, every watch stamped with the Poinçon de Genève has been delivered with a certificate of origin. Since September 2013 it has also included a unique authentication key and QR code. These enable the purchaser to check the authenticity of the document and the watch’s certification before buying it by consulting a database available on the website. Produced using an innovative procedure that combines holographic and hot stamping techniques, the certificate is almost impossible to forge.

Commemorating the 127th anniversary of the passing of the law of 1886, the Poinçon de Genève launched its website. The new website features a history section that traces the evolution of the Poinçon from the time of the “Fabrique” —late 16th century. A technical section explains the approval criteria and to ensure full transparency, it details the different stages and working methods of the individual functional tests and the people who carry them out. In addition, there is an international database that covers all watches that have received the Poinçon since September 2013. A major effort is currently underway to create an archive of all watches approved since 1886 —more than a million timepieces.

Some of the brands that currently submit their timepieces for the Poinçon de Genève are Cartier, Chopard, Roger Dubuis and Vacheron Constantin.

To check the Poinçon de Genève new website click here.

Posted on November 6, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News and tagged Canton of Geneve Poinçon de Genève Geneva Seal Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Genève TIMELAB Jean-Marc Wiederrecht Agenhor.

Experience: La Martina Polo Shirts. As Traditional as Wearing a Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 During a Polo Match.

Just as traditional as wearing a Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 during a polo match, it is to wear a La Martina polo shirt. As most of you know, and as we discussed it here, the iconic Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso was created for polo players looking to protect the dial of their watches. Jaeger-LeCoultre came up with a clever solution and created the Reverso, a watch where the side of the dial could be flipped to expose the case back and avoid the watch from getting damaged.    

La Martina followed the steps of Jaeger-LeCoultre and created a brand that today is synonym of Argentina's third biggest passion —after 'fútbol' and tango— the game of polo. La Martina was founded in 1985 by Lando Simonetti an Argentinean born in Rome who started making bags and shirts for friends and relatives upon request. Today, La Martina is sold in the most exclusive cities around the world including Paris, Milan, Madrid, St. Tropez, Mykonos, London, Monaco and Zürich amongst others. If you are a watchlifestyler that travels around Europe frequently, we are 100% sure that you've seen their iconic double polo player logo numerous times and you probably own more than one of their shirts or bags.

Today, La Martina is to polo gear what Hermès is to ties. Purveyors and outfitters to some of the most exclusive polo clubs around the world, La Martina offers a wide selection of shirts, jackets, boots, saddles, travel bags, helmets and polo equipment. Even Prince Harry and Prince William have played wearing these polo shirts at the Eton College.

The easiest way to describe a La Martina polo shirt is by saying that it is not your run-of-the-mill polo shirt. Superior to Thomas Pink and Ralph Lauren, the attention to detail on these shirts is superb, their designs are as unique as it gets and the fit is just perfect. Often you will find patches or areas that appear as if it had been repaired, just to add more character to the garment.  

Next time you are attending a polo match at Palm Beach's Wellington Polo Club, at 'El Metejon' in Buenos Aires or at the Polo Club de Veytay outside of Genève, make sure you are wearing one of these shirts. Even if you don't play or follow polo, wearing one of these shirts will make you look and feel like you are part of one of the fanciest sports in the world. Now, if you feel like going for the whole nine yards, then make sure you pair the shirt with a Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931.

Sticker Price $250 USD watch not included. For more info on La Martina click here.

Posted on November 3, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Fashion & Style and tagged La Martina Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 ref. 277.8.62 Lando Simonetti Prince William Prince Harry Eton College La Martina Polo Shirts Wellington Polo Club El Metejon Buenos Aires Polo Club de Veytay 2013.

Insider: Romain Jerome 'Día de los Muertos' Limited Edition. Celebrating One of Mexico's Most Important Holidays.

Considering the importance of Mexican consumers from a watch collecting standpoint, Romain Jerome celebrates and commemorates this holiday with a limited edition timepiece decorated with a traditional colorful skull emulating the look of the traditional sugar skulls —'calaveritas'— of this Mexican holiday.

'Dia de los Muertos' —Day of the Dead— is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 2nd throughout all of Mexico and it has been classified by the UNESCO as 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity'. The holiday focuses on remembering friends and family members who have passed while setting up private altars at home —called 'ofrendas'— to honor the deceased. The altars include pictures of the deceased, votive candles, Mexican marigolds —cempasúchil flowers—, sugar skulls —calaveritas— and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed. Scholars trace the origins of the modern Mexican holiday to indigenous observances dating back hundreds of years and to an Aztec festival dedicated to the goddess Mictecacihuatl.

The Romain Jerome 'Día de los Muertos' ref. RJ.T.AU.FM.001.01 is available in a limited edition of 25 pieces in two different versions with or without spiral micro pave black diamonds on the bezel. This watch is fitted with a black PVD coated steel case —with encrusted black diamonds around the bezel— measuring 46mm in diameter, a black ceramic bezel, a black mirror-polished dial with skull shaped applique adorned with a 'champlevé' cold enameled decoration, a polished RJ logo at 4 o'clock and black satin brushed arrow-shaped hands with superluminova on the tips. The seven colors on the skull are representative of the seven stages through which the soul of the dead must pass —according to the Aztec beliefs— before being able to rest in peace. The texture and finish on the skull applique is just flawlessly executed and a real treat to the eyes. Opposed to what most stock images depict, the flowers on the skull are pink and not red providing the perfect contrast against the cream background of the skull and the blackness of the timepiece.

Just as with any other Romain Jerome timepieces, the case is very solid and massive but quite comfortable. The case features the traditional claws and hex screws on the case band and this particular watch is fitted with a very unique and nicely decorated solid case back. The beating heart inside this fascinating limited edition timepiece is the automatic calibre RJ001-A fitted with 23 jewels and which provides a power reserve of 42 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph.

The Romain Jerome 'Día de los Muertos' is fitted with a beautiful black hornback alligator strap with deployant buckle that rounds up the interesting and fascinating design of the watch.  

On the wrist, the 'Día de los Muertos' Limited Edition wears true to its size and quite comfortably. The wrist presence of this watch is spectacular and if you want to highlight the pink flowers on the skull even more, make sure you pair it with a pink shirt or any shirt with pink accents. If you are Mexican or just someone that worships 'la calaca tilica y flaca' this watch is a must have.  

Sticker Price $21,450 USD. For more info on Romaine Jerome click here.  

Posted on November 2, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Other Brands, Romain Jerome and tagged Romain Jerome Día de los Muertos Limited Edition 25 pieces Romain Jerome ref. RJ.T.AU.FM.001.01 Romain Jerome ref. RJ.T.AU.FM.001.02 Posts 2013 Halloween.

Insider: Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 XXL Large Date Moon Phases. An Iconic Art Deco Inspired Timepiece.

The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 XXL Large Date Moon Phases gets its inspiration from the art deco model presented by the manufacture in 1945. Since we are based out of Chicago and our love for watches always relates to time and space, we decided to put some context into what was going on in our city during that very same year the watch was originally launched. That year, the 'Billy Goat Curse' was cast on the Chicago Cubs baseball team.

On October 6th, 1945 the Cubs entered game four of the Baseball World Series leading the Detroit Tigers two games to one. A local Greek man, William 'Billy Goat' Sianis —owner of the Billy Goat Tavern and a Cubs fan— showed up at the game with his pet goat, Murphy, thinking his pet would bring good luck to the team. Unfortunately, the goat was not allowed into the ball park and P.K. Wrigley —owner of the Chicago Cubs— told 'Billy Goat' that the goat couldn't go in because it stunk. According to the legend, 'Billy Goat' threw up his arms and exclaimed, "The Cubs ain't gonna win no more. The Cubs will never win a World Series so long as the goat is not allowed in Wrigley Field." The Cubs were officially cursed, subsequently, losing game four and getting swept at home from the World Series. After the Cubs loss, 'Billy Goat' promptly sent a telegram to P.K. Wrigley, stating, "Who stinks now?"

After a little bit of historical context regarding 1945, let's now get back to business and focus on this elegant and classic looking timepiece fitted with one of the most beautiful dials out there.

The Girard-Perregaux Vintage XXL Large Date Moon Phases ref. 25882-11-121-BB6B comes fitted with a rectangular —almost square— 'tonneau' shaped stainless steel case measuring 36.10mm in length and 35.25mm in width. The case visually appears larger than its actual measurements but its quite comfortable on the wrist and true to its size. This watch is fitted with a perfectly curved convex sapphire crystal that does not protrude at all and the visibility of the dial at any angle is just unparalleled. The beautifully executed case is fitted with a nicely engraved crown and a push piece corrector at 4 o'clock to set the moon phase.

This elegant watch is fitted with a silvered brushed finished dial with applied Arabic numerals, a large date aperture at 12, running seconds and moon phase indicator at 6 o'clock and dauphine hands. The dial plate is quite thick allowing for the date and the moon phase indicators to appear sunken into the dial with superb finishing around the edges. There are also two concentric rectangular ridges towards the center of the dial where the minute rail is located.

The date indicator is composed of two different calendar discs layered on top of each other. The disc closer to the dial is transparent and marks the second digit of the date while the bottom disc is solid white and indicates the first digit of the date. This is a clever solution to avoid seeing the gap between the digits as is common with other brands featuring large date indicators with double calendar discs. Something else worth mentioning about the dial is that the applied numbers are not completely flush against the surface but somewhat suspended with a very small gap. This adds great depth and perfect contrast to the well-balanced layout of the dial.

The beating heart inside the Vintage 1945 XXL is the automatic Girard-Perregaux calibre GP03300-0062 with 32 jewels that provides a power reserve of 46 hours when fully wound. The movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph and after several days of wearing this watch, we noticed that it is quite accurate with no time gain or loss over a 48-hour period. The nicely finished movement —with perlage and 'Côtes de Genève'— is fully visible via the display case back.

To complete the classic and elegant look of this watch, the Vintage 1945 XXL is fitted with a nice black alligator strap with a folding clasp that is quite comfortable and easy to use. Additionally, towards the area where the strap meets the case, there is a flexible folding piece built into the strap that allows for the watch to sit flatter on the wrist and for the strap to wrap around the wrist instead of pushing down in a straight line and lifting the bottom of the case.  

While on the wrist, the watch fits nicely and comfortably like a glove. One of the best things about 'tonneau' shaped watches is that they mold perfectly to the shape of the wrist. One thing that caught our attention was the lightness of the watch weighing roughly 100 grams. The watch sits quite high on the wrist with a thickness of almost 12mm but it can still be comfortably tucked under a French cuffed shirt.

If you were thinking of trying to lift the 'Billy Goat Curse' by wearing this watch to Wrigley Field next season, we are sorry to tell you that wearing this watch with casual clothes is not really that much of an option. This is an elegant timepiece that unfortunately looks somewhat out of place when wearing a casual attire.

Overall, this is a watch that is very nicely designed and flawlessly executed and one that can definitely compliment any watch collection big or small.

Sticker Price $12,200 USD. For more info on Girard-Perregaux click here.

Posted on November 1, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Girard-Perregaux and tagged Girard-Perregaux calibre GP03300-0062 Girard-Perregaux Vintage XXL Large Date Moon Phases Girard-Perregaux ref. 25882-11-121-BB6B Billy Goat Curse P.K. Wrigley Chicago Cubs 2013.

Insider: Blancpain 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' No Radiations Limited Edition. Only 500 Pieces Ever Made and We Found One.

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms was the first modern diving watch launched in 1953. The original Fifty Fathoms was housed in a steel case with a domed crystal strengthened to withstand the pressure at a depth of at least fifty fathoms —approximately 91 meters. After a few years, the Fifty Fathoms quickly became recognized by divers outside the French Navy and was also adopted by the U.S. Navy Seals and the German and Israeli Navies. In the mid to late 60s, the 'No Radiations' symbol was added to the Fifty Fathoms as a safety measure to differentiate watches made for civilians and those made to meet military standards —in order to meet military standards and achieve the highest luminosity in dark conditions, the watches were typically fitted with a radioactive luminous material.

The Blancpain 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' Limited Edition ref. 5015B-1130-52A comes with the same case and movement specifications as the traditional black polished model  ref. 5015-1130-52 reviewed here. The two main differences between this limited edition model —besides the obvious 'No Radiations' symbol on the dial— and the traditional Fifty Fathoms, are the bezel and dial configurations. The 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' Limited Edition features a bezel with almost an identical configuration to the original Fifty Fathoms No Radiations from the late 60s —different font on the numbers— and the same type of dial configuration with no Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9. Additionally, the dial features round superluminova markers instead of applied arrow-shaped markers and date aperture at 3 o'clock with white calendar disc.

The beating heart inside this watch is also the Blancpain calibre 1315 with a 5-day power reserve. The 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' is fitted with the same sail-canvas strap —leather lined— equipped with pin buckle. Just like on the traditional Fifty Fathoms, the 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' is fitted with an anti-magnetic protective casing to protect its complex calibre from any magnetic fields. The case back is engraved 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms'.

For those of you always looking for the most interesting limited edition watches, this is a watch that comes with rich history and tradition. If you are tired of wearing common run-of-the-mill diving watches, then it's time for you to add the Blancpain 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' Limited Edition to the collection. Now, you better hurry up because finding a brand new one is like finding a needle in a hay stack. Now, just in case you are interested, there's a brand new one sitting at the Tourbillon Boutique Chicago.

Sticker Price $16,100 USD. For more info on Blancpain click here.

Posted on October 31, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Blancpain and tagged Blancpain Tribute to Fifty Fathoms Limited Edition Blancpain No Radiations Blancpain 'Tribute to Fifty Fathoms' Limited Edition ref. 5015B-1130-52A Blancpain Fifty Fathoms ref. 5015-1130-52 Blancpain Calibre 1315 Blancpain Limited Edition to 500 Pieces No Radiations.

Insider: Bell & Ross Sport Heritage BR 126 Chronograph and BR 123 Non-Chrono. Two Vintage Looking Watches Perfectly Executed and a Must Have.

The latest addition to the Bell & Ross Vintage Collection are these two beautiful watches under review. The Sport Heritage BR 126 features a 30-minute chronograph while the Sport Heritage BR 123 is a non-chrono with date. These two watches pay special tribute to the 1960s, a period of intense creativity and numerous innovations including the creation of Dassault's famous Mystère-Falcon 20 —the best business jet of its time.

These two fascinating timepieces not only look very vintage but also feel quite vintage as both are fitted with a perfectly executed tropic rubber strap with pin buckle that looks as if it was a new old stock strap from a previous era. For those of you concerned about the fit of the strap, this strap is very soft, malleable and comfortable. For those of you with smaller wrists, Bell & Ross offers three different sizes for a perfect fit.

Both models are fitted with black matte dials with sand-colored luminova to give the appearance of a rich 'cafe con leche' patina on the hands, markers and Arabic numerals. To round up the vintage look of these watches, the dial also features a 100 meter depth rating writing in red. These dials are flawlessly executed and a real treat to the eyes. The Sport Heritage BR 126 Chrono features running seconds at 3, 30-minute chrono-register at 9 o'clock and date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock. The non-chrono model BR 123 only features a date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock.

Both models are fitted with polished stainless steel cases measuring 41mm in diameter, fixed black bezels graduated to 60 minutes in increments of 10 minutes, ultra-rounded domed sapphire crystals and display case backs that allow for full view of the self-winding automatic calibres —the movement on the chronograph is slightly nicer than that on the non-chrono model. The crystals are treated with anti-reflective coating for improved visibility and the BR 126 Chrono features the traditional 'old school' pump pushers that are somewhat hard to push to activate the chronograph. Both watches are quite thick but still very comfortable. 

On the wrist, the watches wear extremely comfortably and slightly larger than their actual size —more like 42mm watches. The wrist presence is spectacular and definitely a conversation starter among watchlifestylers that appreciate vintage timepieces. At first glance, one would think these watches are new old stock 'safe queens' from the early 60s with the nicest and most even 'patina'. Upon close inspection the Bell & Ross logo is the tell tale of a modern timepiece with vintage character. Regardless, these two watches are really gorgeous and our two favorite Bell & Ross watches right now. Next time you are wearing your Barbour jacket, make sure you pair it with one of these fascinating watches.

Sticker Price BR 126 $4,500 USD. BR 123 $3,100 USD. For more info on Bell & Ross click here.  

Posted on October 30, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Bell & Ross and tagged Bell & Ross BR 126 Chronograph Bell & Ross BR 123 Non-Chrono Bell & Ross Sport Heritage BR 126 Bell & Ross Sport Heritage BR 123 Posts 2013 2013.

News: Chopard Introduces the Mille Miglia Zagato. Two 500-piece Limited Edition Watches.

From the exclusive partnership between Chopard and luxury automotive designer Zagato, comes the 500-piece limited-edition Mille Miglia Zagato. Since its founding in 1919, Zagato has collaborated with the most prestigious automobile manufacturers, creating icons of the road which have taken home the Mille Miglia trophy in the 1930s and as recently as 2012. Inspired by the company's current crop of esteemed automobiles, this exceptional timepiece ref. 168550-6001 in DLC blackened stainless steel and 18-karat rose gold features the Zagato logo on both the case back and grill-inspired dial, curved chronograph counters reminiscent of a Zagato roof and a red pusher, for a distinct nod to the racing world.

Exclusive, robust and technically impressive, the Mille Miglia Zagato watch is the product of the partnership between Chopard and that legend of Italian automobile design, the bodyshop Zagato. While Chopard takes care of the model’s "performance", “engine “and "frame", Zagato helps create its "bodywork", "interior" and "upholstery". Much more than an ad-hoc collaboration, this limited series is defined by both the Grand Turismo style of Zagato and the timekeeping discipline of Chopard.

It was along the route of the legendary Mille Miglia road race that Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, the Co-President of Chopard, met with Andrea Zagato, the third generation in his family to head the Milan-based automobile body design firm. Chopard is the official timekeeper of the Mille Miglia race, in which the family has participated for the last 25 years. It was from here that the idea came of collaborating on a watch to celebrate their shared passion for automobiles and the values embodied by the Mille Miglia.

Sticker Price $9,900 USD for DLC Blackened Stainless Steel with 18K rose gold ref. 168550-6001 and $8,100 USD for DLC Blackened Stainless Steel ref. 168550-300.

For more info on Chopard click here.  

 

Posted on October 30, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Other Brands and tagged Chopard ref. 168550-3004 Chopard ref. 168550-6001.

Insider: Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon Secret. Fitted with Four Tourbillons, it Doesn't Get Any Better Than This.

The Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon Secret is a timepiece unlike any other. This timepiece is a perfect example of how traditional horology can be pushed to its limits and innovation becomes the name of the game. The Quadruple Tourbillon Secret a.k.a Quadruple Tourbillon à Différentiel is a blend of art and technical innovation that encapsulates the very soul of its two creators with its fascinating four tourbillons. This watch is fitted with an asymmetrical case in 18K red gold —also available in platinum— measuring 43.50mm in diameter and 16.11mm in thickness. This fascinating timepiece is fitted with a lateral window on the case band at 8 o'clock that allows for full view of one of the double tourbillon cages. The alternating satin brushed and polished areas on the case create the perfect symphony that houses such a magnificent complication and a gorgeous black dial.

The black dial with gold 'appliqués' features a 50-hour power reserve indicator with running seconds at 2 o'clock, a 4-minute tourbillon rotation indicator at 5 o'clock and a 240-seconds register at 8 o'clock. The 240-seconds indicator is delicately engraved with French words that perfectly describe the intrinsic attributes and qualities of this horological masterpiece: 'Savoir-Faire', 'Inventeurs Horlogers', 'Créativité', 'Technicité', 'Univers Original', 'Bienfacture d'Exception', 'Oeuvre Unique', 'Noblesse Esthétique', 'Inventeurs Horlogers', 'Créativité' and 'Technicité'.

Now, let's explain how this amazing timepiece works. The Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon is fitted with two double-tourbillons composed by an inner tourbillon —set at a 30 degree angle and that rotates once every minute— and an outer tourbillon that rotates once every four minutes. The four tourbillons are connected at the heart of two autonomous regulating organs, where each regulating organ is composed of a balance wheel oscillator placed in the cage of the tourbillon that is located at an angle of 30 degrees and that rotates once every minute. This mechanism rotates within the cage of a second tourbillon every four minutes. The two oscillators independently regulated inside the four tourbillons are coupled by a spherical differential which transmits their combined precision to the time display. Two barrels connected in series supply power through the spherical differential to the tourbillons.   

The beating heart of this magnificent piece of 'haute horlogerie' is the Greubel Forsey calibre GF03 composed of 531 parts, 2 double-tourbillon cages with 128 parts each, a spherical differential composed of 28 parts and 63 olived-domed jewels in gold chatons. When fully wound, the calibre provides a power reserve of 50 hours beating at a frequency of 21,600 vph. The calibre is of course fully visible via the display case back.  

This fascinating timepiece is fitted with a black hand-sewn alligator strap with double-folding clasp engraved with the Greubel Forsey logo. The strap is very supple, elegantly finished and quite comfortable. 

The Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon Secret is available in a limited number of eight pieces in 18K red gold and 8 pieces in platinum.  If you appreciate 'haute horlogerie' and you have the money to play in the game, this timepiece is one that will for sure be featured in horological history books, as one of the most fascinating complications ever created. 

Sticker Price $805,000 USD. For more info on Greubel Forsey click here.

Posted on October 29, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Greubel Forsey and tagged Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillon Secret Posts 2013 Tourbillons 2013.

Insider: Jaquet Droz Éclipse Onyx. Pure Elegance in a Complete Calendar with Moon Phase Relief.

This fascinating timepiece from Jaquet Droz's Majestic Beijing collection, needs very little introduction. The iconic Éclipse with onyx dial is a watch that embodies the essence of the manufacture, regardless of the lack of a figure eight configuration. The Jaquet Droz Éclipse Onyx ref. J012630270 if fitted with a 43mm stainless steel case and an onyx dial that includes a complete calendar with a moon and eight stars on relief. The retrograde moon eclipses with an independent rotating cover as the phases advance and a serpentine hand marks the date around the circumference of the dial.

This watch is fitted with the automatic calibre Jaquet Droz 6553L2 with 28 jewels and which provides a power reserve of 68 hours when fully wound. The movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph and is fully visible through the display case back. The complications are set via the push pieces located on the case band and to ease this operation, the watch includes a very nice stylus with plastic tip to avoid scratching the case.

The Jaquet Droz Éclipse is fitted with a very comfortable black alligator strap with a very elegant engraved pin buckle. The watch wears true to its size and its wrist presence is fascinating.

If you are looking for one of the most unique complete calendars with moon phase in the market, then look no further. The moon and stars relief is as mesmerizing as a starry night under the skies of the North Pole.

Sticker Price $17,900 USD. For more info on Jaquet Droz click here.

Posted on October 27, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Jaquet Droz and tagged Jaquet Droz Eclipse Jaquet Droz Éclipse Onyx ref. J012630270 Posts 2013 2013.

Experience: The Breguet Exhibition Chicago. The Largest Number of Breguet Tourbillons Displayed in One Location.

This past Thursday October 24th, 2013, the special Breguet Exhibition of Tourbillons opened at the Tourbillon Boutique Chicago. This is a traveling exhibition with the largest number of Breguet tourbillons —from current collections and museum pieces— to ever be displayed in just one place outside of the Breguet Museum in Paris or their atelier in the Vallée de Joux.

Another fascinating night hosted by our friends from the Tourbillon Boutique here in Chicago —their store carries the largest selection of Breguet timepieces in the Chicago area as well as some very fascinating timepieces that are very hard to find like 'La Musicale' and the 'Grande Complication'.

In addition to the more than 30 modern tourbillons on display, three very special Breguet museum pieces were brought to the store for the exhibition. These included the Breguet Tourbillon No. 2567 with a hunter case circa 1812, the Breguet Perpétuelle No. 5 with Quarter Repeater circa 1794 —one out of six— and the Tourbillon Minute Repeater Pièce Unique ref. 1907BA/12.

After a nice welcome and remarks from Michael Nelson —Breguet's Brand Manager—, this fascinating evening kicked-off on the right note. The exhibition will be on display until October 29th and then it will travel to New York City where it will be on display from November 7th thru the 17th. In the picture below, we can also see Liliana Chen —Breguet's Public Relations Manager— in the red dress.

The evening was filled with appetizing 'hors d'oeuvres', champagne, wine and of course, these unbelievable horological creations that are a treat to the eyes and that without Abraham-Louis Breguet —the father of the tourbillon— would've never existed.

We would like to thank our friends at the Tourbillon Boutique Chicago and Breguet for letting us be part of this fascinating evening. Now, enjoy the rest of the eye candy.

For more info on Breguet click here.

Posted on October 26, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Events, Breguet and tagged Breguet Tourbillons Exhibition Tourbillon Boutique Chicago Breguet Exhibition Liliana Chen Michael Nelson 2013.

Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Aston Martin. A Very Sporty, Yet Extremely Elegant Timepiece Bearing Aston Martin's Logo.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph ref. 153847N is another one of the creations presented by this manufacture as part of their partnership with automaker Aston Martin. While the Master Chronograph bears a small Aston Martin logo on the dial and the case back, this watch still maintains the clean and very classic look of all other Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces.

This chronograph is fitted with a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter with perfectly balanced proportions. The Master Chronograph ref. 153847N is fitted with a convex black matte dial with applied hour-markers, recessed chronograph registers and dauphine hands. The configuration of the dial includes an hour-chrono register at 9, a minute-chrono register at 3, running seconds at 6, a date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock and a pulsometer scale around the edge of the dial. The red accents adjacent to the minute markers along with the red writing on the word 'Automatique' provide the perfect amount of contrast to a beautifully balanced dial. It is important to mention that under certain type of light the dial almost appears like an anthracite dial ranging from deep black to graphite gray. 

The case features a polished bezel and polished lugs with a brushed satin finish on the caseband. These alternating finishes create the perfect symphony on this very well designed timepiece. This watch is fitted with rectangular chrono pushers that are easy to press and a properly sized crown that is very easy to grip and use when setting the date and time.

The Master Chronograph is fitted with a solid case back that is nicely engraved and finished with very appealing visual elements including a small Aston Martin logo. The beating heart inside this watch is the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 751A/1 composed of 277 parts, 39 jewels, double-barrel and that provides a power reserve of 65 hours when fully wound. The movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph and the watch is waterproof rated to a depth of 50 meters. 

This watch comes fitted with a black alligator strap with double-folding clasp that is very comfortable and somewhat stiff when you first put it on. We are confident that after a few days of wearing this watch the strap will break-in nicely and it will become quite supple and malleable.  

This Master Chronograph wears true to its size and perhaps slightly bigger like a 41mm watch. The wrist presence of this watch is sporty, yet elegant and a must have if you like chronographs —especially considering the appealing price of this timepiece. Also available in 18K rose gold and with different dial options without the Aston Martin logo on it.

Sticker Price $10,400 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.  

Posted on October 24, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Jaeger-LeCoultre and tagged Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph ref. 153847N Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chrono Aston Martin Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 751A/1 2013.