MONOCHROME's Top 10 Watches of the SIHH 2019 - Monochrome Watches
Now that the SIHH 2019 is over, it is time to sit down and take a closer look at the?dozens of watches that were introduced.?Overall, it has been a good year in terms of novelties – probably not the best edition ever, but still, there were some pretty interesting things to see, especially in the field of complications. This also means that the “entry-level” or “affordable” categories have been slightly forgotten by some brands. After all, SIHH means Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie. Thus, you won’t be surprised to see that our selection of the 10 best watches of the show is focused on “high-end” models.?Note: this selection is based on a consensus among the MONOCHROME team. It reflects our preferences. If you?have a different view on what could be the best watches of the SIHH 2019, feel free to share them in the comment section at the end of this article.A. Lange & Sohne Zeitwerk DateWhy??Simply because it is much cleverer t

Omega Speedmaster History Part 1 - the early pre-moons
Fasten your seatbelt and take a ride with us into the past! In this 3-part story, we will try to show you the most important pieces of the huge?Omega Speedmaster?collection. We had the chance to handle the watches from the Omega Museum (that were presented in the Parisian Boutique during a special event), all fully original or even prototypes of one of the most important chronographs ever made. To start the journey, we’re going to cover the 1957-1969 period, also known as the pre-moon times.Historical Background – NASA testingEven if it is now known as the Moonwatch', the Omega Speedmaster wasn't developed with this idea in mind. Back in 1957, it was part of the “Professional” collection, alongside the Seamaster 300 and the Railmaster. The Speedy' was introduced as a racing and sports chronograph, complementing Omega's position as the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games. Such a watch was a useful tool, with its 1/5th of a second chronograph. Keep in mind t

IWC Big Pilot 43 TOP GUN Edition Woodland IW329802 - Hands-On, Price
This year’s theme at Watches and Wonders for IWC was “The Colours of Top Gun“, translated into timepieces in coloured ceramics. From a dark grey Ceratanium model to bold editions of the Pilot’s Chronograph in green or white ceramic, there was a clear intention to bring something new and fresh to the collection, following in the footsteps of the Mojave Desert theme of? 2019. However, another green ceramic “Woodland” model was discreetly unveiled during the Geneva fair?based on the not-so-big Big Pilot’s Watch 43. Here’s the new IWC Big Pilot 43 TOP GUN Edition Woodland IW329802.Launched last year during the digital edition of Watches and Wonders, the IWC Big Pilot 43 is the brand’s answer to those wanting a clean, ultra-focused, slightly oversized pilot’s watch, yet without the hassle of the classic BP with its massive case and more complex movement – meaning a higher price tag. This vision was debated amongst BP fans, wh

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionnelle WorldTime piece unique for Only Watch 2013 - Monochrome Watches
When Vacheron Constantin introduced the Patrimony Traditionnelle WorldTime in 2011, it was the first mechanical watch that tells the time in all 37 timezones of our world. To this date it is still the most complete mechanical worldtimer for the wrist and for the upcoming Only Watch Auction they created a unique piece. This unique Patrimony Traditionnelle WorldTime comes in platinum and features a white cloisonne enamel dial with a red 24-hour day/night ring.?The 24-hour day/night ring around the 37 cities of the matching time zones, is in the colors of the Principality of Monaco, namely red and white. Monaco is where bi-annual Only Watch Auction took place for the past 4 editions and this year Monaco will host the fifth edition of this prestigious auction for a good cause. Antiquorum Auctioneers will auction all 36 unique pieces for Only Watch on September 28th, when?the Principality also hosts the Monaco Yacht Show. Ad - Scroll to continue with article

Panerai Luminor Marina DMLS Titanium 44mm PAM1662 (Specs & Price)
For several years, Panerai has relied on its R&D ‘Laboratorio di Idee’ to advance its commitment to innovation. In this respect, the brand’s research in the field of high-tech material is next to none. Among the latest additions to the Luminor family is a cool, stealth monochrome edition combining innovative materials and manufacturing technologies. Meet the Panerai Luminor Marina DMLS Titanium 44mm PAM1662.The new Panerai Luminor Marina PAM1662 combines high-tech features with a stealthy, sporty profile. Its case mixes DMLS Titanium and Carbotech? (a combo used for Lo Scienziato). Light and resistant, DMLS Titanium is manufactured by Direct Metal Laser Sintering, a 3D-printing technology involving the layer-by-layer sedimentation of metal powder. In short, a laser is used to partially melt particles so they adhere together. In general, additive manufacturing is used by watchmakers for modelling and prototyping. The serial production of watch cases is certainly un