Watches NEWS
Introducing An Unexpected Tuscany Dial for the AP Code 11.59 Chronograph
Following the release of Audemars Piguet's first semester novelties for 2025, another less publicised model caught us by surprise. While ostensibly a Code 11.59 Chronograph in a two-tone blue ceramic and white gold case, this special edition strays from the collection's signature dials and incorporates a rare Tuscany dial in blue, something that will ring a bell with collectors.Accustomed as we are to AP's hallmark tapisserie dials and even the more recent embossed dial patterns of the Code 11.59 collection, a Tuscan Blue dial is a relatively rare sighting in AP's universe. Associated with Royal Oak Perpetual Calendars of the 1990s, the dials were originally hammered by hand, producing a grained, speckled surface that is rougher and less regular than one obtained with a machine. Last seen on the Royal Oak Jumbo 16202, the Tuscan dial reappears in 2025 on board the Code 11:59 Chronograph. Ad - Scroll to continue with article
Grand Seiko Heritage Calibre 9SA5 Platinum SLGH007J
In March 2020, Grand Seiko celebrated the 60th anniversary of its foundation by introducing a newly designed watch featuring a cutting-edge?and advanced movement, the Hi-Beat Calibre 9SA5 with multiple innovations, such as the novel Dual Impulse escapement. First presented in a gold case, followed by?a limited edition in steel, and a few weeks ago in a non-limited “Shirakaba” edition, both the design and movement returns this year in a high-end limited edition made of platinum and adorned by a stunning dial reflecting the spirit and vision of Kintaro Hattori, founder of Seiko. Meet the Grand Seiko Heritage Calibre 9SA5 Platinum “Wood Grain” SLGH007J.In 1881, Hattori (only aged 21) founded Seiko and as such, the brand is now celebrating its 140th anniversary. In honour of its founder and to celebrate 140 years of continuous operations, the brand is releasing several new models today, including this superb limited edition that focuses once again on nature, innovat
Introducing Franck Muller 30th Anniversary Tribute Chronographs by Grail Watch
When considering Franck Muller’s watches, images of tonneau-shaped cases and flashy colours come to mind. But, looking back at the brand’s earliest days, there are some fascinating watches to explore. Just like early Daniel Roth models or early Roger Dubuis timepieces, some of the oldest Franck Muller watches are getting hotter and hotter and will probably be the next “big thing” in youngtimer watch collecting. Classic designs with an undeniable Patek vibe, handsome chronograph movements and refined details abound. And our friend Wei Koh of Revolution and Grail Watch seems to have an eye for this collection, which is about to be brought back to the market with a trio of stunning vintage-inspired and very legitimate models known as the Franck Muller 30th Anniversary Tribute Chronographs.Muller’s Early daysFranck Muller has not always been characterised by bold and audacious designs. While the formidable watchmaking skills of the company aren’t open to
Introducing Ulysse Nardin Ocean Race Diver Chronograph Limited
The provenance of Ulysse Nardin might be a small, landlocked country, but thanks to its marine chronometers, the brand from Le Locle has always been closely associated with the sea since 1846. By the 1870s, Ulysse Nardin supplied more than 50 navies and merchant marine companies with precision marine deck chronometers. Today, the brand underscores its maritime credentials as the official timing partner of the exciting Ocean Race. Regarded as the longest (60,000 km) and toughest round-the-world team sailing challenge since 1973, the 14th edition of The Ocean Race kicked off in Alicante, Spain, in January 2023. Docking in nine cities around the globe over six months and finishing in Genoa in June, the teams have embarked on their fifth leg from Newport, Rhode Island, to Aarhus, Denmark. Taking advantage of the pit stop in Rhode Island and celebrating The Ocean Race’s 50th anniversary, Ulysse Nardin unveiled a 100-piece edition of its Ocean Race Diver Chronograph.The Ocean RaceOrigi
Introducing the Montblanc Metamorphosis II - 2 Watches in 1 - Monochrome Watches
Four years ago Montblanc brought automaton-like functions to the wrist with the Metamorphosis, which was the world’s first wrist watch that comprised two different dials, and corresponding functions, in one wrist watch. To be clear, we’re talking mechanical watches here, no smart watches, no LCD screens. Upon pushing a minute-repeater-like slide, a genuine metamorphosis takes place, and changes the dial with time and date indications, to a dial with time and chronograph counter, that rises from underneath the other dial. How brilliant is that!Originally launched in 2010 – as the first of the Timewriter program – the Metamorphosis was developed in the Montblanc manufacture in Villeret – the former Minerva manufacture. The Timewriter program gave young watchmakers the chance to develop their (spectacular) ideas with the help and full support of Demetrio Cabiddu (the master watchmaker) and his team. Now for the upcoming Watches & Wonders Montblanc launche