Collector's Series - Vancouverwatchguy and his Kari Voutilainen Vingt-8
Today we return with a new instalment of The Collector's Series, and with one of the most desirable dress watches you can imagine. A collector's dream, made by one of the most revered independent watchmakers. And it'll be courtesy of @vancouverwatchguy, who lives in you guessed it, Vancouver, Canada. This 63-years-old financial entrepreneur will be talking elaborately about his passion for his Kari Voutilainen Vingt-8. Yes, it's a stunning watch, which seems rather simple at first, but clearly isn't. And his unbridled enthusiasm?for this marvellous watch is catchy, so be aware!Frank Geelen, MONOCHROME – When did you first hear about Kari Voutilainen?Vancouverwatchguy – It was in 2015 that I started to do some research into independent watchmaking. I had already owned watches from a number of the mainstream brands, and I was a reasonably seasoned collector by this time. I?owned watches from Omega, Panerai, , JLC, Cartier and two pieces from Patek, including?a Patek Grand Co

First Look: Bulgari Drops a new Octo Finissimo Automatic Sketch Dial for its 140th Anniversary
Introduced over 10 years ago (time flies…), Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo collection has become one of the most successful sagas in recent watchmaking history. Not only did these watches break one record for thinness after another, but they also redefined the concept of the ultra-thin watch with a contemporary design and a casual attire. For the 10th anniversary of this collection, Bulgari released an ultra-cool pair of models fitted with a sketch dial. One of the most acclaimed styles in this collection, the Octo Finissimo Automatic Sketch Dial is coming back this time to celebrate the brand’s 140th anniversary.?Bulgari was founded in 1884 by Greek silversmith Sotirio Bulgari, in the city of Rome – where the brand still has its headquarters. One of the most prolific watchmakers/jewellers on the scene, the brand made a name for itself with its daring designs, such as the all-time emblematic Serpenti – both watches and jewellery. A mix between the Italian flair

Hands-On - Chopard Alpine Eagle 41mm Pine Green Dial (Specs & Price)
One of the most buoyant genres in the watchmaking arena is the luxury integrated sports watch, going from strength to strength since the Royal Oak's debut in 1972. Although Chopard appears to have been a latecomer to the scene with its 2019 Alpine Eagle, the roots of this watch can be traced to the late 1970s with a watch created by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele (now Chopard's Co-President) known as the St. Moritz. The latest model to join the Alpine Eagle is this time-and-date model with a pine green dial and Chopard's 01.01-C movement with chronometer certification. Parts of the proceeds from the sales of this watch will be donated to the Alpine Eagle Foundation.From St. Moritz to SustainabilityKarl-Friedrich Scheufele's design for the St. Moritz, a sporty-chic model with a showy baroque bezel, captured the hedonistic flamboyance of the 1980s and borrowed its name from the swank Swiss ski resort. Interestingly, the evolution of the St. Moritz is a three-generation story. The Alpine Eagle

BREAKING NEWS: Ulysse Nardin acquired by the Kering Group - Monochrome Watches
Just last week Kering announced that Michele Sofisti, who led Girard-Perregaux and JeanRichard (both part of the Sowind Group, which is owned by the Kering Group), would become the CEO of Gucci Watches and Jewelry (also part of the Kering Group). A new CEO for Girard-Perregaux and JeanRichard was yet to be found. Today the Kering Group announced they acquired Ulysse Nardin.With this latest acquisition the Kering Group is expanding its role in the high-end watch industry. According to Fran?ois-Henri Pinault, Kering's Chairman and CEO, Ulysse Nardin is a highly profitable company with solid prospects for growth. Ulysse Nardin, known for the ground-breaking Freak and much, much more, is one of the few Swiss watchmakers to have its own production capacity for critical watch components, like the escapement. They recently developed their own escapement, the Ulysse Anchor Escapement. Later more about that, and of course now we’re curious to learn who will be at the helm.More info: www.k

Introducing: Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Recits de Voyage Collection
Vacheron Constantin invites us on an exotic journey of discovery with its latest Les Cabinotiers Rectis de Voyages, unique timepieces that trace the international expansion of the Maison. Established in 1755, the founder's grandson, Jacques-Barthelemi Vacheron, and his partner, Fran?ois Constantin, were quick to appreciate global markets leading to commercial ties with Central Europe, South America, Scandinavia, Asia, the United States and China. Following in the founders' footsteps, these unique watches not only touch on geographical areas where Vacheron Constantin blossomed, but they also pay tribute to the distinctive artistic character of these locations. A true showcase of the Maison's commitment to preserving ancestral artistic skills, the beauty of the Recits de Voyages timepieces is never skin deep thanks to Vacheron's extraordinary horological legacy.Minute Repeater Tourbillon Tribute to ArabesqueIn 1817, Vacheron Constantin established ties with Turkey, then the centre of the