The dilemma of Constant Force in Watchmaking - Monochrome Watches
Constant force is a holy grail of watchmaking and chronometry. The varying driving force delivered to the regulating organ of watches affects their rate, because balance wheels are not perfectly isochronous - isochronous means that the period of oscillation is independent of the amplitude of oscillation. Modern barrels and the Swiss lever escapement offer satisfactory regularity. Still, in their ongoing search for precision, watchmakers are showing renewed interest in taming power even further. Here is our technical guide to the complex concept of constant force.The barrel is the device that stores energy in a watch movement. It contains the mainspring coiled around the barrel arbor, which is put under tension to power the movement. The force delivered by the barrel is irregular. Strong torque is provided when it is fully wound, then it slowly wanes throughout the power reserve duration. This affects the rate of watches because balance wheels are not perfectly isochronous. The period o

Forza Ferrari, Forza Hublot - Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Speciale Ceramic (live photos, specs and price) - Monochrome-Watches
While Hublot celebrates 10 years of the iconic Big Bang line with a series of 10 unique Haute Joaillerie Big Bang Unico creations priced at 1 million USD each, they are also releasing a new Big Bang Ferrari Speciale model which is definitely more suited for everyday wear. Available in two editions, black ceramic with red, white and blue details, or grey ceramic with grey and white details, it pays tribute to one of the very best of the Cavalino Rampante's creations: the Ferrari 458 Speciale.The Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Speciale Ceramic, in either of the two color options is still a very outspoken watch, not in the least bit due to its size. It is not something for gents who prefer to fly under the radar. When compared to the car it is linked to, this shouldn't be a problem since both are quite ostentatious creations?in their own right. Ad - Scroll to continue with article

Throwback Thursday With The Longines Conquest Heritage 1954-2014 Limited Editions - Monochrome Watches
Exactly 60 years ago, on April 3rd 1954, Longines filed for patent for its Conquest collection and name. To celebrate the 60th anniversary, Longines has launched the Conquest Heritage 1954-2014, a limited edition in steel, rose gold or yellow gold. And just like the original versions, the case back of these commemorative pieces is decorated with a gold and enamel medallion, the “gold seal of Longines quality”.These are however a very special commemorative watches, as they not only look exactly the same as the first Conquest that was introduced some 60 years ago, but it is also made in exactly the same size. With a diameter of 35 mm it harks back to the beginning of this collection, and an era when men wore watches that are now-a-days considered to be small. We here at Monochrome Watches applaud this and wouldn’t mind of more brands introduce classic, elegant dress watches that are smaller than 40 mm. Ad - Scroll to continue with article

First Look: The New Cricket-Themed Oris Father Time Limited Edition
Given its complexity and often lethargic pace, cricket is not a sport that pops up in the crosshairs of watch brand alliances. However, in 2022, Oris struck an alliance with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), becoming the first official timekeeper in the club’s history. Celebrating this three-year partnership, Oris and the MMC have collaborated on a special bronze edition of the Big Crown Pointer Date. Christened Father Time in honour of the iconic weathervane placed on top of the clocktower overlooking Lord’s Cricket Ground, the watch chosen for the occasion is also an icon in the brand’s history. Presented in a 40mm bronze case with a matching bronze bracelet, the Oris Father Time is a limited edition of 1,926 pieces commemorating the year the weathervane was gifted to Lord’s Cricket Ground. Father Time, the weathervane at Lord’s Cricket Ground, London, is a mythical figure watching over the passage of time. Donated to the Marylebo

Interview - Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Ulysse Nardin, on the Future of the Brand
Replacing another Patrick (Hoffmann, CEO of the brand from 2011 to 2017), Patrick Pruniaux could easily be qualified as a luxury expert – watch expert, of course, but not only. He forms part of the new generation of CEOs who know about the watchmaking industry but who have also spent years outside of this microcosm. From the Wine and Spirit division of LVMH, followed by several?positions at TAG Heuer, Patrick crossed the Atlantic in 2014?to take up his position as a member of the Special Projects team at Apple, in Cupertino, to prepare the launch of the Apple Watch. He was then promoted to the position of Managing Director for UK & Ireland in 2015 and was also a member of Apple EMEA Executive Committee. He finally joined Kering Group in September 2017 as Chief Executive Officer of Ulysse Nardin. Today, the 2.0 luxury CEO talks to us about the future of Ulysse Nardin.MONOCHROME:?What have been your main tasks at Ulysse Nardin after joining the company a few months ago? How has