Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon 39. A Very Elegant Beige Dial with a Perfectly Contrasting Moon-Phase Disc.

This Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 1362520 is an elegant watch that features a gorgeous rose gold case, a brown alligator strap with rose gold pin buckle, a sapphire display case back and one of the most beautiful beige/cream color dials that we've ever seen. The dial features a moon-phase/date complication at 6 o'clock, rhodium plated markers and 'dauphine' hands. 

This 39 mm case ultra-thin watch measures only 9.9 mm in thickness. The refinement and elegance of this timepiece creates a perfect symphony that embodies all the values and essence of what Jaeger-LeCoultre is about. There is a perfect contrast created by the beige sunray brushed colored dial, the blue and gold moon-phase disc and the anodized blue seconds hand. The dial is perfectly balanced and it makes this watch a very classy and elegant looking timepiece that is unparalleled.

If you pay close attention to the 'dauphine' hour and minute hands, you will notice that half of the hands have a brushed/rugged finish while the other half is polished. This type of finish on the hands not only makes them extremely unique but also very useful at refracting light.

The watch is fitted with the Jaeger-LeCoultre ultra-thin calibre 925 composed of 246 parts and 30 jewels which provide a power-reserve of 43 hours. The movement is only 4.9 mm thick and is fully visible through the display case back. As it is common with Jaeger-LeCoultre, the finish on the movement is superb and a true treat to the eye.

The rotor is engraved with the legend Master Control 1000 Hours and the manufacture's logo. Jaeger-LeCoultre submits all their watches to a strict '1000 Hours Control' where watches undergo a full 1,000 hours of tests around temperature, atmospheric pressure, shock and magnetic field resistance as well as water-resistance trials.

The crown is easy to operate and both the date and moon-phase are set via the push- pieces located on both sides of the case. The moon-phase is adjusted at 8 o'clock and the date at 4 o'clock. The watch comes with a beautiful and handy tool —with a soft tip— to press the push-pieces and avoid scratching them or the watch case by accident.

Overall, this is one of the most beautiful and elegant watches out there. The only down side of this watch, if we can find any, is that even though the case measures 39 mm in width —because of its ultra-thin profile— this watch wears slightly smaller. Now, don't misunderstand us, as there's nothing wrong with that. If you have a 6.5-7" wrist, this watch is a perfect fit.

If you are looking to add a touch of class and elegance to that bespoke suit, that Bengal striped Thomas Pink shirt or just a pair of Armani jeans with a comfy Lanvin t-shirt, then this watch is a must have for you.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon 39 is also available in stainless steel or rose gold with diamond bezel.

Sticker Price $18,100 USD. For more info click here.  

Experience: Audemars Piguet Boutique New York City. Elegance and Distinction in Every Corner.

As we walked down 57th street during a hot and humid summer day, we decided to stop by the Audemars Piguet flagship boutique. This boutique is located at 65 E 57th Street, almost at the corner with Park Avenue. Read on to experience it with us.

As soon as you are ready to head inside, you'll notice the beautiful AP logos on the door handles —on both sides of the door— and the AP carved logo on the gray stone covering the façade.

As you make your way in and cool down, you'll get ready to embark on a beautiful discovery of limited edition timepieces and almost every reference in the Audemars Piguet collection. As you walk into the vestibule, the brand is already welcoming you and embracing your passion with two small screens looping videos of the manufacture.

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Once you are finally all the way inside the boutique, you'll notice the elegant details in every corner of the space. The wooden floors, the two beautiful chandeliers, the finely crafted furniture, the live orchids and the watch displays where precious timepieces are perfectly illuminated. Everything inside this boutique exudes elegance and distinction. The Audemars Piguet boutique is a perfect example of what NYC's 'grandeur' is all about. 

As you walk around the boutique in awe, you finally see a few limited edition references for the first time. The Tour Auto and the Legacy wink at you. You keep walking and stumble upon a beautiful Royal Oak Offshore in rose gold ref. 26170OR.OO.1000OR.01 next to a beautiful white rose —as white as the dial on that Offshore.

As you head towards the back, there's a small room on the left that catches your eye. A comfy off-white divan with red accents and a couple of burgundy velvet ottomans welcome you into that secluded and elegant area of the boutique.  

You continue to walk towards the back while making up your mind on what you'll be buying this time. At the end of the boutique, there's a watchmaker on duty, ready to make any bracelet adjustments you might need. Right by it, you can relax in a nice and comfortable sitting area. 

As you turn around and look at the art on the walls, you'll notice two images from the manufacture including a picture of a pocket watch.

After admiring the different collections throughout the boutique, you head back towards the front of the boutique to take a closer look at the Royal Oak Quantième Perpétuel Skeleton in Platinum ref. 25829PT.OO.0944PT.01 that caught your eye as you walked in. You peruse the watch for a few minutes and the friendly staff explains everything you need to know about it. You pull the trigger on the purchase and get ready to leave.   

As you exit the boutique through its double doors and feel the heat of the NYC summer, you look back and wonder when you will stop by next. Perhaps in a few weeks or maybe even next week.  

For more info click here.

Audemars Piguet New York City Boutique
65 E 57th Street
New York, NY 10022
 
Phone number:  212.688.6644
 
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday Closed

Insider: Porsche 964 Racing Car. Cruising the Racetracks of America Since 1990.

A few days ago, we were invited by one of our watchlifestyler friends to take a closer look at some of his Audemars Piguet watches and his Porsche 964 Racing Car. This gorgeous racing car is a 1990 964 that started its life as a regular street car before turning into a podium maker.

The previous owner started tracking it on open lap days until he decided to finally race it and make it into a full blown race car. This Porsche 964 bearing the race number 971 has a long history of races and victories. Initially raced at Road America, this powerful six-cylinder made its way to other important tracks including Gingerman Raceway, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Putnam Park Road Course, Sebring International Raceway and Daytona International Speedway. 

Purchased in 2006 by our friend, the car has seen numerous changes along the way. From an engine rebuilt —as a piston had scored the inside of a cylinder wall— to the fitting of adjustable shocks —JRZ race type— and the installment of a full computer to gather and report full AIM race data including lap times, break pressure, track GPS info, steering angle, oil pressure and temperature, acceleration, RPM and everything else that goes on with the car performance while racing. 

Currently, this beauty races in the G-Class Prepared category in the Porsche Club of America.  It's in the Prepared Class —not the Stock Class— because several modifications have been done including the addition of Turbo 911 brakes, a different transmission ratio, a rear wing and a front splitter and also considerable weight reduction. This car has over a dozen podiums and it's very competitive in its class.  Additionally, Patrick Long —a Porsche works driver— has driven this car as well. 

The car features a flat six-cylinder 3.6L fuel injection engine that provides 290hp with an acceleration from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. The car comes with all the racing gear necessary to conquer the tracks including a carbon fiber rear wing, extra-wide slick tires, ABS brakes, a Recaro Hans driver seat, a Recaro Pole Position passenger seat, adjustable suspension, full interior cage rollbars and a detachable Momo steering wheel. Our friend is an experienced driver that races this car with the pedal to the metal while keeping track of his lap times with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01

If you feel like turning your street legal Porsche into a racing car click here.

News: James Dean Elgin Lucky Pocket Watch Sells At Antiquorum. Way Above Estimates at More Than $40,000 USD.

A star-lot of Antiquorum’s June 22nd Hong Kong watch auction was the wildly successful sale of the long-awaited Elgin pocket watch belonging to Hollywood legend James Dean. The sale of James Dean's Elgin pocket watch set a world record going for more than eight times its pre-sale estimated value of $5,000-10,000 USD. 

The History Behind the Watch 

Dean purchased his prized watch in late 1951 while still a struggling young actor working in New York. It was his first big purchase, and he was so proud of it he had his initials engraved on the gold cover. Dean considered the watch his good luck charm and wore it while performing in TV and plays. The charm worked, as he was soon summoned to Los Angeles to audition for 'East of Eden', his breakout film, where he met the author, John Steinbeck. While visiting Los Angeles, Dean visited his estranged father, who gave him his own gold watch chain to prevent his son from losing
his lucky watch. Dean wore it in his pants pocket, with the chain dangling from a belt loop, even throughout the filming of 'East of Eden' despite director Elia Kazan's protests. His performance in the film would earn him his first of two posthumous Academy Award nominations and two Golden Globes.

James Dean ultimately gifted the watch to Tillie Starriet, a Warner Brothers employee whom he befriended during the filming of 'East of Eden'. He bonded with Tillie from the beginning of his movie career in L.A. and called her Mom. She was older than Dean and acted as surrogate mother for the young 23 year-old actor —she was the only person he would allow to prepare his hair for 'East of Eden' and 'Rebel Without a Cause'. Tillie Starriet mentioned in a letter of authentication accompanying the watch: “My two favorite presents from Jimmy are the lucky gold watch and chain that he loved, and when he gave them to me he gave me a card that said To Mom”. Dean was quite superstitious and attributed his early success to the lucky watch, but perhaps he should have hung on to it a little longer —he was killed in a car accident at the age of 24, leaving behind relatively few personal items. His Porsche Spyder was scrapped in Texas decades ago, the red jacket he wore in 'Rebel Without a Cause' was given by him to Sammy Davis Jr. —whose widow has said she will never part with it— and there is, Dean's lucky pocket watch —an item that personifies his place in time and his contribution to film history.

Details on the Lucky Pocket Watch

Elgin, No. 3071580, case No. 4275904. 37 mm case made circa 1889 by Standard USA, with an Elgin movement. The gold filled case features 'bassine et filets', engine-turned back, a cartouche with the initials 'JD' engraved on the front cover, a coin-edge case
band and a hinged 'cuvette'. The dial is white enamel with radial Roman numerals, an outer minute track, sunken subsidiary seconds and blued steel spade hands. The movement is rhodium plated, with a 3/4 plate, five jewels, straight line lever escapement and a cut-bimetallic compensation balance with blued steel balance spring. The movement and case are signed. The time on Dean's watch is still set at 5:43, the time he lost his life in the tragic car crash. 

For more info on Antiquorum and their auctions click here.  

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver ref. 15707CE. A Watch Best Appreciated in Person.

A couple of days ago we had the pleasure of perusing the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver. We would like to thank our friends at Audemars Piguet for allowing us to get up close and personal with this beautiful novelty that was presented earlier this year at the SIHH.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver ref. 15707CE.00.A002CA.01 is the third Diver in the Royal Oak Offshore Diver line-up and it's one stunning watch. To read our review of the Stainless Steel Diver ref. 15703ST click here and for our review of the Forged Carbon Diver ref. 15706AU click here. At the bottom of this story you'll find a few side-by-side pictures of the Ceramic Diver next to the Stainless Steel one. 

This Royal Oak Offshore Diver comes with a case and bezel fully made of ceramic in the same exact measurements as its two siblings —the Stainless Steel and Forged Carbon. In contrast with the other two, the Ceramic Diver is the most lustrous of all, due to the highly reflective properties of the ceramic.

The plots connecting the strap to the case and the case back are made of titanium and out of the three models, the Ceramic Diver is the only one fitted with a display case back that allows full view of the Audemars Piguet calibre 3120. 

The 'Méga Tapisserie' dial on the Ceramic Diver is matte opposed to the glossy dials on the Forged Carbon —less glossy than on the SS model— and Stainless Steel Divers. The Stainless Steel model is the only one with a glossy dial. The calendar wheel is also black like on the other Divers; however, it features the newer font just like the Forged Carbon. The orange accents on the seconds, minute hands and rotating bezel need to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.  The contrast these accents provide is just exceptional but somewhat flashier than the yellow on the Forged Carbon Diver.

Both crowns on the watch are made of ceramic and they are very easy to use with excellent grip. The brushed finish on the ceramic is superb and has the exact same grain found on the stainless steel Diver. Something we really like about the ceramic model is that, depending on the lighting conditions, the color of the case and bezel will vary from dark black to graphite black.

The strap is the exact same that is fitted on the other two Royal Oak Offshore Divers and just like on the Forged Carbon Diver, the Ceramic Diver also comes with a titanium tang buckle. Weight wise, we feel that the Ceramic Diver is quite close to the Stainless Steel Diver, perhaps slightly lighter. Unfortunately, we didn't have our scale with us to do a weight comparison. 

The watch is just as comfortable as the other two Divers but with a sportier look and feel to it. The orange accents seem to go well with most outfits and for sure will be a perfect match to your black Mares diving suit. 

The side-by-side pictures below clearly show how much more rugged and sporty the Ceramic Diver is next to the Stainless Steel model. This new model will be available at authorized dealers and boutiques in just a few months. Get your cash ready because we know that once you try one on, you won't want it to leave your wrist —just exactly how we felt when we knew it was time to take it off after reviewing it.

Since the pictures really don't show the true beauty and actual colors of this watch, we encourage you to see it in person to fall in love with it.

Sticker Price $21,800 USD. For more info click here. 

Encounter: Ferrari F430 in Light Blue on the Highway. We Just Couldn't Keep Up.

A few days ago, while driving a Porsche Cayman S on one of Chicago's most transited freeways, we stumbled upon a gorgeous light blue Ferrari F430. For once, the freeway wasn't as plugged up with traffic as usual.

As we were comfortably cruising, a loud, low-pitched engine roar called for our attention. As we looked in the mirror, there it was. A gorgeous Ferrari F430 hiding in our blind spot. The watch on the wrist is an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver that we now like to call 'the fancy car magnet' per a previous story.

The Ferrari F430 comes with a V8-engine with 490hp and cutting-edge racing technologies —perfected to be street legal— such as the electronic differential and the handy steering wheel mounted commutator switch that controls the systems governing vehicle dynamics.


The F430 is very light and reaches 0-60mph in just 4.0 seconds. This Ferrari is as close as you will get to the performance and driveability of a Formula One racing car.  For instance, a braking system using carbon-ceramic discs comes as a standard feature and the aerodynamics are also highly innovative for a street car. It is shaped in a way where air flow increases down-force and improves cooling.

As this remarkable automobile with its yellow brake calipers passed us, we tried to follow as close as possible —always obeying traffic laws and safety standards— but unfortunately we just couldn't keep up.

As its roaring engine dwarfed ours and its cruising speed kept increasing, we did nothing else but to see it drift away like a cruise on the Mediterranean or the disappearing sound of the final notes on Schubert's Improptu in A Flat, Opus 142 No. 2.

As we tried to reach the F430 one more time and gave our Porsche all the gas possible, we finally gave up and let it disappear. Only these pictures are testimony of that encounter. 

Since this automobile is not available in the current Ferrari range, we are giving you an approximate pre-owned price.

Sticker Price $165,000. For more info on Ferrari click here.

 

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Watch Goodies: Mondaine Magnetic Red Desk Cube Clock. The Official Swiss Railways Clock.

One of the most iconic elements in almost every Bahnhof —train station— in Switzerland's largest cities is the Mondaine clock. With its unmistakable and easy-to-read face, distinctive hands and the iconic red seconds hand, the Mondaine clock is now an icon in the horological world. It is estimated that there are close to 3,000 of these clocks on station concourses and train platforms throughout Switzerland. 

In 1944, Hans Hilfiker, a Swiss engineer/designer and employee of the Federal Swiss Railways created this clock which immediately became the 'Official Swiss Railways Clock'.

Based out of Zurich, the Mondaine Watch Group was founded in 1951 by Erwin Bernheim and started creating miniature clocks and watches to immortalize the iconic design of the railroad station clocks in the 1980s. Today, Mondaine Watch Group is the holding company for Mondaine, Camel Active, M-Watch and Luminox.  

This modern Mondaine red desk clock ref. A660.30318.84SBC can enhance your workspace both at home and at the office. Fitted with a Swiss quartz movement, the brushed aluminum clock case measures 49mm in diameter and its red cube measures 7" x 7" x 4". The clock can be removed from the cube and attached to any metallic surface. 

Next time you find yourself on your way to Baselworld or just visiting one of the 'haute horlogerie' manufactures in the Vallée de Joux, make sure you get one of these clocks to add a nice accent to that room where you keep your watch books and catalogs.

Sticker Price CHF 225, approximately $250 USD.  For more info click here.

News: Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013. Liberty National Golf Course, New Jersey.

Press Release - On June 17, 2013, guests from fifteen different countries joined the illustrious roster of the Audemars Piguet Golf Ambassador Team in the experience of a lifetime at the Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013. The setting of this lively and exclusive event was the prestigious and demanding Liberty National Golf Course with its stunning mile-long waterfront affording breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline —most notably the Statue of Liberty, which is the main attraction on several approach shots.

The scramble game formula afforded guests to a challenging round in the company of the Audemars Piguet golfing “dream team” – some of whom arrived directly following the 2013 US Open in Ardmore, PA, comprised of Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood, Keegan Bradley, Ian Poulter, Bud Cauley, Darren Clarke, Cristie Kerr, Morgan Pressel and Belen Mozo.

Before the start of the tournament, Audemars Piguet’s CEO François-Henry Bennahmias introduced each of these nine outstanding professionals highlighting the friendly bond created over the years, whilst demonstrating their skills on the driving range. After a very close tournament, the team led by Morgan Pressel and Graeme McDowell won with a score of 181.

Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013 Winning Team.

Audemars Piguet Golf Invitational 2013 Winning Team.

All those in attendance reveled in their shared enthusiasm for golf and for the Audemars Piguet approach to watch making; two skills that require a blend of passion and precision, technique and artistry —all governed by rigorous discipline.

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Cristie Kerr and Audemars Piguet VIP Client.

Once again, the array of exceptional players from the Audemars Piguet Golf Ambassador Team perfectly embody the brand’s philosophy: “To break the rules, you must first master them”.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.

 

 

Experience: Hermès Courchevel Constance H Belt. A Must Have in Any Watchlifestyler's Wardrobe.

The Hermès Courchevel Constance H belt is a must have for watchlifestylers. This beautiful reversible belt in black and tan featuring the iconic signature 'H' buckle will add a touch of class and style to any outfit. Discreet, elegant and well crafted, this belt is a true synonym of style.

Established in 1837, Hermès has specialized in silk, saddles, leather, accessories, parfums, ceramics and prêt-à-porter with the highest quality and outstanding craftsmanship. Its logo, since the 1950s, has had a carriage pulled by a horse.

Born in Germany, Thierry Hermès was the son of a Frenchman. Thierry and his family relocated to France in 1828 and in 1837, he established Hermès as a harness workshop dedicated to serving noblemen in Paris. He created some of the finest wrought harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade. Thierry's son, Charles-Émile Hermès, took over management in 1880 and established the well known shop at 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré where it remains today and where the new leader introduced saddlery and retail sales.

The Hermès Courchevel Constance H belt is available in different color combinations and different buckle finishes, shapes and sizes. One great thing is that you can buy the buckle and belt strap individually. Our favorite combo —the one pictured here— is the reversible black and tan leather strap with the classic brushed finished buckle. The size of this particular buckle is 2.4" x 1.5". This belt looks great with jeans, dressed pants or a bespoke suit.

If you are a versatile watchlifestyler that enjoys wearing black or brown shoes, then you definitely need one of these belts to properly match your outfit of choice. The watch to go with this 'H' belt is up to you. The one thing that we can assure you is that this belt goes well with any watch and its very popular among Audemars Piguet collectors.

Sticker Price $1,100. For more info click here.  

Insider: Richard Mille RM016 America Orange Limited Edition. Ultra-Light and Ultra-Thin.

The Richard Mille RM016 America Orange Limited Edition is limited to 15 pieces and is a watch that can only be fully appreciated in person.

The America Limited Edition is also available in 15 bright yellow pieces. There's also 10 bright pink RM016s under the Orianne Collins name sold exclusively at OC Concepts Boutique in New York.

The RM016 was launched in 2007 as the first rectangular watch in the Richard Mille collection. This limited edition —only available throughout the Americas— was released at the end of 2010. One big difference between the RM016 and the RM016 America Orange Limited Edition is that the latter is fitted with a rubber strap instead of a black kevlar-lined leather strap.

At first glance, this watch looks simple and understated; however, with its ultra-thin case profile —8.25 mm thick— and amazing craftsmanship, the RM016 is a very sleek versatile watch for real connoisseurs. This is one of the few watches that looks as good hidden under the cuff of a Tuxedo or in full sight with Vilebrequins.

The sapphire crystal dial features Arabic numerals, a vertical date aperture at 7 o'clock and sword-shaped hands with superluminova only applied on the tips. The contrast between the orange numbers, the black flange and the silver hands against the skeletonized movement is just stunning. One thing worth pointing out is that in person, the hue on the orange numbers is actually more of a burnt orange rather than bright orange as most stock images would depict. Good thing that we have this real life pictures for our readers.

The ultra-light case is made of three parts in DLC treated titanium and measures 49.80 mm in length by 38.00 mm in width. The ends of the case are 'tonneau' shaped providing a perfect wrist fit and the rubber strap is extremely comfortable. There are four polished star-shaped screws that keep the case together and four different shaped screws that attach to the rubber strap that is fitted with a double folding deployant buckle also in DLC titanium.

The crown is one of our favorite design elements on this timepiece with its alternating brushed and polished areas and the tip ending in a cone shape that resembles a turbine.

The front and back sapphire crystals are treated with an anti-reflective coating on both sides and under perfect light it almost feels like you could be touching the dial with your hands.

This watch is powered by the Richard Mille's automatic calibre 005-S with adjustable rotor geometry. As with any other Richard Mille, the display case back allows for full view of the movement that is a work of art and screams 'haute horlogerie'.

Overall, this is a very comfortable watch that wears larger than you would think. If you are someone with a smaller body frame and wrists under 7'', you will find it hard to wear this watch as comfortably as we do. The biggest issue with smaller wrists, is that because of the 'tonneau' shaped case the watch will not sit flat on your wrist and you will end up seeing two huge gaps between the lugs and your arm.

Now, it's important to highlight that because of the lightness of this watch —only 79 grams—, even if it doesn't sit perfectly on your wrist, it will still be quite comfortable. Since the case is not top heavy at all, there will be little play around your wrist.

If you are ready to make a statement the next time you are sitting in that board meeting or playing a tennis match like Rafa Nadal, it's time for you to add this fantastic watch to your collection. 

Sticker Price $80,000 USD. For more info click here. 

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ladies Quartz ref. 66270. An Often Forgotten Reference, Yet a Stunner.

The discontinued Royal Oak Ladies Quartz watch ref. 66270ST.OO.0722ST.01 is an often forgotten reference that is truly one of the best looking ladies watches ever made. This beautiful reference circa 1990s is fitted with a dark blue 'petite tapisserie' dial that has the same hue of blue as the first Royal Oak Jumbo launched in 1972.

The watch has a 25 mm case that, for today's standards, seems relatively small; however, the wrist presence of this watch is pure ''grandeur' due to its iconic design and pedigree. This quartz watch is fitted with the AP Quartz Calibre 2160 with a date aperture at 3 o'clock and an estimated battery life of 2-2.5 years. 

This very thin timepiece has a monoblock case like all older Royal Oaks. It comes with an integrated bracelet featuring a deployant folding push button clasp bearing the Gay Frères engraving. Gay Frères used to be involved in the construction of the Royal Oak bracelets from 1972 until the late 1990s.

This  'petite' watch is an iconic reference with amazing wrist presence.

As you can appreciate in the picture below, this watch wears bigger than what you would think. It's a great everyday watch that matches all types of outfits and it is the perfect companion for a picnic in Central Park or a gala night at Lincoln Center. 

If you can find one, the estimated pre-owned Sticker Price $6,500-$8,000.  For more info on the current Audemars Piguet Ladies collection click here.  

Experience: Tiffany & Co. Watch Box. Perfect Box For Most Timepieces.

An important part of our watch collecting lifestyle is to find the right box or boxes to safely keep our precious timepieces at home or while traveling.

During our watch collecting life, we've owned several watch boxes in all shapes and forms and from several reputable brands. Nevertheless, the Tiffany & Co. watch box is one of the best that we've ever owned. This fine grain leather box made in Italy is available in two different sizes —with four and eight watch compartments— and in two elegant colors —black and brown.

This box is nicely crafted and quite light, making it the perfect travel companion for those watchlifestylers wanting to bring several timepieces with them. One thing that we absolutely love about this box over other boxes, is the fact that you can lock it. It comes with a very elegant Tiffany & Co. plaque lock —in palladium plated solid brass — and two handsome looking keys with a traditional Tiffany blue inlay.

 

This box features four compartments that are deep enough to keep an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore and also wide enough to store over-sized watches like most Panerais, Zenith Pilots, IWCs and Bulgaris amongst other brands.

Based on our experience with these boxes, we would say that watches with a case size of up to 48 mm —like the Zenith Pilot Montre d'Aéronef Type 20 GMT— will properly fit with the pillows in the compartments. The width of the dividers between each compartment is a little bit over a quarter of an inch; therefore, there's no need to worry about over-sized crowns touching the case of the watch in the compartment next to it.

The interior of the box and the watch pillows are perfectly lined with a soft and nice ultra suede in light beige color and the sides of the pillows are covered with the same black leather as the rest of the box. The box also features a small pocket inside the closing lid where you can store straps or polishing cloths and there's plenty of room between the lid and the area where the watches are sitting. The lid also includes a Tiffany & Co. plaque at the very top and all hinges are not visible as they are fully covered by leather.

Lastly, it's important to mention that these boxes are a steal and you'll be paying a very reasonable price compared to other options out there.

The size of the four compartment box is 6" W x 8.75" D x 3.75" H.

Sticker Price $950. For more info click here.  

News: Jaeger-LeCoultre Donates to Two Marine Reserves in UNESCO's World Heritage List

Since 2008, Jaeger-LeCoultre has been committed alongside the UNESCO and the International Herald Tribune to raise worldwide public awareness regarding the conservation challenges and protection of marine sites.

Jaeger-LeCoultre cooperates with the International Herald Tribune in bringing readers’ attention to the eight annually selected marine sites —all of which appear on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Each year, the manufacture also provides immediate financial backing for UNESCO through the auction of a watch.

Here's the list of all auctions to date:

2009 – Prototype N°1 of the Master Compressor Extreme W-Alarm Tides of Time raised £13,540 for the site Tubbataha, Philipines

2010 – Geophysic 1958 E168 raised £12,600 for the site Sundarbans, India

2011 – Prototype N°1 of the Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea raised £16,000 for the site Malpelo, Colombia

2012 – Prototype N°1 of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph raised £9,300 for Puerto Princesa site, Philipines

2013 – Prototype N°1 of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Chronograph Cermet raised $17,700 USD for the site Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

This year, Jaeger-LeCoultre has donated $20,000 USD to assist the Fernando de Noronha management in Brazil. Peaks of the southern Atlantic submarine ridge form the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago and Rocas Atoll off the coast of Brazil.

The islands are part of a large submarine mountain system of volcanic origin. The Fernando de Noronha volcano is estimated to be between 1.8 million and 12.3 million years old. There are less than ten volcanic islands in the Southern Atlantic, and the Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll Reserves represent more than 50% of the insular South Atlantic coastal area. The waters are extremely important for the breeding and feeding of tuna, shark, turtle and marine mammals. The islands are home to the largest concentration of tropical seabirds in the Western Atllantic.

Baia de Golfinhos has an exceptional population of resident dolphin and at low tide the Rocas Atoll provides a spectacular seascape of lagoons and tidal pools teeming with fish. As the site makes up such a large proportion of the insular coastal habitat, the site is essential to maintaining marine biodiversity for the entire South Atlantic basin.


This donation will be dedicated to preserving this exceptional marine site. The purchase of a fully equipped rubber dinghy will enable the implementation of a regular monitoring programme aimed at evaluating the state of conservation of its exceptionally rich marine life and of countering illegal fishing activities by facilitating swift interception of non-authorized boats. 

For more info click here.  

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil (5)  ©Stefan Ciejka.JPG

Insider: Girard-Perregaux WW.TC Financial Power Reserve. One of Our Favorite World Timers.

The Girard-Perregaux WW.TC Financial Power Reserve World Timer ref. 49850-11-152-BA6A in stainless steel has a case diameter of 41 mm and a thickness of 11 mm. This watch is fitted with a sapphire display case back and calibre GP033G0 with a power-reserve of 46 hours and 27 jewels.

The dial features a power-reserve indicator, a 24-hour rotating ring with night/day indicators, a red pointer to show the 9am opening time of the stock markets and a rotating disc with 24 global stock market trading cities. The cities' disc is rotated via the crown located at 9 o'clock and the Financial function indicates when these stock markets are open for business. To indicate the opening times, each city has been placed on the disc in a particular order based on their timezone location.

This watch is very useful in telling time across 24 different cities but is not complicated to use as most people would think. Let's now explain how it works.

 

The first thing that needs to be done before setting the time on the hands, is to rotate the cities' disc —via the crown at 9 o'clock— and align your location with the 12 o'clock marker. Then —via the crown at 3 o'clock— set the hands to the correct time while making sure that the hour displayed on the 24-hour night/day ring underneath your location shows the correct number matching the military time. i.e. The watch in the pictures is set to 10:10am New York City time which means that the city indicator showing New York should be aligned with the 12 and the hour disc underneath it shows 10 instead of 22 as it is 10:10 in the morning and not 10:10 at night. 

The movement in a World Timer complication like this will automatically rotate the 24-hour ring counter-clockwise as time advances in order to make sure that the hands and time shown on the ring are always synchronized. That way, when you want to tell the time for other cities, the numbers on the ring will always show the time in those cities. 

For instance, if it's 10:10am in New York City and we want to know what time it is in Chicago and in Rio de Janeiro, we just need to look at the 24-hour ring and see what number is displayed under these cities. Based on the picture below, we now know that it's 9:10am in Chicago —red pointer indicates 9am— and 12:10 pm in Rio de Janeiro —sun icon indicates it's noon.  

The red pointer on the 24-hour ring will always point at the city that will be opening their stock market next at 9 in the morning.  

The dial is very nicely finished with an anthracite center with applied Arabic numerals  at 12, 3 and 6 and luminous dot markers. It has a very unique sunburst effect and provides different hues from dark blue to a grayish blue depending on the lighting conditions. The running seconds and power-reserve indicators include white hands and a combination of red and white accents that provide a very nice contrast.

The 24-hour ring features a black and white night/day indicator, a golden moon indicating midnight and a golden sun indicating noon.

This watch wears smaller than 41 mm and comes with a black alligator strap with a very comfortable and easy to use deployant buckle.  

Overall, this watch has a lovely wrist presence that is not only reserved to those watchlifestylers in the financial sector, but also very suitable for any watchlifestyler in search of a useful complication that is easy to use. It will most definitely become a conversation piece wherever you travel.

This watch is one of our favorite top three World Timers along with the Patek Philippe ref. 5110 and the new Frédérique Constant World Timer. Now, to us the biggest downside of this timepiece is the lack of a date display.

Sticker Price $14,200. For more info click here.  

News: Richard Mille to Open Boutique in Las Vegas. Second Boutique in America.

Construction is underway on the second Richard Mille boutique in the United States, at The Shops at Crystals at City Center adjacent to Aria Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The state-of the-art showroom is scheduled to open in September 2013.
 
The boutique design will align with the brand’s standards for all Richard Mille boutiques worldwide. Materials used will include Makassar wood, Corian stone, leather, steel and glass. Showcases are highly technical and feature such elements as glass that is anti-reflective on all surfaces and custom choreographed lighting. There also will be an exclusive VIP area within the boutique. The overall warm and friendly atmosphere will encourage visitors to spend some time in this temple devoted to fine watchmaking.
 
Richard Mille operates 14 branded boutiques around the world. The first Richard Mille boutique in the United States, Richard Mille Boutique Beverly Hills, opened in 2010.

For more info on The Shops at Crystals click here  and for Richard Mille here.

News: Richard Mille Congratulates Rafa Nadal. Historic 8th Victory at French Open.

On Sunday, June 9th, Rafael Nadal achieved legendary status in the world of tennis by becoming the first player ever to win the same Grand Slam tournament eight times from 2005 through 2013 with the exception of 2009 when he did not win it. A 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 victory over his fellow countryman David Ferrer in the final of the French Open in Paris saw Nadal increase his stunning record to 59 victories. Rafa’s 12th major title moves him above Bjorn Borg and his 11 career titles.
 
Richard Mille would like to congratulate Rafael Nadal for his energy and determination in returning to the international competition scene. This Roland Garros victory rewards Rafa for all doubts and suffering he endured during the seven months he was off the court with a knee injury.

Last February in Chile, when he returned on the court, he showcased his physical fitness and stamina and proved to the world his talent.  From that point on, he won some six titles in Sao Paolo, Acapulco, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid and Rome before the Roland Garros in Paris.
 
Richard Mille is proud of his friend Rafa in being an impressive competitor, great champion and totally integrated member of the Richard Mille family. Since 2010, Rafa has worn a Richard Mille watch during all tournaments, testing its performance and shock resistance.

For more info click here.  

Insider: IWC Portuguese Automatic. A Power-Reserve Classic in Every Way.

The Portuguese Automatic is one of the most elegant and iconic references from IWC Schaffhausen. The International Watch Co., currently known as IWC Schaffhausen, was founded in 1868 by American engineer and watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones a.k.a. F.A. Jones.

Appointed at age 27 as the director and production manager for E. Howard Watch & Clock Company in Boston, Mr. Jones moved to Europe looking to combine the excellence of Swiss craftsmanship and modern engineering to make top quality watches for the U.S. market.

The company situated near the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen, is today one of the most renowned names in watchmaking and fine horology.

The IWC Portuguese Automatic ref. IW500107 in stainless steel, is a very elegant well designed timepiece that takes its name from the two Portuguese watch industry businessmen that visited IWC Schaffhausen —at the end of the 1930s— in search of acquiring steel case timepieces with technical precision and superb craftsmanship. During their visit, IWC decided to meet their demands by fitting the hunter movement of a pocket watch inside a wristwatch case and the Portuguese was then born.

The Portuguese Automatic is fitted with the in-house calibre 51011 with a spring-mounted rotor, Pellaton pawl-winding system and Breguet spring. This newly designed 7-day power reserve movement, represents a great technological and horological leap in the history of automatic calibres.

The Portuguese Automatic comes with a 42.3 mm watch case and a blue alligator leather strap with deployant buckle. The dial is off-white with anodized hands and applied anodized Arabic numbers and markers, power-reserve indicator at 3, running seconds at 9 and date aperture at 6.

The watch wears very comfortably and is not as heavy as one would expect for such a complex calibre and large case. The calibre is very nicely finished and visible through the sapphire crystal display case back. A real treat to the eyes.

If you are ready to wear a watch that is not conventional and that can be worn under the cuff of a bespoke shirt or with a t-shirt, this is a must-have in your collection.

Sticker price $12,400. The Portuguese Automatic is also available in 18K red gold, in stainless steel with white dial and red gold applied Arabic numerals or in stainless steel with a black dial. For more info click here.  

Experience: Montecristo No. 3. One of the Finest Habanos in the World.

As we were getting ready to enjoy another sunset at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman down in the Cayman Islands, we pulled out an Habano to enjoy the moment even more. Really, there's nothing better than a good cigar on the beach, wearing a nice watch and contemplating a beautiful sunset.

This time, we enjoyed a Montecristo No. 3 —a hand rolled Cuban cigar that is typically used as the benchmark when rating other fine cigars.

Montecristo has set the bar quite high for almost 80 years since its launch in 1935. Its name was taken from Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Montecristo'. The story accounts that when the factory first opened, the manager used to read the novel to the 'torcedores'—rollers— and they liked the novel so much, that they wanted to immortalize the main character of the novel by naming their fine cigars 'Montecristo'.

The Montecristo No. 3 only includes leaves from the region of 'Vuelta Abajo'. This Cuban region is home to the best tobacco leaves in the world. From fillers to binders and wrapper, all are 'Vuelta Abajo' leaves.  'Vuelta Abajo' is located in the western tip of Cuba in the province of 'Pinar del Río' by the towns of 'San Juan y Martínez' and 'San Luis'.

This region is also the main source of tobacco for Habanos, and the only region that grows all types of leaf. But even in this amazing region, less than a quarter of the tobacco growing land enjoys the 'Vegas Finas de Primera' status that is required for the Habanos.

Montecristo No. 3 is a Coronas measuring 5 5/8" in length with a 42 ring gauge. With hints of leather, coffee and ambergris, this cigar is rich and powerful. Flavor profile stays even for the first two thirds of the cigar and becomes stronger on the last third. Around 50 minutes of burning time in a perfectly rolled cigar with perfect draw and almost perfect even burn —went out just once, possibly due to the strong evening sea breeze.

While this cigar is a joy to smoke, we only recommended it for more experienced smokers. Due to its intensity, we feel it might be too much to take for someone looking to try a cigar for the very first time.

Insider: Omega Speedmaster Legend Limited Edition. Our Favorite Moonwatch Honoring Michael Schumacher.

In preparation to the Grand Prix of Canada taking place at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal this Sunday, we will be talking about a watch that is perfectly suited for Formula One fans.

The Omega Speedmaster Legend ref. 321.30.44.50.01.001 is another limited edition moonwatch honoring Michael Schumacher —there are between ten to eleven Schumacher Limited Edition timepieces that have been launched since 1995 when Michael became an Omega brand ambassador.

This gorgeous reference is a must have for watchlifestylers that are fans of one of the biggest racing legends of all-time. The Speedmaster Legend is fitted with a carbon fiber dial and a very unique bezel insert that commemorates all of Schumacher's racing achievements: 7 world titles, 154 podiums, 91 victories, 250 Formula One races and 68 pole positions. Additionally, it also includes the years when Schumacher won the seven world titles.

While the Speedmaster Legend Limited Edition has the same case size as other Moonwatches, measuring 44.25 mm in width, it wears relatively smaller and quite comfortably. 

In our opinion, the best part of this watch is the carbon fiber dial. The dial includes Arabic numerals from 1 thru 7 highlighting Schumacher's seven world titles. The numerals are white with a red outline and the word 'Speedmaster' is imprinted in red. The dial features running seconds at 9, 12-hour chrono register at 6 and 30-minute chrono register at 3 o'clock. The date aperture at 6 o'clock is discreet and maintains an adequate balance keeping the dial design simple and uncluttered.

The watch is powered by the automatic calibre Omega 3313 with co-axial escapement and a power-reserve of 52 hours —the movement can be admired via the sapphire crystal display case back. If you can still find one, get it. Last known Sticker Price $6,650.

For more info on Omega click here.

Experience: Audemars Piguet Boutique Bal Harbour. A Very Modern and Sleek Place.

Located in the heart of Bal Harbour just north of Miami Beach, off of Collins Ave. and 96th, a brand new Audemars Piguet boutique was just opened a couple of weeks ago inside the Bal Harbour Shops.

The boutique includes a 990 sq. ft. space—located on the first floor next to David Yurman— with a very minimalistic design that clearly portrays Audemars Piguet's core values and brand essence.  As soon as you walk in, you will be taken on a journey all the way to the home of the manufacture in Le Brassus.

Even though the boutique is very modern, it is still extremely inviting. Before you head into the boutique, you already know that you are in for a treat. As you walk in and are greeted by their friendly staff, core elements of the earth are present in the materials utilized in every single corner of this magnificent space.

Once inside, you will notice sleek slate floors, modern wooden walls, polygonal stone blocks —serving as the base for the wooden counter tops—, high-tech screens, rocks covered with moss, brass sculptures, nicknacks and a large chandelier that illuminates the space.

On the left side as you walk in, next to a beautiful white lacquered indented shelving unit, you will find a super-sized nine panel video wall looping images of nature and landscapes from the Vallée de Joux. On the opposite side, a smaller LED screen is looping horological footage from the manufacture and watches in the collection. At the lounge bar area, feel free to help yourself to some of the most delicious 'macarons' that taste just as authentic as if you were in Paris at Pierre Hermé on Rue Cambon —just a block away from the Audemars Piguet boutique on Rue Saint Honoré.

As you walk around, you'll notice that employees are well trained to make adjustments to bracelets. By the loupe and tool set he was using, we can tell that you won't leave with a scratched bracelet.

As you look around for that next piece that you want to buy, you'll notice the attention that has been put forth to every single detail at the boutique. From the flowers to the bronze sculptures —that appear to be made by Swiss sculptor Giacometti. The displays are unique and well lit showcasing the watches in pure harmony. Fantastic pieces, complications and key references across the different Audemars Piguet lines are on display. Now pick what you want to try on.

Once you pick your favorite watch to peruse, have a seat on the comfortable, perfectly designed chairs and take a deep breath. Take all of the imagery and the boutique design inside you, all the way to your core. You are here for a reason and you know it.

Now, admire the design and craftsmanship of that gorgeous Royal Oak Extra-Thin Tourbillon ref. 26510ST.OO.1220ST.01 you've been wanting for a long time or perhaps the Royal Oak Tourbillon Chronograph in gold. Choices, choices and more choices. The endless storyline in the life of a watch collector.  

As you make another round throughout the boutique, the antique pocket watch from the Audemars Piguet Museum catches your attention. Then, you admire the antique Ingold Fraise horological tool —used to cut movement wheels and their teeth— that is sitting on the upper shelf right above the pocket watch. As you look at the LED screen to the right of those two objects, you just can't stop watching the video that is playing and showing you how these masterpieces are made. You are more than ready to get one.

While you are there and as you make up your mind, enjoy looking at pieces like the Millenary Minute Repeater with AP Escapement ref. 26371TI.OO.D002CR.01 —a limited edition of 8 pieces in Titanium and anthracite dial— and the Jules Audemars Chronometer with AP Escapement in Platinum ref. 26153PT.OO.D028CR.01.

After purchasing that new timepiece, you leave through the door feeling fulfilled after your experience at the beautiful boutique. You are happy, excited and looking forward to sharing your unveiling thread on an online watch forum. Mission accomplished.

As you walk back into the shopping center atrium, you stop by the koi fish and turtle pond outside the boutique. As you look at the koi fish, the orange color on them makes you think about the new Royal Oak Offshore Ceramic Diver and its orange accents. As you are getting ready to leave, you turn back and take a last look at the boutique wondering when you will be back to peruse the new Ceramic Diver and add it to the collection.

Special thanks to Audemars Piguet for allowing us to come visit the boutique and take all of these pictures for our story.

For more info click here.  

Audemars Piguet
Bal Harbour Shops
9700 Collins Avenue, Space #159
Bal Harbour, FL 33154
 
Phone number:  305.864.6776
Toll Free:  866.595.9700
 
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday 10 AM – 8:45 PM
Sunday 12noon – 5:45 PM