Experience: Fauchon Champagne. From Our Favorite Gourmet Store in Paris.

Any watchlifestyler that has been to Paris and reads our content knows Fauchon very well. Fauchon is the quintessential luxury gourmet food store in Paris with its flagship store located in the heart of the 8th arrondissement right at the Place de la Madelaine. This store is just two short blocks away from the Hermès flagship on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and two doors down from the Alain Figaret boutique —this designer carries the Audemars Piguet Tour Auto apparel during the time the Tour Auto Optic 2000 Race takes place.

Last time we stopped by Fauchon, we decided to bring with us a few bottles of their champagne for a rainy day back home. Without a doubt, Fauchon is our favorite gourmet food store in Paris and a must visit for anyone that enjoys the good life.

Fauchon carries everything from carry-out prepared dishes to bread, 'pâtisserie', chocolates, truffles, charcuterie, 'fromages', gourmet canned foods, caviar and any other edibles of the highest quality. To sum it up, the best of the best is sold at Fauchon.

Some of the Fauchon products are also sold in the delicatessen sections of the most upscale stores around Europe including Germany, Spain, U.K., Portugal and Denmark just to name a few. They also happen to be a purveyor of sweet and salty 'pâtisserie' for the Nespresso boutiques around Paris like the smoked salmon 'mille-feuille' in the photograph below.

The Fauchon Brut champagne is a dry champagne with a high level of acidity on the palate and with strong apple and pear aromas. This champagne is a perfect pairing to Beluga caviar, salty ripened cheeses or other savory foods. With its low content of sugar and high acidity it can cut through the fat of a savory quiche, a 'Saint Agur' cheese or a smoked salmon 'mille-feuille'. One great thing about this champagne is that it will bring back memories from those amazing nights at the Hôtel Costes in Paris.

Next time you stop by the Hermès flagship boutique in Paris, make sure you make a pit stop at Fauchon and pick up a bottle of champagne and one of their lovely desserts to enjoy them while you open that beautiful orange box in your hotel room.

For more information on Fauchon click here.

Posted on August 25, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Audemars Piguet, Sybarite Guide and tagged Fauchon Paris Fauchon Champagne Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day & Date ref. 25572 Alain Figaret Boutique Place de la Madelaine Hermès Faubourg Saint-Honoré Smoked Salmon Mille Feuille Nespresso Fauchon Brut Champagne 2013.

Encounter: Mercedes-Benz 280 SL 'Pagoda'. A Saturday Afternoon Classic.

Nothing like summers here in Chicago. Chicagoans often say that withstanding the harsh winters is just worth it because of the amazing summers we have in the Windy City. After moving from New York City to Chicago five years ago, we now fully understand why people say that.

On a perfect Saturday evening, we stumbled upon this amazing classic car. This is an automobile perfectly suited for an summer evening joy ride. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL —a.k.a. W113 'Pagoda'— was introduced in 1967 as a successor to the 230 SL and the 250 SL and was in production for just four years. Afterwards, it was replaced by the entirely new 350 SL. Over the years, the W113 evolved from a sports roadster to a comfortable grand tourer.

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, along with its predecessors, is perhaps one of the most classic cars from the sixties and early seventies. This beautiful example in teal blue with cream interiors, definitely caught our eye while wearing our 'fancy car magnet' Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver.

This Mercedes-Benz 280 SL circa 1969 is a two-door roadster coupé with a soft-top and an optional slightly concave hardtop —hence the nickname 'Pagoda'. It was only sold between 1963 and 1971 –just a year short of the launch of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo. Fitted with a six-cylinder engine that outputs 170 hp, this car is classic, elegant and a joy to drive.

The exquisite lines of this car and its amazing condition provide unparalleled eye candy to any watchlifestyler passing by. The iconic Mercedes-Benz three spoke star is a synonym of class, luxury and amazing design just like the double baton at 12 o'clock on an Audemars Piguet timepiece. Enjoy the rest of the pictures of this amazing looking car.

Pre-owned Sticker Price for one like this in such excellent condition, anywhere between $35,000-$75,000 USD. Becoming more and more scarce as time goes by.

Posted on August 24, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Automobiles and tagged Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Circa 1969 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver Mercedes-Benz Pagoda Mercedes-Benz W113 Top Automobiles 2013.

Breaking News: The Zenith Boutique in Geneva was Burglarized.

The Zenith boutique on the Rue du Rhône was broken into last night between 5 and 6 am. Initial observations indicate that the burglars smashed through the front door using a ram-raid vehicle, before making off with the contents of the Boutique’s inside displays. The information gathered on site by police does not as yet enable them to provide any further details on the event as such, nor on the estimated value of the goods stolen. An investigation is in progress and every effort is being made to render the Zenith Boutique operational again as soon as possible. The Boutique will therefore as planned be hosting its guests on August 29th for the traditional Geneva grape harvest celebrations.

For more info on Zenith click here.

Posted on August 22, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Zenith, Watch Shopping and tagged Zenith Boutique Geneva Zenith Boutique Geneva Burglarized Zenith Rue du Rhone 2013.

Insider: Omega Speedmaster Apollo XVII 40th Anniversary Limited Edition. Only 1972 Pieces Available with a Sterling Silver Dial.

As you all know, the Omega Speedmaster is one of most iconic timepieces of all-time and the only watch to be part of all six lunar missions. It is the only timepiece to have made it to the moon —proudly called the Moonwatch— and also a watch that marked an era in the history of horology back in 1969. In order to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo XVII —last lunar mission on December 1972—, Omega released this amazing watch as ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002 with a stainless steel bracelet.

Featuring a .925 sterling silver dial embossed with the same design as the Apollo XVII patch, the look of this watch will spark a conversation wherever you go. The dial presents the traditional Speedmaster configuration —running seconds at 3, hour chrono-register at 6 and chrono-minute register at 3 o'clock— as this watch is fitted with the Omega manual-winding calibre 1861 that provides a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound.

The bezel, with its black aluminum tachymetric ring, provides a harmonious contrast to the watch fitted with a case measuring 42mm in diameter and that is waterproof to a depth of 50 meters. The attention to detail on the dial is superb and the relief texture of it is extremely nicely done and a treat to the eyes; however, if you really want to use the chronograph function on this watch, it will be almost impossible for you to keep track of elapsed times as there are no numbers on the chrono registers and the markers get lost with the rest of the visual elements on the design.

As you can appreciate, the dial is quite similar to the original Apollo XVII patch. Perhaps a slight difference on Apollo's facial expression and overall profile. Patch Image courtesy of NASA and Eugene Dorr —genedorr.com

The solid case back is nicely engraved with the limited edition information as well as with the date of the last lunar mission, December 14, 1972. Available in a limited edition of 1,972 pieces this is one of the most unique Speedmaster limited edition watches.

Fitted with a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides allows for perfect clarity and view of the Omega logo that in the case of this watch, is imprinted on the crystal. A very nice and unique touch.

Just like all other Speedmasters, the watch wears very comfortably and slightly smaller on a 7-7.25" wrist. If you love everything that has to do with NASA, Omega Speedmasters or you are just crazy in love with the moon, this is a nice watch to own. Fortunately, the amazing finish and design of the dial makes up for the lack of functionality of its chronograph.

Sticker Price $7,200 USD. For more info on Omega click here.

Posted on August 20, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Omega and tagged Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Limited Edition Apollo XVII Omega Speedmaster with Sterling Silver Dial Omega ref. ref. 311.30.42.30.99.002 2013.

Experience: Davidoff Nicaragua. An Afternoon of Amazing Cigars, Watches and Craft Beers.

Davidoff Cigars unveiled its first Nicaraguan cigar line, Davidoff Nicaragua, at a New York City pre-launch event back on June 20, 2013 —so far the biggest cigar news this year. After a long wait, the Davidoff Nicaragua finally hit the stores. The Davidoff Nicaragua is a premium cigar made solely from Nicaraguan tobacco —wrapper, binder and filler— but still rolled in their factory down in the Dominican Republic.

Last week we finally had the opportunity to try this amazing cigar during a small get together at the most legendary cigar shop in Chicago, Up Down Cigar. A cigar and tobacco sanctuary founded by the iconic Diana Silvius almost 50 years ago.

Diana Silvius is perhaps the most renowned female cigar aficionada in the world, an icon in the cigar industry and the first woman to be featured on the cover of Cigar Aficionado magazine. Not only she was elected the first female president of the Retail Tobacco Dealer of America in 1991, but she's also known to be very close to Hendrick 'Henke' Kelner —who is to Dominican cigars what chefs Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon are to French cuisine— and the Fuente Family, whom she approached to asked them to help her develop her own line of cigars, now sold throughout the world as the Diana Silvius Diamond Vintage.

Really there could've not been better hosts than Diana —along with her close friends, staff members— and our dear friend Phil to throw such a fantastic evening with amazing cigars, craft beers, watches, fine rums and everything that the good life is about. To kick-off our editorial, here's a picture of Ms. Diana Silvius having a great time with us.

After our short preface, let us now walk you through our evening in the usual fashion, please come experience it with us.

As we walked to the back of Up Down Cigar where an intimate smoking garden is located, we were greeted with a nice Davidoff bag with a great assortment of cigars. Davidoff Gold Band Awards 2012, the Davidoff Robusto Collection box —included the amazing Robusto 100 made honoring Zino Davidoff's 100th anniversary of his birth—, Davidoff Belicoso Supremo and of course the newly launched Nicaraguan blend cigars.

After getting our cigars, we decided to start enjoying the evening with other watchlifestylers in the company of some amazing craft beers from Goose Island —Chicago's most famous brewery. Our friends from Goose Island shared a nice selection of limited edition Bourbon County stout beers —with an alcohol content of 14.3-14.5%—, their 25th anniversary ale and even the rare Halia a sour peach saison aged in wine barrels.

Our personal favorites were the Bourbon County beers and especially the coffee stout brewed with Intelligentsia coffee. Who would've thought that beers and cigars go that well together. Well, let's rephrase that, stout beers and cigars go well together.

Finally, after a few beers we decided to honor the new Davidoff Nicaraguan cigars and we started burning one. The first cigar we decided to try was a Nicaragua Robusto, that was spectacular from beginning to end. It started with some peppery notes that evolved into a smooth, creamy cigar very similar to the taste of Habanos like Romeo y Julieta or H. Upmann.

After trying the new Nicaraguan selection, we're not sure we can go back to the Dominican Davidoffs as much as we used to. This cigar was exceptional, with a few occasional burnouts but with a nice draw and a long and thick ash.

As the evening progressed, we gather around other 'watchlifestylers' to talk about watches, cigars and the good life. Some of the nice watches that were around us that evening including Tutima, Rolex, Panerai, Cartier, Audemars Piguet and Tag Heuer. We even ran into what we'll refer to as a 'questionable' Steve McQueen Explorer that of course we won't be posting here, regardless, it was a great crowd with some awesome timepieces.

As we were enjoying our first cigar, we decided to pair it with some Clément 'Rhum Vieux Agricole' —dry rum from Martinique. In 1887, Homère Clément pioneered a natural style of rum from fresh pressed sugarcane juice known today as 'Rhum Agricole'. Clément is available in seven varieties that include: Sirop de Canne, Première Canne, V.S.O.P, Cuvée Homère, X.O. Rhum, Créole Shrubb and Clément 10 Years. A fantastic rum than can almost compete with some of the best Cuban and Venezuelan rums but that will never be close enough to a Zacapa Centenario from Guatemala. Sorry Clément!

After finishing our second cigar outside, we finally headed inside the shop to smoke a third cigar and shop around. We always discover nice little goodies to take home as this shop is the only store in the city that carries Elie Bleu and Eloi products.

As we were smoking our third cigar, we ran into a beautiful Eloi cigar cutter from France that was a perfect match to he bezel on our Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 15400ST. We couldn't control ourselves and we had to buy it that night —soon we will be publishing a short review of this cutter for our Audemars Piguet fans.

As the evening drifted away and one thing lead to another, we left this sanctuary of the good life thoroughly satisfied with the new Davidoff Nicaraguan blend cigars. Available in three different sizes —toro, robusto and short corona—, this is a cigar that you need to try no matter what.

Sticker Price on the Eloi cigar cutter $395 USD, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and box of Davidoff cigars not included.

For more info on Davidoff click here, Goose Island Brewery here, Clément Rum here and Up Down Cigar here.

Insider: Baume & Mercier Clifton ref. 10055. A Very Inexpensive but Gorgeous Complete Calendar with Moon Phase.

The Baume & Mercier Clifton ref. 10055 is a very inexpensive and nicely executed complete calendar with moon phase. Reminiscent of other iconic complete calendars in the market, this Baume & Mercier is the most affordable option when it comes to this type of complication with a timeless design.

Even though the watch is very classic looking, it is fitted with a stainless steel case measuring 43mm in diameter and 12.25mm in thickness that makes the watch look more current —based on today's standards where watches are larger than they used to be 20 to 30 years ago.

This elegant looking timepiece features a sun satin-finished silver-colored dial with gilt applied Arabic numerals, markers and 'dauphine' hands. In addition to telling the time, it provides the day of the week and month information in two small apertures at 12 o'clock —right above the central pinion—, the date via a central hand with a small red tip and moon phases in a large aperture at 6 o'clock. The number 31 on the calendar chapter ring is marked in red to add a nice matching touch to the red tip on the date indicator hand.

This timepiece is fitted with an automatic calibre that provides a power reserve of 42 hours when fully wound. The calibre is fully visible through the display case back and while it is nothing really fancy or out of this world, it is nicely finished with some 'perlage' on the bridges and 'Côtes de Genève' on its rotor.

This watch is fitted with a black alligator strap —that is somewhat stiff and might need a good break-in period— with a triple folding buckle with security push buttons on the sides and a very clever system where the strap never gets marked by the pressure of the deployant buckle when adjusting it to the right length. The strap is a perfect match to the elegant and timeless design of this complication. In order to ease the setting of the date, day, month and moon phase on this watch, there are four very discreet and conveniently located push-pieces on both sides of the case.

On the wrist, this watch wears very comfortably and true to its size on a 7-7.25" wrist. While on the picture below the watch might appear to sit high on the wrist, it can easily be tucked under a french cuff without any problems. The watch feels solid but not top heavy and its wrist presence is spectacular. The watch is also available with a gorgeous —very seventies looking— blue dial as ref. 10057.

Sticker Price $4,950 USD. For more info on Baume & Mercier click here.

Posted on August 16, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Baume & Mercier and tagged Baume & Mercier Clifton ref. 10055 Complete Calendar Baume & Mercier Baume & Mercier Complication Baume & Mercier Clifton ref. 10057 Posts 2013.

Experience: NoMI Lounge at the Park Hyatt Chicago. An Ideal Place for Food, Wine and Watch Talk.

For a long time, we've been looking to find the perfect place in Chicago where watchlifestylers can enjoy some inspiring food and wines under the right atmosphere and lighting conditions to have a good talk about watches. Look no further, NoMI Lounge is the perfect spot for a casual get together or just a place to enjoy a chill afternoon in the company of friends, family or your significant other.

Located inside the luxurious Park Hyatt hotel off of Michigan Avenue —right by the iconic Water Tower landmark— this is a place that won't disappoint you. As you walk into the hotel, you already know that you are in for a nice treat.

Perfect decor, exquisite lounge music very similar to the one at the 'Hôtel Costes', different seating areas depending on the mood you are looking for and a well stocked cheese ripening fridge welcome you. As you make your way in, you'll also find the nicely designed and perfectly stocked bar.

NoMI Lounge offers a great selection of signature and classic cocktails, food to share that includes a nice assortment of fresh seafood, sushi, cheeses, charcuterie, paninis, flat breads and other heavier dishes that are also meant to be shared. Surprisingly enough, they carry the coveted 'Jamón Ibérico de Bellota' from Spain that we love. After sitting down we ordered a few dishes, started sipping our 'rosé' —nothing fancy just a Domaine de Figueirasse— and enjoyed our conversation about watches and the good life.

Our food selection included some burrata with thyme and honey, a grilled flat bread with peaches, goat cheese and arugula, a sharp cheddar pimento spread with garlic aioli and the 'panisse' with goat cheese, rosemary and balsamic. We have not had 'panisse' since our last time in Paris. A 'panisse' is a chickpea flour cake that is fried in the shape of small rectangular logs with a texture very similar to that of fried 'polenta' that is very common in the south of France.

After enjoying the delicious savory food, we decided to order their assortment of cookies and candies, paired with a couple of glasses of Canadian Inniskillin Icewine. Perfect pairing for the little box of sweet treats. Glad the treat box included our favorite French macarons, almost as good as those from Pierre Hermé in Paris.

After a wonderful evening with great conversation, watches, fantastic foods and wine, another great day in the life of a watchlifestyler ends. The watches featured here are an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 15400ST.OO.1220ST.02 and Chanel J12 Automatic in 38mm ref. H0970.

Dear watchlifestylers: The next time that you contact us for a quick get together, you know where we will be meeting for a nice watch talk. Hasta pronto amigos!

For more info on NoMI Lounge click here. For more info on AP here and Chanel here.

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Audemars Piguet, Sybarite Guide and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 15400ST.OO.1220ST.02 Chanel J12 Automatic in 38mm ref. H0970 NoMI Lounge Park Hyatt Hotel Chicago Water Tower Chicago Jamón Ibérico de Bellota Domaine de Figueirasse Inniskillin Icewine Pierre Herme Macarons Paris Panisse France.

Experience: Tod's Fold Over Leather iPad Case. Perfect Protection in a Very Stylish Way.

Tod's is very well known for making some of the best and most iconic driving shoes in the world. Their leather goods along with their drivers hold a great reputation among watchlifestylers that enjoy the good life. Founded in Italy in 1920 by Dorino Della Valle as a small shoe making company out of his basement —just like other very reputable shoe companies—, Tod's has now become a synonym for the highest quality and superior handmade leather goods.

The Tod's fold over leather iPad case is an accessory that every watchlifestyler needs. Just like the beautiful Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch pictured here, this iPad case will make a statement wherever you go. Embossed with the Tod’s logo on the front and the inside, the case protects the iPad screen with elegance and style. Just like on all other Tod's products, the leather is of the highest quality with a nice full-grain texture.

The back of the case features a sturdy flap where one can insert the front folding panel and turn the protection case into a convenient stand. This is especially useful for when you guys are spending countless hours reading our content or posting on the online watch forums.

In case the irony of spending almost the same amount of cash on this case as you would to buy the device is the least of your worries, then it's time for you to get one of these cases and look good next time you are flying across the country on one of your business trips.

Available in a variety of colors. Sticker Price $495 USD. For more info on Tod's click here.

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Fashion & Style, Omega and tagged Tod's Fold Over Leather iPad Case Dorino Della Valle Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Omega Speedmaster Co-axial Chronograph Moonwatch ref. 311.30.44.51.01.002 Top Fashion 2013.

Macros: Jaquet Droz Tourbillon Réserve de Marche. Fascinating Like the History of the Manufacture.

In 2013, Jaquet Droz celebrates its 275th anniversary, maintaining the avant-garde spirit and refined taste of its founder, Pierre Jaquet Droz.

Pierre Jaquet Droz was born in 1721 in La Chaux-de-Fonds. At age seventeen in 1738, Pierre opened his first workshop for clock making and produced a series of grandfather clocks with very sophisticated movements beyond anything that had been produced earlier. A decade later, after losing his wife and daughter, Pierre built a special carriage to take six clocks to be sold in Spain. Upon his return to La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1759 and after his successful sales in Spain, he focused exclusively on making watches, clocks and automatons —a moving mechanical device imitating a human being that was a precursor to robots. In 1774, he successfully completed three humanoid automatons —The Writer, The Draughtsman and The Musician— that were presented in La Chaux-de-Fonds and a year later in France to Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette.

Years later, the Jaquet Droz fame and success reached the confines of Asia, to the point where the fifth emperor of the Qing Dynasty started collecting some of his masterpieces including clocks and automatons.

Acquired in 2000 by the Swatch Group, the brand returned exclusively to La Chaux-de-Fonds —after closing former operations in London and Geneva— and moved into its new 'Atelier de Haute Horlogerie' in the summer of 2010. Great timepieces have been presented since then including the Grande Seconde in 2002, the Eclipse in 2010 and the Bird Repeater in 2012.

The Jaquet Droz Tourbillon Réserve de Marche ref. J028033201 launched a few years ago —as part of the Complication La Chaux-de-Fonds collection— is one of the first Jaquet Droz watches to slightly move away from the utilization of the figure 8 on the dial configuration. Well, perhaps if we look at the dial upside-down, the figure 8 is still there.

The watch is fitted with a beautiful cutout and sectioned black Opaline dial with an off-centered hours and minutes sub-dial with roman numerals, a power reserve indicator at 10, a retrograde date indicator at 2 and a tourbillon with vertically aligned bridge at 6 o'clock. The indicators are beautifully done in red gold and fitted with hands with red contrasting tips.

Featuring a massive 18K red gold case measuring 47mm in diameter, this watch is very large, yet extremely elegant. To complete the beautiful design of this timepiece, this watch is fitted with a very nice crown with the traditional Jaquet Droz stars. From the beginning, Pierre Jaquet Droz used two stars to authenticate his watches and they are now a focal point of the Jaquet Droz logo. If you were to draw a circle around each of the stars, you would create a figure eight.

The beating heart inside this watch is the manual-wound Jaquet Droz JD3 Tourbillon calibre with a power reserve of 88 hours when fully wound. The calibre is nicely finished with black 'Côtes de Genève' and the unmistakeable clover engraving.

The Jaquet Droz Tourbillon Réserve de Marche is fitted with a hand-stitched alligator strap that is very comfortable and flawlessly finished. This watch is a true example of 'haute horlogerie' and worth every penny of its sticker price.

Sticker Price $190,300 USD. For more info on Jaquet Droz click here.

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Jaquet Droz and tagged Jaquet Droz Tourbillon Reserve de Marche Pierre Jaquet Droz 18th Century Beijing Qing Dinasty Atelier de Haute Horlogerie Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Jaquet Droz Eclipse Jaquet Droz Bird Repeater Swatch Group Automata by Pierre Jaquet Droz Jaquet Droz Tourbillon Réserve de Marche ref. J028033201 Complication La-Chaux-de-Fonds Collection La Chaux-de-Fonds Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Blancpain Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel. The Traditional Chinese Calendar. 宝珀中华年历表

In 2012, Blancpain presented a world-premiere with the first wristwatch to feature a traditional Chinese calendar. Included under Blancpain's Villeret collection, the 'Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel' a.k.a. Traditional Chinese Calendar ref. 00888-3631-55B is fitted with an 18K red gold case measuring 45mm in diameter and 15mm thick. The case is not only beautiful and very nicely finished but it's also the perfect housing for one of the most fascinating and complex horological complications ever created.

In addition to telling the hours and minutes, the watch features a Gregorian calendar, a Chinese calendar that includes all the animals in the Chinese zodiac in a small aperture right above the double-hour indicator at 12, a date and month indicator at 9 with a red dot that indicates the intercalary months as necessary, a moon phase indicator at 6 and an indicator for the five elements and its corresponding ten celestial stems with yin-yang phase at 3 o'clock.

For those of you that don't know how the Chinese calendar works, here's a quick overview. The most important thing to remember is that the traditional Chinese calendar is a lunisolar calendar where months begin with a new moon, months are 29 or 30 days long and a year could have 12 or 13 months depending on the need of inserting what is called an intercalary or leap month.

The months are numbered from 1 thru 12 and when an intercalary month is needed, the number of the preceding month is repeated —typically between the second and eleventh month— with an extra marker that in Chinese is ‘闰’. In the case of this watch, it is marked with a small red dot on the date and month register. The years are named using a 60-year cycle and each name is formed by combining a celestial stem from a 10-year cycle and an earthly branch from a 12-year cycle. The 12 earthly branches are directly correlated to the 12 zodiac animals but have different names. Every 60-year cycle is composed of the five elements and the 12 zodiac animals.

This amazing complication features a white 'grand feu' enamel dial with all numbers in Chinese with the exception of the 31 days —located on the outer part of the dial— of the Gregorian calendar and the red gold chapter ring applied Roman numerals that mark the hours. The Gregorian calendar features a gorgeous blued steel serpentine shaped hand that provides a nice contrast and that is very elegant.

All twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac are displayed via a small aperture located above the double-hours indicator at 12, while the moon phase indicator is right under the center pinion at 6 o'clock. As you can appreciate in the pictures, the animals are flawlessly represented.

This is perhaps one of the most amazing and fascinating horological complications ever attempted and it clearly exceeds the complication of a perpetual calendar and ranks only second to a minute repeater. The watch is fitted with a brown alligator strap that is very comfortable thanks to its double-folding clasp with tang buckle. Wearing this watch will add a touch of elegance and distinction to anyone's wrist.

The beating heart inside this complication is Blancpain's automatic calibre 3638 composed of 463 components, 39 jewels and a 7-day power reserve. The rotor is nicely decorated with the yin-yang symbol and the calibre is fully visible through the display case back.

Also on the back of the case, you will find the five exclusive and patented under-lug correctors to make all the necessary adjustments to the different features of the calendar —four of them located by each lug and one around the middle part of the back of the case. The crown allows direct adjustment of the zodiac and elements according to the 60-year cycle. This is a very clever and convenient system that only someone like Blancpain could've thought of in the first place. Kudos to Blancpain!

Even though the watch wears slightly bigger than its size —perhaps more like a 47mm watch—, it is extremely comfortable and with a wrist presence that is unparalleled.

This watch is also available every year in a 20-piece limited edition in platinum with a Madagascar ruby on the crown and the oscillating weight. If you are Chinese or of Chinese descent, the 宝珀中华年历表 Blancpain Traditional Chinese Calendar is a must have in your collection. If you are ready to buy one, stop by the Tourbillon Boutique in Chicago.

Sticker Price $66,400 USD. For more info on Blancpain click here and for Tourbillon Boutiques here.

Posted on August 13, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Blancpain and tagged Blancpain Traditional Chinese Calendar Watch Blancpain ref. 00888-3631-55B Blancpain Calendrier Chinois Traditionnel.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Survivor. The Most Revolutionary Offshore.

When it comes to Audemars Piguet watches, we all know that because of their exclusivity and limited production, we rarely see them in the wild. Now, how often do you come in contact with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Survivor? Pretty much never. Well, here's one for your viewing pleasure.

This amazing timepiece was launched by Audemars Piguet at the end of 2008 as the limited edition Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26165IO.00.A002CA.01 in only a 1,000 pieces. It sold out almost immediately after its launch.

Without a doubt, this Royal Oak Offshore Survivor is the one that started the true evolution of the Royal Oak Offshore line into what it is today. Fitted with a blackened and perforated titanium case measuring 42mm in diameter with grooves on the profile of the case at 9, a grooved ceramic bezel and chrono pushers in ceramic with titanium guards, this watch is the perfect match to the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante Edizione Tecnica. This car is as revolutionary as this Offshore.

Even though this watch is extremely sleek and progressive in design and innovation, it still remains true to the Royal Oak Offshore nature and essence without compromise.

While the case construction appears massive and bulky, this watch wears true to its size. Just like the grooves on the case and bezel, the crown and hands are also very rugged making the watch look like a complex machine. The dial is pure perfection and very well balanced. The running seconds are on a silvered register that is fitted with a hand that has a red tip that adds the right amount of contrast.

The beating heart inside this revolutionary timepiece is the Audemars Piguet automatic calibre 3126/3840 with 59 jewels and a power reserve of 60 hours. To protect this amazing calibre, the watch is fitted with a nicely crafted and sturdy titanium case back with beautiful dimples on the center.

The rubber strap is slightly more flexible than other Offshore straps and quite comfortable. The watch is so light that it almost feels like its not on your wrist. The strap is fitted with a blackened titanium clasp very similar to the one on the Forged Carbon or Ceramic Divers. Its unmistakeable set of squared lines along the sides are the perfect match to the 'méga tapisserie' dial. The plots that connect the strap to the case have two small perforations to match the perforations on the case.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Survivor is a watch that, even after several years from its launch, still makes our hearts skip a beat with its beauty, uniqueness and overtly masculine design.

When found, the pre-owned sticker price ranges from $35,000-$42,000 USD.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.

Posted on August 12, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Survivor Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26165IO.00.A002CA.01 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante Edizione Tecnica Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Lamborghini Performante Edizione Tecnica Audemars Piguet Calibre 3126/3840 Posts 2013 2013.

Experience: Porsche Design P'3635 Lighter. Our Fellow Cigar Smoking Companion.

After our recent post on the Cohiba Maduro 5 Mágicos, we received questions from our readers regarding the lighter that was used. Therefore, we decided to put together this post to tell you everything about it.

If you are a regular reader of our website, you are definitely someone that appreciates sleek design and the finer things. This Porsche Design P'3635 torch lighter has been with us for a while now and has been a very reliable companion when smoking some of the finest Habanos and other non-Cuban cigars along our journey enjoying the good life. This lighter is part of the P'3600 Porsche Design smoking accessories line.

While we know that many of you are purists when it comes to lighting up your cigars and you would never use anything other than a box of wooden matches, it is now proven that using a jet flame lighter like this one will not ruin your cigars or affect their 'bouquet' at all.

This sleek and modern Porsche Design P'3635 lighter is thin, compact, elegant, lightweight and quite a conversation piece. We decided to feature it along with this wonderful Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph ref. 102337 reviewed here because this watch is sleek and advanced in design just like the lighter.

The Porsche Design P'3635 features a very reliable patented circular flame jet that will work very well even in the windiest conditions —just like the ones we have here in the 'Windy City'.

The lighter is composed of two panels connected with four hexagonal screws that house the modern quartz piezo ignition mechanism and the trogamid tank and is also fitted with a small fuel level window on its profile. The lighter holds up to 1.0 ml of butane gas. One thing that we also love about this lighter is that the fold away cover on the ignition button has a beautiful 'tapisserie' pattern that reminds us of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak dials. I guess we can't stop thinking about watches for a minute.

Of all lighters we've used in the past including Dunhill and S.T. Dupont, this Porsche Design is one of our favorites due to its understated look and sleek appearance. It also available in a variety of colors and finishes including bog oak wood, gray, silver pearl, black, navy blue and titan.

Sticker Price $190 USD. For more info on Porsche Design click here.

Posted on August 11, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Food Wine & Cigars, Montblanc, Luxury Goods and tagged Trogamid Tank Piezo Ignition Porsche Design P'3600 Smoking Accessories Porsche Design P'3635 Lighter Montblanc ref. 102337 Nicolas Rieussec Circular Flame Jet Lighter.

Insider: Breguet Type XXI Transatlantique 3810. A Sporty and Elegant Flyback Chronograph.

Whenever watchlifestylers hear the name Breguet, the first thing that comes to mind is elegance and an immediate association of the brand to their Classique, Tradition or Marine collections; however, the Type XX / Type XXI collection rarely comes to mind when thinking of this amazing manufacture.

The Type XX was designed in the 50s for the French naval air army and all the chronographs within this collection are fitted with a flyback mechanism that is labeled by Breguet in French language as 'Retour en Vol', flyback in English.

The Type XX / Type XXI collection features watches divided into two lines: the Aéronavale and the Transatlantique. The main difference is that the latter includes a date indicator while the first one doesn't. The Breguet Type XXI Transatlantique ref. 3810ST/92/9ZU in stainless steel has a solid and robust case measuring 42.5mm in diameter and 15.4mm in thickness. Because of the unique shape and width of its turning bezel, the watch appears somewhat larger than its actual size. The attention to details on the construction of the case is remarkable and the fluting on the caseband is very unique and great at refracting light. The watch is fitted with a screw-down crown and pump chrono pushers.

The dial is perhaps the most interesting and fascinating part of this watch. Made of ruthenium —a material rarely used by other watch manufacturers—, the dial appears brownish or even grayish depending on the lighting conditions. The dial features a running seconds register at 9, an hour chrono register and a trapezoid date aperture at 6 and a 24-hour indicator at 3 o'clock. The seconds and minutes for the chrono are indicated with two hands set at the center pinion and a minute scale imprinted on the outer ring of the dial. The white Arabic numerals along with the diamond shaped markers round up the dial configuration very nicely. The movement inside this watch is the Breguet calibre 584Q with 25 jewels and a power-reserve of 48 hours. One downside of this watch is that it is fitted with a solid case back; therefore, the calibre cannot be admired as on most Breguet watches.

This watch is fitted with a brown crocodile strap with a deployant buckle. The strap is quite comfortable as well as nice and thick. For sure, this is a strap that will last a long time and that can take on daily abuse and wear.

If you are looking to get your first Breguet but you can't afford one of their complications, this is the perfect watch with a very nice price point. Also available with stainless steel bracelet or in 18K rose gold with a brown crocodile strap.

Sticker Price $10,300 USD. For more info on Breguet click here.

Posted on August 10, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Breguet and tagged Retour en Vol Breguet Type XX Collection Breguet Type XXI Collection Breguet Aeronavale Breguet ref. 3810ST Flyback Chrono Breguet Calibre 584Q Breguet Type XXI Transatlantique ref. 3810ST/92/9ZU Breguet Transatlantique 2013.

News: Zenith Presents the El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation. 50-Piece Limited Edition for Mexico, South America and the Caribbean.

Zenith presents the El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation a limited edition of 50-pieces exclusively available in Mexico, South America and the Caribbean. The Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation is fitted with the in-house automatic chronograph calibre El Primero 405B —like all El Primero movements, it beats at 36,000 vph allowing it to measure tenths of a second.

The new El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation is equipped with a flyback chrono mechanism that allows the user to restart the chronograph on the fly without the need to first stop it using the start/stop pusher.

This new model comes in Ti-Alum, a high-tech alloy specially developed for aeronautics and car racing and which is now being used into the horological world. Its magnetic permeability is 50 times lower than that of various grades of steel and its corrosion-resistance properties are unparalleled. The movement on this new chronograph provides a power-reserve of a minimum of 50 hours when fully wound and is composed of 331 parts 31 jewels.

Sticker Price $11,500 USD. For more information on Zenith click here.

Posted on August 9, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Zenith and tagged Ti-Alum Alloy Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Tribute to Aviation 50 Piece Limited Edition Zenith Calibre 405B Zenith Limited Edition for Mexico South America and Caribbean Calibre El Primero 405 B 2013.

Macros: Hublot King Power Unico Titanium. Massive and Very Well Crafted.

The Hublot King Power Unico Titanium ref. 701.NX.0170.RX is a massive chronograph in a satin-brushed finished case measuring 48mm in diameter and 17.6mm thick. Even though this watch is very large and quite thick, it wears extremely comfortably. This fascinating timepiece is well crafted and perfectly suited for watchlifestylers that are looking to wear a watch with impactful wrist presence and strong horological values.

The Hublot King Power Unico features a very sleek openworked sapphire dial with the most fascinating calendar disc with tridimensional numbers that are the result of extreme horological engineering. The date aperture is strategically located between the 4 and 5 o'clock markers.

The automatic chronograph flyback movement —with column wheel— in this watch, is the Hublot calibre HUB 1240 composed of 330 parts, 38 jewels and a power-reserve of 3 days —fully visible through the display case back and the openworked dial.

The openworked dial features satin-finished rhodium plated applied markers with white luminescent material that are very typical of Hublot watches with the running seconds register at 9 and the 60-minute chrono register at 3 o'clock. All the visual elements on the dial along with the ability to appreciate the column wheel mechanism on the chronograph create a perfect harmony on this timepiece.

The watch is fitted with a very comfortable black rubber strap with deployant buckle in titanium and black PVD titanium. The rubber on the strap is texturized with the traditional Hublot stripes and is very soft and durable. Additionally, the watch is waterproof to a depth rating of 100 meters —330ft.

The sapphire crystal on this watch has been treated with an anti-reflective double coating that minimizes glare to fully appreciate the beauty of the openworked dial. At the right angle, you can see a beautiful blue tint on the crystal product of the superb coating on it.

The bezel on the King Power Unico is made of satin-finished titanium and black rubber with 6 H-shaped black PVD titanium screws. The unmistakeable Hublot bezel lugs at 3 and 9 o'clock, are made of a black composite resin that is very hard and shock-resistant. The crown and chrono pushers also feature a black rubber insert in them and every single component on this watch is a real treat to the eyes.

In summary, we feel the craftsmanship of this watch is spectacular and its design is very well executed and properly balanced. We'll sum it up in just six words: "This is our favorite Hublot watch".

Sticker Price $22,900 USD. For more info on Hublot click here.

Posted on August 8, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Hublot and tagged Hublot Calibre HUB 1240 Hublot King Power Unico Titanium Hublot King Power Unico 48mm Hublot ref. 701.NX.0170.RX Posts 2013 2013.

Watch Shopping: Tudor Releases Information on Authorized Dealers in the U.S. Three Dealers in Chicago.

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Tudor has finally released the information regarding the authorized dealers that will be carrying the brand on their comeback to the U.S. While not all states in the country will have authorized dealers, we are happy to announce that Illinois will have three authorized dealers in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Below you will find the information for Swiss Fine Timing, Persin & Robbin Jewelers and Razny Jewelers.

Kudos to Tudor and the three lucky dealers in Illinois!

For the full list of Tudor authorized dealers in the U.S. click here.

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Watch Shopping, Tudor and tagged Tudor Authorized Dealers in the U.S. Persin & Robbin Jewelers Razny Jewelers Swiss Fine Timing Tudor Illinois Authorized Dealers Tudor Watch Chicago Authorized Dealers Tudor 2013.

Insider: Bell & Ross Horizon Limited Edition. Another Aircraft Instrument Inspired Timepiece.

As you know, in the past we have featured other models of the Bell & Ross BR01 Flight Instruments collection here. This time we will be talking about the limited edition Bell & Ross Horizon, a very unique timepiece that was inspired by the artificial horizon instrument in aircraft cockpits.

The Bell & Ross BR01 Horizon ref. BR0192-Horizon offers superb legibility in the legendary 46mm PVD black finished stainless steel case. This limited edition is only available in 999 pieces and is part of a six-watch set of flight instrument inspired watches that compose the Aviation Flight Instruments collection. The set includes the Horizon we are reviewing, the Turn Coordinator, the Altimeter, the Air Speed, the Heading Indicator and the Climb. The first 99 Flight Instrument watches were offered in a gorgeous collector's box containing all six references. The box is designed as a control panel where all watches appear to be inserted in the panel when the box is closed.

The watch is fitted with a light gray and charcoal dial with white markers that perfectly resembles the artificial horizon flying instrument. In order to complete the resemblance even better, the watch only features hour and minute hands —no seconds hand is fitted. The hand for the hours is the thin black one with a white tip and the minute hand is an extra long hand that goes across the circumference of the dial. This minute hand is divided in two parts where the white part indicates the minutes on the dial.

The BR01 Horizon is fitted with the traditional BR rubber strap with a PVD pin-buckle that is very comfortable, flexible and soft to the touch. Upon purchase, the watch also includes a second interchangeable nylon strap.

The watch features an automatic movement, a screw-down crown, an anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal and waterproofing to 100 meters. As we've mentioned before, if you are in love with airplanes or you wanted to be a pilot but didn't make your dream come true, this watch will make you feel like you are inside the cockpit of a Beechcraft or a Cessna, flying the friendly skies.

Sticker Price $5,000 USD. For more info on Bell & Ross click here.

Posted on August 6, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Bell & Ross and tagged Bell & Ross BR01 Horizon Limited Edition Bell & Ross Flight Instruments Collection Price Bell & Ross BR01 Horizon Bell & Ross Horizon Limited Edition 999 Pieces Bell & Ross BR01 Horizon ref. BR0192-Horizon Posts 2013 2013.

Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST. The Predecessor to the 'End of Days' Limited Edition.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001.KE.01 is another one of those discontinued Audemars Piguet references that is worth talking about and spending a whole afternoon reviewing and photographing.

This amazing reference, was launched in 1997 as a predecessor to the Royal Oak Offshore 'End of Days' Limited Edition ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.KE.01 launched in the year 1999. The 'End of Days', is the first limited edition Royal Oak Offshore ever launched and released in a limited run of 500 pieces —the product of a collaboration between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Audemars Piguet while he was shooting the blockbuster movie 'End of Days'. The legendary 'End of Days' a.k.a EOD is one of the first PVD watches ever made and fitted with a charcoal Kevlar aramid fiber strap and a second interchangeable black leather strap.

As a side note, it is important to mention that there is also another very rare 'End of Days' watch bearing ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.AR.01 and of which only four pieces were ever produced —the same four pieces that Arnold Schwarzenegger wore while shooting the movie. Additionally, one unique piece was also produced bearing ref. 25770SN.OO.0050.AR.01 and this particular watch was fitted with a yellow Kevlar aramid fiber strap instead of a charcoal one.

The main difference between the Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001KE.01 and the 'End of Days', is the non-PVD stainless steel case with the same shape and cut-out ends and the blue dial with a very similar configuration with blue 'petite tapisserie' center and smooth concentric circle with Arabic numerals and gray chrono registers. The case also measures 42mm in diameter and the watch is fitted with the same charcoal Kevlar strap.

The strap on this watch is one of the most unique and distinctive straps in the market and it's also the unmistakeable touch that will help watchlifestylers spot this discontinued reference in the wild. While the Kevlar strap seems quite rugged and somewhat rough to the touch, it is extremely comfortable and one of our favorite things on this timepiece. It is really the most comfortable strap of all Audemars Piguet watches —fitted with a strap— that we've worn.

This unique Kevlar strap is a double-fastening strap made of different materials including Kevlar, seat belt like nylon, velcro and leather. The strap features two layers that are individually fastened when putting the watch on. The first layer —inner part in contact with the wrist— is made of a seat belt like nylon and lined with leather righ where the strap meets the case back of the watch. This layer comes with a velcro fastener that the wearer should first secure before fastening the second outer part of the strap. The outer part of the strap is made of Kevlar and features a small pin-buckle with an AP engraving on it.

The dial has the same hue of blue as the dial on the first Royal Oak Offshore that we reviewed here. The Arabic numerals are somewhat greenish in person —pictures make them appear more white— due to the luminous material on them. The luminescent material used on this dial, is brighter than that used on other Audemars Piguet dials —the hands and numerals glow nice and bright even when exposed to the slightest darkness while driving through a tunnel or an underpass.

The chrono registers are gray with black numerals and black hands. The chrono seconds hand is white and provides the perfect contrast along with the thin white outline on the numerals on the dial. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST a.k.a. the 'Other End of Days' is powered with the AP calibre 2226/2840 —the same calibre fitted in the first Royal Oak Offshore and most Offshores until the release of the calibre 2326/2840 several years ago— with a power-reserve of approximately 48 hours.

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Royal Oak in 1997, a limited number of Royal Oak Offshores with the same type of case as this reference, were sold on colorful leather straps matching their dials in orange, apple green, mint green, yellow and red.

This amazing reference is one of the most comfortable Royal Oak Offshores we have ever worn and a watch that calls for attention wherever you are wearing it. Its unique look and wrist presence are unparalleled, and for those watchlifestylers that are in the know, running into one of this watches is an extraordinary event and an unforgettable experience.

If you consider yourself a true Audemars Piguet collector, this is a reference that is a must have in your collection.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Audemars Piguet and tagged Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25770ST.OO.0001.KE.01 Royal Oak Offshore 'End of Days' Limited Edition ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.KE.01 Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie End of Days Watch Audemars Piguet ref. ref. 25770SN.OO.0001.AR.01 AP End of Days Watch Audemars Piguet ref. 25770SN.OO.0050.AR.01 Unique Piece Kevlar Aramid Fiber Strap Audemars Piguet ref. 25770ST Other EOD 25th Anniversary of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Posts 2013 2013.

News: Linde Werdelin SpidoLite II Tech Green and Tech Gold. Now Available at Authorized Retailers.

The SpidoLite II Tech with a case weighing only 33 grams comes in two limited edition series of 75 pieces each and is ready to be delivered to its first customers as it is now available via Linde Werdelin authorized retailers around the world. A combination of non-traditional materials employed on a watch for the first time with Linde Werdelin ALW-Alloy in the inner that case has been combined with forged carbon on the outer case to guarantee our lightest yet strongest case to date.

The SpidoLite II Tech Green has been crafted with the most high-tech materials in an advanced development to achieve the strongest and lightest case to date. The ultra light case weighing just 33 grams —measuring 44mm wide x 46mm long x 15mm thick— combines Linde Werdelin's ALW-Alloy —a metal composite developed for the aerospace industry and for the first time in a watch case— with carbon, ceramic, and the new ceramic coating for titanium in a fully skeletonized structure. Fitted with a bespoke black calfskin strap with matching green stitching is available in a limited series of 75 pieces worldwide. Sticker Price CHF 13,000 excluding VAT.

The SpidoLite II Tech Gold features the same case construction, size and materials as the SpidoLite II Tech Green but is fitted with an 18K rose gold bezel and crown. The watch comes with a dial configuration in red and matching red stitching on the SpidoLite black textured calfskin strap with ardillon buckle —interchangeable within Linde Werdelin's proprietary strap system. Sticker Price CHF 17,500 excluding VAT.

Linde Werdelin's signature case structure also features a display case back that allows for full view of the beautifully finished custom-made automatic movement that is also revealed through the skeletonized dial.

For more info on Linde Werdelin click here.

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under News, Linde Werdelin and tagged Linde Werdelin SpidoLite II Tech Green Limited Edition Linde Werdelin SpidoLite II Tech Gold Limited Edition Linde Werdelin SpidoLite II Tech Limited Editions of 75 Pieces Linde Werdelin ALW-Alloy Linde Werdelin 33 grams Watch.

Insider: Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116520. Celebrating 50 Years of an Iconic Reference.

Launched in 1963, this is a Rolex reference that needs no introduction or long lines to describe it. Fifty years ago, one of the most iconic watches of all time was born. All watchlifestylers know this watch very well, as there's a wealth of knowledge and amazing content —in cyberspace and in books— regarding the history of this amazing reference that has already been published; therefore, we will focus on sharing some nice images of this wonderful iconic watch and give you some basic reference information.

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is definitely one of our all-time favorite chronographs; however, the lack of a date aperture is a deal breaker for us. They are elegant, refined and iconic.

Any watchlifestyler can spot one from a block away and the watch spotting always turns into a nice conversation as this is still a 'grail' watch for many collectors. We should say that there's almost a 'cult following' fueled by Italian collectors and by the many intricacies and variations that this watch has had over half a century.

For those that wear this amazing reference, thank you for paying tribute to one of the most beautiful watches ever made in the history of watchmaking.

This reference, originally launched as ref. 6239 in 1963, has undergone several changes to its bezel, pushers, dial configurations, movements and reference numbers. A true evolution of a classic watch. For instance, the original ref. 6239 featured a stainless steel bezel graduated to 300 units per hour —years later the bezel was changed to 200 units per hour— and the dial didn't make any allusion to 'Daytona', the home of car racing in the U.S.

In 1965, when ref. 6240 was presented, the dial configuration had changed from 'Cosmograph' to 'Oyster Cosmograph', the pushers were changed from pump to screw-down, its water resistance was improved and the bezel changed from solid stainless steel to a bezel with a stainless steel ring and a black acrylic graduated insert with numbers in white.

Since then, there had been numerous references and changes made to this watch including changes to the case size —from 37 mm to 40 mm— and the movement. The watch was originally fitted with the manual-winding Valjoux calibre 72 and from there, it went to the automatic self-winding Zenith 400 on ref. 16520 —known as Rolex calibre 4030. Today, the Daytona is fitted with a newer and improved Rolex in-house movement calibre 4130. With all of its variations, the Daytona is a watch with perhaps the most fascinating and difficult to master history in the horological world. Every time we think we've read it all, there's a new article being published with another interesting set of facts regarding this timepiece.

By the way, a great source for information on rare, unusual Rolex watches including extremely rare Daytonas is Stefano Mazzariol's blog.

Today, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is still as timeless and classic as it was 50 years ago. Its coveted white dial makes watchlifestylers travel around the world for one, pay special premiums over the retail price and even put their names on prepaid waiting lists for one. In reality, if you are in the know and you are a watchlifestyler with a good network of collectors, finding one is way easier than what most people think.

Now, if you want to get a rare vintage piece like a Rolex Cosmograph Yacht Master ref. 6242 or a ref. 6263 'Albino', then you really need to dig underneath the stones or you can call one of your close friends in Firenze, Roma, Napoli or Livorno.

For now, the images on this fantastic Rolex Daytona ref. 116520 should be good enough to put a big smile on your face.

Sticker Price $12,000 USD. For more info on Rolex click here.

Posted on August 4, 2013 by Editor & Publisher and filed under Rolex and tagged Rolex Daytona White Dial Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116520 Rolex ref. 6239 Rolex ref. 6240 Stefano Mazzariol Rolex Calibre 4030 Rolex Calibre 4130 Rolex ref. 16520 Valjoux Calibre 72 Rolex Cosmograph Yacht Master ref. 6263 Rolex Cosmograph Albino ref. 6263 2013.