Experience: Eight Omega Watches We Absolutely Love Right Now. A Little Bit of Everything for Everyone.

Many of you often wonder what our favorite watches are by each of the different manufactures. Well, no need to keep wondering. We have decided to put together a short list of eight of our favorite Omega watches right now. These watches are not only great looking but also a great bang for your buck. 

1. The Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M ref. 224.30.55.21.01.001 is a massive diver's watch with the most fascinating look and wrist presence. Bulky, manly and very 70s looking. Measuring 55mm x 48mm and weighing almost 300 grams, this diver's watch is one of our favorites. An updated interpretation of an iconic Omega vintage watch that is priced just right. Sticker Price $9,700 USD.

2. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Chronograph in Titanium ref. 311.90.44.51.03.001 a lightweight —126 grams—, versatile and gorgeous looking chronograph with blue dial. Case diameter 44.25mm. Just because blue dials are very popular this year, this is a fantastic watch to own. Sticker Price $11,400 USD.

3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M Limited Edition Olympic Games Sochi 2014 ref. 522.30.46.21.01.001 a Planet Ocean Co-Axial 600M featuring red and blue accents on its ceramic bezel inspired by the colors of the Russian Federation flag. Case diameter 45.5mm. A limited edition watch consisting of 2014 pieces only. Sticker Price $6,600 USD.

4. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial Chronograph ETNZ Limited Edition ref. 212.32.44.50.01.001 is a limited edition watch consisting of only 2013 pieces honoring the Emirates Team New Zealand from the America's Cup. A very sporty watch with a gorgeous rubber strap and a fascinating red and black dial that includes the 5-minute regatta countdown indicator. Sticker Price $6,600 USD.

5. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Co-Axial Chronograph in Red Gold ref. 231.50.44.50.06.001 a classic and robust chronograph in red gold with a fascinating teak pattern gray dial. The Aqua Terra collection recalls the wooden decks of luxury sailboats. Case diameter 44mm. This is not your run-of-the-mill solid gold timepiece weighing more than half a pound —close to 260 grams. Sticker Price $44,200 USD.

6. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT GoodPlanet ref. 232.30.44.22.03.001  an ideal watch for frequent travelers that helps keep track of two timezones with a stunning lacquered blue dial and orange accents on its blue ceramic bezel. This watch was designed as a tribute to the rewarding partnership between Omega and the GoodPlanet Foundation where Omega has pledged a portion of the proceeds from this watch to fully fund a project to preserve mangroves, seagrasses and coral reefs in the oceans of Southeast Asia. Case diameter 43.5mm. Sticker Price $8,100 USD.

7. Omega Speedmaster Alaska Project Limited Edition ref. 311.32.42.30.04.001 a discontinued limited edition of 1970 pieces that honors one of the most fascinating projects between Omega and NASA. The watch is provided with a large —57mm in diameter by 23mm in thickness— red-anodized aluminum protective case and the watch itself has a diameter of 42mm. This watch is also supplied with a stainless steel bracelet and a white Velcro fastening strap. Sticker Price $5,600 USD.

8. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M ref. 232.30.46.21.01.003 a classic, sturdy and elegant diver's watch with a gorgeous ceramic bezel. Case diameter 45.5mm. A must have in any collection. Sticker Price $6,200 USD.

For more info on Omega click here.  

News: Audemars Piguet Ambassador LeBron James Visits 'La Manufacture' in Le Brassus.

Press Release

Audemars Piguet ambassador, crowned NBA champion as well as world’s Most Valuable Player for the second year running, LeBron James paid a one-day visit to the Manufacture in Le Brassus.

His visit included the Audemars Piguet Museum followed by a tour of the 'Manufacture des Forges' where he spent time in various ateliers including the Specialties and Grande Complication. “Visiting the Audemars Piguet Manufacture in Le Brassus for the first time was an amazing experience. It is such a beautiful place and I really enjoyed learning and seeing firsthand how the watch is made from beginning to end,” said LeBron after his visit.

LeBron James has written one of the most impressive pages in basketball history over the past couple of seasons, with consecutive regular-season MVP awards, consecutive NBA titles as well as NBA Finals MVP trophies bracketing two Olympic gold medals. He has become the third player in league history after Michael Jordan and Bill Russell to win back-to-back Finals MVP and regular-season MVP awards.

LeBron James perfectly embodies Audemars Piguet’s brand philosophy “to break the rules, you must first master them”. Striving for perfection and passionate for the game, he constantly reinvents and raises the bar for himself. A keen devotee of Haute Horlogerie, LeBron wears a Millenary 4101.

For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.  

Experience: Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H6 Headphones. Class, Distinction and Pure Sound Quality.

Last month, renowned Danish maker Bang & Olufsen —B&O— launched their newest headphone creation, BeoPlay H6 headphones designed by Jakob Wagner. B&O introduced their first set of headphones, the U70, back in 1978 which means that their design principles introduced nearly four decades ago have been further refined and developed ever since. These are not your run-of-the-mill Beats by Dr. Dre that everyone and their mother are wearing. These headphones are classy and distinguished.

These around-the-ear type headphones are the ultimate in design, fidelity, luxury and comfort. The BeoPlay H6 are fitted with the softest lambskin leather on the ear pads and the memory foam inside them adapts to the shape of your ears perfectly. The headband area is made of calfskin leather to guarantee durability and proper aging over time. Underneath the leather of the headband, there's the right amount of padding to provide ultimate comfort.

Something we love about the natural color leather is that over time it will start gaining patina becoming darker and evolving into a set of headphones full of character. If you are someone that appreciates Danish design —like on the Linde Werdelin SpidoSpeed Black Orange pictured here— then these headphones are a must have for you. Inside the ear pads you'll find the Left and Right indicators carefully imprinted.

The headphones come with a removable cable with 1/8'' tips and the ability to plug the cable to either side of the headphones. The unused side allows for the user to share his/her music with someone else by plugging their own headphones to the B&O BeoPlay H6. The cable includes a small built-in control that can be used to adjust the volume or to play/pause the music. The headphones also include a nice black travel bag.

The B&O BeoPlay H6 offer truly natural and authentic sound performance with focus on a clear mid-range with a balanced bass and treble performance.  It includes a 40mm custom-designed driver with a neodymium magnet in a closed headphone design. The BeoPlay H6 has a bass port, which optimizes the bass performance, and drivers that are slightly angled to get the best distance and sound direction into the ears. The sound quality is way superior to other headphones we've used in the past including the Sennheiser or the Bowers & Wilkins.

If you don't want to be seen around wearing that huge red 'b' on your headphones, maybe its time for you to continue to embrace the best in life, just as you wouldn't want to be seen wearing a cheap watch. Headphones also available in black.

Sticker Price $399 USD. For more info on Bang & Olufsen Beoplay click here.  

Insider: Blacpain Fifty Fathoms Automatique for Ladies. The Perfect Diver's Watch for Ladies that Know Better.

This time we have decided to create a special post for our female readers. This special photo gallery features the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatique in white and baby blue just for the ladies.

This Blancpain Fifty Fathoms ref. 5015A-1144-52A comes fitted with a gorgeous white mother-of-pearl dial with baby blue accents and matching rotating bezel. The ladies version of the Fifty Fathoms Automatique measures 45mm in diameter —same as the men's model— but its case is not fitted with an anti-magnetic protective case back like on the traditional black dial Fifty Fathoms ref. 5015-1130-52. The ladies model is fitted with a display case back that allows for a full view of Blancpain's automatic calibre 1315 composed of 227 parts, 35 jewels and that provides a power reserve of five full days when fully wound. A power reserve of this nature is ideal for those ladies that like to rotate their watches throughout the week without needing to worry about setting the time after the watch has stopped after two days of not wearing it. Additionally, the rotor on the movement is decorated with the beautiful conch motif.

To make it even more ladylike, the watch is fitted with a gorgeous white sail canvas strap. Interestingly enough, the blue accents on the dial and bezel are the perfect match to the blue color on the limited edition Louis Vuitton White Takashi Murakami Monogram purses. The strap is fitted with a pin buckle; however, there's the option to get the deployant buckle also available for this model.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most gorgeous ladies watches out there, that even though it is very sporty and a perfect ladies execution of the classic Fifty Fathoms, the watch still feels very feminine. This is a watch perfectly made for those watchlifestylers looking for the real deal when it comes to the timepieces that their significant others should be wearing. 

Sticker Price $17,200 USD. For more info on Blancpain click here.

Insider: Jaquet Droz Twelve Cities. A Very Easy to Use Worldtimer that Takes You Around the World in 12 Jumping Hours.

The Jaquet Droz Twelve Cities ref. J010133202 from the Majestic Beijing collection is the most simple, yet extremely elegant interpretation of a worldtimer with the ability to quickly check the time in twelve cities/timezones with the push of a button. Featuring a black 'Grand Feu' enamel dial, an 18K red gold case measuring 43mm in diameter and an automatic movement that provides a power reserve of 68 hours when fully wound, the Jaquet Droz Twelve Cities is the perfect companion for world travelers or those doing business with partners in multiple time zones that are looking for a worldtimer that is very easy to operate with one simple click.

Once you've set your local home time and city, all it takes is for you to push the button located right above the crown at 2 o'clock to travel in time to twelve major cities included in the aperture at 6 o 'clock. Cities included are Mexico, New York, Shanghai, Tokyo, Sydney, Azores, London, Genève, Istanbul, Moscow, Dubai and Aspen. The dial features a jumping hours aperture at 12 o'clock and a single hand marking the minutes.

The automatic calibre Jaquet Droz 5153 with double barrel and beautifully decorated 22K white gold oscillating weight is fully visible through the display case back. This movement features 28 jewels and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph. As you can see in the pictures, this watch is available in a limited edition of only 88 pieces that are properly marked on the dial and the case back. The crown and the pusher that is used to advance the timezones are perfectly executed in a very elegant way.

The watch wears very comfortably and slightly bigger than its actual size due to its slightly domed sapphire crystal and the lack of a bezel on the case which makes the dial appear even larger. The Jaquet Droz Twelve Cities is fitted with a gorgeous rolled-edge black alligator strap with pin buckle in 18K red gold. Even though this fascinating timepiece is waterproof to a depth of 30 meters, as usual, we wouldn't recommend getting the strap wet.  

If you are a world traveler, a stock/commodity trader or you are just someone that likes worldtimer complications for the heck of it, this Jaquet Droz will help you scratch the itch for that next timepiece you've been looking for the past couple of weeks.

 

Sticker Price $31,200. For more info on Jaquet Droz click here.

 

News: Jaquet Droz Grande Heure GMT. Available in Stores Now.

Press Release

The Grande Heure GMT Jaquet Droz arrives in stores. The timepiece pays tribute to Pierre Jaquet Droz’s travels with clean lines, a classic design and precious material. This latest model, featuring perfect legibility for two time zones, flawlessly meets the demands of the modern and stylish globe trotter. It offers a simple, precise way to read the time in two time zones.

The 24 indexes in Arabic numerals set around a Grand Feu enamel dial make it easy to see all the hours of the day in two cities.

Never before has a watch presented such a clear, effortless indication of two time zones. This technological development is enhanced by the majestic hands in the form of a compass, a detail which hints at the navigational instruments used by sailors of another era. The red hand indicates local time while the blued steel hand shows the time at the destination. When the two hands come together in the same time zone they merge into a single, bi-colored indication of the exact time.

Jaquet Droz has shown its commitment to simplicity and practicality in the Grande Heure GMT by boldly choosing a time-setting system with a single crown. The result is a watch design of distinctive purity, perfectly combining the ivory color of the dial with the rich red gold of the case. 

 

For more info on Jaquet Droz click here.

 

Posted on September 18, 2013 and filed under News, Jaquet Droz.

Insider: Badollet Crystalball Bamboo. An Exceptional and Very Exclusive Manufacture that Excels in Watchmaking.

Last week we had the opportunity to have breakfast with Philippe Dubois the CEO of Badollet. Not only did we have an amazing conversation with him about his brand but we also talked about the watch industry and where things are heading. Philippe, thank you for sharing such a fascinating morning and afternoon with us.

Badollet is an independent brand with a strong pedigree that, because of its exclusivity and high price range, is only accessible for the ultra elite watchlifestylers. While we were already familiar with the brand before meeting with Philippe, we have never perused a Badollet timepiece before. To be quite frank, it is one thing to see stock images of these watches and something very different to see one in person, peruse it and photograph it. This will be the beginning of a series of reviews of Badollet timepieces that we will be publishing here in the upcoming weeks.  

The Badollet name is part of a dynasty of watchmakers initiated by Jean Badollet (1635-1718) a watchmaker that published in 1689 a work entitled "“The Excellence of Watchmaking” or Small Treatise Describing its Antiquity, its Fundamentals, its Necessity and its Curiosities". Jean Badollet passed on his passion for watchmaking to his six sons. Jean-Jacques Badollet (1756-1843) worked for Abraham-Louis Breguet by supplying him with movement-blanks, gear-trains and “trade watches”. Jean-Moïse Badollet (1811-1862), the son of Jean-Jacques, established the firm “J.M. Badollet & Cie” which quickly became renowned for the excellent quality of its chronometers winning the first prize at the Observatory Timing Contest of 1872, second prize in 1873, third prize in 1875 and the first class medal at the Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 a.k.a. the Philadelphia World's Fair. After several descendants of Badollet managed the company for almost a century, in 1924 the company was sold to a third party and the long dynasty of Badollet master watchmakers came to an end. Despite this, the brand lived on and in 2006 Badollet was revived by Badollet International S.A.

Badollet timepieces —often called instruments of time” by the company— are designed and developed with the buyer in mind and their production is limited to 50 timepieces a year. Their collection is composed of five lines: Crystalball Stellaire, Crystalball Bamboo, Crystalball Chronograph, Observatorie 1872 and Ivresse.

The Crystalball Bamboo is a rectangular watch fitted with a tripartite 18K white gold palladium-coated case measuring 40mm in width, 43mm in length and 14mm in thickness. The case is extremely well finished with alternating brushed and polished areas on the side of the case and even when the measurements really don't portray a large watch, this watch wears considerably larger than its actual size and sits high on the wrist with an amazing wrist presence. The attention to details is immaculate and the overall design of the watch is very masculine and quite timeless. The crown is delicately marked with Badollet's griffin. The lugs are hollow and welded into the case providing another interesting design component to this timepiece.

This timepiece features a skeletonized dial in 18K white gold with a blackened gold-coated brass base, leaf-shaped blued anodized steel hands and a mesmerizing tourbillon cage. The Crystalball Bamboo is powered by Badollet's manual-wound calibre BAD5600 with aluminum and lithium bridges entirely hand-engraved to resemble bamboo scaffolding. The plate and gears are made from blackened gold and the movement provides a power-reserve of five days when fully wound.

This movement is perhaps the most beautiful movement our eyes have ever seen. The intricate work on each of the bridges shows the love for horology and the level of detail obtained by the watchmaker when engraving the bridges is just out of this world. As a side note, Badollet offers ad-hoc personalization where the bridges or other components of the movement can be changed, engraved, replaced with ceramic, sapphire or even encrusted with jewels. All Badollet timepieces can be fully customized and even designed from scratch upon request. What a brilliant product offering for the few that can afford it.  …   

The Crystalball Bamboo, just like all other Badollet timepieces, is fitted with a very elegant safari crocodile leather strap that is handmade, leather-lined, hand-creased, saddle-stitched and available in matte or glossy finish. The strap features an 18K white gold palladium-coated double-deployant folding clasp with a round buckle with the Badollet griffin engraved on it.

If you are ready to take that next step into collecting ultra premium 'haute horlogerie' timepieces then it's time to consider Badollet as one of your next purchases. Tradition, craftsmanship, innovation and exclusivity are some of the values that embody the essence of this manufacture from L'Orient in the Vallée de Joux.

Sticker Price $250,000 USD. For more info on Badollet click here.  

Insider: BMW Alpina B7. A Powerful and Elegant Sedan Like No Other.

Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen GmbH is an automobile manufacturing company based in Buchloe, in the Ostallgäu district of Bavaria, Germany selling their own cars, based on BMW cars. Alpina works closely with BMW and their processes are integrated into BMW's production lines. The Alpina B7 is produced at the same assembly line in Dingolfing, Germany, along with all other BMW 7-Series. Today, the only Alpina offered in the USA is the Alpina B7.

The BMW Alpina B7 is the most powerful and elegant sedan in its class. This car is based off of the 750i/750Li and is almost like what an M7-series would be if it existed. Fitted with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 this sedan boasts 540 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque. The Alpina B7 has a sportier look when compared to the traditional 7-Series and is fitted with 21-inch wheels with Alpina’s signature 20-spoke design. This BMW is better equipped and way more elegant that its regular counterpart. The Alpina B7 is respected for its impressive power and desired for its luxurious interior, just like the luxurious look of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo ref. 5402 on our wrist.

Even though the Alpina B7 is a massive car that feels like a tank, it reaches 60 mph from a full stop in only 4.3 seconds. To complete its ultimate sporty look, this car is fitted with front and rear spoilers. 

The interior is extremely luxurious featuring a combination of leather with 'alcantara' and a black glossy trim. The car is equipped with all the options that you can think of including a sunroof, the ability to check the speed on the windshield, a rear-view camera, sport driving mode, bluetooth and navigation amongst other features.

Its roomy interior with spectacular finishes will mesmerize you if you happen to buy one or ride in one. Additionally, a discreet CD changer is fitted under the airbag compartment on the passenger side and the car is equipped with powered privacy shades on the rear and passenger windows. The design of the door handles and every line of its interior is exquisite, modern and very sleek. 

In the Alpina B7, you can be certain that those riding in the back will have no issues with space or leg room. Even in the short wheel-base model like this one, the leg room is excellent and rear passengers have the ability to control the A/C system with their own controls. Additionally, the back is fitted with a collapsible center arm rest with storage and cup holders.  

If you are ready to ride in luxury without compromising power and performance, the Alpina B7 is the ideal car for you. Even though we are huge Porsche enthusiasts, we can tell you that this car drives way better than a Porsche Panamera.

Sticker Price starts at $128,495 USD for the short-wheelbase and at $132,395 for the long-wheelbase. For more info on the BMW Alpina B7 click here.  

Experience: Lanvin Captoe Felt and Grenade Leather Sneakers. The Watchlifestylers' Choice.

Lanvin is the oldest French 'haute couture' house and was founded in 1889 by Madame Jeanne Lanvin as a hat boutique. Working out of her small apartment located at 22 Rue de Faubourg-St. Honoré in Paris, Jeanne started making such beautiful clothes for her daughter Marie-Blanche de Polignac that in 1908 she decided to branch out and launched a children's apparel line.

In 1909, Lanvin joined the 'Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture' which marked her formal status as a 'couturièr' and started making dresses for the Parisian female elite. By the late 1920s and in celebration of her daughter's 30th birthday, Jeanne launched the perfume 'Arpège' which quickly became a huge success. At the same time, Jeanne introduced her new logo —Jeanne as a mother dressed in a flowing evening dress holding her daughter's hand— on the bottle of 'Arpège'. This is the same logo that today is an icon and synonym of one of the most exclusive 'haute couture' houses in the world. In 1994, L'Oreal purchased the company and seven years later sold it to Shaw-Lan Wang, a Chinese media magnate. It was not until 2010 when Lanvin opened a boutique on Madison Avenue and a year later three boutiques in Moscow.  

The Lanvin Captoe sneakers are not only the most iconic luxury sneakers in the market but also a sneaker that is extremely popular among celebrities and watchlifestylers. The Lanvin Captoe sneaker comes in a variety of types of leather, finishes, captoes and combinations. The most popular model to date is the one featuring suede with a patent leather captoe.

The Lanvin Captoe sneaker ref. AM5DBB1LANP7B is the newest model in the low sneaker captoe line. Featuring navy blue felt and a black grenade grain leather captoe, this is a shoe that will make an impression wherever you go wearing them, just like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver in our pictures.

The shoes are not only perfectly designed but also very well crafted and extremely comfortable. The shoes feature leather piping along the ankle area, by the shoe lace grommets and on the back of the heel.

These shoes are fully lined with dark brown leather and their interior is very soft and features extra cushion on the heel tab and the shoe tongue. The shoes feature ventilation grommets around the arch area and perfect length shoe laces in blue. 

Opposed to the traditional full white soles on all other Lanvin Captoe sneakers, the felt model features white soles with a black inlay on the front, bottom and heel. This is a nice contrasting touch that sets this model apart from the others.  

If you are a true watchlifestyler and you are tired of wearing what everyone else has on, run over to Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman or the Lanvin boutique and get a pair of these amazing shoes that look as good with a pair of jeans or with a suit. We promise you won't regret it.

Sticker Price $570 USD. For more info on Lanvin click here.  

News: Tudor Watch Officially Launched in the U.S. Welcome Back to an Amazing Selection of Timepieces.

Last night, Tudor Watch officially relaunched their watches in the U.S. during New York's Fashion Week at the IAC building —a Frank Gehry designed building completed in 2007. With a wide array of models suiting almost everyone's taste, the Tudor comeback is one that most watchlifestylers have been hoping for for a very long time.

The selection includes the Heritage Advisor, the GranTour —FIA World Endurance Championship Timing Partner—, the Fastrider and Fastrider Black Shield —Ducati's Timing Partner—, the Heritage Black Bay, the Pelagos, the Heritage Chrono and Heritage Chrono Blue, the Glamour and the Clair de Rose. Make sure you stop by your closest authorized dealer and check them out.

Welcome back Tudor Watch. For more info on Tudor Watch click here.  

News: Jaeger-LeCoultre and Film Society of Lincoln Center Name English Director and Writer Andrea Arnold the '2013 Filmmaker in Residence' at the 51st New York Film Festival.

Jaeger-LeCoultre and Film Society of Lincoln Center are pleased to name English Director and Writer Andrea Arnold as the 2013 Filmmaker in Residence during the 51st New York Film Festival, as part of their multi-year partnership, which kicked off in April at the 40th Anniversary Chaplin Award Gala in April, honoring Barbra Streisand.
 
The Filmmaker in Residence initiative is to further the goals of filmmakers at an earlier stage in the creative process. Andrea Arnold will have the opportunity to focus on developing or refining new work, and participate in master classes, mentorships or cultural exchange and enrichment film programs with the Film Society of Lincoln members, the film community and the public.
 
“We are thrilled to announce Andrea Arnold as the 2013 Filmmaker in Residence during the 51st New York Film Festival. Our partnership with Jaeger-LeCoultre on this cornerstone program fosters excellence in the filmmaking community, and reflects our shared belief in the universal power of film to inspire and engage the global community.” -- Rose Kuo, Executive Director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center.

For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here and for the Film Society of Lincoln Center here.  

Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Classique. The Clock Powered by Ambient Temperature Variations.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos clock is the only clock in the world that requires no battery, electric current or winding of any kind. The clock is powered solely by changes in the ambient temperature and its movement is virtually perpetual.

Even when Leonardo da Vinci had already demonstrated that perpetual motion was not feasible because of the laws of physics, Neuchâtel engineer Jean-Léon Reutter designed this completely revolutionary clock in 1928 and it only took a few more years of research by Jaeger-LeCoultre to transpose the idea into technical reality and patent it. The principle of the Atmos lies in a hermetically closed capsule with a gaseous mixture which expands when the temperature rises and contracts when it falls. Connected to the driving spring, the capsule swells like the bellows of an accordion and winds the clock constantly. Between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, a temperature fluctuation of a single degree is enough to ensure an operating autonomy of about two days.

The Atmos clock is designed so that no excessive resistance opposes this minimum power. The Atmos balance wheel oscillates slowly and majestically at only 120 vph — 60 times less quickly than that of a traditional clock, 240 times less quickly than a wristwatch movement and 1,966,000 times less quickly than a quartz watch movement— and it hangs from a steel alloy wire that is as fine as a hair and yet stable and resistant, thereby keeping any loss of energy due to friction to a minimum. The gearing is so perfect that it requires no lubrication and oil would merely clog the mechanism. 

To get an idea of the delicacy of this minute energy transfer, consider the fact that 60 million Atmos clocks together would consume no more energy than a weak 15-watt electric light bulb. All the components of the Atmos clock are incredibly precise
and dependable, so that it operates virtually without any wear. It is therefore distinguished by its long service life which —theoretically— can be as long as 600 years. Below we have included a diagram that shows the different components of the clock in order to better understand its mechanism.

A unique gem of horological technology, the Atmos clock is a timekeeper of distinction for Heads of State and numerous sovereigns. For over half a century, the Atmos clock has been the official gift of the Swiss Confederation. Eminent recipients of this clock include John F. Kennedy, Sir Winston Churchill, General Charles de Gaulle and Charlie Chaplin amongst other personalities.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Classique clock ref. 5101202 is housed in its gold-plated brass cabinet with a removable front glass door. The dimensions of the clock are 200mm in width, 155mm in depth and 225mm in height and the beating heart is the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 560 composed of 207 pieces and 15 jewels. The dial features Roman numerals and blue 'poire' hands.  In order to ensure proper operation, the clock is fitted with a built-in leveling indicator at the front and leveling knobs.

Most Atmos clocks will not operate at all unless they have first been properly leveled and always remember that you should never move an Atmos clock when the balance wheel —pendulum— is moving.  Once you have leveled the clock properly, then you can adjust the time by delicately advancing the minute hand with your finger but keep in mind that the hour hand should never be touched and do not adjust the time without first making sure that the balance wheel is locked and never move the minute hand in a counterclockwise direction.                                     

In order to prevent damage to the mechanism, Jaeger-LeCoultre has fitted the Atmos clock with a locking lever that is located underneath the dial and right above the balance wheel. The locking lever is in the unlocked position when it's moved all the way to the left and in the locked position all the way to the right. Never, never attempt to move the Atmos clock before locking the balance wheel. If you need to lock the balance wheel in order to move the clock, always wait until it stops moving and then immediately slide the lever. Never stop the balance wheel when it's still rotating and never touch it to make it move or to stop it.

In order to maintain proper regulation, the Atmos clock is fitted with a regulation adjustment lever located on the top of the clock frame right by where the wire is located. This lever can be used to regulate the clock in case it is running fast or slow. Typically, if the clock is running accurately and keeping correct time, the lever should be exactly centered between the plus and minus symbols. If you find it necessary to increase or decrease the speed of the clock, always adjust it by moving the lever one graduation mark at a time and allowing a few days in between the next adjustment in case it is necessary.

The clock includes an additional leveling knob that is located towards the back and this leveling knob can only be accessed through the bottom of the clock. Remember to not tilt the clock unless the balance wheel has been locked with the lever. Also underneath the clock, you will find the shipping screw that needs to be unscrewed before being able to start the balance wheel. The clock will not start running unless you have unscrewed this center screw.

The Atmos clock is a masterpiece of horology and one of the classiest table clocks ever created. If you are ready to add the most elegant decorative touch to the credenza in that corner office you just got a few months ago, look no further. Your peers will be amazed by this fascinating clock and you won't have to worry about replacing a battery for as long as you own it.

Sticker Price $6,900 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.

Insider: Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon Numbered Edition. The World's First and Only Central Tourbillon.

The Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon featured here is not only the first and only central tourbillon watch ever made, but it's also a watch that is crafted by a select group of horologists from Omega. This sublime watch ref. 59333032 comes with an 18K red gold case measuring 38.7mm in diameter —in a specially numbered edition— and is fitted with a gorgeous silver hand 'guilloché' dial with the watch case number imprinted at 6 o'clock, a touch that resembles the dials on Breguet timepieces where the case number always appears on the dial.

Its mesmerizing tourbillon cage is located at the center of the dial and it rotates completely once every minute. The blue anodized seconds hand is shaped like the Omega symbol and is fixed directly to the tourbillon cage. The dial features two superimposed sapphire discs on which the hour and minutes hands are etched in the shape of arrowheads in blue. The size of both hands is quite similar, making it somewhat difficult to tell time —not a deal breaker as you will be hypnotized by its central tourbillon and after contemplating it for hours, who cares about what time it is. 

This watch is powered by Omega's automatic calibre 2600 which provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours when fully wound. Unfortunately, the calibre is not visible as this watch is fitted with a solid case back that is beautifully engraved with an image of 'Chronos' —the ancient Greek personification of time— and with the words 'Tourbillon' and 'Chronometer' as this movement is an Officially Certified Chronometer.

The traditional crown located at 3 o'clock is only used to wind the watch —if necessary— as the time is set using the flat crown placed on the case back near the 9 o'clock position. This is a very interesting feature and something that was necessary from a mechanical and design standpoint as the hands are etched onto the two superimposed sapphire discs.

This Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon is fitted with a brown alligator strap with a comfortable and easy to use deployant buckle in 18K red gold. Even though the watch is waterproof to a depth of 30 meters, we wouldn't recommend getting the strap wet and ruining it. We've said this before about other watches fitted with crocodile or alligator straps that are not suitable for swimming.

This timepiece wears quite comfortably and true to its size. The watch is very elegant but is not necessarily the most versatile timepiece when it comes to the types of outfits that would go well with it.

If you want to own one of the most unique tourbillons out there, this Omega De Ville Central Tourbillon fits the bill as it is the world's first and only central tourbillon.

Sticker Price $104,000 USD. For more info on Omega click here.

Upcoming: Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches. Nineteen Prestigious Brands Participating October 10-13, 2013 in Beverly Hills.

Press Release

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – The Rodeo Drive Committee and the City of Beverly Hills will present the Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches from October 10 thru October 13, 2013.  The event will celebrate the largest collection of luxury watch brands and exquisite timepieces on the West Coast.  Craftsmanship, innovation and watch design will be on display throughout the multi-day event.

For aficionados and connoisseurs alike, the Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches kicks-off with a street-wide open house on Thursday, October 10th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.  To celebrate the art of watchmaking, twenty distinguished boutiques will feature product launches, exclusive watchmaker appearances, exhibition debuts and a variety of special hospitality. Both men’s and women’s watches will be highlighted and will showcase highly complicated timepieces, as well as other watch trends.

Highlights of the timepieces featured will include: Porsche Design’s P’6752 WorldTraveler, Blancpain Tourbillon, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Master Ultra Thin Jubilee, Hublot’s Big Bang Ferrari Beverly Hills Limited Edition and the Van Cleef & Arpels’ Papillons Extraordinary Dials, Bulgari’s Grande Complication watches for women, three new timepieces from the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph line at Westime; and Richard Mille’s RM 52-01, which is released as a limited edition of 30 pieces in nano-ceramic featuring an 18K red gold skull.

“After Switzerland, there is no place on earth, besides Rodeo Drive, where there is such a high concentration of luxury watch brands in a two block area,” says event chair, Adrienne Lee.  “The Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches is a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to view and experience timepieces from the world’s most respected brands in one place.”

The Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches will feature twenty acclaimed brands participating on Rodeo Drive, Brighton Way and Wilshire Boulevard. Those participating, include Breguet, Bulgari, David Yurman, Ermenegildo Zegna, Harry Winston, Hublot, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jason of Beverly Hills, Louis Vuitton, Montblanc, Officine Panerai, Patek Philippe, Porsche Design, Richard Mille, Rolex, Vacheron Constantin, Van Cleef & Arpels and Westime. The Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches is sponsored by the City of Beverly Hills, Bulgari, David Yurman, Hublot, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille and Westime.  Media partners include The Hollywood Reporter, Robb Report and The Beverly Hills Courier.
 
For more info on the event click here.

News: Richard Mille Congratulates Rafael Nadal. Second US Open Title.

Press Release

The Spaniard Rafael Nadal defeated top-ranked Novak Djokovic in four sets. After missing last year's US Open during a seven-month absence due to a knee injury, Nadal is now poised to regain the number one ranking. Nadal has won 13 Grand Slam singles titles, and he plays all of his matches with the Richard Mille RM 27-01 Tourbillon on his right wrist.

For more info on Richard Mille click here.  

Image: Getty Images. 

Rare Bird: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref. 1630. The Datejust that Looks Like an Oysterquartz but it's an Automatic.

Last week while we were visiting our friend Howard Frum and taking some pictures for the story we published last Friday, we were amazed to find not one but two Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref. 1630s at his store. An amazing find of a true 'rare bird'.

The 'rare bird' Rolex ref. 1630 was introduced a few years earlier than the Oysterquartz as its predecessor —at least from a case and bracelet standpoint. While the stainless steel version of this watch was named Oyster Perpetual Date ref. 1530, the two-tone version bears the name Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref. 1630. Interestingly enough, the case diameter on both watches is 36mm and not 34mm and 36mm respectively as it typically happens between a Date and a Datejust.

The ref. 1530 was fitted with an integrated 'Oyster' bracelet while ref. 1630 came with an integrated 'Jubilee' bracelet. A timeless and very 'Gerald Genta' looking design that would later be adopted by the Rolex Oysterquartz. As you can imagine, very few 1530s and 1630s were made in the 1970s.

For this particular timepiece, the reference number marking is located on the back of the case right behind where the 1 and 2 o'clock markers would be located on the dial. The serial number marking is typically located on the opposite side from where the reference number is engraved. The serial numbers for this model fall within the 5.1 and 5.4 million range.

This Rolex ref. 1630 came fitted with an integrated 'Jubilee' bracelet code 96673 in 14K yellow gold and stainless steel. The main difference between the two-tone bracelet in the Oysterquartz ref. 17013 and this one, is that the bracelet on the Oysterquartz comes with two gold center links while the bracelet on the ref. 1630 has three gold center links. It is very common to have unscrupulous sellers replace the bracelet of the ref. 1630 with the one on the ref. 17013 so be very careful. The clasp is identical to other Rolex clasps and the clasp code shows the letter B —circa 1977 and correct to the time period of this watch— and the number 14 indicating the type of yellow gold in this bracelet is 14K.

Another difference —besides the obvious difference in movement and dial imprint that doesn't say Oysterquartz— between ref. 1630 and the Oysterquartz, is the presence of a flange with a minute and half minute track. Something worth mentioning, is that ref. 1530 came with a minute track flange with the same layout as the one one on the second picture. As far as we know, all original flanges on ref. 1630 show the minutes and half minutes, while service replacement flanges only show markers for the minutes.

Without a doubt, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust ref. 1630 is one of the most iconic watches of all time and a clear example of an era influenced by flat top cases and Royal Oak inspired designs. Long live the Rolex ref. 1630. 

If you find one of these rare references, make sure you have done your homework and always, always buy the buyer.

Pre-owned Sticker Price $3,800-5,000 USD depending on the condition. For more info on Rolex click here.  

News: Parade of Mechanical Masterpieces in St. Moritz at 'Passione Engadina'. Eberhard & Co. the Main Sponsor.

Press Release

Passione Engadina, vintage cars event was sponsored by Eberhard & Co. for the second consecutive year. The event took place during the Aug. 24-25 weekend with the participation of over 70 Italian vintage cars produced up to 1983. A great success, also thanks to a location —St. Moritz at the end of summer— that attracted participants from all over Europe.
 
The event was a parade of mainly Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Alfa Romeo
amazing historical pieces that could be admired along the Swiss Alps route on Saturday and in the center of St. Moritz at the Concours d’Elegance held on the following Sunday.
 
The “Best in show Tribute” was awarded to a Maserati 450 S from 1958 —pictured at the top— belonging to Werner Kummer. The “Elegance” prize was awarded to a Fiat 1500 Ghia Coupé of 1963, owner Helmut Wanke, an evergreen symbol of elegance and sporting spirit.
 
Eberhard & Co. awarded one of its prestigious timepieces to each winner of the three competing categories.  Axel Marx, winner of the pre-war category with his wife as copilot in his fantastic Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport from 1932, received a Tazio Nuvolari chronograph, from the emblematic collection dedicated by Eberhard & Co. to the great driver of the past.
 
Mario Peserico, Managing Director of Eberhard & Co. in team with Carlo Borgonovi on his Maserati Ghibli SS, obtained the third position in his category, an additional reason for the Swiss Maison to rejoice and strengthen its link with the world of timeless cars.

For more info on Passione Engadina click here.  

News: The Hour Glass Singapore Unveils its First Pop-Up Store. The Theme 'Super Machines and Horological Heroes'.

Press Release

The Hour Glass will unveil another groundbreaking project in the form of a pop-up store situated at the heart of Orchard Road at leading shopping center Paragon from September 18th thru the 30th. Themed “Super Machines and Horological Heroes”, this pop-up will stage some of the most iconic and avant-garde timepieces, paying homage to a collective of individuals who revolutionized watchmaking and watch design at the turn of the millennium.
 
Coinciding with the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix Race weekend, “Super Machines and Horological Heroes” will offer a unique cultural experience to both locals and out-of-town guests during the 13-day showcase at the Main Atrium of Paragon shopping center. Stemming from The Hour Glass’ reputation as a pioneering stalwart in promotion and development of contemporary horological culture around the world, “Super Machines and Horological Heroes” is another manifestation of this mission.

Hailed by pundits as ‘Superheroes’ in the world of horology, these trailblazing brands and individuals harnessed the dexterity and technological advancement in artistic watchmaking; giving rise to these spectacular ‘super machines’.
 
A platform of many-firsts that include: Launch of 21 Novelties of which 7 are exclusives for The Hour Glass, 4 Live Technical Artistry Showcases, a Magnificent Showcase of the GPHG Masterpieces from 2006, a Plenary Session of Legendary Independent Watchmakers.

Featured brands include: Ulysse Nardin, Parmigiani Fleurier, De Bethune, Hublot, MB&F, Urwerk, Romain Jerome and H. Moser & Cie.  

For more info on the Hour Glass click here.  

Experience: Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT. One of the Most Luxurious Maseratis.

The Maserati Quattroporte Executive GT is a car that comes with some of the most fascinating touches and details of any car in this price range. Maserati’s flagship sedan is powered by a Ferrari-engineered 4.7 liter 425hp V8 engine. The Quattroporte was launched in 1963, a year after His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV —magnate, racehorse breeder and current 49th Imam of Nizari Ismailism— ordered a special Maserati 5000 WP, chassis no. 103,060 designed by Pietro Frua —the famous Maserati, Glas and Renault car designer.

The Executive GT version of the Quattroporte was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January 2006. It is based on a special Neiman-Marcus version with 19-inch ball-polished wheels and an 'Alcantara' suede interior roof lining. Other features include chrome side and front grilles and a wood-trimmed steering wheel. Included as standard equipment with the Executive GT version is a Maserati comfort pack with ventilated, heating, massaging rear seats, retractable wood rear tables, and curtain shades on the rear windows. Unfortunately, the Executive GT is no longer on the Quattroporte line-up.

In 2004, Maserati started production of the Pininfarina-designed Quattroporte and it is a continuation of the long tradition of Quattroporte luxury saloons in the Maserati line-up. As you can appreciate in the images, the attention to detail is unparalleled and the finishes on the interior of this vehicle are significantly better than those on other Quattroportes.

For those of you that own a Maserati or have ridden in one, you clearly know what we are talking about. As soon as you open the doors of a Maserati Quattroporte, you can smell the distinctive Poltrona Frau leather that is used to cover its comfortable seats. Fitted with paddle shifters on the steering wheel just like a Ferrari, the transmission on this car is smooth and powerful with every gear change. The clock on its wood dashboard is an unmistakeable element in the design of its interior with superb craftsmanship that surrounds you with sporty elegance.

As with most Maseratis, this is a temperamental car that is made for those that like the finer things in life and won't worry about having cranking issues when getting ready to leave the garage to take it on a joy ride. 

The new generation of Maseratis is now designed at a special Maserati-only department within the Fiat Group Centro Stile design center under the guidance of ex-Pininfarina designer Lorenzo Ramaciotti. Time to get one. 

Pre-owned Sticker Price $60,000-80,000 USD. For more info on Maserati click here.

Encounter: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse. The One to Appear in Tranformers 4: Age of Extinction.

This past weekend here in Chicago was a very active weekend around the shoot of the upcoming Hollywood blockbuster movie Transformers 4: Age of Extinction. As it is now a common thing, our Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver a.k.a. the 'fancy car magnet' attracted this amazing car while we were cruising around the lower-lower level of Wacker Drive. The only thing we could've wished for is that the whole car had been uncovered.  

Watchlifestylers, meet the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse in dark blue with lighter blue accents. This is the very same car that you will get to see in the movie next June 27, 2014. Paramount Pictures, thank you for bringing this beauty to our city! 

It was quite exhilarating to get this close to the most amazing automobile ever created in the history of mankind. 

We tried to get as close as possible; however, very tight security and police protection didn't allow us to take as many shots as we would've liked. Regardless, here are some spy shots for your viewing pleasure.  

This Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is not only the most powerful but also the fastest roadster in the world. Fitted with a quad-turbocharged 8.0 liter 16-cylinder engine, this machine outputs an astounding 1,200 hp and reaches a top speed of 258 mph —granted that you have the clear plastic top on.

This Bugatti is twenty percent more powerful than its predecessor the Grand Sport with a torque of 1,106 lbs/ft. and it is the most amazing automobile ever built and it will take you from 0 to 60 mph in mere 2.4 seconds. We wonder what the g-force would be with the pedal to the metal from full stop to 60 mph.  

If you are thinking of getting one of these amazing machines, you need to act fast because as you know, Bugatti’s self-imposed decree caps the production of the Grand Sport at 150 units. You know we hate stock images; however, since we couldn't get the full car, we have included a stock image at the bottom of the post so you can see the what the full car looks like.

Sticker Price $2.4 Million USD. For more info on Bugatti click here.

Image from Motorauthority.com