Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Century Grace Diamond & Sapphire Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/century-grace-diamond-and-sapphire-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/century-grace-diamond-and-sapphire-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/century-grace-diamond-and-sapphire-watch/#commentsFiled under:

century grace diamond and sapphire watch
Just when you thought there weren't any new ways to make a diamond watch, Century found something unique. The company known for unique uses of synthetic sapphire crystals has done it again. It combines 341 diamonds with 9 large clear sapphire crystals, and places them together in 18k carat white gold settings to bring you this Century Grace watch. A perfect timepiece for that goddess in your life who transcends concepts like value and wealth. Cause that is what it will take to afford the watch.

Even the dial of the watch is mostly a sapphire crystal. Cut and polished by hand complimented by 164 baguette cut diamonds (4.98 carats) on the case. The dial itself is mirrored with dauphine watch hands. Inside the watch is a quartz movement (of course). The Art Deco angularity of the watch continues into very nicely rendered bracelet. Again it is in 18k white gold, with the other eight Century sapphire crystals (one was used for the watch case) surrounded by 177 more baguette cut diamonds (whopping 8.70 carats). Not sure about the (equivalent to a small nation's GDP) price, but I do know that Century watches are mostly found in Asian markets (clue that their website is in English and Japanese only). A watch from Century, for your savings of the century.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistCentury Grace Diamond & Sapphire Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25.7.M.206.55.W73centurydiamondsgracesapphirewatchwatch of the dayWatchOfTheDayWed, 11 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Panerai Collectors Come Together For a Good Cause]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/panerai-collectors-come-together-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/panerai-collectors-come-together-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/11/panerai-collectors-come-together-for-a-good-cause/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Diehard enthusiasts and collectors of famed Italian watch brand Panerai, known as the Paneristi, came together recently to raise money for those less fortunate. The global members of enthusiast site Paneristi.com celebrated the online forum's 10th anniversary with an event at artist and Panerai collector Eng Tay's Tribeca studio. Tay (above) created a special series of images showing an outstanding collection of vintage and classic Panerai timepieces along with his artwork for a calendar celebrating Paneristi.com's 10th anniversary. All profits from the limited edition $300 calendar are being donated to The Mulliganeers, a children's charity created by Paneristi.com moderator and founder Paddy Conway. Most copies of the collector's item sold out within two weeks but there a few left; you can contact Paddy@CotswoldGardens.com for info. on ordering.

LuxistPanerai Collectors Come Together For a Good Cause originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncalendarcharityEng TayEngTayOffcine PaneraiOffcinePaneraiPaneraiPaneristi.comwatchesWed, 11 Nov 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvin M114 Collection Watches]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/marvin-m114-collection-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/marvin-m114-collection-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/10/marvin-m114-collection-watches/#commentsFiled under:

Marvin M114 watch
New for the holiday season from Marvin watches is the M114 collection of watches. Pictured is the PVD pink gold version, while a steel case version (with a white or black dial) is also available. The watch takes the curious shape of the Marvin M014 watch and adds an open face dial with a view of the Sellita SW 200 automatic mechanical movement's escapement. The top and bottom of the dial are decorated in a nifty checkered pattern, while the M114 has an interesting take on a large subsidiary seconds dial. It actually uses a centrally mounted seconds hand to beguile the wearer into thinking the watch has a unique half circle subsidiary seconds dial creating a really interesting perspective.

As rectangular watches go, the M114 is a good mix of style and legibility. You also see signature Marvin touches such as the red color applied to the 8 o'clock hour indicator and the black with red back (not seen in this image) leather strap. The various red tones on the watch do spice it up a bit. The watch case has a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 50 meters. Size is quite wearable at 38mm wide and 50mm tall. All Marvin watches carry a two year warranty. Prices are 890 euros for the steel version, and 990 euros for the PVD pink gold version. Marvin watches aren't available in the US yet, so for now you'll need to find them in Europe or elsewhere.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistMarvin M114 Collection Watches originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>m114marvintimepiecewatchwatch of the dayWatchOfTheDayTue, 10 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Patek Philippe "Ladies First Chronograph" Ref. 70171R Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/09/patek-philippe-ladies-first-chronograph-ref-70171r-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/09/patek-philippe-ladies-first-chronograph-ref-70171r-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/09/patek-philippe-ladies-first-chronograph-ref-70171r-watch/#commentsFiled under:


Patek Philippe has asserted a new found dedication to women's watches. As such, this new "Ladies First Chronograph" is a completely new type of direction for them when it comes to making watches for women. What is different? Well, for one, it isn't a jewelry piece. It is haute horology at its finest, but in a package for a modern sophisticated woman. It is handsome and mature, not girly and cute. For some, the design has missed the mark. They feel it is perhaps too retro and odd in design. That may be, but you can't deny the incredible legibility and uniqueness of the look. The cushion shaped case is 39mm wide (big for a women's watch) in 18krose gold, while the entire watch is meant to be a testament to classic French Art Deco design aesthetics.

The name of the watch itself is a shout to manners and respect. "By all means madam, ladies first..." It places women's watches on the same step as men's watches, especially in terms of functionality. It is often the case that women's watches house quartz movements. Not here. The Ladies First has an in-house made Patek Philippe manually wound chronograph movement. Above that, the movement is the brand new Caliber 29-535, and can be seen beautifully displayed in the caseback.

I find that there are a growing number of women who appreciate not only fine design, but also traditional watch mechanics. For those women, they can appreciate the high-end features of the chronograph movement such as a special system to ensure a high power reserve of almost 70 hours, a hack seconds function when resetting the time, and a special design to make this new movement appear much like how movements in the 1930s were presented.

No high luxury women's watch would be complete without a requisite number of diamonds. As such, the round dial is surrounded with a buffer zone of 136 diamonds between it and the cushion shaped bezel of the case. The watch dial comes in black or white, with various reptile strap colors. Price is heavy at 51,000 euros. But hey, it is a Patek Philippe.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Patek Philippe Ladies First Chronograph Ref. 70171R Watch

LuxistPatek Philippe "Ladies First Chronograph" Ref. 70171R Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7017170171rchronographladies firstLadiesFirstpatek philippePatekPhilippewatchMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Industrial North Design Vanguard-Precision & Britannic Watches]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/08/industrial-north-design-vanguard-precision-and-britannic-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/08/industrial-north-design-vanguard-precision-and-britannic-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/08/industrial-north-design-vanguard-precision-and-britannic-watches/#commentsFiled under:


"Keep calm and carry on" is the phrase written on the rear of the upcoming Britannic watch by Industrial North Design. The term is the famous slogan of the British Ministry of Information. Quintessential British machinists and designers have created two quintessential British watches with the Britannic and Vanguard-Precision. Each is limited to just 15 pieces, and will be hand-made in England. Some people know that England used to be what Switzerland is today for watch making. The country is still ripe with talent and mechanical know-how.

Seen here are pre-production prototypes, with final designs yet to be cemented. The cases and dials are in high-grade steel and precision-cut. Size is 46mm wide. While the movement's are Swiss automatics, the watches are purely British. As such, you'll find things like rare 10BA screws used in the watches to secure the case together. These are "British Association" screws that are no longer used and originated back when Britain was an empire.

The Vanguard-Precision watch has the phrase "come into the factories" engraved on its caseback. This along with the textile pattern dial is meant to remind one of the cloth mills in northern England. Dials are cut sterling silver, and the seconds hand is double-sided. The watches will each have hand-made calf leather straps that are a wide 26mm wide. Watches with great personality, and to me feel like what a English Panerai would be like. Keep an eye on Industrial North Design for the watches to be released soon.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Industrial North Design watches

LuxistIndustrial North Design Vanguard-Precision & Britannic Watches originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britannicenglandindustrial design northIndustrialDesignNorthprecisionvanguardwatchwatch of the dayWatchOfTheDaySun, 08 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Angular Momentum Belle Epoque Eternal Time Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/angular-momentum-belle-epoque-eternal-time-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/angular-momentum-belle-epoque-eternal-time-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/angular-momentum-belle-epoque-eternal-time-watch/#commentsFiled under:


History and jewelry meet watch making once again at Angular Momentum with this Belle Epoque Eternal Time watch. The Belle Epoque era occurred before the Art Deco era, and was located mostly in the newly modernizing Europe of the late 19th century. The style combined classical elements with new forms of industrialization inspired decoration. It was edgy for the time, and certainly a bit baroque.

This new watch from Angular Momentum (as part of the Time Galley collection of timepieces) captures some of that look in this 18k white gold 41mm wide case decorated with an impressive number of diamonds. Two larger baguette cut diamonds sit at 12 and 6 o'clock. Time is told via the two gold colored orbs set behind the white gold and diamonds star medallion in the center of the watch. The larger orb is for the hours, while the smaller orb is for the minutes. Inside the watch is Swiss automatic mechanical movement. Quite an interesting and rare jewelry piece of horological art.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistAngular Momentum Belle Epoque Eternal Time Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angular momentumAngularMomentumbelle epoqueBelleEpoqueeternal timeEternalTimetime galleryTimeGallerywatchwatch of the daywatchesWatchOfTheDaySat, 07 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Triumph and TAG Heuer Honor Steve McQueen With Special Bonneville]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/#commentsFiled under: ,

Triumph Bonneville Heuer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Triumph and TAG Heuer have joined forces to create a one-of-a-kind Bonneville Heuer motorcycle. Inspired by Steve McQueen and the Porsche 917k that the famous actor, racecar driver and motorcycle rider piloted in the classic film Le Mans, the Bonneville Heuer is painted up in the classic Gulf Oil blue and orange scheme and will be used for promotional purposes.

McQueen famously wore a Heuer Monaco watch in the aforementioned race film and was a renowned Triumph enthusiast. Says Neil Morley, Triumph's Head of Brand Communications:
We are delighted to play our part in this exciting project. The Triumph Bonneville and TAG Heuer Monaco are both timeless masterpieces, celebrating their respective 50th and 40th anniversaries this year. We also both have a natural connection with Steve McQueen, who famously wore a Monaco watch in the film Le Mans and was renowned for his love of our bikes, making this a very natural collaboration.
As much as we'd like to tell you this will be an optional color choice for the production Bonneville, that's not currently the case. If you like it as much as we do, perhaps a phone call to your local Triumph dealer is in order.


Gallery: Triumph Bonneville Heuer


[Source: Triumph]

Continue reading Triumph and TAG Heuer Honor Steve McQueen With Special Bonneville

LuxistTriumph and TAG Heuer Honor Steve McQueen With Special Bonneville originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonnevillebonneville heuerBonnevilleHeuerheuersteve mcqueenSteveMcqueentag heuerTagHeuertriumphtriumph bonnevilletriumph bonneville heuerTriumphBonnevilleTriumphBonnevilleHeuerSat, 07 Nov 2009 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Vacheron Constantin Historiques 1955 and 1968 Watches]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/vacheron-constantin-historiques-1955-and-1968-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/vacheron-constantin-historiques-1955-and-1968-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/vacheron-constantin-historiques-1955-and-1968-watches/#commentsFiled under:


With an official debut soon at SIHH 2010 in January here is a peek at two new Vacheron Constantin watches - the Historiques 1955 (round dial) and 1968 (square dial). Both watches are going to be smaller in size and much thinner than what we are used to. The 1955 is 36mm wide and the 1968 watch is a 35.2mm wide square. Vacheron Constantin is on this "vintage kick" lately. so expect to see more of these retro-themed watches. They don't have the wow factor you are used to when looking at them, but they are comfy to wear, and surprisingly easy to read - trust me. Worth the big prices though? Maybe, if you are a brand enthusiast.

Most of the appeal is inside the watch as they each have 100% in-house made movements. Each is super thin, and manually wound. The Historiques 1955 has a caliber 1003 movement, while the 1968 has a caliber 1120 movement in it. Interestingly enough, the movements are in 18k yellow gold. The watch cases themselves are in something called 4N gold. The alloy is somewhere between yellow and rose gold in color. The watches will be officially unveiled in January in Geneva, and I will be there to take lots of paparazzi style pictures.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistVacheron Constantin Historiques 1955 and 1968 Watches originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>19551968historiquesSIHH 2010Sihh2010vacheron constantinVacheronConstantinwatchFri, 06 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[The Return Of Ventura Watches]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/the-return-of-ventura-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/the-return-of-ventura-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/the-return-of-ventura-watches/#commentsFiled under:

ventura watches
A few years ago a watch brand I quite liked declared bankruptcy to be gone forever. This was before the big luxury bubble burst occurred, and I was quite sure that the demise of Ventura watches was a sign of what was to come - it was. But Ventura wasn't some overinflated pseudo luxury brand. They made fine and unique watches with a distinct modern, minimalist, and Bauhaus twist to them. They are likely most famous for their MGS (micro generation system) watches that use an automatic rotor to generate electricity for a quartz digital movement, just like a Seiko Kinetic watch works. Seen above is one of those watches.

Recent reports show that the Ventura brand is back, and with its original founder Pierre Nobs at the helm. New funding will get the brand up and running again soon. Ventura is known for their luxury quartz and mechanical watches - so it is unclear what some of the first models will be. Likely a new release of existing popular models with a few new things as well. Good news is that Ventura will be a modern brand, meaning they will make their watches available online from their (not yet released) website. This is good news to the many people who prefer to buy watches online (myself included). Prices for Ventura watches was (and will most likely be) about $1,500 - $5,000. No specific time line to their revival, but I'll keep you updated.

Via WorldTempus.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistThe Return Of Ventura Watches originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>companymgsreturnrevivalVenturawatchThu, 05 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Las Vegas Strip Collection Watches]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/audemars-piguet-royal-oak-las-vegas-strip-collection-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/audemars-piguet-royal-oak-las-vegas-strip-collection-watches/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/audemars-piguet-royal-oak-las-vegas-strip-collection-watches/#commentsFiled under:

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Las Vegas Strip Tourbillon watch
Remember Las Vegas? Audemars Piguet sure does. The important city to the brand (due to the many watch stores) now gets and important watch collection from the brand. In black and red tones, the new collection of Royal Oak model based watches are suitable wrist companions for nights of luxury and excess in the hottest city in the desert. The popularity of Vegas comes and goes, but you can't deny the importance of a fantastic watch while spending time on the Strip.

Most most exclusive of the watches in the collection is the pictured Audemars Piguet Las Vegas Strip Manual Wind Tourbillon with Chronograph watch. It is limited to 35 pieces and comes in a blackened steel case. Other models include two diamond studded automatic chronograph versions (for men or women each limited to 60 pieces), and a more standard automatic chronograph without all the decoration (limited to 400 pieces). Each has that signature look meant to match your casino attire. Sure it is a bit silly, but in Las Vegas you feel the need to go all out.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com



Gallery: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Las Vegas Strip Collection Watches

LuxistAudemars Piguet Royal Oak Las Vegas Strip Collection Watches originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audemars piguetAudemarsPiguetlas vegasLasVegaslimited editionLimitedEditionroyal oakRoyalOakstriptourbillonwatchThu, 05 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Audemars Piguet Adds "Watch Maker" Charm To Their Bal Harbor Boutique]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/audemars-piguet-adds-watch-maker-charm-to-their-bal-harbor-bou/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/audemars-piguet-adds-watch-maker-charm-to-their-bal-harbor-bou/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/audemars-piguet-adds-watch-maker-charm-to-their-bal-harbor-bou/#commentsFiled under:


Those people familiar with the shops at Bal Harbour knows how each luxury brand situated there feels the need to one up each other. This makes sense given the locations ability to attract the wealthiest Floridian buyers, as well as those who travel to the shopping center from around the world. Over the last few year Audemars Piguet has been playing with a new type of marketing campaign dedicated to enhancing the artisan-like feel of the brand. This essentially means that they want you thinking that watch makers time traveled from 1875 to the present day, and are hand-making Audemars Piguet watches in candle light somewhere in the heart of Switzerland. Most of this is true - save for the candle light.

Selling ultra luxury watches is as much about selling the final product as it is about selling how they were made. For this purpose, the Audemars Piguet Bal Harbour boutique has been temporarily transformed to include watch movement sketches, work tables, tools, and other items of traditional watch making construction. The good news is, that if you visit an actual Swiss watch making factory, all of these same tools are pretty much used - though maybe modernized a bit. Audemars Piguet does take much pride in the fact that they practice "traditional watch making" techniques. The display is a good idea , because it attempts to show a manufacture made mechanical watch in its natural element. If you are in the area, check it out. The window display will be up through the end of the year at the Audemars Piguet store at the Bal Harbour stores in Miami, Florida.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Audemars Piguet Bal Harbour display Nov 2009

LuxistAudemars Piguet Adds "Watch Maker" Charm To Their Bal Harbor Boutique originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audemars piguetAudemarsPiguetbal harbourBalHarbourboutiquefloridaWed, 04 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Piaget Limelight Exceptional Watch Pieces For 2009]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/piaget-limelight-exceptional-watch-pieces-for-2009/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/piaget-limelight-exceptional-watch-pieces-for-2009/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/04/piaget-limelight-exceptional-watch-pieces-for-2009/#commentsFiled under:


New from Piaget comes a fresh Limelight watch collection for 2009. Each Exceptional Limelight collection watch is known for being a serious haute joaillerie item of art. With Piaget's requisite level of beauty (and diamonds) the watches are interesting, original, and most important, beautiful. Brilliant-cut diamonds cover every surface of the timepieces (as much as is possible), and materials like mother-of-pearl make up the watch dials. The cases and bracelets themselves are each done in 18k white gold.

Literally hundreds upon hundreds of hours are dedicated to putting together each watch. This has to do with the copious amounts of time required to cut and set the diamonds, as well as craft the timepieces. Piaget does a remarkable job making metal look flowing. This is real horological art and passion - and again you see their penchant for making the watches "secret." Many Piaget Limelight watches prefer to cover the watch face when not being used, so as to give the pieces a dual watch and jewelry character. Inside, the watches have Piaget caliber 56P Swiss quartz movements. The timepieces have an intense amount of diamonds with weight up to 40 carats, and hundreds of stones per timepiece. These women's watches are marvelous to look at, exceedingly rare and exclusive, and of "word-class" expense. Look for them at select Piaget boutiques around the globe.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Piaget Limelight Exceptional Watch Pieces For 2009

LuxistPiaget Limelight Exceptional Watch Pieces For 2009 originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamondsexceptionalG0A29084G0A34133G0A34133 870G0a34133870hautejewelrylimelightpiagetwatchWed, 04 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Alpina Avalanche Extreme Chrono Double Digit Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/alpina-avalanche-extreme-chrono-double-digit-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/alpina-avalanche-extreme-chrono-double-digit-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/alpina-avalanche-extreme-chrono-double-digit-watch/#commentsFiled under:

Alpina Avalanche Extreme Chrono Double Digit Watch
You know that when a watch model is comprised of this many words, the company behind it means business! New from Alpina is the Avalanche Extreme Chrono Double Digit watch, and name the obfuscates what is just a nice looking 30 minute chronograph watch. The Double Digit part of the moniker comes from the back that the hour indicators have been replaced with 5 minute indicators - a look popularized by certain aviator watches from the past. The idea is to make the watch dial appear more aligned with the fact that the minute hand is the one going over these markers. Usually this is combined with a smaller hour ring in the middle of the dial for the hour hand to follow - not here though.

The watches look pretty nice and sporty. You see the two versions that have a combination of steel and PVD coated steel on the 46mm wide cases. I like the large screws on the bezel as well. Sapphire crystals are placed on the the front and rear of the cases, which are 100 meters water resistant.

Movement is the Alpina caliber AL-850, which is a modified Swiss ETA automatic movement. In addition to the chronograph, there is an "open" date window. The version with the red subdials is the most stunning, but suffers from the thin skeletonized hour and minute hands which I imagine would be a pain to read. The all black PVD version has nice wide gray color hands that don't suffer from this problem. Probably a few thousand bucks, available soon.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistAlpina Avalanche Extreme Chrono Double Digit Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinaAvalanche Extreme Chrono Double Digit WatchAvalancheExtremeChronoDoubleDigitWatchchronographwatchTue, 03 Nov 2009 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Louis Vuitton Watch Cases]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/louis-vuitton-watch-cases/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/louis-vuitton-watch-cases/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/louis-vuitton-watch-cases/#commentsFiled under: ,

louis vuitton cases
Louis Vuitton has just released two new Monogram watch cases. While Louis Vuitton has been making watches for a while, it is not clear whether or not they have previously made watch cases. Though it makes total sense for the luxury bag and luggage maker to do so. One case is trunk style, and suitable for 8 watches. While the other is more like a roll case, and sized for 3-4 watches. Each are made in France, with the brand's usual style and noticeable exterior.

The inside is made of a microfiber material that should be nice on your watches, while pads are used for the watch themselves (which are removable). The smaller case has a brass buckle, while the larger mini-trunk case uses a lock and key. They both make good travel cases - something which is hard to find for watches as most travel cases take up more space than they are worth. Louis Vuitton also suggests that the cases are ideal for storing watches in while they are in a safe. I'm sure you'll think of all sorts of good ways to show these Monogram cases off. Prices are up there - $620 for the 8.3 inch wide smaller case, and $4,070 for the 13.4 inch wide mini-trunk.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistLouis Vuitton Watch Cases originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>louis vuittonLouisVuittontrunkwatch caseWatchCasewatchesTue, 03 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sarcar Carrousel Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/02/sarcar-carrousel-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/02/sarcar-carrousel-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/02/sarcar-carrousel-watch/#commentsFiled under:

sarcar carousel watch
Here is a taste of extreme luxury with the Sarcar Carrousel. The name refers to the large diamonds placed in the dial that freely move around the circular path around the watch face - a similar concept to what you find in the free floating diamonds in Chopard Happy Sport watches. The difference is really in the size of the diamonds. The Carrousel has 12 half carat diamonds set in gold, which rotate freely against a mother-of-pearl backdrop, not to mention the many other diamonds that decorate the dial and 18k white gold (or red gold) 40mm wide case. There are a total of 13.21 diamonds on the watch - 399 of them.

The watch dial itself is small, but visible and powered but an automatic mechanical movement. Nice contrast with the black hands against the diamond dial. The crown is off-centered a bit and fitted with a nice diamond cabochon. Strap is crocodile with a gold folding clasp. At 40m wide, the watch is probably sized for a man, but suitable for a woman. Anyone lucky enough to brandish a decadent number like this should at least wear it once in a while. A luxury watch truly of the excess and fortune ilk. The materialistic personification of "if you got it, flaunt it." Prices at $300,000 each. Want one? Call (954) 600-9492 or e-mail info@crossbowintl.com.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistSarcar Carrousel Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrouseldiamondssarcarwatchMon, 02 Nov 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Talk To Me, Harry Winston Snowflake Watch]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/talk-to-me-harry-winston-snowflake-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/talk-to-me-harry-winston-snowflake-watch/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/talk-to-me-harry-winston-snowflake-watch/#commentsFiled under:

talk to me harry winston snowflakes watch
Out of all the luxury watch brands I know, I feel like Harry Winston comes in first a giving their women's watches odd names. They certainly aren't the weirdest names, but they just feel the most awkward. No better example that the "Talk To Me, Harry Winston" line of watches. This version being the Talk To Me, Harry Winston Snowflake. I can't tell if it is a question, a phrase, a term of endearment, or just someone who doesn't speak English making up watch names.

This new Talk To Me, Harry Winston watch takes the same case style and adds a diamonds-as-snowflakes dial. The dial is available in either a black or silver tone with 111 set diamonds in a falling snowflake display. The dial is rotatable, and the entire disc is moved via turning the disc that is accessible on the side of the watch case. A little thing, but something to play with nonetheless. The white gold case is 33mm wide and 40mm tall. The case itself is lovely in shape having strips of polished surface space to serve as the hour indicators, while the rest of the case is covered with 164 more diamonds. Then another 24 diamonds on to rotating ring, and still another 29 diamonds on the white gold buckle attached tot he black satin strap. Total diamond weight for the watch is 4.1 carats. The movement is Swiss quartz. Price is yet unknown, but in the ultra luxury range, of course.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistTalk To Me, Harry Winston Snowflake Watch originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>811LQWL.KDD02diamondsharry winstonHarryWinstonsnowflaketalk to meTalkToMetimepiecewatchSun, 01 Nov 2009 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Parmigiani Pershing Astéria Watch Wins Public Prize Of Watch Of The Year 2009 In Switzerland]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/parmigiani-pershing-asteria-watch-wins-public-prize-of-watch-of/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/parmigiani-pershing-asteria-watch-wins-public-prize-of-watch-of/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/parmigiani-pershing-asteria-watch-wins-public-prize-of-watch-of/#commentsFiled under:

parmigiani pershingI recently mentioned how the Vacheron Constantin Historiques 1921 won the jury prize in Swiss Montres Passion's 2009 Watch of the Year Award. Well this Parmigiani Pershing Asteria watch won the Prix du Public (publicly voted award) for 2009, in the same magazine. I find it so interesting that the editors at the magazine itself would choose such a quirky classic watch, while the public would vote for a thoroughly modern in appearance sport watch - a women's version at that. Of course the Parmigiani Pershing comes in male variants as well.

This is one serious sport women's watch. The 42mm wide case is in white gold with a mother-of-pearl dial - and has all the hallmark features of a diving watch. Inside is a Parmigiani manufacture made 002 Chronograph automatic movement. On the dial there are two charming little features that compliment the easy to read chronograph subdials. At the end of the chronograph seconds hand is (not able to be seen in this image) a small octopus as the counterweight, while the seconds hand/dial for the time itself is a stylized, spinning sea star (starfish).

The luxury watch is also available with various levels of precious jewel decoration. I believe it is a winning watch because the public appreciates its sporty exterior, charming design accents, manufacture made movement, luxurious construction, and modern looks. Quite a departure from what the editors of the Montres Passion magazine took into consideration when giving their award.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistParmigiani Pershing Astéria Watch Wins Public Prize Of Watch Of The Year 2009 In Switzerland originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009asteriaawardmontres passionMontresPassionparmigianipershingwatchSat, 31 Oct 2009 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[MB&F HM2.2 Watch Designed By Alain Silberstein]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/mbandf-hm2-2-watch-designed-by-alain-silberstein/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/mbandf-hm2-2-watch-designed-by-alain-silberstein/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/mbandf-hm2-2-watch-designed-by-alain-silberstein/#commentsFiled under:

MB&F HM2.2 Black Box Alain Silberstein watch
One of my favorite watch designers, Alain Silberstein has paired up with one of my favorite independent watch makers MB&F to create this limited edition of 8 pieces Horological Machine 2.2 (HM2.2) "Black Box" watch. It uses the existing HM2 watch and adds Alain Silberstein's special character. The telltale signs of his involvement are the three multicolor shapes on right-hand dial, the shapes of the hands and indicators, and the character rick face of the moon phase. You also have both MB&F (Max Busser & Friends) and Alain Silberstein's signature or logo on the rear of the watch.

This HM2.2 Black Box version of the HM2 watch is done in black PVD coated titanium and silicium. The combination of design cues makes the watch look like a nice little Bauhaus inspired instrument. If you've worn one of these watches you know how large it is - but cool looking. 59mm wide and 38mm tall. Relatively thin for a watch like this at 13mm thick. Movement is an automatic (with a blue 22k gold version of the signature battle ax rotor) and has two distinct faces. On the left is a small moonphase indicator and retrograde date. On the right is the time via retrograde minutes an jumping hour. I actually feel like this HM2.2 version of the watch is more legible than the original, and certainly presents a unique presentation on the already unique watch. Really nice, and just for a few people who can get one of the eight MB&F "Black Boxes" out there.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistMB&F HM2.2 Watch Designed By Alain Silberstein originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alain silbersteinAlainSilbersteinhm2.2horological machineHorologicalMachinelimited editionLimitedEditionmbfwatchSat, 31 Oct 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Patek Philippe Caliber 89, Most Complex Timepiece On The Planet To be Auctioned Off]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/patek-philippe-caliber-89-most-complex-timepiece-on-the-planet/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/patek-philippe-caliber-89-most-complex-timepiece-on-the-planet/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/patek-philippe-caliber-89-most-complex-timepiece-on-the-planet/#commentsFiled under:


While the Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Sonnerie may be the most complicated wrist watch in the world, this Patek Philippe Caliber 89 pocket watch made in 1989 remains the most complex timepiece in the world. With a staggering 33 complication, both side of the dial are filled with hands and subdials. The pocket watch is very thick and weights1.1kg! The case is done in 18k yellow gold. It was made to honor the 150th anniversary of the important Swiss brand. While I am not prepared to engage in list making, you can learn all the Caliber 89's functions here.

Coincidentally, for auction house Antiquorum's 35th anniversary, a Patek Philippe Caliber 89 pocket will be auctioned off. Even in these rough times, record amounts for Patek Philippe watches have been achieved at auction. So perhaps it is a good time to auction the Caliber 89 off. In 2004, this same watch was sold at auction for $5 million. The watch took 5 years to research and 4 years to make. It is estimated to yield between $4.4 - $5.4 million, but has an estimated value of $6 million. The auction will be held on November 14-15, and the Patek Philippe Caliber 89 will be lot 364, the final lot of the auction.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Gallery: Patek Philippe Caliber 89

LuxistPatek Philippe Caliber 89, Most Complex Timepiece On The Planet To be Auctioned Off originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiquorumauctioncomplicatedPatek Philippe Caliber 89PatekPhilippeCaliber89pockettimepiecewatchworlds mostWorldsMostSat, 31 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 Watch Wins Editor's Prize For 2009 Watch Of The Year In Switzerland]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/vacheron-constantin-historiques-american-1921-watch-wins-editor/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/vacheron-constantin-historiques-american-1921-watch-wins-editor/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/31/vacheron-constantin-historiques-american-1921-watch-wins-editor/#commentsFiled under:


Each year the popular (in Switzerland) watch magazine Montres Passion releases a few "Watch of the Year" prizes. The most important of which is the jury award that the magazine itself gives based on their editorial considerations for the best watch. The second most important category is their public chosen prize.

Winning the 2009 Watch of the Year prize is the Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 watch. To be honest it is not one of my favorites, but I can't deny that it is interesting and attractive. The very classic looking watch is a remake of a timepiece originally made by Vacheron Constantin in the 1920s based upon a request by an American client of theirs. He wanted something that could be read easily, without having to turn his arm as much toward himself.

The watch is 40mm wide and cushion shaped in a 18k rose gold case. You can easily see how the dial itself is skewed. Inside is Vacheron Constantin manufacture made Calibre 4400 manually wound movement with subsidiary seconds dial. As an homage to classic watches, a timepiece like this is hard to beat, but I am curious as to why that alone allowed for it to be judged Watch of the Year 2009 by the learned watch editors in Switzerland. You'll soon see how it compared with the public prize.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

LuxistVacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 Watch Wins Editor's Prize For 2009 Watch Of The Year In Switzerland originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Historiques American 1921HistoriquesAmerican1921vacheron constantinVacheronConstantinSat, 31 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST