Tag Archive for: timepieces

COLECCIONISMO, Especial, EVENTOS, Exposiciones, Relojería, RELOJES, Relojes de bolsillo, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes de Oro, Relojes Edición Limitada

Patek Philippe presents luxury timepieces in Watches and Wonders Geneva 2023

Patek Philippe presents 17 new watch models with innovative technical and aesthetic features, enriching its vast range of collections

On the occasion of Watches and Wonders 2023, the Geneva-based manufacture is unveiling a wide selection of new models, ranging from a Calatrava with an original 24-hour display and a Travel Time function for the display of a second time zone, to a new haute joaillerie version of the Grandmaster Chime, and the first Annual Calendar to enter the ladies’ Aquanaut Luce collection, renowned for its modern casual chic. A new vintage celebrating technical mastery and creativity.

“Why does Patek Philippe offer so many different collections? Because each of them has its own character and its own way of enabling us to innovate and express ourselves.” That was the message from Thierry Stern, president of the family-owned manufacture, in a recent communications campaign centering on the company’s brand philosophy. From the Grand Complications to the elegant sports models and others that have become icons of horological design, Patek Philippe maintains a vast choice of watches for men and women in every market segment. As time passes, the manufacture takes great care to ensure a balanced evolution of the approximately 150 references, which are crafted in small series, ranging from about ten pieces to a few hundred. The 17 new introductions presented at the Watches and Wonders 2023 salon are the perfect illustration.

Five refined new looks for the striking watches –Grand Complications emblematic of Patek Philippe

Since the manufacture’s foundation in 1839, Patek Philippe has made its mark as one of the greatest specialists in striking watches. Its supreme mastery was confirmed in 2014 by the launch, as a limited edition, of the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime – the most complicated Patek Philippe wristwatch, with 20 complications. This timepiece, which joined the current collection in 2016, is particularly notable for its five chiming modes, including an alarm striking the pre-selected time, and a date repeater striking the date on demand.

The manufacture is reinterpreting the design of the double-face reversible case, endowed with a patented rotation mechanism, by presenting it for the first time in a bicolor version combining white gold and rose gold. This new Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300GR-001 also stands out by its two brown opaline dials, with a hand-guilloched Clous de Paris or hobnail pattern on the side displaying the time of day, and its two-tone chestnut brown patinated alligator strap and bicolor folding buckle.

In 2022, Patek Philippe highlighted the mechanical perfection of the Grandmaster Chime with two gem- set versions, one with baguette-cut diamonds (Reference 6300/400G-001) the other with baguette-cut diamonds and baguette-cut blue sapphires (Reference 6300/401G-001). Now, the manufacture is presenting a new alliance between haute horlogerie and haute joaillerie with the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Haute Joaillerie Reference 6300/403G-001 shimmering with 118 baguette-cut emeralds (7.87 ct) and 291 baguette-cut diamonds (20.54 ct) in a superb example of the “baguette” and “invisible” setting techniques. This timepiece is endowed with two dials in ebony-black opaline, with a hand-guilloched Clous de Paris or hobnail pattern on the time side and a shiny black alligator leather strap with emerald-green hand stitching.

Another outstanding piece among the striking watches, Reference 5316, launched in 2017, unites a minute repeater, a tourbillon, a perpetual calendar with retrograde date hand and a moon-phase indicator. In the Grand Complication Reference 5316/50P-001, Patek Philippe gives this timepiece a unique new modern allure –with a platinum case and a sapphire-crystal dial with blue metallization and black-gradient rim, affording a veiled glimpse of the mechanical heart of the watch.

Rare Handcrafts World Time Minute Repeater Reference 5531G-001

The manufacture is also enriching its selection of minute-repeating wristwatches –the largest such range in a current collection –with two reinterpretations under the heading of Rare Handcrafts. Rare Handcrafts World Time Minute Repeater Reference 5531G-001 – the first minute repeater model that always strikes the local time –is also the first World Time Minute Repeater in white gold. Its dial center is adorned with a new Grand Feu cloisonné enamel scene depicting one of the famous steamboats still plying the waters of Lake Geneva. Another new model, Rare Handcrafts Minute Repeater Reference 5178G-012, is endowed with a self-winding movement and “cathedral” gongs whose sound is particularly deep and rich. It features a new dial in blue Grand Feu flinqué enamel over a distinctive hand-guilloched swirling pattern.

Calatrava Reference 5224R-001

A new complicated model and refreshed designs in the Calatrava collection

With its sleek round case and air of understatement, the Calatrava collection (launched in 1932) has made its mark as the archetype of timeless elegance. Over the years, Patek Philippe has added to this vast family a variety of complications used in everyday life, such as the Travel Time dual time zone function and the weekly calendar. The manufacture is now expanding its range of travel watches with the new Calatrava Reference 5224R-001 featuring the Travel Time dual time zone and an original 24- hour display. The new caliber 31-260 PS FUS 24H self-winding movement is further distinguished by its patented system for correcting local time by the crown. It is housed in a rose-gold case harmonizing with a blue dial embellished by complex finishing touches, adorned with numerals, hour markers and five-minute cabochons all in rose gold, individually applied by hand.

Since 2015, the models in the Pilot style – inspired by the Patek Philippe watches created for aviators in the 1930s – have featured prominently in the manufacture’s collections, with several versions of the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time with the dual time-zone mechanism, as well as a Grand Complication equipped with a 24-hour alarm. Patek Philippe is now endowing this distinctive line, known for its original, highly recognizable aesthetic, with its first two chronograph models: Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph Reference 5924G-001, with a blue-gray sunburst dial and a navy-blue grained calfskin strap; and the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph Reference 5924G-010, with a lacquered dial in khaki green and an olive-green calfskin strap with a vintage finish. These two watches house the caliber CH 28-520 C FUS self-winding movement uniting three practical and user-friendly complications: a fly-back chronograph, a Travel Time dual time zone function and the date indicated by a hand, coupled with local time.

Other new models in the Patek Philippe current collection include the Calatrava references 6007G- 001, 6007G-010 and 6007G-011 featuring a graphic modern style. The ebony black dials, enriched with three types of finish, center an embossed “carbon” pattern. The dynamism of the design is heightened by touches of color on the dials and straps: yellow (6007G-001), red (6007G-010) or sky blue (6007G-011). The white-gold cases house the caliber 26-330 S C self-winding movement with date and stop-seconds function.

4997/200R – CALATRAVA

Patek Philippe is also expanding its range of elegant watches for women with the new Calatrava self- winding Reference 4997/200R-001, a reinterpretation of a great classic that catches the eye with a rose-gold case and a dial and strap decked out in purple. The dial, embossed with a pattern of concentric waves, is coated with more than fifty layers of translucent lacquer, creating a mesmerizing sense of depth. The case is adorned with a diamond-set bezel and houses the caliber 240 ultra-thin self-winding movement.

New functions and new faces for the Aquanaut and Aquanaut Luce

Patek Philippe made its mark in the domain of sporty elegance by designing two models that have acquired cult status: the Nautilus (1976) and the Aquanaut (1997), the latter strengthening its offer in 2004 with the launch of the ladies’ Aquanaut Luce line. Following the introduction of a Travel Time dual time-zone model in 2021 and a self-winding chronograph version in 2022, the Aquanaut Luce is now treating itself to a new practical and easy-to-use complication: the patented Annual Calendar. Graced with a blue-gray dial and strap, this Aquanaut Luce Annual Calendar Reference 5261R-001 in rose gold enhances the choice of complicated watches for women with a non-gemset model.

The new self-winding ladies’ Aquanaut Luce Reference 5268/200R-010 coordinates a rose-gold case with a dial and integrated strap in taupe –a warm hue between brown and gray in perfect harmony with this model’s “modern casual chic” style. Its characteristic rounded octagonal bezel is lit by the fire of 48 diamonds. The case is water resistant to 120 m and houses the caliber 26-330 S C self-winding movement with stop seconds.

The self-winding Aquanaut chronograph for men, already available in steel and in white gold, also sports a rose-gold case for the new Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968R-001, endowed with a sunburst dial in a gradient of brown to black, and a matching composite strap.

From technical models to jewelry pieces

In the segment of complicated watches for men, Self-winding Flyback Chronograph with Annual Calendar Reference 5905R-010 endowed with a rose-gold case and a blue sunburst dial lends a new face to this alliance between two sought-after Patek Philippe complications.

Gondolo Serata Reference 4962/200R-001

The Gondolo collection, comprising the Patek Philippe “form watches” of Art Deco inspiration, announces the return of a jewelry watch with unique style and timeless elegance. The Gondolo Serata Reference 4962/200R-001, in rose gold, is set with spessartites arranged in a double color gradient, highlighting the case’s refined curves. The brown-lacquered dial presents a floral decoration with contrasting finishes.

A rich collection of rare handcrafts

Once again, as in previous years, Patek Philippe is also unveiling a splendid collection of one-of-a-kind or limited-edition pieces (dome table clocks, table clocks, pocket watches and wristwatches) showcasing the rarest and most refined of the artistic crafts, such as miniature painting on enamel, Grand Feu cloisonné enameling, hand engraving and wood marquetry. The “Rare Handcrafts 2023” exhibition, bringing together these 67 creations, will be open to the public from April 1 to 15 2023 in the Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva.

Patek Philippe Grand Complication Perpetual Calendar 5271/11P

4 April, 2023/by Jackson Thompson

DESTACADOS, Especial, EVENTOS

Chopard becomes the first luxury Maison to roll out recycled steel for its watches.

Chopard is the first luxury Maison

to roll out 80% recycled steel for all its steel watches

thus reducing its carbon footprint

Geneva, March 27^th 2023 – Chopard becomes the first luxury Maison to roll out recycled steel for its watches. By the end of 2023, Chopard will use Lucent Steel^™ for the production of all its steel watches – including bracelets and cases. Lucent Steel^™ is made with a recycling rate of at least 80%. The Maison’s ambition is to reach at least 90% recycled steel in its Lucent Steel^™ by 2025. This commitment will allow Chopard to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of its steel.

A major step in Chopard’s Journey to Sustainable Luxury

Karl-Friedrich-&-Caroline-Scheufele-with-Julia-Roberts_Watches-and-Wonders_March-27_2023

As a family-run Maison driven by a long-term vision, sustainability has always been a core value for Chopard. Today sees another milestone towards the fulfilment of Chopard’s Journey to Sustainable Luxury.

This announcement builds on the existing Lucent Steel^™ – which was launched in 2019 with the iconic Alpine Eagle watch, and made of 70% recycled steel – marking a key next step in a multi-year project towards more responsible steel:

By the end of 2023, all Chopard steel watches, including bracelets and cases, will include 80% recycled steel.
By 2025 this figure will rise to a minimum of 90%.
Chopard has underlined this commitment by becoming the first luxury Maison to join the Climate Group’s SteelZero initiative to work with the industry to speed up the transition to a net zero steel.

This initiative will allow Chopard to significantly reduce its CO₂ emissions related to steel, according to key figures from the ISSF (International Stainless Steel Forum). Shifting from standard 50% recycled steel content to 80% will cut emissions linked to production by 30%. At 90% recycled steel this figure increases to 40%.

“Chopard is committed to a long-term process of responsible sourcing of the raw materials that make our business possible. We are proud of the work we have accomplished in just ten years. Through our ethical gold sourcing, which began progressively in 2013 with the goal of using 100% ethical gold in our workshops by 2018, followed today by our commitment to 80% recycled steel, we are approaching the ideal of ensuring the production of fully responsible watches and jewellery.” explains Chopard Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele.

Rolling out Lucent Steel^™ for all steel watches is a logical next step for Chopard in its ambition to source more sustainable materials and pursue its Journey to Sustainable Luxury, an ambitious long-term commitment dedicated to making a positive difference in the luxury industry. It was launched in 2013 with the first Green Carpet Collection creations, and led the Maison in its pioneering work to achieve 100% ethical gold in 2018.

Chopard Lucent Steel^™

Chopard’s quest for sustainability is in no way detrimental to the exceptional quality or properties of the materials composing its timepieces. Chopard Lucent Steel^™is made using high-quality industrial scraps from Swiss watchmakers, along with high-grade steel from the medical, aerospace and automotive industries.

The unique re-smelting process which creates Chopard Lucent Steel^™ endows it with three unique characteristics:

First, it is anti-allergenic; its similarity to surgical steel means it is highly dermo-compatible and suitable for even the most sensitive, delicate skin.
Secondly, its strength makes it 50% more resistant to abrasion than conventional steel, making the watches intrinsically more sustainable.
Lastly, its superior homogeneous crystal microstructure enables it to reflect the light in a truly unique way. Like diamond, whose brilliance depends on the lowest degree of impurities, this very high-performance steel has far less impurities than conventional steel, guaranteeing a brilliance, lustre and brightness comparable to that of gold

Perfecting the composition and manufacture of a steel with these unique properties was the result of more than four years of research and development, as well as work with suppliers to secure enough volume of high-quality recycled steel to roll out Lucent Steel^™across all Chopard collections.

Chopard’s-new-products-in-Lucent-Steel™

A local, circular manufacturing loop

Lucent Steel^™stems from Chopard’s creation of a local, circular manufacturing loop. All Chopard suppliers for recycled steel are based within 1000km of its manufacturing unit, either in Switzerland or its neighbouring countries of Austria, France, Germany and Italy, reducing the need for transportation emissions.

Julia Roberts – Chopard Loves Cinema

Chopard’s main suppliers are voestalpine BÖHLER Edelstahl, a subsidiary of the globally leading steel and technology group voestalpine in Austria, and the Swiss company PX Precimet. The Maison is also collaborating with the innovative Swiss company Panatere, which is actively working to develop a solar energy metal process.

In addition, the scraps resulting from Chopard’s manufacturing process are collected and recycled into new high-quality steel by its suppliers. This circular process limits the extraction of raw materials without compromising the quality integral to all the Maison’s activities.

“The challenges of sourcing steel are totally different to those we have encountered with gold. That is part of the beauty of our Journey to Sustainable Luxury: we have one goal, but many, very different ways of getting there. While gold led us to focus on the working conditions of artisanal miners, steel has been an opportunity for us to tackle the impact of our products in terms of carbon footprint.” says Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele.

Joining Climate Group’s SteelZero and working with the industry

To endorse its commitment, Chopard has become the first luxury Maison to join Climate Group’s SteelZero initiative in order to work with the industry to speed up the transition to a net zero steel.

Alexandre-Kouchner_Karl-Friedrich-&-Caroline-Scheufele_Julia-Roberts_Watches-and-Wonders_March-27_2023

SteelZero members use their collective purchasing power and influence to send a strong demand signal to shift global markets and policies towards responsible production and sourcing of steel.

Chopard is proud to be the first watchmaker to take part in this initiative. Though the amount of steel the watchmaking industry uses is relatively small compared to other industries, it is nevertheless a significant material by volume used both in timepieces and in the watchmaking industry. As a result, the Maison is determined to reduce the impact connected with its use of steel, just as it is doing with gold.

“Chopard is our first SteelZero member from the watch and jewellery sector. This marks an important moment not just for SteelZero but for the wider global efforts to decarbonise steel. By committing to SteelZero, Chopard is ensuring its customers start to think about the carbon emissions linked to the items that they wear on their wrists. We need the watches of our future to be made using responsibly produced steel – this demonstration of leadership is a powerful signal to drive demand for net zero steel and ultimately cut the carbon emissions linked to steelmaking.” commented Jen Carson, Head of Industry at Climate Group

JOYERÍA: CHOPARD Caroline Scheufele y Petra Nemcova apoyan a All Hands and Hearts – Smart Response

A long-term and solid commitment to a more sustainable luxury

With its commitment to achieving 90% recycled steel in all its watches by 2025, Chopard marks yet another landmark step along its path towards true sustainability:

2010: On the eve of its 150^th anniversary, the Maison concludes a three-year partnership with the WWF “Tigers Alive Initiative”, a conservation project aimed at protecting tigers from extinction.

2010: Chopard decides to join forces of its industry peers in promoting responsible business practices and becomes a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), a non-profit organisation promoting responsible business conduct from mine to retail.

2013: Chopard unveils its Journey to Sustainable Luxury, a multi-year commitment to ensuring more responsible sourcing throughout our supply chain.

2015: At the Cannes Festival, Chopard launches its first fine jewellery collection in Fairmined-certified ethical gold. Inspired by the design of the famous Palme d’or awarded in Cannes, the Palme Verte collection is crafted in Fairmined-certified 18-carat yellow gold. At the same event, Chopard introduces an Haute Joaillerie bracelet featuring the first traceable and sustainably sourced opals.

2015: Two co-operative mines – one in Bolivia and the other in Colombia – achieve Fairmined certification. Chopard pledges to buy 100% of the Fairmined gold the mines produce.

2016: At the Cannes Festival, Chopard announces its new partnership with Gemfields and unveils a capsule in the Haute Joaillerie Green Carpet Collection featuring responsibly sourced emeralds for the very first time.

2018: On the occasion of Baselworld, Chopard announces that by July 2018, the Maison will use 100% ethical gold for the production of its watches and jewellery.

2019: The Alpine Eagle becomes Chopard’s first watch collection to be made in Lucent Steel^™, with a rate of 70% recycled steel.

2020: Chopard partners with the Swiss Better Gold Association on a ground-breaking project to source gold from a Colombian artisanal gold panners community (the ‘Barequeros’), one of the most environmentally-conscious gold mining operations in the world.

2023: Chopard announces that its steel watches – including bracelets and cases – will be made from Lucent Steel^™, with a recycling rate of 80% by end 2023, and minimum 90% by 2025.

Note to editors – Climate Group’s SteelZero

Climate Group’s SteelZero is a global initiative bringing together forward-looking organisations to speed up the transition to a net zero steel industry. Led by the international non-profit Climate Group in partnership with ResponsibleSteel, organisations that join SteelZero make a public commitment to procure, specify or stock 100% net zero steel by 2050. By harnessing their collective purchasing power and influence, SteelZero is sending a strong demand signal to shift global markets and policies towards responsible production and sourcing of steel.

28 March, 2023/by Jackson Thompson

RELOJES, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes Edición Limitada

Patek Philippe Grand Complication Perpetual Calendar 5271/11P

5271/11P – GRAND COMPLICATIONS
MANUAL WINDING

Patek Philippe Grand Complication Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

Paying tribute to an iconic Grande Complication, Patek Philippe has created a jewelry version of its chronograph with perpetual calendar Reference 5271, enhanced by 80 blue baguette-cut sapphires (5.16 cts). The aesthetic harmony is complemented by the lacquered blue dial with black-gradient rim and the shiny black alligator strap with contrasting blue stitching.

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

The CH 29-535 PS Q caliber is distinguished by its traditional architecture (manually wound, column wheel, toothed-wheel horizontal clutch), combined with six patented innovations in the chronograph, as well as its exceptionally slim calendar mechanism.

WATCH

Manually wound mechanical movement. Caliber CH 29‑535 PS Q. Chronograph. Central chronograph hand. Instantaneous 30-minute counter. Perpetual Calendar. Day, month, leap year and day/night indication in apertures. Date by hand. Moon phases. Small seconds.

DIAL

Lacquered blue with black-gradient rim, gold applied hour markers.

CASE

Platinum. Interchangeable solid and sapphire crystal case backs. Water-resistant to 30 m. Diameter: 41 mm. Height: 12.7 mm.

GEMSETTING

58 baguette-cut sapphires: 4.11 cts. (bezel and lugs). 22 baguette-cut sapphires: 1.05 ct. (clasp). Total of 80 baguette-cut sapphires (5.16 cts).

STRAP

Alligator leather with square scales, hand-stitched, shiny black. Fold-over clasp set with sapphires.

Price : 348’870 EUR^*

^*Suggested retail price taxes included. Prices may be subject to alteration at any time and do not constitute a contract.

www.patek.com

6 March, 2023/by Jackson Thompson

Especial, EVENTOS, Ferias, MyEvents, RELOJES, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes Edición Limitada

LVMH Watch Week 2023

Respaldado por el Grupo LVMH, LVMH Watch Week es un evento exclusivo en sí mismo, que se adelanta a Watches and Wonders Geneva. Destaca el dinamismo de las Maisons LVMH y la industria relojera. Bulgari, Hublot, TAG Heuer y Zenith presentarán sus últimas novedades y otras piezas destacadas a periodistas de todo el mundo en Singapur.

#relojeria #myluxepoint #altarelojeria #watches #timepieces #tagheuer #zenith #luxury #lujo

BIG BANG TOURBILLON AUTOMATIC SAXEM YELLOW NEON

BIG BANG TOURBILLON AUTOMATIC SAXEM YELLOW NEON

¿Reproducir un amarillo fluorescente, eléctrico y llamativo en una caja translúcida? La idea puede parecer sencilla, pero su realización, ha sido extremadamente compleja. Se trata de un tono muy potente, luminoso y brillante que parece estar iluminado desde dentro, como si se tratara de un material fluorescente. Un amarillo fluorescente intenso con la acidez de un limón. Hublot ha encontrado en el espacio la solución a este desafío tan técnico. Fue ahí, en el universo de los satélites, donde se desarrolló el SAXEM, un material único que la marca ya utilizó en 2019 en el Big Bang MP-11.

BIG BANG UNICO SORAI

BIG BANG UNICO SORAI

Hublot apoya a SORAI –Save Our Rhinos Africa India– desde 2019. Una organización fundada por Kevin Pietersen, ex estrella internacional del críquet y embajador de Hublot. Su trabajo ayuda a mantener a los rinocerontes en peligro de extinción a salvo de los cazadores furtivos. Al igual que en las dos ediciones limitadas anteriores, parte de la recaudación obtenida con la venta de los 100 Big Bang Unico SORAI donará a la organización. Los colores elegidos para la tercera edición limitada son los de la puesta de sol, lo que nos recuerda el mayor peligro al que se enfrentan los rinocerontes al caer la noche. Aquí, el sol es un símbolo de esperanza, de un nuevo amanecer.

CLASSIC FUSION ORIGINAL

CLASSIC FUSION ORIGINAL

Hublot vuelve a dar vida al reloj que rompió con las convenciones en 1980. Refinada y deportiva a un tiempo, su preciosa caja de oro combinada con una sencilla correa de caucho provocó un auténtico terremoto, ya que en aquella época se trataba de algo impensable en el campo de la alta relojería. Logró seducir a un público de expertos en busca de relojes diferentes y marcó el punto de partida de una incansable dinámica visionaria sustentada en el afán por romper moldes. Una visión que inspira a la empresa en todos sus desarrollos, creaciones y alianzas. Los diferentes modelos del Classic Fusion Original celebran esta joven madurez con una sobriedad intemporal.

BIG BANG UNICO INTEGRATED RAINBOW & BIG BANG UNICO TIME ONLY RAINBOW

BIG BANG UNICO INTEGRATED RAINBOW & BIG BANG UNICO TIME ONLY RAINBOW

No están simplemente engastados, sino totalmente pavés: caja, bisel, pulsera. Las piedras preciosas se codean con los minerales más impresionantes: rubí, amatista, topacio azul, tsavorita, así como una gama de zafiros rosas, naranjas, azules y amarillos. Tantas piedras como destellos, cuyos diminutos matices han sido emparejados, uno a uno, por el ojo y la mano del artesano engastador. Con un total de 174 piedras en el caso del Big Bang Integrated y de 176 en la versión Time Only. Cada brazalete cuenta con 768 y 748 piedras engastadas respectivamente.

21 February, 2023/by Maria G

RELOJES, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes de Oro, Relojes Edición Limitada

Luxury timepieces Vacheron Constantin – Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières

Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières – The Sydney model joins the collection

Encounter between two exceptional arts: hand-applied precious powder, a technique mastered by Japanese guest artist Yoko Imai and traditional grand feu champlevé enamelling
A miniature tableau which reproduces the real ‘light cartography’ of Sydney

The Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection is an invitation to embark upon a nocturnal journey above cities bubbling with creativity. On dials draped with an enamelled base in deep shades, a wide variety of powders creates a bird’s-eye view miniature tableau of these sprawling urban expanses. Traditional grand feu champlevé enamelling mingles with hand-applied precious powder, an art never yet used in Haute Horlogerie. The striking and realistic beauty of these timepieces opens up whole new artistic and creative horizons, where traditional skills are constantly nurtured by fresh influences.

The Maison has dreamed up a sparkling encounter between two exceptional arts: grand feu champlevé enamelling, a skill passed on for almost three centuries by the Vacheron Constantin artisans; and hand-applied precious powder, a technique mastered by Japanese guest artist Yoko Imai. This unique technique has been used on a watch dial to which particles of gold, pearl, platinum and diamond powder are meticulously distilled one by one, endowing the enamel with exceptional radiance. The bright dots of light, placed with the greatest precision, compose a portrait of these broad and majestic urban landscapes. The light effects play across these strikingly realistic roads, rivers and famous landmarks. The Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières watches beat to the rhythm of a mechanical Manufacture movement graced with refined finishing, in accordance with traditional Haute Horlogerie techniques. After the first models dedicated to the nocturnal magic of Geneva, Paris, New York, Beijing, Tokyo this night-flight across time continues over another metropolis: Sydney.

An enduring vocation for artistic crafts

The Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection perpetuates the age-old Vacheron Constantin tradition of artistic crafts. In 1755, the very first known watch by the founder of the Maison, Jean-Marc Vacheron, already featured delicate engraved arabesque motifs. Ever since, for almost three centuries, gemsetters, enamellers, guillocheurs and engravers have been cultivating and passing on these forms of expertise that have become extremely rare. Today as yesterday, over the years and in step with successive creations, their dexterity has given life to masterpieces of the watchmaking art. These decorative skills have acquired the habit of echoing each other, combining their techniques with art and creativity on watch dials, and often adopting the spirit of lesser known and surprising arts such as illumination, Japanese lacquer, glyptics or gemstone cloisonné effects. In keeping with this tradition, the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection enables Vacheron Constantin to explore new, contemporary and innovative expressive territory for artistic crafts.

Aerial perspective

Vacheron Constantin has depicted major cities – notably renowned for their artistic influence – through their nocturnal panorama. Individually applying precious powder particles naturally implies extreme dexterity and doing so on the surface of a watch involves the additional constraint of defining an ideal altitude for each city so as to convey realistically the emotional impact of its urban outlines. The miniature tableaus that Yoko Imai has composed faithfully reproduce the real ‘light cartography’ of the cities, with their various sorts of light, such as variously animated districts and even traffic density! This incredibly meticulous work on the map of each city called for several weeks of research and trials on various base materials.

Grand feu enamelling

For each of the dials, the Vacheron Constantin Master Enameller first examined the possibilities afforded by champlevé in order to highlight the shapes of the streets, gardens and stretches of water. After hollowing out the gold dial by hand according to the chosen outlines, he then applied successive layers of translucent coloured enamels. Between each coating, the dial is fired at the extremely high temperature of 850°C. These crucial and delicate stages, masterfully guided by intuition and governed by stringent discipline acquired over time, enable the powdered glass mixed with colouring oxides to be melted, transformed and then vitrified by cooling – with the inevitable risk that the dial may crack or flaws may form. In the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection, the Master Enameller has taken up the additional challenge of composing subtly translucent and dark shades in order to reproduce the singular night-time atmosphere.

Luminous rain

Vacheron Constantin invited the Japanese artist Yoko Imai to associate her art with that of the enamelling artisan. Trained by the great Japanese masters, she has developed her own artistic technique: calligraphy-inspired painting on canvas, inspired by precious powder. For Vacheron Constantin, she has adapted this process to the enamel of a watch dial, while creating a fascinating chiaroscuro effect. To ensure a faithful transcription of the city lights, her deft hands are guided by absolute mastery, unwavering concentration and a special sensitivity requiring a particular form of concentration and sensitivity.

The technique of applying precious powders borrows a fundamental principle from the art of calligraphy: the quest for balance and purity. Using a thin stylus, the powder particles are individually affixed using a technique that remains a jealously guarded secret. The luminous magic of the completed tableau depends on this extremely rigorous approach: each fragment is perfectly positioned in its rightful place and there is no room for anything random or superfluous.

Each of the powder specks is thus chosen according to its size and its shimmer, then worked on from several angles and with various types of light, so as to ensure enhanced radiance and realism. First of all, tiny gold grains form the luminous backdrop. Then diamond and platinum powder are successively applied to create shiny and dark effects, punctuated by pearl spangles. Their varying brightness makes it possible adjust the direction and size of the luminescent areas, in order to infuse the dial with life and warmth. On the enamel base, between the raised gold ridges, tens of thousands of spangles shine in the light. The particles of precious powder, all of varying shades and degree of luminosity, interact both amongst themselves and with the dark shades of the grand feu enamelled background. The radiance of the composition is more intense in the dial centre and gradually softens towards the outer edges of the dial.

Hand-crafted during more than three months and born from a mingling of artistic crafts, each dial is truly unique.

The lights of Geneva, Paris, New York, Beijing, Tokyo and Sydney

The flyover begins with Geneva, the cradle of technical and precious watchmaking, renowned for having nurtured the art of miniature painting on enamel. Vacheron Constantin was born in the heart of the town, in the St-Gervais district, where the cabinotiers had their workshops.

Then comes Paris, the “City of Light” par excellence, a favourite among artists, philosophers and writers, known the world over for the inimitable elegance of its style. The aerial view of the capital retraces the life of iconic landmarks such as the Place de l’Étoile and the Champs-Elysées, the Seine, as well as the Eiffel Tower famed for its light effects, viewed from above and engraved in gold.

The journey continues with New York, the city that never sleeps, a symbol of dreams and effervescence, where everything is possible. Reproducing it stretches the technique of applying precious powders to its absolute limits, with the highest vantage point that could possibly be depicted. Sprinkled across the grand feu enamel, tens of thousands of precious dots animate the luminous outlines of Manhattan Island with Central Park, the Hudson River and Brooklyn.

The lights of Tokyo make their stage entrance, lending precious sparkling accents to the translucent grand feu enamel dial base, featuring a darker shade for the city and a bluish hue for Tokyo ay. Specks of gold highlight symbolic locations: the Ginza luxury shopping district, the iconic Tokyo Tower, the Kasumiga-seki and Nagatcho political centre, the Rainbow Bridge, as well as the super-trendy Roppongi hotspot. This vibrant nocturnal cartography expresses the harmonious energy characterising the capital of Japan. Water and earth, technology and history: striking contrasts rub shoulders and mingle to create a perfectly balanced alchemist’s blend.

Finally, the lights of Sydney shine through the blue-tinted night. The golden gleam of grand feu champlevé enamel reveals the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, rimming emerald green parks and gardens. Its brilliance outlines the contours of the city, distinctly displaying the location of legendary landmarks such as the Opera House, the historic port of Walsh Bay and Harbour Bridge. The gold dust boats gliding across enamelled water, the streets and the centres of activity are adorned with precious spangles testifying to the nightlife of the Australian metropolis.

Horological excellence

The luxury timepieces of the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection are certified by the Hallmark of Geneva, a sure token of precision and reliability issued by an entirely neutral and independent body. Manufacture Vacheron Constantin mechanical self-winding Caliber 2460 SC drives a display of the hours, minutes and seconds. Visible through the transparent case-back, the 22 carats gold oscillating weight features a finely executed decoration inspired by the Maltese cross, the Vacheron Constantin signature emblem. Each of the components, whether visible or hidden, is adorned with finishes crafted in accordance with the finest watchmaking skills exemplified by bevelling, circular-graining and polishing. The movement is protected by a precious white gold case. luxury watches

The Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection is a horological and artistic creation in keeping with the purest Vacheron Constantin traditions. Its striking dials, like authentic miniature tableaus, offer an original view of fascinating cities and of the watchmaking art itself, perpetually inspired and constantly reinvented.

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TECHNICAL DATA

Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières

Reference
86222/000G-B101 – Geneva
86222/000G-B104 – Paris
86222/000G-B105 – New York
86222/000G-B107 – Beijing
86222/000G-B106 – Tokyo
86222/000G-B916 – Sydney

Calibre
2460 S
Developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin
Mechanical, self-winding
26.2 mm (11¼’’’) diameter, 3.6 mm thick
Approximately 40 hours of power reserve
4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour)
182 components
27 jewels
Hallmark of Geneva certified timepiece

Indications
Hours, minutes, and center seconds

Case
18K white gold
40 mm diameter, 8.9 mm thick
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water-resistance tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approx. 30 meters)

Dial
18K gold dial with grand feu champlevé & translucent enamel and powder of precious stones (diamonds, pearl) & precious metal (gold, platinum) filled by hand

Strap
Black Mississippiensis alligator leather with alligator inner shell, large square scales

Buckle
18K white gold buckle
Polished half Maltese cross-shaped

The name of the city is engraved on the back of the timepiece.

Only available in Vacheron Constantin Boutiques

20 February, 2023/by alfredoroses

Blancpain celebrates the 70th anniversary of the first modern diving watch.

Gadgets, RELOJES, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes de Oro, Relojes Edición Limitada

Blancpain celebra el 70 aniversario del primer reloj de buceo moderno.

BLANCPAIN FIFTY FATHOMS 70 ANIVERSARIO

En 2023, Blancpain celebra el 70 aniversario del primer reloj de buceo moderno.

Lanzado en 1953, el Fifty Fathoms es el primer reloj de buceo moderno. Creado por un buzo para satisfacer las necesidades de la exploración submarina, fue elegido por pioneros del buceo y cuerpos marinos de élite de todo el mundo como un instrumento de cronometraje profesional. Con su resistencia al agua, corona robusta con doble sellado, movimiento automático, esfera oscura en contraste con indicaciones luminiscentes, bisel giratorio unidireccional y protección antimagnética, el Fifty Fathoms se ha convertido en un instrumento indispensable para los buceadores en sus misiones submarinas.

Estos elementos clave de la firma que establecieron a Fifty Fathoms como el reloj de buceo arquetípico continúan definiendo la identidad de tales relojes para toda la industria relojera. Dando testimonio del pasado y mirando al mismo tiempo con firmeza hacia el futuro, los modelos contemporáneos de Fifty Fathoms incorporan movimientos modernos reconocidos por su robustez y confiabilidad. Presentan numerosas innovaciones técnicas derivadas de la larga experiencia de Blancpain en el campo del buceo, sus riesgos y sus imperiosas necesidades.

10 February, 2023/by Nico Nico

RELOJES, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer

Relojes de lujo Perpetual Extraleganza – El icónico Piaget Polo

Piaget Polo adopta el calendario perpetuo en el exclusivo modo ultraplano

El icónico Piaget Polo alcanza alturas sin precedentes en 2023 con el Piaget Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-thin impulsado por el calibre 1255P. Este impresionante nuevo modelo exhibe una de las complicaciones más emblemáticas de la relojería, complementada evocadoramente por una indicación de las fases lunares.

Usado por figuras excepcionales como Ursula Andress, Roger Moore, Andy Warhol y Bjorn Borg, este ícono unisex en oro o acero que destaca entre la multitud irradia un carácter singular y un aura inconfundible de distinción que resuena con el espíritu de Piaget. alegría compartida, sofisticación y extravagancia. Los numerosos viajes de Yves Piaget lo ayudaron a sentir el impulso del mercado estadounidense y su apetito por los relojes deportivos de lujo. Por lo tanto, Piaget estaba preparado para anular las convenciones de la industria al ofrecer un enfoque deportivo y relajado de la elegancia de la relojería las 24 horas del día que cautivó a los EE. UU.

El emblemático Calendario Perpetuo

La icónica colección Piaget Polo ahora da la bienvenida por primera vez a un calendario perpetuo mecánico, una complicación emblemática en la que Piaget ha desarrollado una experiencia considerable que ya se ha desplegado en algunas de sus otras líneas de relojes. Diseñados para adelantar el día, la fecha y el año hasta el año 2100 (meses, fases lunares y ciclo de año bisiesto), los relojes con calendario perpetuo atraen de forma natural a un público exigente y perspicaz, personas conocedoras que aprecian la suma del saber hacer de la alta relojería . incorporados en tales modelos.

Relojería ultrafina pionera

Piaget ha construido su reputación primero en el desarrollo y fabricación de componentes ultraplanos y luego en el desarrollo de movimientos ultraplanos. Combinando destreza relojera, diseño de alta precisión y creatividad audaz, el movimiento interno 12P lanzado en 1960 fue el más plano del mundo porque se basó en la idea de utilizar un microrotor para garantizar su ultradelgadez. Cincuenta años después, este calibre dio lugar a su vez a la nueva generación del calibre 1200P.

Para el nuevo calibre ultraplano de 4 mm 1255P de Piaget, la Manufactura se basó en el calibre ultraplano 1200P con su extrema delgadez y su probada fiabilidad, al tiempo que añadió un calendario perpetuo adicional con mecanismo de fase lunar. Con un grosor total de solo 8,65 mm, el nuevo Piaget Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin de 42 mm lleva el universo a la muñeca al mismo tiempo que conserva el ambiente alegre de la alta vida que hace alarde de esta colección fabulosamente festiva y colorida.

Fluidez icónica

El Piaget Polo Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin presenta una esfera de color verde esmeralda oscuro con un diseño de galón y tres subesferas para la fecha, el mes (junto con la indicación del año bisiesto) y el día de la semana a las 9, 12 y 3 en punto, junto con el Indicación de fase lunar a las 6 en punto. Fieles a la tradición de Piaget, las subesferas incorporan varios acabados, añadiendo riqueza visual a medida que la luz juega sobre ellas, junto con Super-Luminova ^® índices Si bien conserva los gallones que forman parte de la firma Piaget Polo desde 1979 en ambas cajas, el vínculo estético entre la nueva generación de Piaget Polo y sus predecesores se ve reforzado por la reaparición de los gallones en el brazalete. Otras mejoras se relacionan con un nuevo sistema SingleTouch intercambiable para el brazalete, ya que el modelo viene con una cómoda alternativa de correa de caucho, que hace eco del patrón de gadroon en el dial, que diversifica las opciones de uso de manera fácil pero segura.

Un legado de distinción sin esfuerzo

El encuentro por excelencia entre la alta relojería y el uso diario, el Piaget Polo se desliza a la perfección del día a la noche, de lo público a lo privado. Siempre encajando, nunca mezclando, ofrece una narrativa contemporánea para las identidades más audaces y versátiles. El nuevo Piaget Polo continúa personificando la alegre mezcla de comodidad, sofisticación y extravagancia que ha forjado su renombre. Para Piaget, el estilo es un regalo. Un séptimo sentido. Algo que no se puede aprender ni comprar. Sea cual sea el lugar, sea cual sea el momento, sin dejar de ser fiel a su distinción sin esfuerzo, Piaget Polo es una invitación a liberar la versatilidad y la autoexpresión personales, encendiendo una capacidad única para encajar y sobresalir.

7 February, 2023/by Rubén

RELOJES, Relojes Automáticos, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes Edición Limitada, Relojes Mecánicos

HIGH-FREQUENCY ACROSS THE SPECTRUM: ZENITH UNVEILS “ULTRA COLOUR” BOX SET OF 8

ALTA FRECUENCIA EN TODO EL ESPECTRO: ZENITH PRESENTA UNA CAJA “ULTRA COLOR” DE 8 MODELOS DEFY 21 CON CARGA CROMÁTICA

Ya se trate de esferas de colores vibrantes en la década de 1970 o de movimientos revolucionarios terminados con tonos llamativos en sus creaciones más recientes, ZENITH nunca ha rehuído explorar los cromatismos de maneras nuevas y atrevidas.

A través del DEFY 21, el primer modelo en albergar el innovador movimiento de cronógrafo El Primero de 1/100 de segundo de ZENITH, ZENITH buscó expresar la noción de precisión de alta frecuencia a través de frecuencias de luz y colores. Esta idea cobró vida por primera vez con el DEFY 21 Ultraviolet en 2020, que estableció un nuevo código de diseño para el DEFY 21 que ZENITH ahora expresa completamente este concepto con la caja DEFY 21 Ultra Color.

1 2 3 4 5

2-STILL-1_DEFY-21_97.9001.9004-8.80.R955_4x5

2-STILL-1_DEFY-21_97.9001.9004-7.80.R922_4x5

2-STILL-1_DEFY-21_97.9001.9004-6.81.R946_4x5

2-STILL-1_DEFY-21_97.9001.9004-5.80.R945_4x5

2-STILL-1_DEFY-21_97.9001.9004-2.80.R948_4x5

Con ocho iteraciones diferentes del DEFY 21 y limitadas a solo ocho cajas, las piezas Ultra Color están todas fabricadas en titanio liviano con acabado completamente mate, lo que permite que brille el cromatismo interno. La esfera abierta presenta contadores de cronógrafo en relieve que combinan con el tono gris de la caja, debajo de los cuales se aplican vibrantes colores metálicos en la parte menos esperada del reloj: el movimiento.a

Luminoso y transparente con un encanto casi cristalino, el conjunto Ultra Box se entrega en una caja de presentación de acrílico transparente, con un efecto iridiscente que refracta la luz para mostrar diferentes colores según el ángulo de la luz. Cada uno de los relojes está grabado en la parte posterior de la caja con un número de edición limitada de 8, y cada caja contará con relojes numerados secuencialmente del 1 al 8, en lugar de tener el mismo número para los ocho relojes en una sola caja.

6 February, 2023/by Carlos

RELOJES, Relojes Automáticos, Relojes de Hombre, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes Edición Limitada

Novelties Breguet | QUEEN OF NAPLES 8918

Two new versions of an emblematic model
The Reine de Naples 8918 watch is one of the House’s essential pieces. Inspired by the first wristwatch, it combines modernity, elegance and delicacy.

DISCOVER

Breguet presents for the first time a Reine de Naples model with a black “Grand Feu” enamel dial. Complete with Breguet Arabic numerals, this new version is surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds. A sumptuous pear cut diamond replaces the number 6.

We also present a Reine de Naples model that combines mother-of-pearl and guilloché with subtle hints of colour. The Breguet numerals have been enhanced with a red hue reminiscent of the ruby setting on the bezel, flange and crown. A pear ruby replaces the number 6.

DISCOVER

6 October, 2022/by Maria G

RELOJES, Relojes de Mujer, Relojes de Oro, Relojes Edición Limitada, АРХИТЕКТУРА

Vacheron-Constantin | Égérie moon phase & Égérie self-winding

Vacheron-Constantin

Égérie moon phase & Égérie self-winding

• Two versions -one with moon phases and one date variation- in a taupe colour that is a first in the collection.

• Similar to the watches from the Égérie collection, each have three interchangeable taupe-coloured straps, in alligator leather, satin and quilted lambskin, the latter being a leather proposed for the first time by Vacheron Constantin.

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Égérie moon phase

Reference
8005F/000R-B958

Calibre
1088 L
Manufacture calibre
Mechanical, self-winding
30 mm (9¼ ’’’)) diameter, 5.03 mm thick
Approximately 40 hours of power reserve
4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
164 components
26 jewels

Indications
Hours, minutes, centre seconds
Moon phases

Case
18K 5N pink gold
37 mm diameter, 9.32 mm thick
Bezel set with 58 round-cut diamonds
Crown set with a moonstone
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water-resistance tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approx. 30 metres)

Dial
Grey taupe-coloured opaline, “pleats” pattern made using the tapisserie technique
18K 5N pink gold ring set with 36/34 round-cut diamonds
Circular “pearl” minute track
18K 5N pink gold applied Arabic numerals and hour-markers

Straps/Buckles
Delivered with three taupe-coloured self-interchangeable straps: Mississippiensis alligator leather, satin, quilted lambskin, all with calf lining
Each strap equipped with an 18K 5N pink gold pin buckle

Total diamond-setting
94 diamonds, for a total weight of approx. 1.10 carats (guaranteed minimum carats)

Égérie self-winding

References
4605F/000R-B957

Calibre
1088
Manufacture calibre
Mechanical, self-winding
20.80 mm (9’’’) diameter, 3.83 mm thick
Approximately 40 hours of power reserve
4 Hz (28,800 vibrations/hour)
144 components
26 jewels

Indications
Hours, minutes, centre seconds
Date

Case
18K 5N pink gold
35 mm diameter, 9.32 mm thick
Bezel set with 58 round-cut diamonds
Crown set with a moonstone
Transparent sapphire crystal caseback
Water-resistance tested at a pressure of 3 bar (approx. 30 metres)

Total diamond-setting
92 diamonds, for a total weight of approx. 0.97 carats (guaranteed minimum carats)

4 October, 2022/by Maria G