For several watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, Baselworld is their horological Mecca, and this year I finally got to make my first pilgrimage. Although the event seems mainly focused on showcasing the new releases of the participating brands, it is, in reality, a forum for industry stakeholders to meet and discuss their passion. As Day 4 draws to a close, here are few timepieces (several of which are not new releases) that have stirred my passion.
RESSENCE Type 3:
The groundbreaking ROCS (Ressence Orbital Convex System) technology encapsulated within this timepiece speaks volumes of the endless possibilities attainable in watchmaking. It is truly a timepiece for the contemporary man who perceives luxury beyond polish and appreciates innovation and complexity. A stunning all blue version was released this year; however, I must say I am still in love with the black versions.
Bremont Solo 37:
As a man who prefers watches sized between 36mm and 40mm, pilot watches have been pieces I have admired without a great desire to acquire.
However, the Bremont’s Solo 37 has finally given me a means to partake.
Beyond the classic pilot design is the appeal of owning a testament to the high quality of British watchmaking; the price tag also makes it ever more irresistible.
This year Bremont introduced a version for ladies – the Solo 32 alongside new variations of the 43mm Solo for men.
H. Moser & Cie. Swiss Alp Watch:
This reality-check of a timepiece embodies an “f*** you” sentiment towards the notion that smart watches are here to wipe out traditional horology; a feeling I genuinely share. Seeing and feeling this watch in person reinforces this. Smart watches and mechanical watches are two distinct things that appeal to different senses/desires. The two may be seen to be in conflict, but both will coexist going forward; which is what the Swiss Alp watch puts into perspective. H. Moser & Cie produced 50 pieces that have all been sold.
Last but surely not least,
Meistersinger Pangaea Day-Date:
Three years after its unveiling here at Baselworld, the Pangaea Day-Date continues to enchant watch enthusiasts, myself being one such. My favourite combination of complications within a timepiece is without a doubt the day-date function, and Meistersinger has won my heart with their reorientation of the dial to present their day-date function.
Aside bearing the trademark single hand dial (which creates an alternative perspective of time), the Pangaea Day Date possesses two rotating disks which indicate date and day respectively just below the 12 o’ clock point, making the watch an eye-catching conversation starter.
At a glance, the dial suggests precision, an aesthetic that reminds all observers of the utilitarian instrument a watch once was, and to a large extent still is to many of us. Backing the Pangaea Day Date is Meistersinger’s German engineering and sweet price positioning, which makes it an utter must-have!
