Hands-on – IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Mojave Desert”

Since 2007, IWC has been producing a special series of watches designed to meet the demanding needs of elite jet pilots. Established as an independent collection within the IWC Pilot’s Watch family in 2012, the TOP GUN series has become renowned for its use of hi-tech materials and stealth, military-inspired styling. IWC introduced a total of four new TOP GUN models at SIHH 2019 this year. We’ve already gotten hands-on with the impressively technical Double Chronograph TOP GUN Ceratanium, as well as the practical Automatic TOP GUN. Now, it’s time to turn our attention to the slightly more unusual Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Mojave Desert” (Ref. IW389103) – because it is objectively unusual. 

7 years ago

Independent Watchmaking – GoS Sarek Sunset and Sunset Glacier – Emulating the Beauty of Nature with Luminous Mother-of-Pearl

Johan Gustafsson and Patrik Sjörgen, founders of GoS Watches, create watches that encapsulate their passion for Scandinavia’s Viking past  and the natural beauty of Sweden’s landscape. As unique as they are unusual, GoS watches are a far cry from the minimalist aesthetic we tend to associate with Scandinavian design. Ahead of Baselworld 2019, GoS introduces […]

7 years ago

Hands-on – Fortis Official Cosmonauts Amadee-18 Chronograph – Destination Mars?

Nothing gives a watch credentials like a stint in outer space. Fortis, founded in 1912, has long been associated with rugged pilot’s watches and became part of the official equipment of Russian cosmonauts in 1994. Launched into space on a MIR space station mission, the Official Cosmonauts Chronograph bears the logo of the Russian space authorities (Roscomos) on the caseback and continues to accumulate mission patches from ongoing International Space Station adventures. Last year, Fortis participated in a simulation of the first human landing on Mars that took place in the desert of Oman and provided chronographs for the entire team.

7 years ago

Introducing – Breguet Classique 5177 Grand Feu Blue Enamel (Hands-On)

When you think about Breguet watches, you usually have in mind (superb) silvered guilloché dials, blued hands and an overall luxurious, refined style. This would, however, be simplistic as the brand also has great expertise with enamelled dials. With the Classique 5177 Grand Feu Blue Enamel, Breguet presents an automatic dress watch with pure Breguet […]

7 years ago

Pre-Baselworld 2019 – Anonimo Nautilo Vintage – More Retro-Styled and Smaller

A brand built on the ashes of the Italian branch of Panerai, founded by a naval engineer and former head of the aforementioned watchmaker, is obligated to have a dive watch in the collection. For over 12 years now, the Nautilo has been part of the Anonimo line-up in various guises – see herehere or here. New for 2019 and launched as a preview to Baselworld is a more retro – or vintage-inspired – take on their cool Nautilo, with the Anonimo Nautilo Vintage. And good news for a lot of people: it’s smaller!

7 years ago

Introducing – Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Moon Swiss Serpentinite (Live Pics)

Launched in 2017, the Grande Seconde Moon allowed Jaquet Droz to incorporate a moon phase indication and a pointer date to its signature 8-shaped dial without altering its distinctive balance. It also created a striking sense of depth to this usually sleek watch. The brand now unveils an 88-piece limited edition with a stone dial. Using […]

7 years ago

Value Proposition – The Carpathia Ascent, Now Launching on Kickstarter

We’ve seen dozens of microbrands on the market recently, but only a few get mentioned on MONOCHROME. Not new to the watch industry, the people behind Carpathia are launching their first watch – an elegant, slightly original model named the Ascent. Swiss engine, American and Polish roots for a competitive package. Carpathia was founded in 2016 […]

7 years ago

Introducing – Holthinrichs Watches RAW Ornament – 3D Laser Printed Case and Concrete Texture

Regular readers of MONOCHROME might remember the name of Michiel Holthinrichs, the Dutch designer who combines traditional mechanical watchmaking with cutting-edge 3D printing.  By introducing 21st-century technology into the mix, Holthinrichs is able to create highly specialised designs, reduce costs,  and explore the potential of his revolutionary method. His first watch, Ornament 1, featured a […]

7 years ago