ADVENT CALENDAR 2016: December 12 – The Bulgari Octo Ultra Nero
Much like Elf, the unofficial best Christmas movie of all time, the Octo has a cult following – though to be honest, that’s where the similarities begin and end. Still, we reckon this status is only going to grow stronger with the release of the blacked-out Ultra Nero. This striking piece commands attention from the wrist, with its matt black finishing and subtle rose gold highlights on the indices, numerals, hands and crown. Who should you buy this for? That confident person in your life who’s most comfortable standing out from the pack. What’s the damage? Under 10k Bulgari Octo Ultra Nero Australian Pricing Bulgari Octo Ultra Nero, $9950
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As the days tick by and SIHH 2017 looms, the pre-releases are coming thick and fast. One of the brands that never fails to surprise (hey Carbotech) and delight (hey Firenze) us is Panerai, and this year it looks like they’re keeping to form with two new takes on the classic Radiomir case. Inspired by historic models from the ’30s, the most distinctive feature of these 47mm steel models is the twelve-sided bezel holding the plexiglass crystal (a nice vintage feature in and of itself) in place. This bezel, which bears more than a passing resemblance to Panerai’s typical casebacks, is engraved with ‘Officine Panerai – Brevettato’, which refers to the patented luminous material used by the brand back in the day. The first of these two models, PAM00685, comes with a standard black sandwich-style dial. The second is a little more special, its gradated brown dial mimicking the tropical, radium-faded look of highly-prized vintage models. It looks great in the photography we’ve seen and we can’t wait to witness it IRL in January. Both watches are powered by Panerai’s P.3000 calibre, with three days’ power reserve, and come on an untreated brown leather strap with contrasting stitching. Panerai Radiomir 3 Days Acciaio (PAM…

The Orbis Terrarum is a classic worldtime complication, with an outer dial dominated by an inner ring of key global cities and an outer ring displaying 24-hour time. While it looks complicated it’s surprisingly intuitive, and all the more bold in the 4810 case, as opposed to the svelte Heritage Spirit model that we explored mid-way through last year. Who should you buy this for? A watch lover who’s ready to graduate to mid-level complications, without necessarily wanting the price tag that usually comes with it. What’s the damage? Under 10k Montblanc 4810 Orbis Terrarium Australian Pricing Montblanc 4810 Orbis Terrarium, $9160
Well, Christian and Evelyn have arrived at their destination and no, it’s not some Bond-villain-esque lair or a high-stakes diamond heist. Instead it’s something far more relatable and no-less stressful – a school reunion. Thankfully Christian’s fear of social inadequacy is unfounded, thanks in no small part to the Portugieser Hand-Wound on his wrist. We’ve had fun with this illustrated three-part microstory (here are parts one and two in case you missed), and we hope you’ve enjoyed reading it.