Signalman GMT PR

Introducing the Schofield Signalman GMT PR, limited edition timepiece from Schofield Watch Company.

While not a divers watch as such it is water resistant to 500 meters and has a AR coated sapphire crystal.

Signalman refers to a lighthouse as is evident with the engraved watch back. The case shape is based on a specific light used in a lighthouse in England.

Not wanting to offer a simple three-hand dial watch to start, the Signalman GMT watch has a GMT hand as well as a power reserve indicator and date complications. Powering the Signalman GMT is a Swiss Soprod caliber 9335 automatic movement. It has a power reserve of 42 hours and the GMT hand is adjusted in one hour increments with a specific inset case pusher tool.

The Signalman also comes with a number of interesting and exquisite straps. They are all 24mm wide and come in a host of styles including shark and calf skin.

Technical Information

Automatic Swiss Soprod 9335 movement 31 Jewels 28,800 bph (4hz) Rhodium plated, pearlage decoration, blued screws 

Power Reserve of 42 hours displayed at 12 o’clock GMT display at 6 o’clock set via push button at 4:30 o’clock, Date at 3 o’clock 

Water resistant to 500 metres Anti-magnetic movement holder

Signalman case: 44mm diameter, DLC coated stainless steel

Dial: on two levels, applied numerals, SuperLuminova C1

Sapphire crystal: domed, anti-reflective coating on the inside

Strap: special edition black shark-skin, green calf skin lined

Buckle: curved, polished stainless steel, engraved, screw in

You will receive a discount of 20% if you pre order either of Schofields Signalman’s before June 2012.

Pricing – Signalman DLC

Pre Order Price               £2,465.00 excl. VAT and Shipping        £2,958.00 incl. VAT

Post June 2012 Price     £2,958.00 excl. VAT and Shipping        £3,549.00 incl. VAT

UK Shipping is £20.00

Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage Edition – ‘Hands On’ Watch Review

Written by D Constant for The Watch Review Site.

Here at The Watch Review Site we would like to start by thanking the good people at Christopher Ward for supplying us with a review piece of their new C8 Pilot MkII, the U-2 Vintage Edition. Which is available on pre order and should be available to buy from the start of June 2012.

Now we have the thank you’s out of the way let’s get on with the real reason we are here, to see and review the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage edition and put it through its paces on a Watch Review Site ‘Hands On’ Watch Review.

Our initial views are, that name it’s a bit long winded but it takes nothing away from the watch itself, The New Chr.Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage has moved on from the original C8 Pilot and also the C8 Pilot MkII, Gone are the Rivets on the Strap, the dial indicators and markers differ for that vintage look and it comes in a lovely 44mm PVD black case. Yes you heard right Black PVD (very nice) 

It’s a lovely addition to the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Collection,which has been around for a while now,  it wears well and looks good in a variety of circumstances. The C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage also performs as well as expected from any Swiss made and Swiss movement timepiece. All in All it’s a great little (well not little really) quality Pilot watch and for the money, well I haven’t seen or played with better.

So have Christopher Ward and their team pulled one out the bag here. Let’s get into the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage in Depth and see.

First off, when your C8 Pilot is delivered it comes very well presented in a black leather presentation box with light cream interior (which most would probably keep as it is a quality box to store watches that don’t require a winder), Along with this you get a quick start/functions guide, the guarantee and letter congratulating you on your purchase and a Christopher Ward microfibre cloth. All very nicely done. You feel like you have purchased a luxury timepiece from get go.

Once you get over the pleasure of unwrapping your new purchase you notice a fabulous looking, Striking Vintage style Pilot Watch, as Christopher Ward have so kindly pointed out on their website, the C8 Pilot is a traditional Pilot Watch which is based upon the 1940’s classic  IWC B-Uhren watch. If you ask me with its Black PVD case there an argument to say it’s akin to the Bell & Ross BR Vintage 123 Carbon Series in looks. Not a bad thing hey.

The C8 Mk2, is very well balanced in style and colour choice throughout, hopefully this comes across in our attempts to do the Christopher Pilot MkII u-2 Vintage justice in our photographs.

What do you expect from a classic Pilot Watch?

Well, whatever it is the Chr.Ward C8 MkII U-2 Vintage has it, from its 44mm Black PVD case to its CW branding on the distressed orange/brown leather strap, its the complete package.

The vintage retro feel begins with your first glance at the Watch, the hands and markers, to slightly contrast its black dial are the in military beige as the use of “Old Radium Super Luminova” is apparent  which gives more than sufficient Lumin for the discerning Pilot along with the vintage feel such a timepiece deserves.

And it just goes on with the new distressed leather brown/orange strap (less rivets – I feel it’s better without the rivets and allows the watch to be worn for different occasions easily) is a great touch by Christopher Ward.  Now on to the piste-de-resistance in my opinion of the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage, it’s Black PVD Case making this Pilot a competitor in the looks department for most of the (shall we say) more expensive and well known Pilot Watches out there.

Even its large onion style crown has the CW touch on the head. Whilst we are talking large the case is 44mm and I have very small wrists, when I first took the C8 out of the packaging to place on my wrist (after struggling to reduce the strap size to suit me, the struggling bit is due to me being a little impatient and the strap being new and stubborn, but in a good way) I thought this is going to be way too big for me. But no once on it felt very comfortable, the crown did not infringe or extrude at all and the watch sat nicely on my wrist this may be down to the thickness of the watch but whatever it is it fits well even for the limp wristed like me.

Over and above the obvious first impressions you also notice the time and effort and preciseness that Christopher Ward have put into the C8 Pilot Mk2 U-2 Vintage (I really can’t think of a way of shortening this name without referring to previous CW Pilots, Sorry);

Like the date window on the dial, Christopher Ward use a black date disc, others would have used white, and it is placed so it doesn’t infringe on the 3 o’clock marker, another great touch.

The Buckle, it’s the same as previous C8’s but also coated in Black PVD, with the CW logo on it, the placement of the CW logo on the strap end, further the CW logo on the crown, yes it sounds like there are lots of logos but they are done so meticulously well they are not in your face and are just really good touches to an already great watch.

The weight of the watch, it feels like you have made a substantial purchase, it’s weighted very well and is solid and wholesome.

But the thing I like best is the unique case back with a small round window allowing you to see the Swiss Selitta SW200  movement, but that’s not all the case back also has  it also has a stamped image of what can be described an airplane wing, you tell me.

Its these little touches that make the Christopher Ward, not just a good Pilot Watch but a Great one, Now add all the above to the fact that it is powered by a true Swiss movement in the Selitta Sw200-1 and you have the complete package and all for well under £500.00.

Yes, Gasp, Shock Horror, Amazement, This Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Watch – U-2 Vintage in Black PVD which can compete with the four figure equivalents very easily comes in at less than monkey.

To Sum up it has been a pleasure sporting the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage Watch for the last few weeks, this is a clean, simple, well built automatic Vintage Pilot Watch that can hold its own in any company.

The Quality and outstanding build quality, along with the clear effort that would have been put in to achieve such a great timepiece far exceeds its price tag.

Taking everything into consideration its British design, Swiss movement, Swiss made I would go as far to say that if you where to only buy one Traditional vintage Pilot Watch to add to your collection the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage is the one for you.

For anyone that is interested we have a little photo gallery of the Christopher Ward C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage after the technical details below.

Christopher Ward C8 Pilot Mk2 U-2 Vintage – Technical Details

Case : Steel coated with Black PVD

Diameter: 44mm, Height: 9.7mm,Weight: 114g

Soft iron anti-magnetic inner case

Movement: Selitta SW200-1 Automatic, with manual winding option

26 Jewels

Incabloc anti shock system

Power reserve: 38 hours

Frequency: 28800 per hour

Dial: Black Soft iron anti-magnetic

Anti-reflective sapphire crystal

Hands and Markers Old Radium Super-luminova

Case Back: Screw down back plate , Balance wheel viewing window

Strap:  Tunnel stitch and calf’s leather strap

Buckle: Black PVD Butterfly opening deployment system

Christopher Ward C700 Grande Rapide Automatic Chronograph

The Christopher Ward C700 Grand Rapide is, “quite simply, a magnificent example of the automatic chronograph genre”.

It’s movement is supplied by the Eta 7750, through to the Formula One inspired laser precision carbon-fibre dial, this watch represents the apotheosis of Christopher Wards watchmaking skills upto this point in their short lifecycle.

Christopher Ward say “We were driven by a desire for excellence in creating the C700 and we hope you are equally driven by a desire to own one of these wonderful watches.”

Christopher Ward‘s new C700 Grand Rapide is the British watchmaker’s most ambitious timepiece yet, it is a more modern timepiece in terms of imagery than the watchmaker has previously designed.

Christopher Ward say “Nothing about the watch is a compromise; every aspect of the design has been driven by the desire to create the ultimate motorsport watch.  The C700 has been created for people who prefer to make the most of every second and observe their rivals in their rear-view mirror.” 

The Christopher Ward C700 is inspired by motorsport, and this is apparent from the carbon-fibre dial (first time use by Christopher Ward) and very interesting silicone rubber strap with a carbon weave effect, tyre impersonation at its best, but that aside you cannot forget that even though this timepiece is British in design and styling its internal workings and movements are all Swiss made.

Christopher Ward pride themselves on ensuring they design and manufacture top quality timepieces using the best swiss movements and engineering.

The C700 Grande Rapide comes in three models, the only differnce between them is the strap or bracelet combination. The models are

C700SKSI – Silicone Rubber Strap

C700SKS – Steel Bracelet

C700SKK – Black Leather

There is a choice of a stainless steel bracelet, a leather strap or a rubber strap, which mirrors the dial with its polished chequered flag design. The Chris Ward C700 has a 30 minute and 12 hour counter as well as a 60 second chronograph, which has a circular guilloche pattern at its heart and is inspired by a rev counter – continuing the motorsport theme.

Like all Christopher Ward watches, the C700 has been designed in Britain and hand assembled by the company’s atelier in Switzerland.  Superluminova on the hands as well as the dial ensure there’s never a need to be in the dark when it comes to managing time.

This is Christopher Ward’s highest priced model, but saying that as with Christopher Wards ethos the watches are still only priced at £799.00 for the strap versions and £860.00 for the Steel bracelet version and are available directly from Christopher Ward via their website Christopher Ward London Limited

Technical Data

Diameter: 42mm

Height: 13.9mm

Weight: 130g (Silicon rubber & Black Leather strap models) 209g (Steel bracelet model)

Case: 316L Stainless steel

Calibre: Eta 7750

Vibrations: 28,800 per hour

Features

25 Jewel Swiss automatic chronograph

Etachron regulator system

3 counter multi-function chronograph (hours, minutes and stop second)

Internal Tachymeter

Day / Date Calendar

Carbon Fibre Dial

Convex sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating

Screw-in crown

Water resistant to 100m (10 atm)

Strap: Silicon Rubber with adjustable tongue buckle, Black Leather with adjustable quick release butterfly clasp or Steel with adjustable quick release butterfly clasp.

Hand-polished surgical grade stainless steel case

SuperLuminova SLC1 Luminous indices and hands

Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta MK I – Hands On Watch Review

Written by D Constant for The Watch Review Site

We have the pleasure of undertaking a ‘hands on’ watch review of the New Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1, which is currently available for pre-order via the Christopher Ward London Limited website. As you probably already know Christopher Ward only sell their watches online via their own website, this marketing method allows CW to reduce marketing costs and hence the market price of their British designed, Swiss made and manufactured timepieces.

The C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 is the latest in the range of aviation watches on offer by Christopher Ward, it is an addition to the already established Christopher Ward C11 MSL Range. The C11 MSL Black Manta comes with an all new PVD black case, this being the primary difference between the previous released C11 MSL which sported a polished steel case, It is available as a Chronograph Watch or Automatic Watch. The later being the one we have to play with and on that note thank you to the guys and gals at Christopher Ward for providing this C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic watch for us at the Watch Review Site to put it through its paces in one of our ‘Hands On’ watch reviews.

So on to the task at hand, The C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic, Another one of CW’s long names, yes, yes, I know we can call it the C11 but that doesn’t differentiate it from the other C11’s does it so it’s the full name again.

We are not going to go into detail about how it is delivered as we have covered this on previous Reviews as in the C8 Pilot Hands on review, let’s just say you will not be disappointed when you receive your package.

First impressions are that this is an aviation watch that is based on a modern airplanes altimeter so heading away from the traditional pilot watches to a more contemporary version of a pilot watch akin to the Bell and Ross’s of this world. On the C11 MSL Black Manta we have a round dial placed in an altimeter style PVD black stainless steel case, CW have even placed a screw in each corner to depict the altimeter look even further.

Christopher Ward state the following with regards to the design and inspiration behind the Black Manta “Based on the cockpits of fast jets the C11 MSL is indeed an interesting and fast paced addition to the range, whilst less workmanlike than some if its peers, the C11 MSL retains its functionality.”

The C11 MSL black Manta has a very clean and crisp look to it, and makes a bold but understated statement when on the wrist, this 42mm case and 35.2mm dial are strikingly simple and attractive, with very large white numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9 and large wide black and white striking hands, the entire piece comes together and has a sense of purpose.

The lack of minute indicators adds to the watches simplicity, but does not impair the reading of the time. Along with the inconspicuous second hand (a good thing in my book) and very well placed white numbers on black date indictor at 4 o’clock, the C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic ticks all the boxes in the looks department.

It’s a large watch but slim and wears well and fits even on small wrists, It’s light yet weighty enough to feel very comfortable on the wrist, It’s simple yet bold and striking and it can be worn daily with a suit or with casual wear, it’s adaptive and whatever the occasion brings attention to your wrist because of all the above. A wrist watch for all occasions.

As we are talking about looks and styling we should really mention that the Black Manta has a flat anti reflective coated sapphire crystal glass with the anti reflective coating being present on the exterior of the glass and not the interior as in the norm with Christopher Ward watches, this was a step taken as the glare reduction is substantially increased with the coating on the outside of the sapphire crystal as opposed to the inside. You do notice a blue tint to the sapphire crystal , which is down to the anti reflective coating but that doesn’t distract from the look of the watch at all and is only visible when the watch is in certain positions.

Along with the effective use of the coating, museum grade sapphire crystal has been used which further increases clarity and night time visibility of the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic.

With regards to night time visibility the numerals, markers and hands are all coated with SuperLuminova and its Lumen at night provides a very visible timepiece.    

As you may well already know I have quite petite wrists and need to wear most watches (scrap that, all watches) on the smallest possible fitting and even then may need to add a hole or two myself, not always very successfully, (that’s where custom straps come in) so a 42mm case is always a challenge but this CW C11 MSL fits well and is very comfortable to wear even for me, this could well be down to the slimness of the watch at 10.7mm. See for yourselves in these wrist shots.

It’s a comfort that the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic fits well as it would be a shame to replace the strap with a customised version as so much attention to detail has been put into this by Christopher Ward from the black buckle, so delicately emblazoned with Christopher

It’s a comfort that the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic fits well as it would be a shame to replace the strap with a customised version as so much attention to detail has been put into this by Christopher Ward from the black buckle, so delicately emblazoned with Christopher  Ward London and two decorative screws to match the case.  The strap itself feels thick and sturdy and has quality stitching, with the small CW logo at the end.  Oh and it has tool free simple to use quick release lugs.

Again these little touches and attention to detail show how Christopher Ward value your custom and reflect the recent step up in build quality we have seen in the Christopher Ward ranges, we saw it with the C8 Pilot and the C11 MSL Black Manta is also built to exacting standards with quality workmanship.

Moving onto the Case back of the Black Manta, again we see Christopher Wards emphasis upon design and quality,  in normal circumstance you have your serial numbers and water resistance figures, not here on the C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 you have an engraved Latin inscription and a jet, the inscription translated stands for ‘Reach for the Stars’ quite apt for an aviator watch. Oh it also says Swiss made and has a serial number to the lower end but as such are not very noticeable so don’t detract from the main engravings.

We should really begin to mention to movement, again as with other Chris Ward pieces they have opted for the true Swiss mechanism in a Selitta SW200-1 or ETA 2824-2, both mechanisms do the same job and are of similar quality, the reason for two movement selections here is that ETA movements have becoming more and more limited in the market place due to steps by the owner Swatch in restricting supply, but Selitta movements are just as good and are becoming more and more popular.

So once again Christopher Ward have pulled one out of the bag with the C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1, it comes with a unique and attractive case design, and bold simplistic dial and on the wrist, it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Casing point here we had both the C8 Pilot MkII U-2 Vintage and C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic in for review at the same time, both turned out to be great watches but when I first opened the boxes I was drawn to the C8 Pilot it retro look, and undeniable Pilot Watch look but with time it was the C11 MSL that spent the most time on my wrist. Now that’s saying something as the C8 is a fabulous watch and one I would recommend to anyone who wants a retro vintage Pilot, but the C11 MSL Black Manta is really just that little different and little diverse and that i like…

One very important thing we have not mentioned in this review yet and it’s the price of the Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic at just £450.00 incl. VAT (UK Price) it just makes it even better, we can’t see many unique aviators with such a build quality and customer service backup in the market to compete at this price bracket.

The C11 Black Manta comes with the option of black or brown leather straps and is also available as a Chronograph at £399.00 incl. VAT (UK Price with) a Ronda 5030.D movement.

We have spoken to the team at Christopher Ward and we can confirm that we will be seeing further variation on the C11 MSL with a HRDC (Historic Racing Drivers Club) edition and a Mercedes Benz Club edition. The HRDC version looks lovely and we will be getting hold of it for review when its available fingers crossed.

As with all our hands on watch reviews here at The Watch Review Site we have provided a little gallery of photos of the Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta MK1 Automatic after the Technical Details.

Technical Details – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic

Case: 316l Surgical Grade Steel coated with Black PVD

Diameter: 42mm, Height: 10.7mm, Weight: 108g

Movement: ETA 2824-2/Selitta SW200-1 Automatic, with manual winding option

25/26 Jewels

Incabloc anti shock system

Power reserve: 38 hours

Frequency: 28800 per hour

Water Resistance: 100m/10atm

Dial: Black

Black date calendar

Anti-reflective museum grade sapphire crystal

Hands and Markers Luminous hands and Indexes Superluminova

Case Back: Hand Polished Screw-in back plate

Strap: 22mm Italian leather strap

Buckle: Black PVD

Photo Gallery – Christopher Ward C11 MSL Black Manta Mk1 Automatic

The Watch Review Site is ONE…..

We are One…….. Woo Hoo….

Yes it has been one year since we launched The Watch Review Site and to celebrate and thank you all for tuning in to our posts and articles in our first year we have teamed up with David Mason London and Steveo Straps to give you the chance to receive a David Mason DM1b as pictured below with a hand made Steveo Strap. Sorry but we will have to pick the strap for you unless you email us on [email protected] with your preference from Steveos Site www.steveostraps.com and if you win we will try and make sure you get the strap you want, there will be a delay in delivery as the strap needs to be made after the winners announced, small price to pay for your own choice of strap.

WIN A DAVID MASON LONDON DM1b with Bespoke Handmade STEVEO STRAP.

David Mason London is one of the new kids on the block in the British watch industry and we have it on good authority that they are making strides towards bringing to market a fantastic offering for us watch enthusiasts and lovers..

Since there inaugural watches reviewed here, they have revamped their corporate image and logo, got a new website and have committed to produce British Designed Swiss Made timepieces. We have had a sneak peek at whats to come and we are pleasantly surprised, there’s swiss made auto’s, auto chrono’s and some very affordable quartz chrono’s and more.

SteveoStraps is also a British based business, who has been on our radar here at TWRS for a while, his products are all handmade right here in the UK, by his own fair hands and the quality is fantastic.

Steveostraps was born in Surrey UK as a hobby in 2009. Each strap is handmade and takes approx 2 hours to make. The leathers are sourced from a wholesale supplier in Birmingham which gives Steveo a massive selection of textures and colours to work with. Being handmade means that no two straps will be identical so you can be sure of an original watchband for your timepiece.

To ENTER just register for The Watch Review Site Newsletter on the right in the sidebar, or login and leave a comment below…. Don’t forget if you leave a comment mention your strap choice if you can.

Photograph courtesy of David Mason London and Andrew Lofthouse Photography

Graham London Chronofighter Prodrive – Professional Divers Watch

Press Release by Graham London

Darkness, strange creatures, high pressure, abyss, sea caverns, words that describe the unknown deep underwater world sound mythical and full of thrill. GRAHAM wanted to make these words become reality and create a true luxury diver’s watch for professional adventurers and watch addicts. The Chronofighter Prodive is for the first time equipped with a patented start/stop/reset mechanism which allows the watch to be used to the limits the human being can dive to. However, each watch is tested to resist and go beyond 2000 feet. Advanced manufacturing processes have been used to develop the perfect and stylish diving instrument.

Clear, colourless, odourless, water covers 70% of Earth and is essential to all living creatures. GRAHAM is devoted to the creation of timepieces which respect nature and unknown territories and also give boldness to our users to experience the GRAHAM exciting world.

Equipped with an isothermal diving neoprene rubber suit and gloves, the diving experience must be a sequence of easy and successful operations.
GRAHAM has developed a brand new diving chronograph, Chronofighter Prodive, which will give life and light to this incredible world of deep water and make you perfectly amphibian. The yellow-coloured Chronofighter Prodive professional shines forth from underwater and will be the diver’s watch to find your way to venture in total assurance.

The lever, famously GRAHAM and patented system, is undoubtedly the best system to activate the chronograph without fail. Placed on the left side of the case, the trigger is completely rethought to become the only control pusher of the chronograph start/stop and reset. Easy for any divers to activate the functions with thick neoprene gloves.

The unidirectional rotating bezel is adorned with a special pattern to ensure a better grip in addition to a 120-position notched wheel. And the rubber strap with the folding buckle featuring a diver’s extension will become a part of your suit.

Sea, lake, river, ocean, the GRAHAM Chronofighter Prodive is able to adapt to all types of diving and light changes. Deeper you go down weaker is the light and darker is the underwater world. A dark blue and black zone that spreads around you like ink in a glass of water. It will prevent you diving into troubled water thanks to a new generation of luminescent coatings, totally free of radiation. Two colours of luminescent indications are displayed and will be perfectly visible in great depths. The watch is perfectly readable from 25 cm in murky conditions.

Equipped with an automatic helium valve and a yellow rubber crown with an automatic locking system (bayonet) and a red safety ring which notifies the crown unlocking, this dependable chronograph will assure you safe diving quests.

Pressure, water, temperature change resistant, functional and fully readable in the dark, sophisticated design. The GRAHAM watch is free of electronics and depends on absolutely reliable mechanical timekeeping. The Chronofighter Prodive becomes the reference luxury diving watch.

Technical Details – Graham Chronofighter Prodive

CHRONOFIGHTER PRODIVE PROFESSIONAL
Ref. 2CDAV.B01A
Limited edition: 200

Functions

Chronograph (seconds, 30 minutes counter) to measure decompression time. Date at 9 o’clock. Black PVD automatic Helium escape valve
Hours, minutes, seconds

Calibre G1734, automatic mono-pusher chronograph, 28’800 A/h (4Hz), Incabloc shock absorber
25 jewels
Power reserve : 48 hours

Case 45 mm steel case
Integrated steel with black PVD left hand fast-action start / stop / reset trigger.
Screwed yellow rubber coated crown (automatic locking system (bayonet) and red safety ring)
Steel with black PVD bezel, unidirectional rotating rim (120 positions) to measure dive time
Domed sapphire crystal, anti-reflective coating on both faces
Steel case back with shark imprinted and limited edition serial number

Water resistance 2000 feet / 600 m / 60 bar

Dial Black dial and counters, propeller-shaped seconds counter
White Super-LumiNova hands and indexes, yellow chrono and minutes counter’s hands
Double luminescent indications: blue and green
Strap Integrated yellow rubber

Price 13,500 CHF

Ref. 2CDAV.U01A

Blue and Black Dials

Blue Integrated Rubber Strap

Price 11,500 CHF

Ref. 2CDAV.B02A

Black Dial and Counters

Black Integrated Rubber Strap

Price 11,500 CHF

Hublot King Power 48mm OCEANOGRAPHIC 4000 “Jeans” Dive Watch

Press Release by Hublot S.A

Hublot and Zegg&Cerlati unveil an exclusive special edition The “Oceanographic 4000 Jeans”, a diving watch designed to withstand the extreme pressure found at depths of 4,000 metres, yet boasting a high fashion look featuring denim for a summery feel.

Based on an idea by Tina Zegg and Carlo Cerlati, leading figures in luxury watchmaking based in Monaco, and backed by Hublot Chairman Jean-Claude Biver and the company’s CEO, Ricardo Guadalupe, this is the first ever ultra-technical diving watch to be adorned with denim.

The Hublot “Oceanographic 4000 Jeans” is a special limited edition of just 21 numbered watches available exclusively from Zegg&Cerlati boutiques, at Place du Casino in Monte-Carlo, Ischgl in Austria and Samnaun in Switzerland.

The launch of this ultra-technical watch, which combines fashion with the quality craftsmanship of an Haute Horlogerie timepiece, took place on the 18th February 2013 at the Wellness Hotel Chasa Montana in Samnaun in the heart of the Swiss Alps (Zegg Hotels & Stores), and was attended by the German Double Olympic and World skiing champion, Maria Höfl-Riesch, a Hublot ambassador since 2011. She was joined by Jean-Claude Biver, Chairman of Hublot, who made the trip, and Tina Zegg and Carlo Cerlati, representing Zegg&Cerlati.

A perfect fusion of technologies developed for the extremes found at depths of 4,000 metres, this special edition watch, designed to push the boundaries of what is possible while retaining echoes of high fashion, with its carbon case, dial made from genuine pressed denim wrapped in epoxy and strap featuring denim stitched onto black rubber, has summer written all over it.

A real instrument with efficiency built into its ergonomics, this watch has been conceived and designed to test the limits of rationality.

It has taken 18 months of research, development and testing to present the Oceanographic 4000, a watch which can be worn on dives to depths of 4,000 metres, under extreme pressure – an exceptional technical achievement.

Almost all the features of the Oceanographic 4000 are exceptional, in terms of design, development and manufacturing. To be described as a “montre de plongée” (diver’s watch), resistant to the pressure exerted at the record depth of 4,000 metres, the watch had to meet the exacting specifications of the international standards of Swiss watchmaking (NIHS).

Starting with its seal, tested by Hublot in a Roxer tank, submerged and pressurised to the equivalent of 5,000 metres. To ensure the watch is water resistant and can withstand this pressure, the synthetic sapphire crystal is 6.5 mm thick. This is thicker than normal, but is reasonable for this level of resistance. The case back is screw-down, essential for reaching such depths. It is made of grade 2 titanium, an extremely strong stainless material.

The chunky, 48 mm diameter case is made from carbon fibre designed and produced entirely by Hublot.

In terms of brightness, the time and elapsed time measured by the flange must be legible from a distance of 25 cm in the dark. To meet this requirement, the dial, the flange and the hands of the Oceanographic 4000 have been optimised to have a larger surface area treated with
SuperLuminova™, a luminescent material that emits a grey colour.

The display principle has been made as safe as possible, using an internal rotating flange which is unidirectional and rack-driven, with a dive time indicator. The dive time indicator is placed as close as possible to the dial to minimise the risk of inadvertently altering the dive time. It also makes the dive time easier to read. In accordance with the standard, the Oceanographic 4000 has a minute scale on which the five-minute periods are clearly highlighted.

The watch is fitted with two screw-down crowns (a protective measure that helps ensure water resistance by compression of an O-ring seal). The flange crown which sets the dive time is placed at the 2 o’clock position for easy access and more comfortable use. It is unidirectional, again for safety reasons, with a bayonet fitting, and protected by an oversized crown guard, for extra safety and easy operation when handling diving equipment. The second crown, for winding and setting the time and date, is positioned at 4 o’clock to avoid obstruction.

Finally, the Oceanographic 4000 has a helium valve, a feature essential to any diving watch capable of descending to great depths. An essential feature when the watch is used in diving chambers, the helium valve allows gases that have infiltrated the watch during the descent to safely escape during the ascent. The valve fitted to the Oceanographic 4000 is made of stainless steel, positioned at 10 o’clock, visible from the left-hand side lug.

The watch is supplied with two straps: The “City” strap, in denim stitched onto black rubber, and the “Diver” strap, longer than a standard strap, which has been developed to be worn over a diving suit up to 8 mm thick. Both feature ardillon buckles. This type of fastening is more secure than a folding clasp for this type of use, and is also easier to handle and close when using gloves. Note that the design of this buckle is original (because the use of a tongue is rare in the
normal Hublot collections) and that its method of attachment to the case is even more so with two small push buttons built into each end of the case to allow the strap to be changed instantly without the use of a screwdriver.

Technical Details – Hublot King Power 48 mm “Oceanographic 4000 Jeans

Reference 731.QX.2700.NR.ZEC13
Series Limited to 21 numbered pieces

Case “King Power” – 48 mm diameter in carbon fibre
Bezel Carbon with 6 H-shaped titanium screws
Crystal Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Case back Carbon fibre
Crown Ceramic with black rubber insert
Screws Black PVD titanium
Water resistance Certified to 400 ATM or 4000 metres
Tested to 5,000 metres according to the NIHS standards

Dial Denim vacuum-wrapped in epoxy Satin-finished appliques with grey Superluminova™
Hands Satin-finished with grey SuperLuminova™

Movement Mechanical movement with automatic winding HUB1401
No. of components 180
Jewels 23
Power reserve Approximately 42 hours
Strap Supplied with two straps: The “City” strap, in denim stitched onto black rubber,
and the “Diver” strap, longer than a standard strap, which has been developed to be worn over a diving suit up to 8 mm thick.
Clasp Black ceramic

Hublot presents its “Jeans” Ladies watch collection

Hublot Big Bang Jeans Ladies Watch Collection.Nothing says summer fashion quite like stylish denim.

Contributed by The Lamberts

Hublot did it! For the first time, a luxury watch brand has produced a collection of “Jeans” watches. And we haven’t settled for any old denim: The dials and straps are made by an Italian denim manufacturer who supplies the world’s biggest luxury and fashion names.

Based on an idea by Tina Zegg, the collection comprises three ladies’ “Big Bang Jeans” watches and one ultra-technical men’s diving watch, the “Oceanographic 4000 Jeans”, all of which incorporate a detail of Dsquared denim from Tina Zegg.

You can almost feel the summer breeze in the faded blue of the denim. This won’t be the year that jeans make their exit from the fashion world. An accessory that has remained on trend since its creation, jeans are still an essential fashion item. Chic, rock’n’roll, sexy, boho, vintage, urban, authentic, tie-dye… denim is whatever you want it to be, and an enduring wardrobe staple for men and women alike.

The launch of this collection, which combines fashion with the quality craftsmanship of Haute Horlogerie watches, took place on the 18th February 2013 at the Wellness Hotel Chasa Montana in Samnaun in the heart of the Swiss Alps (Zegg Hotels & Stores), and was attended by the German Double Olympic and World skiing champion, Maria Höfl-Riesch, a Hublot ambassador since 2011.  She was joined by Jean-Claude Biver, Chairman of Hublot, and Tina Zegg and Carlo Cerlati of Zegg&Cerlati in Monaco.

The Oceanographic 4000 Jeans is a special edition exclusively created for Zegg & Cerlati boutiques, at Place du Casino in Monte Carlo, Ischgl in Austria and Samnaun in Switzerland. The Big Bang Jeans will also be exclusively available until the end of summer in Monaco.

Technical Details – Hublot Jeans Big Bang watches

References 301.SX.2710.NR.JEANS (limited edition of 250)
341.SX.2710.NR.1104.JEANS DIAMONDS set with diamonds (limited edition of 250)
341.SX.2710.NR.1901.JEANS CARAT set with baguettes (limited edition of 250)

Case – Big Bang – Diameter 41 mm – Steel
Bezel – Steel for the JEANS with titanium screw
18K white gold set with 48 baguette-cut sapphires for the JEANS CARAT
Steel set with 114 diamonds (total weight 1.22 ct) for the JEANS DIAMONDS
Crystal Sapphire with interior/exterior anti-reflective coating
Crown Steel with black rubber insert
Push-buttons Steel with black rubber inserts
Case back Open in steel with sapphire crystal
Water resistance 10 ATM, i.e. approx 100 metres
Dial Denim vacuum-wrapped in epoxy and opaline-coloured counters
Indexes set with 8 diamonds for a total weight of 0.14 carat.
Hands Polished & rhodium-plated
Movement HUB4300 Mechanical automatic chronograph with date
Power reserve Approximately 42 hours
Strap Denim sewn onto black rubber with beige stitching and steel deployant buckle

Michelsen Arctic Explorer: Official timepiece of the Solo to the South Pole expedition

Press Release by: Michelsen Watchmaker

On January 17th, Miss Vilborg Arna Gissurardóttir, an intrepid young Icelandic explorer, finished her solo expedition to the South Pole. This incredible journey took Ms Gissurardóttir 60 days and she covered a total of 1’140 kilometers (19 km per day) in harsh and challenging weather conditions such as strong headwinds, treacherous skiing conditions, zastrugi and temperatures of approximately -40°C. She was the first Icelander and only the 9th woman in history to walk to the South Pole alone without any outside help. After the completion of her journey, Ms Gissurardóttir complimented the Arctic Explorer: “The watch did very well. I walked the whole time with the watch strapped on the outside of my jacket, next to the compass. The watch was unprotected and exposed in extreme weather conditions and served its purpose with great honors.”

To survive such a journey, you must depend on solid and trustworthy gear. With this in mind, Ms Gissurardóttir appointed Michelsen Watchmakers to provide her with a reliable timepiece to help her keep track of the time. It was our honor to present her with our Michelsen Watchmakers – Arctic Explorer watch.

The watch was designed with frequent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind. It features the traditional three hands and a calendar but with an additional 24-hour hand and a rotatable bezel. These features allow the wearer to read three different time zones, two of which work simultaneously and the third one to figure out time difference.

The 42mm watch case is made from high quality 316L stainless steel. The steel case is tough and waterproof, a feature tailored specifically to the requirements of outdoor enthusiasts. The white dial is highly visible with big numerals and indexes while the unique arrow-shaped hands are robust and black, which creates great contrast against the dial to maximize clarity. The movement is automatic and was chosen specifically for this expedition due to its high reliability (ETA 2893-A2 Top execution). The selected movement is resistant to extreme cold and the lubricating oils can withstand temperatures up to -50°C. This renders the movement’s accuracy more precise compared to standard movements. A nylon strap was chosen for maximum comfort and its incredible strength.

For further information about the expedition and the watch, click here. For technical specs, click here.

The Michelsen Watchmakers – Arctic Explorer watches were launched on December 1st, 2012. Three dial colors are available – white, black and blue. Various strap options are also available. The watch is delivered with a leather strap and a strong nylon strap or a high quality Italian made rubber strap is provided as a standard offering. Several versions of handmade leather straps in either calfskin, shark or highly unique Icelandic spotted wolffish skin are available.

Graham London Silverstone Vintage 30 Timepiece

LIVING A LIFE OF A CERTAIN VINTAGE

Press Release by Graham London

No trophies, no awards, no podium, only Gentlemen driving. With beautiful lines and shapes, the GRAHAM Silverstone Vintage 30 pays tribute to the origin of racing, to our passion for tracks and beautiful mechanics. Powered by an automatic bi-compax chronograph, the new Silverstone collection bears the colours of a certain vintage.

GRAHAM makes one experience the legendary classic racing with new wrist machines which preserve the pure spirit of car technology and watch making refinement.

Racing is something that you live, not just watch. We are not talking about racing as we call it today. We are talking about genuine racing. The spirit that led the late 19th century brilliant engineers in to create petrol-fuelled machines and race with them. A time when the pleasure to drive was stronger than any competition. The only focus was the track, the car and the sense of a job well done.

In the beginning, the rules of racing were completely different from what they are nowadays.

Can you imagine that the main criterion to be able to participate was to have a vehicle with at least three wheels! Cars and mechanics were at the centre, no matter the number of wheels.

Technical improvements were the priority for all. An incredible challenge at that time which was pure mechanics.

Our traditional motorsport line has been designed and created in this frame of mind. The Silverstone Vintage 30 is streamlined and aesthetically refined to achieve genuine aerodynamics and technology. GRAHAM wanted to get back to racing origins and put its watches at the centre of the track. As carefully as the cars were built, the Silverstone Vintage 30 watch has been created according to the codes of vintage racing and with respect for each part. The “Clous de Paris” decorated bezel, the thin shaped hands and the beige, brown and off-white colours have been elaborately added to the watch. They reflect the desire to preserve the race spirit and primary values.

The GRAHAM Silverstone Vintage 30 is in a non-competition race which rewards watch making savoir-faire and spectators.

Get rid of your horse-drawn carriage and experience a true lap with GRAHAM.

Main features also include:
47 mm steel case, calibre G1734, automatic chronograph, Date at 7 o’clock, 27 jewels, 28’800 A/h (4Hz), Incabloc shock absorber, 48 hours power reserve, black or off-white dial, Steel bezel with “Clous de Paris” high grip pattern, domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both faces, see-through sapphire crystal case back, integrated light brown leather strap.

Graham London Silverstone Vintage 30 Off-White Watch – Technical Details

 Reference – 2BLFS.W06A (Off-White) & 2BLFS.B36A (Black)

Functions – Chronograph (seconds, 30 minutes counter), Date at 7 o’clock and Hours, minutes, seconds

Calibre – Calibre G1734, automatic bi-compax chronograph,

Vibrations 28’800 A/h (4 Hz),

Incabloc shock absorber

27 jewels

Power reserve: 48 hours

Case 47 mm steel case

Steel right hand start /stop and reset pushers with “Clous de Paris” high grip pattern

Steel bezel with “Clous de Paris” decoration

Domed sapphire crystal, anti-reflective coating on both faces

See-through sapphire crystal case back

Water resistance 330 feet / 100 m

Dial Off-white dial and counters or Black dial and counters

Rhodiated silver hands, black lacquered and beige Super-LumiNova coated numerals

Strap Integrated brown leather

Price 6’900 CHF