Afforable Time Pieces – SIHH 2019
Continuing our coverage of the stunning timepieces showcased at SIHH 2019, this month we look at some of the more affordable (relatively speaking), but still highly desirable, watches from this year’s show.
By Ishan Raghava
IWC PILOTS RANGE
The Pilot’s range of watches from IWC is easily one of the most identifiable models from the brand. And, at SIHH, the complete line-up received a major update in terms of new materials, new finishes and completely new models. First up, there’s the new TOP GUN model, which is now available in a brand-new material – Ceratanium. It has a matt black finish, which ensures that pilots don’t get affected by the sunlight reflecting off the case or dial of the watch. It’s basically a titanium alloy that brings together the advantages of both ceramic and titanium. This means that the material is as light and unbreakable as Titanium, and as hard and scratch resistance as Ceramic. Another interesting piece was the Big Pilot Perpetual Calendar Spitfire edition – the combination of its bronze case and the olive-green dial is simply stunning. The other watch that grabbed my interest was the hard gold ‘Le Petit Prince’ special edition, which looks very special indeed. Needless to say, these new additions will ensure that the Pilot’s watch collection from IWC will get even more popular than before.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph 38mm
A new version of Audemars Piguet’s iconic Royal Oak range, this new chronograph has a 38mm case, which means that it should appeal to an even larger audience. With a completely redesigned ‘Royal Tapisserie’ patterned dial, the new collection is available in both pink gold and stainless steel. The steel version has a silver-toned dial and blue counters – a combination that looks simply fantastic. The brushed finished of its case and the strap adds considerably to the overall appeal of the design. Powering this version is the 2385 Calibre, which offers a 40-hour power reserve.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin
The latest line-up from Jaeger’s famous Master line, the Ultra Thin series of watches, showcases some of the finest craftsmanship from the brand’s expert watchmakers. Offered in three different versions – Moon Phase, Tourbillon and Perpetual Calendar – the stunning beauty of the watch stems from its hand-finished dial. Its enamelled sunburst dial is hand finished, with a detailing that’s simply stunning. Available only with a white gold case, the Master Ultra Thin is a limited collection, which I expect will be sold out before it even hits the stores.
Baume Mercier Clifton Baumatic Perpetual Calendar
A highlight of SIHH 2019 for me was the Clifton Baumatic Perpetual Calendar. It ticks all the boxes for so many reasons. Firstly, with its white dial and red gold case, it’s offered in a classic combination, with the slender gold hands and indexes standing out for all the right reasons. Secondly, given the value proposition that Baume & Mercier’s timepieces offer, a relatively affordable perpetual calendar with a moon phase is a stunning achievement for the brand. Thirdly, despite its complexity, the Baumatic Perpetual offers a recommended service interval of seven years against the industry norm of three to five years. All in all, this is a classic looking watch and nothing short of a dream come true.
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