Welcome to our new luxxee magazine weekly wrap-up, where we bring you fresh news about what's going on in the watch world
Chronoswiss and their new, out-of-this-world collection
On August 14th, Chronoswiss, known for their Open Gear, Skeltec, and Tourbillon timepieces, dropped the Space Timer Collection, which features the Moonwalk and Jupiter models. The new additions to the Chronoswiss catalogue are some of the most complicated watches in the company's history, featuring the automatic Calibre C.308 and some new finishing techniques not standard with Chronoswiss.
These watches look beautiful, and the effort and craftsmanship put into each one are outstanding. The Space Timer utilizes a 19-piece stainless steel case measuring 44mm in diameter with a thickness of 15.4mm. While the case design holds to your traditional watchmaking aesthetics and design, the real treat is the beautifully designed dials; both developed around their theme.
The dials for the Moonwalk and Jupiter are textured and detailed works of art. While the layout and functionality are similar to the Open Gear models, each dial comprises 63 components, creating a three-dimensional design. The Moonwalk features beautifully curved lines with different finishes to generate height and structure. Jupiter has a nano-printed dial designed to replicate the planet's surface. Both feature titanium, spherical moon phase complications, and a nice touch to an already beautiful dial.
While the outside aesthetics are stunning, the movement bringing the Moonwalk and Jupiter to life is the most crucial part—the Calibre C.308 automatic movement. A 33-jewel, Swiss-made, self-winding movement with its core design based on an ETA design, heavily modified to fit the layout for each dial complication. With a 42-hour power reserve, 28,800vph, the C.308 is a rugged and reliable choice for these space-themed beauties.
The unveiling of the Moonwalk and Jupiter hints that other watches will be released with the planetary theme, but no confirmation as to when. The Moonwalk and Jupiter are released in limited quantities of 50 pieces per model, and once they’re sold out, they’re gone.
11 New-Old-Stock Rolex Submariner “Hulks.” Bonhams August Auction
In recent discussions with Bonhams Auctions, the team informed us of an unbelievable auction for August. A single-owner collection of 11 Rolex Submariner “Hulk” watches are available. These watches are all confirmed, New-Old-Stock, never worn pieces and only offered by Bonhams Online Auctions.
The Rolex divers, all reference 116610LV, represent all eleven production years of the “Hulk,” from its original release in 2010 until its most recent iteration in 2020. These green bezel and dial beauties are complete with boxes and papers and are available at Bonhams.com until Monday, August 22nd, 2022. Pricing estimates range from $30,000 - $40,000 to $40,000 - $60,000 for the 2010 edition.
A statement from Nate Borgelt, Head of Department, Bonhams America:
"We are excited to offer unworn examples of the Rolex Hulk in a sale concept not seen before, allowing collectors to get their hands on what can only be described as discontinued but new watches. In the current market, where obtainability and condition are king, these Hulks check all the boxes for discerning collectors and daily wearers alike."
Our Picks for “Everyday” Watches
Time after time lists state the “best” watches to buy or top 5 picks for a particular watch category, and today is exactly that! I thought it would be fun to focus on excellent choices for an “everyday” watch, specifically sports watches. When we say an everyday watch, we mean something that goes with your jeans and a t-shirt, or dress shirt and tie. A watch that works with any occasion and can fit with any style.
Tudor Ranger
It shouldn’t be a surprise that the Tudor Ranger is on this list. A watch released earlier this year, the Ranger is a re-issue marking the 70th anniversary of The British North Greenland Expedition. With its clean, black dial, bold and legible indices and 39mm case and stainless steel construction, the Ranger is a watch you can dress up or down to fit any ambiance.
Breitling Superocean Heritage
Inspired by the original 1950's Superocean, the Breitling Superocean Heritage is a recreation of a beautiful vintage diver with a modern twist. While it is a little sporty (ref. A1331312.BG49.154A specifically), the black bezel and dial make for a clean, minimal aesthetic, paired with the stainless steel bracelet and case exudes a bit of flash, but not enough to make it unsubtle—another excellent option.
Omega Speedmaster Reduced
This one might be controversial since social media has a love-hate relationship with the Speedmaster Reduced. While there are some differences from the Reduced to the Professional, this Speedmaster is a perfect daily wear. The Omega Speedmaster already has an extensive history in the evolution of space exploration, motorsport, and so much more, so why not get a beautiful black dial Speedy with a great price tag?
Tudor Black Bay Heritage P01
A watch brought back to life. Presented to the US Navy as a prototype in the 1960s, the P01 was never approved; therefore, it never came to fruition. Going through their archives, Tudor decided to release the P01 through the Black Bay line and presented us with this beautiful, vintage-inspired diver. The stainless steel bezel, bracelet and case paired with a black dial make for a classy look. The P01 adds a little aggression to the wrist while maintaining a clean overall aesthetic making this a perfect candidate for everyday wear.
Rolex Explorer ref. 214270
This watch doesn’t need much explanation. The Rolex Explorer is a gorgeous watch that is subtle, but once you’re up close and personal and see all the fine details, you’ll understand why this is one of the most sought-after watches by Rolex.