Two Broke Watch Snobs
Best German Watch Brands Offering Real Value
Discover the best German watch brands, hands-on tested for in-house quality, smart design, and standout value at every price point.
Results for Watches and Wonders Geneva
34,715 articles · 4,197 videos found · page 1085 of 1298
Two Broke Watch Snobs
SJX Watches
Seiko Introduces the Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph SRQ045
While Seiko was one of the first watchmakers in the world to launch an automatic chronograph with the ref. 6139 of 1969, the complication is not as synonymous with the brand as say, dive watches. That is due in part to the brand’s sparse offerings in terms of mid- to- high-end mechanical chronographs. But that is slowly changing. After reviving the Speedtimer two years ago, Seiko has just released the latest iteration of the model with the Prospex Speedtimer SRQ045. Benefiting from an all-black makeover, the new Speedtimer is stylish yet functional homage to the stopwatches Seiko made for the 1972 Winter Olympics in Japan. Initial thoughts I wasn’t too impressed by the new Speedtimer initially as it appeared way too similar to the regular-production model. But when I looked closer, I changed my mind. While the new Speedmaster is admittedly one of many retro-styled chronographs introduced by Seiko in the past few years, it’s still an attractive watch. The stark black-and-red livery of the new Speedtimer makes for a formidable racing chronograph; in fact it looks more like sports chronograph than the standard iterations of the model, which feel a bit flat in comparison. The attention to detail in design shows up here better than on other models. Examples of that include the scaled-down minute numerals on the dial and the pump-style pushers. I do wish, however, the seconds hand had a dash of red on its tip to complete the look. That said, the new Speedtimer retains t...
Worn & Wound
Zenith Defy Revival A3691 Gets Throwback Red Dial
Around this time last year, Zenith introduced a new watch to their Revival series focused on the A3642 Defy “Bank Vault”, a particularly stylish example of the brand’s willingness to skirt conventional designs. The Revival perfectly captured that watch’s charming size and smokey aesthetic, and this year they are returning to the platform with the Revival A3691, honoring the first Defy model with a vividly colored dial, released in 1971. The newest Defy Revival A3691 gets the same deep red dial as the original, and keeps all the funk of the design in the process. The late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s were a pretty wild time for watch design, and Zenith was among those at the forefront of pushing the boundaries. Seriously, check out some of their old Port Royal and Defy designs and marvel at their oddity. As far as I’m concerned, we could use a bit of the same thinking today. These Zenith Revival watches are an apt reminder of their creativity, both then and now. Not only do the Revival watches do a great job of looking back, they balance against other Defy watches that are looking to push ahead, such as their latest Defy Skyline range. Or their collaborations with the likes of Felipe Pantone. The Defy Revival A3642 featured a dramatic smokey gradient dial that faded from light to dark, and the latest A3691 retains a bit of this quality within the rich red hue, with a gentle shift from light to dark at the dial’s edge. The oversized hour markers look a bit lik...
Deployant
Remembering 2 great heros of the Lange story: Obituary for Reinhard Meis & in memory of Walter Lange
I am deeply saddened to share with you that Reinhard Meis has passed away on January 3, 2023. And also remember the passing of Walter Lange in 2017.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Vulcain Adds The Retro-Inspired Skindiver Nautique 38mm To Their Lineup
Announcing the Vulcain Skindiver Nautique 38mm, a retro-inspired diver with great dimensions. Check out photos, specs, pricing, and more.
Time+Tide
The Unusual Suspects – The Daniel Roth Masters Chronograph is a masterful piece by a legendary watchmaker for under $10,000
High-end, independent watchmaking has become difficult to come by in recent times, as many have begun to realise that paying huge mark-ups on mass-produced watches isn’t that cool. The problem is, however, that even when you do discover a niche independent that produces something that you like, it’s increasingly common that they already have a … ContinuedThe post The Unusual Suspects – The Daniel Roth Masters Chronograph is a masterful piece by a legendary watchmaker for under $10,000 appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
SJX Watches
Cartier (Re)Introduces the Tank Francaise
Cartier’s approach to new products is often simply to deftly reboot a bestseller after a few years or even decades. That formula was applied with great acclaim to the Tank Must and Santos-Dumont (though the Pasha revival didn’t quite meet with the same commercial success). Now Cartier is doing it for the Tank Francaise. First introduced in 1996 as the first Tank with an integrated bracelet, the Tank Francaise was a major seller for Cartier in the decade that followed. Though the model survived well into the 21st century, it remained essentially unchanged since its launch. Though visually similar to the original, new Tank Francaise is an entirely new watch, having undergone a major facelift that preserved the original outline while refining all the details. The large model in steel with an automatic movement Initial thoughts Like many of Cartier’s other entry-level models, the Tank Francaise is an appealing design at a relatively affordable price. The large automatic model in steel, for instance, retails for under US$6,000. It demonstrates how Cartier does best when it does little. The new design remains easily recognisable, even though every aspect has been revamped, ranging from the applied sticker numerals to the recessed crown. If you liked the original, you’ll probably like this one. The biggest drawback of the new Tank Francaise is simply that most of the line up is quartz, which will disappoint aficionados of mechanical watches. In fact, only one version, th...
Worn & Wound
Out of Office: How We Spent Our Winter Break, Part I – feat. Tudor, IWC, & Rolex
For this edition of Out of Office, the team writes about what they wore when they were literally on vacation over the course of the recent winter holiday season. The idea was simple: pick a watch, wear it over the break, and chronicle your experience with it. What kinds of winter adventures did our editors get up to? Would any of them even leave the house? Find out below, and come back later this week for part II. Zach Weiss This holiday season, I purposefully spent a decent amount of my time on my couch, chilling. Decompressing from a very intense but exciting year here at Worn & Wound. I won’t regale you with what watches I wore as I caught up on Andor (excellent, btw) and a slew of mediocre horror movies. Rather, I’ll talk about the one watch I took on a short trip to Montreal the week before Christmas. One of the things I enjoy about traveling, as demented as this might sound, is the challenge of only having one watch. Yes, these days, I don’t even take a watch roll. Whatever watch I leave my apartment with is the watch I’ll wear for the duration. Why? Well, it’s a good opportunity to “bond” with a watch. Forge some memories around a hopefully fun trip that can be triggered by looking at the watch as some later date. It also makes me think about which watch from my collection is best suited for the trip. ok, this photo was taken in London last year, but it is my Black Bay Pro Admittedly, I’m not the most adventurous person, so my trips tend to involve w...
Hodinkee
The Spec Sheet: The Carrera Calibre 5 Date May Not Be A Chronograph, But It's Still Pure TAG Heuer
A three-hander that looks good on Ryan Gosling's wrist, and yours too.
Quill & Pad
Bell & Ross BR 05 Copper Brown: Color Me Copper
The BR 05 Copper Brown is very eye-catching in Martin Green's opinion and the sunburst effect on the dial gives a beautiful play of light, with the hue of the dial going from salmon to a darker tone of brown, depending on the angle and lighting.
SJX Watches
Hermès Debuts a Luxe Take on the H08 Sports Watch
Having just introduced the cushion-shaped H08 sports watch last year, Hermès is now giving it a new look with a case in rose gold, ceramic, and DLC-treated titanium. While the design is identical to the earlier versions, the new H08 gains a bold and luxurious look – along with a steeper price tag – with the new mix of case materials. Initial thoughts The mix of materials on the new H08 are a perfect complement to the clean design and simple lines of the watch. Though certainly a bit more flashy than the muted originals, the new H08 is still an understated watch. I appreciate the use of ceramic and DLC-coated titanium as it creates contrast while dialling down the bling factor. The result is a watch that manages to look different from other sports watches, even though the black-and-rose-gold formula is a familiar one. But as with the original, I wish Hermes would remove the date between four and five o’clock. Given its functional design and focus on geometric shapes, I feel the H08 should be about an unconditional focus on the time. Priced at US$17,000, the new H08 costs almost double the model in titanium. That’s about the going rate for upgrading from titanium to a precious metal case, but it is still a chunk of change. While the original was fair value given its cost-to-performance ratio, this one is a little tougher to justify, though it is arguably far more attractive. Two-tone cushion The new H08 is actually comprised of three different materials: the bezel a...
Revolution
Touching the Past at WatchBox
Wei and Jeremiah pay a visit to WatchBox Singapore’s offices at Liat Towers and discover an unbelievable piece of horological history – one of the 20 “Souscription” Tourbillons that François-Paul Journe created to fund the start of his brand in 1999. François-Paul Journe is probably the greatest watchmaker of this generation. He can be considered […]
Deployant
Review: The new Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon White Gold
The Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon draws inspiration from the eponymous supercar and the sixteen-cylinder piston engine that powers it.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Monta Skyquest GMT Review
A TBWS review of the Monta Skyquest GMT, updated in 2023. Read on for specs, analysis, detailed photos, pricing, and more.
Time+Tide
TRADING FACES: Why I swapped my Rolex Submariner for a Rolex Explorer 1016
I have penned nearly a thousand articles for this site over the last two years, but two of the most read were under the Trading Faces tag – where I dissect an actual watch trade I have made in my collection. I love that you guys love it, because I love writing them. But now I … ContinuedThe post TRADING FACES: Why I swapped my Rolex Submariner for a Rolex Explorer 1016 appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
Time+Tide
Making the case: The term ‘integrated bracelet’ is being commonly misused
Is the term integrated bracelet often being misused in the watch world? Our Editor Zach makes the case that it is.The post Making the case: The term ‘integrated bracelet’ is being commonly misused appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
Hodinkee
In-Depth: How One Chiming Watch From Christopher Ward Turned The Watch World On Its Head
The shockingly affordable C1 Bel Canto has captured collectors’ attention and plotted a new course for the brand. And if you missed it the first time, or the second time, you're about to get a third chance.
Teddy Baldassarre
Seiko SKX: A Review of the Legendary Japanese Diver
The Seiko SKX is a watch that transcends its niche. If you type in “best entry-level watch” into any search engine, you will inevitably be unable to avoid seeing the SKX. The SKX009J1 we are looking at today – might just be the best value dive watch on the market. And that says along, given it was introduced in 1996.
Deployant
New: Seiko 62MAS modern interpretation Seiko SLA065
The SLA065 is comfortable on the wrist and fits well despite its relatively tall 13.1mm thickness. It is now issued in a larger 41mm case instead of the 39mm case in the SLA017 reissue. The watch is water resistant to 200 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear. Overall, the Seiko Prospex SLA065 is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun daily beater. The combination of high-quality case finish and craftsmanship, along with the mechanical movement, make the new 62MAS reissue a standout choice. The watch is limited to 1300 pieces.
Time+Tide
Prince Harry may be a divisive figure, but he does own one hell of a Rolex…
In the wake of his new biography, Spare, we now know far too much about Prince Harry. We know, for example, that Harry had a frostbitten “todger” during his brother’s wedding to Kate Middleton. We know that Harry killed 25 Taliban fighters in Afghanistan. We know that he lost his virginity in a field outside … ContinuedThe post Prince Harry may be a divisive figure, but he does own one hell of a Rolex… appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
Time+Tide
INTRODUCING: The Bulgari Bulgari x Lisa has a crazy dial you’ve never seen before
Blackpink star Lisa was made a Bulgari ambassador in 2020 Their new collaboration has a crazy triple-hue dial It features a loving tribute to her Swiss step-dad Not too long ago in 2022, my first exposure to South Korean stars in the realm of Swiss watches was a photoshoot with heartthrob Hyun Bin wearing the … ContinuedThe post INTRODUCING: The Bulgari Bulgari x Lisa has a crazy dial you’ve never seen before appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
Revolution
First Look: TAG Heuer at LVMH Watch Week 2023 with Frédéric Arnault
2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the TAG Heuer Carrera and CEO Frédéric Arnault gives Wei the first look at a 600-piece anniversary limited edition that pays homage to the very rare 2447SN with a ‘panda’ dial. Meanwhile, the Monza makes a comeback in the most futuristic fashion with a 42mm carbon case and a […]
Teddy Baldassarre
Grand Seiko Spring Drive Guide
Japan’s Grand Seiko has become, in a relatively short span of time, one of the world’s most prestigious and collectible high-luxury watchmakers, competing for connoisseur attention and dollars with well-established maisons from Switzerland and Germany. And while its success is definitely a 21st century phenomenon, Grand Seiko is not really a “new brand” in the strictest sense. The first Grand Seiko watch (below) debuted all the way back in 1960, part of the much larger product portfolio of Japanese watchmaking giant Seiko, which was founded in 1881 and achieved its worldwide fame by embracing the mass market with timepieces at accessible prices with wide distribution. The Grand Seiko, by contrast, was positioned as the megabrand’s exclusive “King of Watches,” with standards of accuracy, beauty, durability, and legibility that could meet or surpass its Swiss competitors. Until 2010, it was also Japan’s best-kept horological secret, not exported to markets outside the country. Seven years after its international expansion, having cultivated a loyal and avid audience worldwide, an entirely new and distinct customer base apart from mainline Seiko’s, Grand Seiko firmly established itself as an independent brand - albeit one still intrinsically tied to its parent company through shared history and technology. Among those technologies is an innovative type of watch movement that was perfected right before the turn of the 21st Century and remains the exclusiv...
Time+Tide
Which watch brand won 2022? Borna picks Parmigiani Fleurier – here’s why…
Editor’s note: During one of our final editorial meetings of the year, the question was posed: which watch brand won 2022? This then raises the question of what it means to win. Is it total revenue? Likes on social media? Page views on our site? The number of watch spots in the wild? There is … ContinuedThe post Which watch brand won 2022? Borna picks Parmigiani Fleurier – here’s why… appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
SJX Watches
The F.P. Journe Young Talent Competition is Now Open
An annual award that seeks to recognise and support promising watchmakers, the F.P. Journe Young Talent Competition (YTC) is open for submissions until February 1, 2023. The entry criteria is straightforward: watchmakers aged between 18 and 30 from any country who have “independently designed and created a timepiece and/or technical construction”, but professional qualifications or training are not necessary. The prize is a CHF20,000 grant meant to finance tools or a watchmaking project. The contest will be judged by a panel including Francois-Paul Journe himself and Giulio Papi, who will select the winner based on originality, technical complexity, aesthetics and finishing, as well as quality of make. Candidates can submit their entries on Fpjourne.com from now until February 1, 2023.
Revolution
First Look: Hublot at LVMH Watch Week 2023 with Ricardo Guadalupe
Ricardo Guadalupe CEO of Hublot takes Wei through the brand’s novelties at LVMH watch week in Singapore. Sporting the most unearthly shade of yellow is the spectacular Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic that is crafted from SAXEM, an alloy derived from mixing aluminium oxide with other elements such as thulium, holmium and chromium to achieve a […]
Time+Tide
Why the Grand Seiko “Snowflake” captivated the watch world
What’s cooler than being cool? Well, if you’re Outkast, the answer is “ice cold!” (alright, alright, alright), but if you’re a watch collector, there’s a good chance the answer is the Grand Seiko ‘Snowflake’. When first introduced, watch fans were dazzled by the ultra-fine finishing of the titanium case, wowed by the technological prowess of … ContinuedThe post Why the Grand Seiko “Snowflake” captivated the watch world appeared first on Time+Tide Watches.
Hodinkee
Introducing: The Oris Big Crown Calibre 473: A New (In-House) Movement In A Familiar Package
description and review of Oris 473 a new hand wound watch
Hodinkee
Introducing: Grand Seiko Is At It Again With A Pair Of Limited Releases To Celebrate The 25th Anniversary Of The Caliber 9S
Dial in the clouds and not a care in the world.
Worn & Wound
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph Goes Full Titanium
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional has taken significant strides over the past couple of years in both design and form, while simultaneously offering multidimensional models across the entire collection. Examples include the green dialed titanium diver with the Aquaracer Professional 300, a fully lumed dial with the Aquaracer Professional Night Diver, and the introduction of the Aquaracer Professional 200 line, which packaged their flagship dive watch into a tidy 40mm case and refined some of the design elements in the process. With all of these signs pointing in the right direction for the brand, the table is set for TAG Heuer to continue their momentum in 2023, and boy, do they do so with the release of the Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph. TAG Heuer takes the Aquaracer Professional 200 further by going lighter with this new iteration of the Solargraph. All of the case components, including the case body, bezel, and caseback, as well as the accompanying bracelet, are built from grade 2 titanium. Unlike the more refined versions of the Aquaracer Professional 200, there isn’t a hint of polish on the case. Instead, every millimeter of the case and bracelet gets a sand blasted finish giving this diver a more resolute and utilitarian aesthetic. Differentiating Lume The bezel maintains the signature twelve-sided shape with each facet housing a set of six bezel teeth. The black numerals and markers are displayed in-relief, once again keeping the same design language wi...