PakieMak Jewelry and Timepiece Education

RIP Dr. George Daniels

2011-10-22T20:48:00.000-04:00

The man that changed the direction of Omega and their movements. 1 person with 1 dream. 1926 to 2011. Rest in Peace and Thank You.

"During his career, Dr. George Daniels has completed 37 watches, not including prototypes. Throughout his career he has applied himself relentlessly to the major task of redesigning the mechanical watch escapement to compete on equal terms with the quartz watch which had threatened its future.
The two most successful of his revolutionary escapements are the co-axial and the independent double-wheel, both of which have found international support in the notoriously conservative watch industry. These escapements represent the first advance in the practical design since the invention of the lever escapement by Thomas Mudge in 1754.

A Daniels watch is made entirely under one roof without assistance. Every component is made from raw materials in the workshop without the use of repetitive or automatic tools. Thus, no two watches are identical and each is accepted as a work of art. Daniels watches are never made to order and all start life as a vehicle for testing escapements. The form of the watches is complete simplicity and no concessions are made to artificial styling. The hand engraved dials are turned for contrast while the hands are of the simplest form first used on watch No. 1 in 1969."

The video of his revolutionary Co-Axial escapement is found here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=PVhSQ_Azkr8

[Text Source Daniels London]

Concord C1 Upto 60% Off

2011-02-27T21:59:00.000-05:00

Searching the intertent for the best deal on a Concord C1 mens watch because your favorite jeweler won't discount more than 25% off. Stop searching. Make one phone call and buy it over the phone with a warranty from a trusted seller... The Movado Factory Outlet.

(508) 384-4420

Don't live in Ma.? Try finding a closer location:
http://www.mallseeker.com/movadocompanystore.aspx

Small Watch Ring by Tirana Jewelry

2010-10-25T18:58:00.001-04:00

Looking for something interesting to put on your finger? Look no further. Ladies and gentlemen I bring your the antique looking "watch ring" made of recycled parts.Aged perfectly, you won't even tell if it's new or not. The ring is carefully made using oxidized Sterling Silver & Brass.

Tirana Jewelry offers one-of-a-kind and limited edition pieces made from post consumer precious metals and vintage components from around the world. Launched in 2006 by Mexican artist Graciela Fuentes, Tirana Jewelry integrates creative design and impeccable craftsmanship with ethical modes of production. All the pieces are made in her studio in Brooklyn, New York.

[source Tirana Jewelry ]

The Fossil Group Owns Who?

2010-10-24T20:01:00.004-04:00

Fossil Portfolio
Did you ever wonder who really makes or owns your favorite watch company? By the time I wrote this and investigated who is who, these portfolios may have grown or shrank so the list may not be 100% accurate. Some brands are being merged either as a whole or just technical partnerships (more involved or cutting back overlapping departments) due to the harsh economic climate of 2008-2010.

These are the brands the Fossil Group owns, or partners with (meaning they own the license for predetermined lines) to create the product for a specific watch line for it's partner company.

MICHAEL KORS Watches   - www.michaelkors.com
FOSSIL   - www.fossil.com
MICHELE Watches    - www.michele.com
EMPORIO ARMANI Watches    - www.emporioarmani.com

The Movado Group Owns Who?

2010-10-04T18:02:00.001-04:00

Movado Group Portfolio
Did you ever wonder who really makes or owns your favorite watch company? By the time I wrote this and investigated who is who, these portfolios may have grown or shrank so the list may not be 100% accurate. Some brands are being merged either as a whole or just technical partnerships (more involved or cutting back overlapping departments) due to the harsh economic climate of 2008-2010.

These are the brands the Movado Group owns, or partners with (meaning they own the license for predetermined lines) to create the product for a specific watch line for it's partner company.

Movado       -        www.movado.com
Concord      -        www.concord.ch
Ebel           -      www.ebel.com
ESQ By Movado   -     www.esqbymovado.com
Coach Watches    -    www.coach.com
Hugo Boss Watches       - www.hugoboss.com
Juicy Couture Timepieces     - www.juicycouture.com
Lacoste Watches      -      www.lacoste.com
Tommy Hilfiger Watches   - www.tommyhilfiger.com

The New Jewelry Store: Your Nearest Pawn Shop!

2010-10-03T15:50:00.001-04:00

For a small few my title is nothing new, but for the majority of you are thinking that I am crazy. I am crazy, but that isn't important right now because we are talking about jewelry and watches. First let's talk about a pawn shop. What is a pawn shop? A pawnbroker (aka pawn shop) is an individual or business that offers secured loans to the public (pawner) using their personal property used as collateral.

When an item is pawned for a loan (pay-day loan is the normal reason a person will pawn an item) within a certain contractual period of time the pawner (you) may purchase it back for the amount of the loan plus some agreed-upon amount for interest. The amount of time, and rate of interest, is usually governed by the local or state law, but many locations no law exists so it's up to the pawnbroker. If the loan is not paid within the time stated in the contract, your item becomes the pawn brokers property and will be offered for sale to recoup their money. Unlike other lenders, the pawnbroker does not report the defaulted loan on the customer's credit report, since the pawnbroker has physical possession of the item and may recoup the loan value through outright sale of the item. The pawnbroker also may buy your item outright and then they sell it in their store.

You have an idea how a pawn shop works, now how does it become your next jewelry or watch store? These items usually are pawned, refinished to like-new condition and sold lower than anyone else can sell them at because they were pawned at a lower amount.

Here's an example (fictional numbers) You go to a pawn shop and sell your Rolex watch which retails in averaged preowned condition for $5000.00 and retails new for $7000.00 but you only get $800.00 because you need money quick. You can't make the loan payment back. Now the pawn shop owns the watch for $800.00 and refinishes it for an additional $200.00. Now the pawn shop is in the watch for $1000.00 so they want their money back so they sell it for $3000.00 which is $2,000 less than market. The pawn shop makes money, you needed money and the person who purchased the watch now bought it below market value.

With the economic conditions of 2008-2010, thousands upon thousands of people have been pawning their jewelry and watches (among other belongings) just to survive or pad their accounts because they could be the next one waiting in line at the local unemployment office. Not the best thing to happen, but is it? You can now claim merchandise you always wanted for a fraction of the price and the people who pawned it now has money in their pockets.

See what I mean? Deals can be had and even better deals could happen if you're patient enough. And many pawn shops need to liquidate so they are selling items just above their cost to make room for newer items that are coming in.

FACT: Pawn shops have been taken advantage of "cash for gold" by selling their slow moving gold items like necklaces, bracelets and rings for cash because so much jewelry is coming in and they need to make room.

Here's the downside of purchasing items from a pawn shop... there's no warranty and no after-the-sale service. Some items, while tested/ cleaned/ refinished could break and become worthless. Some items may be fake because they were over-looked and the pawn shop didn't do their research. I know this won't happen each time, but it could and/or will happen. In many cases, even shelling out hundreds more for fixing the item, you still saved hundreds compared to the going retail rate. Is it worth it? Sure, but it's your money and your decision to make.

What Does Swiss Made Mean?

2010-10-02T18:45:00.018-04:00

The best common question I get daily. What makes a watch 'Swiss Made' and 'How do I know if the watch is Swiss Made'? Great questions right? How do you truly know if that Swiss Timepiece is 100% made in Switzerland or the parts are made in some other countries and the assembled in Switzerland.

This law is based on a concept according to which Swiss quality depends on the amount of work actually carried out on a watch in Switzerland, even if some foreign components are used in it. It therefore requires that the assembly work on the movement (the motor of the watch) and on the watch itself (fitting the movement with the dial, hands and the various parts of the case) should be carried out in Switzerland, along with the final testing of the movement. It also requires that at least 50% of the components of the movement should be manufactured in Switzerland.

That is a direct quote from the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH very own website. Did you notice that companies can use outside vendors and/or their own factories from other countries like... say... China to produce parts. It's true. Many top companies like Breitling, Tag Heuer, Hublot (and others) buy their cases and/or parts from Chinese companies and assemble them in Switzerland. Hate to tell you, your favorite watch in actually a Chinese created and Swiss built watch.

Yes there are watches that are 100% created and assembled in Switzerland, but these are few and more importantly, carry a larger price point. There is the Breitling Chronomat 01 (only that 1 model) and then there is Rolex who builds everything under their roof. Those are two major 'house hold' names that build 100% Swiss.

Here's a breakdown further quoted from the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH website. See Below:

The word "use" is understood in a broad sense: it not only covers the application of the above-mentioned designation to the watch, but also, according to Section 3 § 5 OSM:
- the sale, offering for sale or putting into circulation of watches bearing such an indication;
- the application of this designation to signs, advertisements, prospectus, invoices, letters or commercial papers.

Wristlet:The "Swiss made" indication may only appear on a wristlet if it is of Swiss manufacture and if the watch is also Swiss. A wristlet is considered to be Swiss if it has undergone an essential manufacturing operation in Switzerland and if 50 percent of the production costs originate in Switzerland.

When a Swiss wristlet is attached to a watch manufactured abroad, it may only bear a reference to the word "Swiss" if this designation clearly shows that only the wristlet is of Swiss manufacture (for example, "Swiss wristlet").

Case:The "Swiss case" indication on a watch case betokens that the case is of Swiss manufacture. A case is considered to be Swiss if:- it has undergone an essential manufacturing operation in Switzerland (stamping, turning, or polishing);
- it has been assembled and inspected in Switzerland; and
- over 50 percent of the manufacturing costs (excluding the value of the material) are due to operations carried out in Switzerland.

When the "Swiss case" indication appears on the outside of the case, and the watch is of foreign manufacture, the origin of the movement or of the watch must also be affixed to the outside of the watch.

"Swiss Quartz", "Swiss Movement" indication:This indication is often illegally affixed to the outside of the watch, especially by foreign manufacturers wishing to show that the movement used is of Swiss origin. But, according to the OSM, the use of this indication on the outside of the watch signifies that the watch is Swiss.

"Swiss parts" indication:This marking indicates that the movement is composed of movement-blanks which have been manufactured in Switzerland, but assembled abroad. This indication may only appear on the movement, and never on the outside of the watch.

[source Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH]

The Swatch Group Owns Who?

2010-10-01T14:49:00.001-04:00

The Swatch Group Portfolio
Did you ever wonder who really makes or owns your favorite watch company? By the time I wrote this and investigated who is who, these portfolios may have grown or shrank so the list may not be 100% accurate. Some brands are being merged either as a whole or just technical partnerships (more involved or cutting back overlapping departments) due to the harsh economic climate of 2008-2010.

These are the brands The Swatch Group owns, or partners with (meaning they own the license for predetermined lines) to create the product for a specific watch line for it's partner company.

Breguet     -         www.breguet.com
Blancpain   -             www.blancpain.com
Glashütte Original -      www.glashuette-original.com
Jaquet Droz        -      www.Jaquet-Droz.com
Léon Hatot         -      www.leonhatot.com
Tiffany & Co. Timepieces - www.tiffany.com
Omega           -         www.omegawatches.com
Longines          -       www.longines.com
Rado            -         www.rado.com
Union Glashütte      -    www.union-glashuette.com
Tissot         -          www.tissot.ch
ck watch & jewelry
Balmain         -         www.balmainwatches.com
Certina           -       www.certina.com
Mido              -       www.mido.ch
Hamilton       -          www.hamiltonwatch.com
Swatch           -        www.swatch.com
Flik Flak          -      www.flikflak.com
Endura           -        www.endura.ch
Dress Your Body
ETA           -           www.eta.ch
Frédéric Piguet   -       www.fredericpiguet.ch
Nivarox-FAR      -        www.nivarox.com
Valdar         -          www.valdar.com
François Golay    -       www.francoisgolay.ch
Comadur           -       www.comadur.com
Rubattel & Weyermann
MOM Le Prélet
Deutsche Zifferblatt Manufaktur - www.zifferblaetter.de
Universo              -            www.universo.ch
Favre et Perret
Manufacture Ruedin
Lascor
Meco          -           www.meco.ch
EM Microelectronic   -    www.emmicroelectronic.com
Lasag          -          www.lasag.com
Renata         -          www.renata.com
Microcomponents    -      www.microcomponents.ch
Micro Crystal      -      www.microcrystal.com
Oscilloquartz     -       www.oscilloquartz.com
Swiss Timing      -      www.swisstiming.com
Tech-Airport
Tourbillon         -      www.tourbillon.com
Omega Museum
La Cité du Temps       -         www.citedutemps.com
German Watch Museum Glashütte - www.uhrenmuseum-glashuette.com
Swatch Art Peace Hotel     -     www.swatch-art-peace-hotel.com
N.G. Hayek Center

Appraisals, Grading Service, Insurance Company

2010-08-30T16:03:00.000-04:00

Do you need an appraisal or a trusted restoration expert? You can be a buyer, seller, collector, dealer, auction site, refinisher, appraiser, publishing house, barter site, or any other type of related professional, you can register yourself, your business or organization.It doesn't matter. They have the professionals to assist you from start to finish. Even promote your business.

Even if you need to find out the value of an item, get an appraiser's opinion about a specific item up for sale on eBay, or just ask an expert a question about something, you are certain to find a service to fit your needs.

WhatsItWorthToYou.com is committed to providing quality features to their clients and following up with the highest level of customer service. No matter the problem. This commitment has earned them the respect and continued support of many individuals and corporate clients alike.

WhatsItWorthToYou.com is proud to be the chosen online appraisal source for many organizations including eBay.com, eBay.ca, TIAS.com, A&E's The History Channel Club, Gunbroker.com, North American Hunting Club , The NRA and many others. Maybe you could be in this list.

Need a watch appraised? Need your jewelry appraised? Need an engagement ring appraised? Need your diamonds graded? Need your colored gemstones graded? Need your art work appraised? Need anything and everything appraised? Look no further.

Here is a small list of what WhatsItWorthToYou.com does:
Appraiser - Find a registered appraiser to do an in-person, hands-on USPAP compliant appraisal.
Auctioneer/Auction House - Find a local auctioneer. Search by category, keyword and proximity.
Buyer/Collector - Search for a buyer or collector of items in a specific category.
Charity - Find a charity to donate your item(s) to.
Club/Organization - Find a collector club that is of interest to you.
Dealer - Find a dealer near you and see what types of items they buy and sell.
Drop-Off Store - Find your nearest eBay Drop-Off Store.
eZines, Newsletters, Forums,Blogs - If you are looking for a specific eZine, forum blog or newsletter, you have come to the right place.
Flea Markets - Find your nearest flea market.
Grading Service - Find out if there is a grading service for items in a specific category.
Insurance Company/Broker - Find a company and/or broker who will insure your collectible item(s).
Museum - Find a museum close to where you live or where you are traveling.
Online Auction - Find an online auction that suits your needs.
Online Classifieds - Find websites with online classified directories.
Organize Your Things - Find software and/or websites that allow you to manage and organize your collection and even household items.
Other - Search through this Catch-All category and see what comes up!
Printed Publication - Find a publication geared towards specific fields of the world of antiques and collectibles.
Restoration Expert - Find an restoration expert according to their area of specialty.
Selling Venue - Find the best place to sell your item(s).
Supplier, Maker or Manufacturer - Find retail suppliers and makers or manufacturers of goods here.

[source WhatsItWorthToYou.com]

Cufflink Lockable Storage Box

2010-08-29T18:27:00.006-04:00

Gentlemen I have the answer to your messy night table issue! Here we have a stunning cufflink case that features a glass top to see your display of all your beautiful cufflinks. You also get four pull out drawers that are suede lined for additional cufflink storage. Also has a lockable lid.

Reference#: B002YTGN9M
Estimated Price: $494.95

[source ShoeBuy]

LVMH Owns Who?

2010-08-15T18:54:00.020-04:00

LVMH (Moët Hennessy - Louis Vuitton) Portfolio
Did you ever wonder who really makes or owns your favorite watch company? By the time I wrote this and investigated who is who, these portfolios may have grown or shrank so the list may not be 100% accurate. Some brands are being merged either as a whole or just technical partnerships (more involved or cutting back overlapping departments) due to the harsh economic climate of 2008-2010.

These are the brands LVMH owns, or partners with (meaning they own the license for predetermined lines) to create the product for a specific watch line for it's partner company.

Champagne Moët & Chandon    -    www.moet.com
Dom Pérignon    -    www.domperignon.com
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin   -    www.VeuveClicquot.com
Krug     -    www.Krug.com
Champagne Mercier    -    www.champagnemercier.fr
Maison Ruinart    -    www.ruinart.com
S.A. du Château d’Yquem     -    www.chateau-yquem.fr
Jas Hennessy & Co    -    www.hennessy.com
Glenmorangie Company    -    www.glenmorangie.com
Belvedere Vodka    -    www.belvederevodka.com
Chopin    -    www.chopinvodka.com
Domaine Chandon California -    www.chandon.com
Bodegas Chandon    -    www.chandon.com.ar
Domaine Chandon Australia Green Point     -    www.chandon.com.au
Cloudy Bay Vineyards LTD    -    www.cloudybay.co.nz
Cape Mentelle Vineyards Ltd     -    www.capementelle.com.au
Newton Vineyard    -    www.newtonvineyard.com
Terrazas de los Andes    -    www.terrazasdelosandes.com
Cheval des Andes    -    www.chevaldesandes.com
10 Cane Rum    -    www.10cane.com
Wenjun    -    www.wenjun.com.cn
Numanthia
Louis Vuitton       -    www.louisvuitton.com
Loewe S.A.       -    www.loewe.es
Céline       -    www.celine.com
Berluti    -    www.berluti.com
KENZO S.A.    -    www.kenzo.com
Givenchy    -    www.givenchy.fr
Marc Jacobs     -    www.marcjacobs.com
Fendi    -    www.fendi.com
StefanoBi    -    www.stefanobi.com
Emilio Pucci    -    www.emiliopucci.com
Thomas Pink    -    www.thomaspink.com
Donna Karan    -    www.donnakaran.com
NOWNESS    -    www.nowness.com
Christian Dior    -    www.dior.com (watches, fragrences, skincare, make-up)
Guerlain    -    www.guerlain.com
Parfums Givenchy    -    www.parfumsgivenchy.com
Kenzo Parfums    -    www.kenzoparfums.com
Benefit Cosmetics    -    www.benefitcosmetics.com
Fresh    -    www.fresh.com
MAKE UP FOR EVER    -    www.makeupforever.com
Acqua di Parma    -    www.acquadiparma.it
Perfumes Loewe    -    www.loewe.es
TAG Heuer    -    www.tagheuer.com
Zenith    -    www.zenith-watches.com (makes movements for Tag Heuer)
HUBLOT SA    -    www.hublot.com (purchased BNB Movement Manufacturer 2009)
Fred Joaillier    -    www.fred.com
Chaumet    -    www.Chaumet.com
De Beers    -    www.DeBeers.com
DFS Group LTD    -    www.dfsgalleria.com
Cruise Line Holdings Co.    -    www.starboardcruise.com
Sephora    -    www.sephora.com
Le Bon Marché    -    www.lebonmarche.com
Samaritaine    -    www.lasamaritaine.com
Groupe Les Echos    -     www.lesechos.fr
Royal Van Lent Shipyard    -    www.feadship.nl

Silver Plated Cufflinks on the Cheap

2010-08-12T18:36:00.020-04:00

Reward the special men or lady in your life with these modern silver-plated square cuff links. They are inexpensive yet give an expensive look to them. Perfect for all occasions including those job interviews that call for fancier attire! The Silver Square Cuff Links can be presented in the included silver gift tin.

Reference#: B0018L7PLM
Estimated Price: $25.00

[source Abernook]

Platinum IWC Ingenieur Automatic Mission Earth Edition

2010-08-11T14:38:00.000-04:00

Well folks the Platinum IWC Ingenieur Automatic Mission Earth Edition has been sold for a ridiculous low $39,655.00 USD! Are you kidding me? For a platinum timepiece with IWC in-house manufactured 80110 caliber, where the regular stainless steel version runs around $8,000 and gold version runs around triple the stainless version. I know that you're thinking 39k sounds about right, but that is for a regular production model, this is a limited edition of 1. Meaning you will be the only one wearing it. The chances of you seeing another one on another persons wrist or in their collection is... well... NEVER.

This low price is either the sign of two problems... 1- no one really knew about the auction and/or 2. no one really wants to pay 39k for an out-dated basic model made fresh by using platinum. Nothing is new or different than other Ingenieurs.

[source http://www.sculptthefuturefoundation.org]

Richemont Group Owns Who?

2010-08-10T21:07:00.002-04:00

The Richmont Group Portfolio
Did you ever wonder who really makes or owns your favorite watch company? By the time I wrote this and investigated who is who, these portfolios may have grown or shrank so the list may not be 100% accurate. Some brands are being merged either as a whole or just technical partnerships (more involved or cutting back overlapping departments) due to the harsh economic climate of 2008-2010.

These are the brands the Richmont Group owns, or partners with (meaning they own the license for predetermined lines) to create the product for a specific watch line for it's partner company.

Vacheron Constantin - www.vacheron-constantin.com
Purdey - www.purdey.com
Baume & Mercier - www.baume-et-mercier.com
Jaeger-LeCoultre - www.jaegerlecoultre.com
Lange & Söhne - www.alange-soehne.com
Cartier - www.cartier.com
Officine Panerai - www.panerai.com
IWC Schaffhausen - www.iwc.ch
Piaget - www.piaget.com
Lancel - www.lancel.com
Alfred Dunhill - www.dunhill.com
Van Cleef & Arpels - www.vancleef-arpels.com
Montblanc - www.montblanc.com
Chloé - www.chloe.com
Azzedine Alaia
Shanghai Tang - www.shanghaitang.com
Roger Dubuis - www.rogerdubuis.com
NET-A-PORTER.COM - www.net-a-porter.com
Ralph Lauren - www.ralphlaurenwatches.com (known joint venture)
Montegrappa

Does Seiko have a chance in the USA?

2010-08-04T14:38:00.001-04:00

I must admit, I have a great fondness for the Grand Seiko and Seiko Springdrive, but I'm not like many Americans. I like quality. I like different. I love value. I bought a $4,000 Seiko and wear it proudly. Many of my friends and family members think it's a waste of money... my watchmaker also doesn't like it. When I describe it to my clients, I usually leave the "Seiko" part out of it until the bitter end... once they are intrigued enough.

Is Seiko willing to take on it's cheapened history in the USA and try to rebuild it's name at the cost of millions of dollars and "dead-stock" gathering dust in their cases? If the Springdrive line is any proof, people are not ready to throw down thousands of dollars for a Seiko. Yes... the client was taught properly on the technology and they often liked it and the quality the brand could provide them, the customer just walked away. If it was named any other name, they would've purchased it. My educated guess is Seiko is branded "cheap" and this is why the Springdrive line died. Yes the movement lives on in the Ananta and Grand Seiko line, but it's not the same. As of 08/01/2010 the Grand Seiko with the Springdrive movement is roughly 1.5 grand more than the classic styled Springdrive line. Also the Ananta line is roughly the same price, it's a little more designer than classic where many clients want to wear classic.

My thoughts, and I will be happy to be wrong, is Seiko will fail with the name "Seiko". The name "Springdrive" should live on without "Seiko" in it.

Nomos Tangomat Automatic With Silver Dial

2010-07-26T14:06:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for a completely in-house manufactured movement with a retail price under $5,000? There are a few out there but I would like to mention one particular brand... Nomos.

The two calibers, Epsilon and Zeta, were designed, developed and manufactured by Mirko Heyne, a 29-year-old watchmaker. Put this tremendous task in perspective... Patek Phillipe has only 2 calibers that is their own. (1 was just introduced... a chronograph). Nomos achieved this without being sold to a large enterprise, like The Swatch Group.

The first thing you see is the beautiful nickle-free 38.5mm stainless steel case that is water resistant to 30 meters. A polished sapphire crystal shows off the beautiful silver plated dial with a combination of Arabic and stick hour markings. The dial is first sand blasted, then bathed in silver to provide the unique Nomos coloring. The dial has a subsidiary seconds dial with a date window at 6 while the baton hands are made of polished steel and then flame blued... not acid dipped like the other brands.

The watch strap use hand stitched (not machine stitched) straps made from Shell Cordovan which is very smooth, durable, water-resistant and extremely long lived.

Reference#: NG-016
Case: 38.5mm nickle-free stainless steel
Complications: Date, Small Seconds
Movements: Caliber Zeta automatic movement
Dial: Silvered with flamed blued hands
Strap/Bracelet: Shell Cordovan with tang buckle
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Anti-reflective sapphire
Estimated Price: $2,670.00

[source Watchbuys.com]

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust II

2010-07-04T13:18:00.001-04:00

The Datejust made its debut in 1945, the Oyster Perpetual Datejust is the world’s most recognized watch. The Datejust survives all fashion statements because of it's classic and clean lines. And the new Datejust II is the proof.

Small redesigns over time, the Oyster Perpetual Datejust embraces all the latest watchmaking innovations to meet the most demanding technological requirements. Look at a Datejust from the 1950's and look at a new modern Datejust sitting in a jewelers caseline... there are hardly and differences between them two. Small differences and improvements.

The Oyster Perpetual Datejust is the hallmark of the Rolex brand. Precise, water-proof, self-winding, this ofﬁcially certiﬁed Swiss chronometer with date display is crafted with only the noblest of materials and assembled with the greatest of care.

The case is available for the ﬁrst time in 41 mm carries the previous Datejust's torch on style and standards. A screw-down caseback, screw-down crown, a fluted bezel, which by the way used to screw-down, but now with better technology in watchcase-making, the fluted bezel is for design only. The watch is waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet).

The Datejust II is equipped with a calibre which features a Parachrom hairspring, highly resistant to shocks and magnetic ﬁelds, as well as new Paraﬂex shock absorbers, which ensure its superlative chronometric precision and remarkable reliability. The movement is chronometer-certiﬁed by the Swiss Ofﬁcial Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and has a power reserve of 48 hours.

The bracelet on the Datejust II is available on an Oyster bracelet, ﬁtted with an Oysterclasp and Easylink extension link, providing additional wearer comfort.

[source Rolex]

Nayla Hayek: Chairwoman of the Board of Directors For Swatch Group

2010-06-30T22:00:00.000-04:00

There you have it folks. As of June 30th 2010 Nayla Hayek, the daughter of Nicolas G. Hayek and Vice-Chairwoman will take over as Chairwoman of the Swatch Group leaving rumored Nick Hayek, son of Nicolas G. Hayek and CEO of the Swatch Group on the back burner perfecting his craft controling the Group.

It only makes sense. Nayla was vice-chair and board member since 1995 and knows the ins-outs of the boards politics.

Is "all is well" the way of business from today on... or... will Nayla bring changes to the Swatch Group?

Swatch Group: Mrs. Nayla Hayek appointed unanimously as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors
Biel/Bienne, June 30, 2010 – At its today's meeting, the Board of Directors of The Swatch Group Ltd., Mrs. Nayla Hayek, until now Vice-President, has been unanimously appointed Chairwoman of the Board of Directors.

Mrs. Nayla Hayek has been prepared towards this function during the past years and has a long-time experience within the Board of Directors. In addition, she was sucessfully active in various operational functions during the last years.

The Board of Directors has honored the immeasurable merits of Nicolas G. Hayek and will keep a grateful memory of him as founder of The Swatch Group Ltd. and visionary pioneer.

[source Swatch Group]

Zenith Class Tourbillon Day Night Chronograph

2010-06-30T15:56:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, may I introduce to you the Zenith Class Tourbillon Moonphase Day Night timepiece. The Zenith Class Tourbillon Moonphase Day Night watch features a silver guilloche dial with an off center hour and minute display with rose hands, Arabic and stick hour markers.

Complications on this watch include a tourbillon cage at 10 with incorporated date window and small seconds. You also have a very unique sun and moon display at 8, and followed by a chronograph function.

The watch measures 44mm and produced using 18kt rose gold. A handmade crocodile strap and matching 18kt rose gold buckle completes this package.

The Zenith Class Tourbillon Moonphase Day Night watch utilizes the famous El Primero 4034 self-winding movement that has enough juice under a full-wind to keep your watch running for 50 hours. Water resistant to 30 meters.

Rose gold limited edition of 10 - # 18.0520.4034/01.C492
White Gold version limited edition of 5 - # 65.0520.4034/01.C492

Reference#: 18.0520.4034/01.C492
Case: 44mm Rose Gold
Complications: Tourbillon, Chronograph, Sub Seconds, Date, Sun and Moon display
Movements: El Primero 4034 automatic movement
Dial: Silver guilloche
Strap/Bracelet: Alligator
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $ unknown

[source Gemnation]

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Moon Watch

2010-06-29T22:01:00.057-04:00

The Deep Blue-Grey dial contains the central hours and minutes, seconds and moon phases dial at 6, the date on the outside of the dial highlighted with a red crescent, and the two symmetrical windows by day of week and month, centrally located, just below the logo.

Yes ladies and gentlemen! I found and had on my wrist a very hard to find timepiece. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Moon Watch.

Unlike the newer JLC timepieces, this watch features a sapphire crystal case back with a demi-hunter type lid.

This lid went away around 2007.

Once you raise the lid, the movement is revealed, which is the self-winding automatic caliber Jaeger-LeCoultre 891/448, consisting of 275 parts and rotor that has a platinum weight.

It is currently selling just under $11,000.00 and has an authentic box and operating manual. Paper work is not included.

[source Tourneau]

RIP - Nicolas G. Hayek 1928–2010

2010-06-28T21:13:00.002-04:00

"The King is Dead! Long Live The King"

Like him or hate him, today is a loss for us all. What does the future hold for us now? Will ETA stop selling movements still or will it continue to be a "cash-register" it was before and is now?

Will his son, who currently looks over Breuget, take over for his father? Is he ready to do what his father believed in, which by some was not very popular, but strategically smart for the Swatch Group. Being "king" is not always as much fun as you may think. You will be hated. People will want you out. Like they say...

"Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown"

Swatch Group watch and jewelry brands are as follows:
Prestige and Luxury Range: Breguet, Blancpain, Glashütte Original, Jaquet Droz, Léon Hatot, Omega, Tiffany & Co;
High Range: Longines, Rado, Union Glashütte;
Middle Range: Tissot, CK watch & jewelry, Balmain, Certina, Mido, Hamilton;
Basic Range: Swatch, Flik Flak;
Private label: Endura.
Other Accomplishments: Smart Car, Hayek Engineering

Hayek Engineering Inc. based in Zurich employs 250 highly qualified professionals experienced in a variety of sectors, such as iron and steel, automotive industry, watches, IC production, telecommunication systems and other advanced technologies.

Hayek has gained an impressive list of clients including: VW, US Steel, Siemens, AEG Telefunken AG, Deere & Co, Digital Equipment Corp, World Bank, Fried. Krupp GmbH, Ministry of Metallurgy of China, Olivetti SpA, BMW, Thyssen Group, Dresdner Bank, Voest Alpine, Alfa-Romeo and Nestle.

Biel/Bienne, 28 June 2010 - With deep sadness and regret we inform you that Mr. Nicolas G. Hayek, Chairman and Delegate of the Board of Directors of The Swatch Group Ltd. unexpectedly passed away today due to heart failure during work at his beloved Swatch Group.

Mr. Nicolas G. Hayek's greatest merit was his enormous contribution to the saving of the Swiss watch industry and the foundation and the commercial development of the Swatch Group. Mr. Nicolas G. Hayek's extraordinary vision enabled him to realize and ensure the sustainability of a strong watchmaking enterprise with high Swiss added value. He is rightly recognized as a leading entrepreneur in this country.

With the right personnel decisions, Mr. Nicolas G. Hayek also ensured that his ideas and beliefs will live on and that continuity is guaranteed in regard of shareholders, Board of Directors and the Group Management Board.

[source SwatchGroup]

Premium Mesh Bracelets With Locking Butterfly Clasp

2010-06-28T14:59:00.001-04:00

Premium quality solid stainless steel mesh bracelets made in Germany and are closed linked. These bracelets feature a push button butterfly style double fold locking clasp for a smooth closure. At a full 3.5mm thick, this in no "light weight" cheap bracelets found elsewhere. As you can see it fits and looks great even on large sport watches like a Panerai.

Standard length Bracelets are available in 18, 20, 22 and 24mm in Satin or Polished finish so the will fit almost any lug size.

5mm thick bracelets available.

Please note that on the average, if you have less than a 7 1/4" wrist the standard size bracelet may not be able to sized small enough to fit you, especially if you wear it on an oversize watch and like to wear it snug.

Reference#: MB2
Estimated Price: $159.00
Extra Links Available: $18.00
[source Lonestar Watches]

Natural Moose Earrings - Straight From Them to You

2010-06-23T17:45:00.001-04:00

These are interesting, and give a new meaning to "you smell like sh@t!". Yes ladies and gentlemen, I give you Moose Droppings Earrings. They are picked by hand, drilled and attached to metal clips by hand and even done by someone on their dining room table. I'm not making this up, I wish I did, but this is real.

Moose dropping Earring. Not only are they natural and found in the wilderness, no two droppings are the same. They are unique because no two moose poops are exactly alike. They are real moose droppings but they are sealed in lacquer. not only can you get earrings, you can get poop pendants, poop tie-clips, poop ornaments, poop awards, poop anything you want.

Hey girls, next time you tell your man that he smells bad, and you're rocking a pair of these natural droppings from your ears... I hope you would reconsider.

Reference#: moosepoopearing
Estimated Price: $6.99

[source Mooseville Moose Gifts]

Replacement Watch Straps and Watch Bracelets

2010-05-28T15:02:00.030-04:00

Watch Style hears your call for a new watch strap that looks like the manufacturers, feels like the manufacturers but doesn't carry the manufacturers retail price.

What is the main difference between an OEM watch strap and an aftermarket strap? Usually nothing besides a name imprinted on the inside of the strap. The above average aftermarket strap is made out of the same quality material the manufacturer uses... and in many cases, by the same company. Not every manufacturer produces their own strap. It's labor intensive to do so, and also expensive.

Here's your chance to buy quality at inexpensive prices. If not, buy the manufacturers. It's your money.

One aftermarket manufacturer is Hirsch. HIRSCH Artisanal leather watch bands are handcrafted one by one, in a process consisting of more than 60 steps, all completed by humans not machines. Fine reptile leathers are punched, seams are sewn, varnish is carefully applied.

The Classic collection offers unique leather watch straps made in HIRSCH Rembordier technology. All leather watchbands are Sauna-Tested and Water-Resistant. Some watch bands in the collection are even 100m Water-Resistant and are provided with the HIRSCH No Allergy system.

The stainless steel series consist of matte or shiny metals, classical designs, elegant showpieces or modern combinations of different materials like titanium. The HIRSCH Sparetube system allows to adjust the bracelet to the individual size.

The natural rubber series stand for functional watchstraps, clear forms and innovative materials proving that sporty design is compatible with complete wearer comfort.

[source WatchStyle.com]

Wrist Time - Meistersinger Perigraph

2010-04-15T16:30:00.001-04:00

A watch aficionado client that visits me periodically had a Meistersinger Perigraph 43mm Date Automatic Watch Series AM1001 on his wrist. While he was trying on a limited edition timepiece I brought in for him, he allowed me to try his watch on. Being a fan of Meistersinger, this was the perfect time for me.

MeisterSinger is known for their one-handed time displayed watch, but this model comes with a date display. There is a red triangle-index mark the date can be read clearly directly below the 12 index. At first the single hand is weird, but after adjusting I was easily reading the time.

The dial is broken down in 5 minute increments with every 15 minute indexes slightly taller than the 5 minute indexes. The movement is a basic Sellita SW200 automatic movement that has been modified to run one single hand. It is a shame that it isn't an in-house manufactured movement, but not every company can afford to do this WHILE keeping prices down.

Other features include a convex scratch resistant sapphire crystal which produces a slight magnifying effect, which was very welcomed. The stainless steel case hass a combination of polished and matte finishes with a clear display back to reveal the nicely decorated movement.

The weight and size of this 43mm beast feels more like a kitten than a hairy monster. It was quite comfortable. The black calf leather strap is very comfortable and has a standard tang buckle which was the down side of this watch. It doesn't mean it's a "make-or-break" excuse, it would've been nice to see a deployment clasp. There also is a stainless steel bracelet available, but I found that out by visiting Meistersinger.net.

Check it out, the low price point and non-commercialized name make this watch perfect for those who want to be different and look different. Leave the sheep to graze!

Reference#: AM1001
Case: 43mmStainless Steel
Complications:Single hand, date disk
Movements: Sellita SW200 automatic movement
Dial:White with black indexes and single black hand
Strap: Black Leather with stainless steel tang buckle
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Scratch resistant sapphire
Estimated Price: $1495.00

[source Meistersinger]

Inside the Rolex Collection - Rare Rolex -

2010-04-03T15:58:00.011-04:00

Here is a small list I put together of some Rolex watches which many, if not all, Rolex collectors go nuts to own. Your collection is not complete until you have these:

168000 Submariner - essentially the case and bracelet of the current 16610 with the movement from the previous 16800. The watch has a serial number 96XXXXX, which dates it to 1987.

The difference is not in the design of the case, but rather in the material used to make the case. The 16800s used 916 steel, whereas the new 16610s use the much harder 904L. Rolex choose to put the extra zero to recognize these "transitional" cases.

16660 Transitional Sea Dweller - This watch is one of the very first sapphire glass Sea Dwellers and bears the serial number 8385034 and it was probably made in 1984.

As one of the early models of the 16660, it has the very desirable matte dial with tritium markers, not the much more common gloss dial with white gold indexes.

16800 COMEX Rare matte dial Submariner - This is the rarest of all COMEX Submariners; the sapphire glass 16800 with the matte dial. Case number 72769XX, COMEX number 60XX, dating to 1982.

It is assumed that there were less than 25 of these made, the second batch was not made until 1987, by which time the gloss dial with white gold indexes had arrived. Also many of the original batch could have had their dials replaced when they were serviced by Rolex. Making the truly original COMEX sought after.

6538 "James Bond" Submariner - Case number 3073XX dating from the second quarter of 1957. The dial is a gloss black 4 line dial with 3 of the 4 lines of text printed in red.

The case is the “fat” one which this model introduced but without the crown protecting “shoulders”, the crown is the large 8mm “Brevette” which is the same size as the “Triplock”

5513 Gilt Dial Submariner - Bears the case number 19XXXXX dating from 1966, thereby making this one of the very last of the 5513s with the desirable gilt print 200m/660ft text on the gloss dial. The minute track was also connected.

The 5513 were the first to introduce the 'Crown guards' and became the archetype for all diver’s watches.

16760 GMT-Master II “Fat Lady” - Produced between 1983 and 1988 boasted an extra-thick case, some .5mm thicker than its predecessor, as well as a thicker bezel & crown guards. The 16760 was replaced by the 16710.

1655 “Steve McQueen” Explorer II - The Explorer II 1655 was introduced in 1971 with a fixed stainless steel bezel. Also the watch initially when it was first marketed, the second hand was straight and the extra hour hand was a bright orange.

Steve McQueen may have worn a Tag Heuer Monaco wristwatch in the film Le Mans, but in real life he wore a Rolex Explorer II model 1655.

1680 “Red” Submariner - The first release of the red dial in 1967 (the earliest serial known to the author is 2,02X,XXX) and featured the “200 meters/600 ft” dial. This version is harder to find than the later 600/200 dial and there are at least three variations of this early dial:

The first dials had 200/600 with the red submariner word clearly shorter in width than the depth rating. Several have been shown on various forums and have been ‘verified’ through a Rolex servicing (this is about the best one can hope to have sans the original warranty paper). Note that the top of the “f” in ft goes up and straight over.

The second 200/600 dials where the red submariner word is clearly wider or as wide as the depth rating. This example has been authenticated by Rolex Service Centers. Take note that the top portion of the “f” in ft is very curved and long, therefore the "long f" dials.

The third dial variation of the red submariner featured the depth rating with the feet before the meters “600/200.” Unlike the first version, the word submariner in red is ALWAYS narrower than the depth rating there are many variations of the depth rating font.

1665 “Rail Dial” Sea-Dweller – Made between 1977 and 1979 these dials were produced by the Stern Company. The distinctive characteristics of the rail dial are as follow: (1. The "C" of Chronometer lines up with the "C" of Certified of the line below. Unlike other Sea-Dweller dials. (2. Secondly the font of the depth markings are always in italics. (3. The hour markers (tritium dots) are closer to the minute track than the regular dial. (4. The only version of the SD dials where is marked "T SWISS T <25", including COMEX 1665. (5. Longer minute markers. (6. Serial 5.7mil to 6.2 mil.

5513 “Spider Web” Submariner - These watches are highly sought after due to the inherent dial issues Rolex experienced for a very short time period, mainly during 1984. The spider web appearance is only visible on an angle. and one must look VERY closely to catch it. 833xxxx serial number dates.

1680/8 “Nipple” or “Plastic Gold” Dial - The dial was produced with a matte black dial with yellow gold markers (commonly known as “nipple” dials) and tritium markers and an equally beautiful deep blue dial with similar nipple markers.

As most early 1680 watches, the dial had depth markings with meters first and later watches came with feet first. These meter first dials have become quite collectible.

There are at least two different 16808 feet first dials. The open "6" and the closed “6”, relate to the 6's used to print out “660 ft” on the dial.

(still updating list)

Are Omega Calibers 2500 and 3300 Coaxial Defective?

2010-04-02T12:52:00.001-04:00

Do you own an Omega Co-Axial caliber 2500 and the 3313 and it continues to have issues? Well you're not alone. There seems to be an issue with these earlier movements like the calibers 2500 and 3313.

From what I heard within the industry, Omega pushed up the release date of the Co-Axial to an earlier production date to try to recoup some of the research investment. Like most companies, pushing forward a production date causes the testing period to be shorter and not as thorough. So to make this earlier dead line, they jammed the new escapement into an already produced ETA movement and possibly shortened to testing time. Stuffing this Co-Axial escapement into the movement created an environment not satisfactory for everything to run smoothly.

Individually there is nothing wrong with the proven ETA movement and like wise... there is nothing wrong with the Co-Axial escapement. But when you put them together you have a "time-bomb" of issues. Some experience these issues while some do not.
So it comes back to the post title question... "Are Omega Calibers 2500 and 3300 Coaxial Defective?" I would same no, but there are issues. Maybe there are more "lemons" then you would like, but in the overall picture, there more functioning than broken.

Does Omega know about these issues? Of course they do. Two reasons I know this... 1- they created a new movement (8500 series) and they have the Customer Service scripts memorized. Omega doesn't and won't stand behind these problems because they don't have to. Does the phrase "Up To 7-10 Years" sound familiar? The key words... "Up To..." is their loop hole.

If you are scared in buying a Co-Axial 2500 and a 3313, then buy the new caliber 8501 that sits inside the Aqua Terra and De Ville lines... or wait until the caliber 8501 makes it to the Planet Ocean. It's worth the wait. The 8501 Co-Axial escapement is a thing of beauty... ohhh... the 8501 is ground-up new. Everything was made for each other so there was no jamming and cutting. Everything fits like a "glove".

Stainless Steel Wallets - Silky Smooth Protection

2010-04-01T14:04:00.000-04:00

You might think that a stainless steel wallet would be hard block in your pants pocket, but really these wallets have the touch of smooth silk and are woven from micro fibers of stainless steel that are thinner than a piece of paper. When you touch the silky metallic surface you'll think they were created using silk. Be amazed.

A stainless steel wallet can't stretch, can't stain, doesn't have sharp corners or the bulk/ weight of other leather wallets, the stainless steel wallet is made with the same metal fabric found in the architecture, aerospace, and automotive industries, resulting in a thin profile that allows it to fit into a front pocket. Resistant to corrosive materials such as salt and acids, the tightly woven steel also passively resists radio-frequency hacking (RDIF card holders take notice).

Choose your size and pattern too. Some have ID windows and some don't. You also can get stainless steel money clips and stainless steel business card holders too.

[source Think Geek]

14k Rose Gold Diamond Cat Pendant

2010-03-28T15:47:00.041-04:00

Attention Cat lovers... or someone looking for a pendant that isn't a heart. This is a stylized yet unmistakable diamond cat pendant that is an instant charmer for anyone in proximity of it. Although it is not a large piece, it shows up very nicely without over doing it.

Sixty five I1 clarity, J colored round brilliant diamonds with a total weight of 1/5 carat are prong set in 14kt white gold. The outline of the cat's head, body, and curved tail are also created in 14kt white gold. A rose gold collar and whiskers complete the poised look.

A beautiful gift for cat lovers and sits beautifully on a slender 14kt gold rope chain that's finished with a spring ring clasp.

Reference#: B000NZT8QY
Metal: Rose and white gold
Setting: Prong
Height: 19mm
Width: 16.54mm
Length: 18in
Chain: Rope with spring ring clasp
Stone shape: Round brilliant
Minimum color: J
Minimum Clarity: I2
Minimum Total Carat Weight: 0.195 carats

[source Amazon.com]

Re-Release of the Ionic Accutron SpaceView

2010-03-25T12:29:00.002-04:00

Bulova Corporation celebrates a revolutionary breakthrough in timekeeping technology introduced 50 years ago, Accutron, and presents a new groundbreaking timekeeping technology called Precisionist. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Accutron, Bulova is producing a Limited Edition replica of the original alpha case version of the Accutron Spaceview 214.

When Accutron debuted on October 25, 1960, it was the most accurate timing mechanism available and the first personal timekeeping advancement in 300 years. The world’s first electronic watch without springs or an escapement, it was operated by an electronically activated tuning fork – instead of ticking, it hummed.

In 1960, Accutron changed the way the world told time by offering the most accurate timekeeping mechanism ever created. Created with a transparent dial, the original Spaceview model was not designed as a commercial watch, but rather as a selling aid for Bulova retailers. The technology was incorporated into the actual design and let retailers and potential buyers see the unusual tuning fork technology. Requests soon poured in for the company to make the transparent design available to consumers. The combination of design and technology helped people understand the remarkable difference and technological efficiency of Accutron versus other timepieces, and created its iconic status.

The Bulova Accutron limited edition Spaceview 214 recreates the landmark tuning fork technology. Each handmade replica will be presented in a specially designed wood and glass display case. The watch has a stainless steel case with a curved sapphire crystal and an alligator strap. Each watch will be inscribed with a limited edition number matched on the official plaque on the presentation case, identifying its place in the controlled production run of 1,000 pieces.

Bulova Accutron has an important place in history as an integral part of 46 missions of the U.S. space program. Before the technology was available commercially, NASA requested its use in the development of the United States’ greatest single engineering achievement, man’s first landing on the moon. With Accutron technology playing a key role in the missions leading up to the first manned lunar landing, on July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin placed an Accutron timer in the moon’s Sea of Tranquility to control transmissions of data to earth. The Accutron logo became a symbol to the consumer of the accuracy of the watch and was later adopted as Bulova’s corporate logo.

The original Spaceview 214 is one of the most prized collectibles among watch enthusiasts. To celebrate the 50th anniversary, the Spaceview limited edition replica of only 1,000 pieces will be sold globally at a suggested retail price of $4,000 starting Fall 2010.

[source Bulova]

Wrist Time - IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar

2010-03-21T17:43:00.001-04:00

The perks about my job... I get to order and wear watches people drool over. I get to play with them, wear them for hours on end and put them back in the case to sell. Well recently I played with an IWC Perpetual Calendar, and while this isn't the first time, in any variation, I had it on my wrist... it is the first time I am writing about it.

The Portuguese Perpetual Calendar has just about everything you could possibly wish for in one watch. You get a perpetual calendar, a perpetual moon phase display, a window showing the year in four digits, a power reserve for an amazing seven-days, an automatic movement with Pellaton winding and a power reserve display, classic styling, clean and legible dial and a big watch look that wears small. Did I mention all these complications are run off the single crown? No additional buttons to press. Just turn the crown and everything on the dial sets perfectly.

The view of the lunar phases is reminiscent of classical representations of the moon and it's 29 day - 12 hour - 44 minute dance across the night sky. The moon phase wheels in the IWC perpetual calendar have more teeth than the typical moon phase disk, making the IWC mechanism one of the most accurate moonphase available on the market. The detail on the dial also shows off the IWC love. Oh ya, after 577 years, the deviation from the moon’s actual progress will be just 1 day. Amazing! One day off in 577 years.

Also which is very impressive, you get the replacement century counter so you can go up to the year 2499.

The beautiful appearance of the satin/polished case houses an extraordinary hand finished 51613 automatic movement which also, like the exterior shows off the high craftsmanship and it's greatness. You get a "window to die for" showing the inner workings. Mind you, it's not small, it takes up 98% of the caseback.

The IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar not only represents something more than itself, it makes a statement to the world. The watch is a symbol of tradition and innovation all wrapped in a 42.3mm rose gold case. And this all fits comfortably on your wrist. The average wrist, what I have, the IWC Portuguese Pertetual Calendar sits calmly and quietly and leaves the screaming to those watches who need the attention.

The brown alligator strap and soft and wears comfortably on your wrist right out of the box. Sometimes a watch strap has to be broken in, but not this hand stitched beauty. The clasp, is also very comfortable because of it's low profile and thin latch.

Kurt Klaus developed IWC’s perpetual calendar back in 1985 and IWC has continued to build cases that do not distract the wearer. A perfect recipe.Keep it up IWC.

Reference#: IW502213
Case: 42.3mm Rose Gold with satin/ bright finishes
Complications: Moon phase, Day, Date, Month, Year, 7 day power reserve
Movements: IWC in-house Caliber 51613 automatic movement
Dial: Silver speck Dial With Rose Gold Hands & Markers
Strap/Bracelet: Brown alligator with rose gold single deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Anti-reflective sapphire
Estimated Price: $30,500.00

[source Authentic Watches]

Diamond and White Gold Key Pendant

2010-03-20T16:20:00.050-04:00

Talk about fashion questions. Why on Earth would you wear a key around your neck? I guess this is filed with "why would you wear a dog chain around your neck". I have to admit that the key pendant trend is red hot and filled with competition. Take this key pendant. It's a 14kt white gold diamond pendant is crafted using solid white gold and natural H color SI2 clarity full-cut round brilliant white diamond with a total weight of 3/4tdw.

This 14K White Gold Trefoil Key Diamond Pendant is about 18 inches in total chain length. The pendant measures 1.3 inches long by .5 inches wide.

Item Number: 101822
Width: 1.3 inches long by .5 inches wide
Metal Type: High Polish 14kt White Gold
Total Diamond Weight: 46 diamonds totaling 3/4 tdw
Diamond Color: H
Diamond Clarity: SI2
Diamond Cut: Round Brilliant
Estimated Price: $546.00

[source B2C Jewels]

Coming To America - Welcome Grand Seiko

2010-03-18T15:39:00.004-04:00

I don't like covering press conferences and various shows because it's all "talk". I cover items that are actually in their respective market today. But I do have to mention this... Grand Seiko is coming to the USA.

Excited? I hope you are because Grand Seiko isn't your typical cheap Seiko, it's more than that... say Rolex quality with out the Rolex prices.

SEIKO WATCH CORPORATION is proud to announce that its renowned and respected luxury watch collection, Grand Seiko, is to be released into selected international markets during 2010. Long recognized by collectors, watchmakers and industry observers as one of the great watches in the world, Grand Seiko has, until now, been available only in Japan and a very limited number of retail locations elsewhere but, thanks to increased production capacity, Grand Seiko will be marketed in partnership with carefully selected retail partners in other markets.
press release

Next in my collection... welcome Seiko Hi-Beat or maybe a Grand Seiko Spring Drive like the one pictured above!! Choices... choices. I guess I can narrow my choices without expensive shipping costs. Can't wait to try them on and buy a few on US soil. Thanks Seiko!!

[source Seiko Watch Corporation]

Prices Set To Increase Industry Wide

2010-03-16T18:19:00.002-04:00

Slowly but surly many, if not all companies will be increasing their retail prices. Why is that? Well here are a few examples why:

1. The cost of metals - Gold, platinum and various base metals like stainless steel all rose in 2009. While 2009 didn't show price increases in many areas, the manufacturers will not carry that extra expense anymore. They, with the retails down-sized their production to meet the lower demand caused by the "Bankers Recession of 2009". The maximum increase I saw so far was 15%, but the average has been 7%.

2. Everyone wants a fatter paycheck - The cost of living continues to increase so employers have to give raises to keep people. Even with high unemployment rates, the employed want a pay raise. In many industries like Watches and Jewelry, these technicians can't be easily replaced like, say, a Customer Service Representative. These technicians are also in demand because more and more people want to fix broken items instead of replacing them. So far, we saw an increase of upwards of 20% in our repair department.
3. Insurance costs are rising - It's not just the medical industry that is raising their rates... it's retail/shipping/storage insurance. The average cost per watch is around $30.00 per $2,000.00 in transportation/insurance fees. Some specialized items require an Armored Service to drop the items to the retailer. These rates are estimated to be $400.00 per $10,000.00.

4. Because they are allowed to - There really wasn't price increases in late 2008/2009 because of the "Bankers Recession of 2009". The manufacturers are allowed to recoup some loss due to fuel and metals increase.

5. Their taxes are increasing too - Need I say more?

These are just a few examples, and no... you don't want prices to fall. Yes some items may need to be adjusted down, but industry wide? Ask any one person with an education in Economics and they will agree with me. Down is bad, steady and up is good.

Gear Heads Take Notice - The Gear Ring

2010-03-01T14:06:00.025-05:00

Hey techy, hey gear head, hey you. Looking for a new ring but you want it to be different than those other rings? Here is the ring for you! The Kinekt Gear Ring.

Kinekt’s creator has always been fascinated and inspired by small mechanisms and their complementary movements. With this interest in mind, the concept was envisioned for the Gear Ring, a product “complex enough to play with, yet simple enough to wear.”

How did he make such a ring? By using tough materials. The Gear Ring is made from high quality matte stainless steel. It features six micro-precision gears that turn in unison when the outer rims are spun.

It is currently available for purchase in four standard US ring sizes: 9, 10, 11, and 12.

Estimated Price: $165.00

[source Kinekt Design]

Luminor 1950 10 Days GMT Ceramica

2010-02-27T17:13:00.059-05:00

The new Luminor 1950 10 Days GMT Ceramica is made of zirconium oxide ceramic which is a very hard material that is resistant to corrosion and scratching. The case is formed using an isostatic pressure process that produces a single block ready for milling. The 44mm case requires over 60 operations to complete. The screw-down back is titanium with a sapphire window opening onto the P.2003 automatic movement.

The quantity of luminescent placed between the two dial plates ensures exceptional visibility even in any light condition or in total darkness. The numbers indicating the date and all the hands are all highly luminescent, as are the second-time zone hand with its arrow point, the am/pm hand in the small seconds dial and the horizontal cursor that indicates the remaining power reserve.

The movement is designed and manufactured in-house by Officine Panerai and offers a 10 day power reserve, which the status is displayed via a linear display on the dial. It will be produced in a limited series of 500 pieces with an estimated retail price of $18,800. The launch is scheduled for September 10.

Reference#: PAM00335
Case: 44mm Black Ceramic
Complications: Small seconds, Date, GMT, Day/Night Indicator, Linear Power Reserve Indicator, Seconds Reset
Movements: Panerai P.2003 caliber automatic movement
Dial: Black with luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers. Date at 3, seconds and 24h indicator at 9, linear power reserve indicator at 6.
Strap/Bracelet: Black leather with black coated titanium buckle. Supplied with a second interchangeable strap and a steel screwdriver.
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $18,800.00
Limited Edition: 500 pieces

[source Panerai]

Quick Snippet on Rolex Models

2010-02-04T13:20:00.035-05:00

I put together a quick over-view on the past and present Rolex timepieces. Some models have more of a back story, but I thought it would be a waste of time.

Rolex Air-King:
The Air-King is considered the entry level model from Rolex. It is 34mm in diameter and comes with an Oyster bracelet by default. The Air-King does not have a Date. In the 1970s, the Air-King was offered with a date (scarce!) and in gold & steel combinations. Those two variations ceased production since they are redundant next to the Date and Oyster Perpetual models.

Rolex Cellini:
The Cellini line represents the “dressy” side of Rolex. These high class, formal watches have helped define Rolex as a luxury brand due to their charm and elegance.

Most of the Cellini models feature highly-accurate quartz movements. Notable Cellini sub-families are - Cellini Karat (for ladies), Cellini Parantheses, Cellini Gourmette, Cellini Almond, Cellini Zephyr, Cellini Biseau, Cellini Midas-First Clous de Paris, Cellini Ligne Douce, Cellini Classic (pocket watch), Cellini Clous de Paris, Cellini First, Cellini Jubilee, Cellini Cellinium, Cellini Quartz, Cellini Cellissima, Cellini Danaos, Cellini Prince, Cellini Cestello, Cellini Orchid and others.

Movements range from quartz to hand-wound and certain families come only in 1 specific precious metal. Gemstones are also available on all.

Rolex Date:
The Rolex Date is 34mm like the Air-King but with a date function. Its production began in the late 1950s around the time the steel Datejust was introduced. The date model was once offered in 3 flavors: steel, 18k yellow & steel, and all 18k yellow gold.

Rolex Datejust:
The Datejust is the best selling and most abundant Rolex model on the market, and has been for decades. It was first introduced in 1945. The gents model is 36mm in diameter and typically came on a Jubilee bracelet. Rolex seems to have changed their tradition on this, and is sending more Datejust models out the door with the Oyster band. Models with smooth bezels exist, but are more scarce. Most have the fluted bezel, which is 18k white gold on the steel model.

The Datejust was only available in gold until 1957 (conveniently a year after the release of the Day-Date which still has never seen a steel model). The steel Datejust was introduced and became an instant success. Rolex soon saw the steel variations selling much quicker than their gold models. Rolex countered this in 1962 when they introduced the gold and steel version.

The Datejust was updated with a 41mm case in 2010.

Rolex Day Date:
Released in 1956 after Rolex had been enjoying quite a barren spell in the sale of its manufactured complicated timepieces it soon began to revive fortune. This new 6511 the "Day Date" had a window at 12 spelling out the day at 12 and the date was shown at 3. Due to the complexity of the watch, with its automatic movement, additional day and date discs and a screw down back it was a very large and thick watch which gave it presence on the wrist. Introduced as a niche model it soon gained the popularity it deserves and after the introduction of the concealed clasp it was known as the "President".

The Day Date became Rolex's flagship and it's savior at the same time. The first model lasted just over a year before it was replaced by the externally identical one. The major difference was the new movement with its free sprung Micro-Stella balance. It was the first to be labeled "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" on the dial. This new accuracy standard guaranteed the watch to remain within + 3.0 seconds per day.

Ladies Rolex Date/Datejust:
These two models use the same 26mm case mold and offer the exact same functionality. Rolex discontinued the ladies Date, there was so much overlap in the models. The more popular Datejust with is with the White gold bezel. Comes in all flavor and with or without diamonds.

Rolex Explorer:
It was introduced in 1954, and has had one look through-out its life; a black dial with Arabic numbers at 3', 6' and 9', no date, smooth bezel, Oyster bracelet, and a stainless steel 36mm case. Except for the updates that all Rolex watches have received, it remains essentially the same watch.

Rolex Explorer II:
This model was introduced in the early 70's and was never widely distributed or popular until 1991. The original model was produced until the current model was released in 1985. The Explorer II uses the same movement as the GMT-II models and makes use of a secondary 24-hour hand that rotates once every day. The engraved steel bezel is stationary and was originally designed for speleologists (cave explorers) who can have a hard time determining if it is am or pm. Today it comes with only two choices: a black or a white dial.

Rolex Milguass:
The 6451 is a highly collectible model which was introduced in 1954. The Milgauss was designed as anti-magnetic watch for those who worked in power plants, medical facilities and research labs where electromagnetic fields can cause havoc with the timing of a watch.

Milgauss was very similar to the appearance of the Submariner, with an over-sized case and bezel, with the Twinlock crown, and a riveted Oyster bracelet. The Milgauss only went through two different models (6541, 1019) but went through numerous changes before being discontinued in 1988.

The Milgauss today remains a sought after model amongst collectors. Due to its relatively low sales and popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, it has become rare in today's vintage watch market due to the low production numbers.

In 2007, Rolex brought back the Milgauss after nearly two decades as the model number 116400.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual:
An odd name for a model considering every Rolex is also an Oyster Perpetual. By itself, the "Rolex Oyster Perpetual" was basically the same as the smaller 34mm Air-King model. The Current Oyster Perpetual (no-date) is now the same size as the Datejust and comes only in steel or steel with white gold bezel. Rolex has introduced several unusual dials for this model. Both ladies and gents come standard with an Oyster bracelet.

Rolex Pearlmaster:
The same case that make up a Datejust or Day Date but only in gold or platinum. All Pearlmasters will come with diamonds on the bezel, dial and usually on the bracelet. You will also find the dials created out of rare materials like Mother-of-Pearl, Meteorite or Lapis to name a few. All Masterpieces will come with a Masterpiece bracelet.

The Tridor is the most sought after of all Pearlmasters. One Tridor watch is created using all three golds, white, rose and yellow, and like other Pearlmasters, it's features diamonds.

Rolex Submariner:
The Submariner was introduced by Rolex in 1954. The watch comes only on an Oyster bracelet and has a 40mm case. The steel model is only available with a black dial. It has the common single direction rotating bezel with minute markers for the first 15 minutes. The original models until 1958 are often considered "James Bond" models and have some easily recognizable difference. Primarily, they had a smaller crown, no crown guard, and the bezel only had minute markers every 5 minutes. In the late 70s the model 16800 was introduced. It sported the new sapphire crystal and quick-set function. In 1989, the current 16610 was introduced with a improved movement and a more secure bezel. The Submariner is one the most popular models and comes in 4 styles, stainless steel no date, stainless steel with date, 18k & stainless steel, and an all gold model. Rolex originally only had a ceramic bezel all gold (yellow or white) but introduced the ceramic bezel to the 18K & Stainless steel Submariner in 2009 .

Rolex Sea Dweller:
The Sea Dweller was introduced in 1971 and discontinued in 2008. It is virtually the same watch as the Submariner. The only real differences are the thicker and heavier steel case, thicker crystal with no cyclops eye, and the helium escape valve useful only to deep divers. The original model was rated for 2000 feet and called the "Rolex Submariner 2000 Sea Dweller". It lost the "Submariner 2000" part of the title in 1973. The current issue, model 16600, is rated to 4000 feet and comes only in stainless steel. The Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA, model 116660, has replaced the Sea-Dweller model 16600 in 2009. The DEEPSEA model offers a greater depth rating (to 12,800 feet) along with a thicker, larger case and an improved "Glidelock" buckle.

Rolex GMT-Master:
The Rolex GMT Master was developed in cooperation with Pan Am. As in the 1940s and 50s flying distances got longer and the pilots traveled through multiple time zones, Pan Am asked Rolex in the 1950s to develop a watch which could tell different times simultaneously. It was one of the first watches to utilize a second hour hand to indicate a second time zone. With the simple rotating 24 hour bezel, one could fairly easily tell the time in any time zone. The late 70s saw the introduction of the GMT-Master II which was basically the same, except now the user could easily adjust the 2nd hour hand with the crown in position 2. The steel models are only offered with black dials. The bezels are available in all black, red/ black, or red/ blue. GMT's typically come with a Jubilee bracelet installed.

The original GMT-Master (16700) was phased out in the late 90s.

The GMT-Master II (16710) was discontinued in 2008 and replaced with the GMT-Master II (116710) The primary difference besides the 3186 caliber movement with Parachrom Bleu hairspring and the ceramic (Cerachrom) bezel. Some late production 16710s have been discovered with the 3186 movement.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona:
The watch never really became popular until around 1986 when the market for them exploded and the watches would often sell for double the retail price in Italy. It retailed for around $150 back then. In 1989, Rolex replaced the Valjoux workhorse movement with the Zenith El Premiro movement. During the 1990s, the Daytona was the only Rolex model not using a Rolex movement. Between 2000-2002 came the newly developed Rolex caliber 4130 with a 72 hour power reserve. Stainless Steel Daytona's have consistently sold for more than retail since the 1980s. The two-tone and gold models aren't treated with the same regard and discounts can be found. Currently found in stainless steel, solid yellow/ white/ “everrose” (Rolex's rose gold) golds, and stainless steel & yellow gold.

Custom Black Rolex Milgauss DLC

2010-02-03T20:03:00.089-05:00

Here's your chance to own a Rolex being different from everyone else. This is an example of a different Rolex. This is the new Milgauss stainless steel Oyster Perpetual but with a black DLC (Diamond Like Coating) case and bracelet. The genuine Rolex Green Sapphire crystal and factory Rolex black dial really pop. Everything is genuine and factory correct including the stainless steel Oyster bracelet. The only thing that isn't factory is the black DLC coating.

Are you scared of owning one? Don't be. Any professional will tell you that if the coating is done correctly, it won't hurt the factory water resistance spec. In many cases, Rolex will continue servicing the watch. (but check with Rolex before you buy) No matter if they don't. There are many Rolex certified watchmakers out there and they will work on it. Or... you can stick with Time and Gems because they offer an additional 2-3 year warranty above their regular 1 year warranty (the same as a new Rolex)

They have all types of mens Rolex watches like the Rolex Airking, Rolex Date, Rolex Datejust, Rolex President, Rolex Submariner, Rolex GMT, Rolex Yachtmaster, the Rolex Oyster Date and the Rolex Daytona.

Lets not forget their full collection of ladies Rolex watches like the Rolex Ladies Datejust, Rolex Ladies President, Rolex Masterpiece, Rolex Ladies Oyster Perpetual No-Date and Rolex Ladies Yachtmaster.

1 Year Warranty standard
2 Year Warranty add $250.00
3 Year Warranty add $500.00

Reference#: RDMIL01
Dial: Factory Black
Bezel: Factory Stainless Steel with polished DLC
Bracelet: Factory Stainless Steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with DL
Model: 116400
Movement: Rolex Automatic
Case Size: 40mm
Crystal: Green Sapphire
Condition: Like New
Estimated Price: $9,500.00

[source Time and Gems]

BNB Concept is No Longer

2010-02-02T17:10:00.000-05:00

The Swiss maker of complicated movements for brands like Hublot, Concord, Bell & Ross and others was being praised by the industry and press reports for its phenomenal 200% annual sales increases some how just perished. Or did it? Like many companies growth, production and quality doesn't necessarily mean you'll get paid in cash-money. BNB was being paid with IOUs' and with their own bills to pay for... well they could keep their heads above water.

But it's not entirely a bad story because Hublot hired 30 to 40 watchmakers from BNB including Matthias Buttet, which was a founding father and now heads Hublots' new “Haute Horlogerie” department to make complicated movements for the brand.

Hublot also purchased BNBs' machines and some $2 million of finished and unfinished movements so it would not be cut short during the transition.

[source WatchTime]

Bell and Ross Airbourne 415 Talisman

2010-02-01T15:50:00.092-05:00

The Bell & Ross BR01 Airborne 415 is a limited edition series was conceived as a tribute to honor the soldiers who fought in World War II. It also is inspired from the one-of-a-kind watch that Bell & Ross donated to the 2009 "Only Watch" auction which Bell & Ross received numerous requests to make it available to the public at large.

The design of the dial was derived from emblems that the US Airborne Division wore on their sleeves. The Bell and Ross traditional case is a 46mm square with a bezel that is hand set with natural full-cut round brilliant black diamonds. The skull on the dial is set with 259 round full-cut round-brilliant natural diamonds.

Its total diamond carat weight is 2.78 in both white/black.

The case is traditional Stainless Steel that has been PVD carbon coated black and then sand blasted to give the case a satin finish. The crown is screw-down which isn't found on other BR01 or BR03 watches.

Comes with a wide customized glossy black stingray strap, a spare BR rubber strap and strap changing tool kit. Both straps come with their own black steel buckle.

Limited Edition of 99 pieces world wide of the Talisman watch. Get yours now.

Reference#: BR01 AIRBORNE 415
Case: 46mm Stainless Steel with sand-blasted PVD 46mm square with black diamond set bezel.
Complications: just hours and minutes
Movements: ETA 2892 automatic movement
Dial: Black skull-shaped dial encrusted with 259 full-cut round brilliant natural white diamonds and sabre-shaped hands.
Strap/Bracelet: Comes with a wide customized glossy black shagreen ray leather strap and a wide BR rubber strap
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Anti Reflection Sapphire
Estimated Price: $25,000
Limited Edition: 99 Pieces World Wide

[source Bell & Ross]

Tag Heuer and Zenith K-I-S-S-I-N-G??

2010-01-12T20:51:00.046-05:00

On the heals of the TAG Heuer and Zenith announcement of the merger of the two houses under a new holding company. They are now part of LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA, along with Cortech (a TAG Heuer owned case manufacturer).

So what will change at TAG Heuer or Zenith? In the short-term, not much, with the reorganization being described as mainly a legal, financial, administrative and accounting restructure, and with each brand retaining their own operational management. If you didn't know, there was already co-operation between the two with TAG Heuer already uses the Zenith El Primero caliber in a few of their watches and Cortech is a major case supplier to Zenith.

Some of the reasons causing these changes at TAG Heuer and Zenith are not hard to see... with the financial crisis of 2007/2008/2009 has hit the many companies hard and the frivolous spending on duplicate positions forced many companies to tighten up to off set the declining revenues. This move specifically removes duplication of back-office costs without having much impact on the product line that the customers see.

But does it stop there? In reality, once companies start down the path of merging operations, there will be an impact to other parts of the business over time. Will we see Zenith watches sold in TAG Heuer boutiques? Will we see the end of Zenith as a watch company and not just a name of a infamous name on a watch caliber? If you didn't know, Zenith lost it's way a few years back and sales have dropped off, while Tag Heuer is riding high on sales and product. Don't worry Zenith fans. This won't play out for a few more years, and with the new and improved Zenith watch lines hitting in mid-2010, Zenith could stay it's own brand. But this move that is happening right now, the operational merger, TAG Heuer even better access to the El Primero caliber for its watches.

Release below:

TAG Heuer, Zenith and Cortech (watch case manufacturer) have merged!

In December 2009, the watch making companies TAG Heuer International and Zenith have amalgamated to give rise to LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA, located in Chaux-de-Fonds. The new company is chaired by Jean-Christophe Babin (CEO of TAG Heuer), assisted by Jean-Frederic Dufour (CEO of Zenith) and by Jean-Claude Femiot (CEO of watch case producer Cortech in Comol). “The operation is primarily of legal, financial, administrative and tax related character. Each brand keeps its own operational management”, says Jean-Christophe Babin.

At this point it is not clear whether the also will favorise “industrial synergies”. New machines to manufacture platinum for example would need to be adapted to the small volumes production of Zenith and to the high volumes of TAG Heuer. However, the three entities concerned already have strong relations. The main customer of cases manufactured by TAG Heuer is Zenith which also sourced from Cortech, while some of the Grand Carrera models from TAG Heuer are equipped with the Zenith El Primero movement. The merger will accelerate the industrial integration mainly at Zenith, an authentic manufacture, rather than at TAG Heuer (280 collaborators) which mainly buys its movements from specialized suppliers.

The regrouping will not have consequences on the manpower of the companies, reassures Jean-Christophe Babin. It is true that Zenith (150 employees) and Cortech (90) already reduced their workforces in 2009. Hublot, directed by Jean-Claude Biver, is at this point (still) is not concerned with the regrouping strategy of LVMH.

[source LVMH]

The Battle of The Hearts

2010-01-11T21:54:00.012-05:00

Now as far as I know, there is no legal battle between the two companies, Tiffany and Kay Jewelers, but I believe they should. Why? Jane Seymours' Open Heart looks a lot like the Paloma Picasso Loving Heart. When I first saw the Seymour/Kay copy, I first thought of the Picasso/Tiffany design.

I'm not trying to start a fight, or pretend that I know all-things legal when it comes to designs, but if I'm seeing the direct correlation, other less jewelry savvy people are too.

I know they are two different customers which they know the difference. But what about the first time customer? Does Tiffany think they are to good for them or do they believe this battle will be won by the customers themselves?

Okay so the Tiffany heart pendant is made out of platinum and the Kay heart pendant is made out of 14kt white gold, that doesn't make it 'right' to copy someone else hard and profitable work.

Paloma Picasso® Loving Heart
Picasso's unique interpretation of the iconic symbol for love. Pendant with diamonds in platinum. On a 16" chain. Original designs copyrighted by Paloma Picasso. Total Diamond Weight .12. Price $2200.00

Open Hearts by Jane Seymour®
The signature open hearts design is showered in dazzling round diamonds for captivating style in this lovely necklace for her. Crafted of 14K white gold. 1/2 carat total weight. 18" cable chain has 2" extender for versatility. Price: $899.99

[source Kay Jewelers | Tiffany & Co.]

Wrist Time - Hamilton Slim

2009-12-31T14:23:00.007-05:00

Personally I am a fan of vintage watches, but they are small on my wrist, almost 'girlie-like'. Because of this, I just hold them and drool. But that changed when Hamilton announced the new Slim timepiece. So I went out and tried it on. Surprisingly it came in two sizes. A 40mm on a heavy link bracelet or brown strap and a 43mm on a strap or a brown strap.

Side note: I'm referring to the silvered dial version. Both sizes come in either black dial or rose gold plated cases.

The silvered dial, like I mentioned above is what I was looking for. The dial is perfectly done in a sun-ray look, but not too shiny or too dull. I would've liked a more vintage feel, but that is me. There also is no second hand, which I love. I don't use the second hand and with the second hand it's a little more modern. The mesh bracelet is extremely comfortable. It's not done like a traditional linked bracelet, but instead like a leather pants belt/slide buckle set up.

The automatic movement, ETA 2892, is precise and thin. There is a viewing case back. A great package at a very low $795.00. I like it so much, I bought it and it's my everyday watch. The luminous is cleverly hidden and shines nicely at night.

Reference#: H38615255
Case: 43mm high polished stainless steel.
Complications: 42 Hour Power Reserve, date at 6
Movements: ETA 2892 automatic movement
Dial: Silvered sun ray with a big 12 and silvered stick. luminous hour markers and hands.
Strap: Closed link mesh bracelet
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Scratch resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $795.00

[source Hamilton]

ETA Finally Stopping Movement Kit Sales

2009-12-30T20:01:00.004-05:00

It's been known for some time that the Swatch Group, parent company of ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse, has wanted to stop the sale of it's Ebauches and it's unbranded movements. The Swiss government put a stop on it early 2006 mid 2005 asking the Swatch Group to allow other movement makers to fill the ETA vacuum and to keep as many (if not all) watchmakers in their jobs. Well ETA settled with a 2 year full-tilt plan then an additional 2 year phasing-out. ETA after 2010 will supply parts to fix the movements and completed movements stamped with the ETA logo.

What led to ETA to this measure? A few things:
1. Watch companies sued ETA numerous times about the quality of the movement kits.
2. The same watch companies sued ETA over the price increases of the kits.
3. Some, if not most or all, watch companies would change certain items in the kits and name the semi-changed movement their own caliber. Breitling and Tag Heuer to name two companies

Now to a common person, these three reasons are childish, but if you continued getting sued and/or badgered over your movements, forced to upgrade the tooling and type of materials used to make your kits, told not to increase the prices so you have to incur the losses these upgrades cost, kept watching your work being changed then relabeled... what would you do?

Good for you ETA. I support you.

The New Tag Heuer Cal 1887 Not A Tag Heuer

2009-12-23T20:48:00.004-05:00

To celebrate the 150th Anniversary of TAG Heuer, the firm has created this “in-house” column-wheel automatic caliber.But is it truly in-house? Well, it isn't. The Caliber 1887 is actually based off the Seiko 6S37 caliber.

The Calibre 1887 is a 39 Jewel chronograph oscillating at 28,800 beats per hour, 50 hour power reserve, hours, minutes, date at 6, central chronograph hand, seconds at 9, minutes elapsed at 12 and hours elapsed at 6 o’clock. So far the claim is that the Calibre 1887 is the Seiko 6S37 caliber but with a new plates and bridges.

Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of TAG Heuer, posted a response and basically says the 1887 is based off a newly purchased "rights" on the Seiko 6S37 caliber.

By the way, there isn't anything wrong with this, except Tag Heuer said the caliber 1887 was an "in-house" movement while it wasn't. Seiko also creates some great movements. So stop being a swiss-snob. Other regions make quality movements too.

[source Chronocentric]

TAG Heuer stands by Tiger Woods

2009-12-22T20:34:00.001-05:00

Are you were wondering about the status of Tiger Woods endorsement deal with TAG Heuer? You need only check the company’s Web site for the answer. Just click the picture of Tiger and the words "Tag Heuer Stands With Tiger Woods" and you'll see a statement from brand CEO Jean-Christophe Babin that “The partnership with Tiger Woods will continue,” while acknowledging that the use of his image in certain markets will be down scaled, “depending upon his decision about returning to professional golf.”

[source Tag Heuer]

DVD At Home Watch Repair Course

2009-10-09T13:33:00.006-04:00

People looking to get their groove on repairing clocks, repairing pocket watches and/or repairing wristwatches have another "Watch Repair Course" to chose from. I stumbled across Tascione.com and watched what they covered. He covers a lot while explaining the processes clearly and up close shots of the task.

You don't only get DVDs, you actually get more, but the tools, watch bench and everything in between is on you to purchase.

By the time I was 28 I'd accumulated enough machinery (bridgeports, lathes etc.) to begin a small tool design and fabrication business of my own. But throughout this period my true passion for watches and clocks never diminished. I'd been restoring watches the whole time, studying anything technical I could get my hands on. The brilliant contributions of the great masters Brequet, Harrison etc. dazzeled and humbled me at the same time. I began restoring fusees, repeaters and chronometers during this period. By the time I'd reached 30 I was able to make any parts I needed for watches and clocks and had designed, built and sold several skeleton clocks.

From 1990 on, I began concentrating more on trying to help beginning and intermediate watchmakers get past the most common obstacles encountered while learning watch repair. I realized that the next best thing to having a qualified watchmaker sitting at the same bench with a student was to use videos. That first video became the beginning of the Tascione Watch Repair Course.
quote from Tascione.com

Total of 8 DVDs that include a Course Book (Watches and Why They Work), Trouble Shooting Download, New Online Portion of Watch Course and free shipping. All for $99.95 U.S.

[source tascione.com]

Dievas Watch Company Vintage 3646

2009-10-08T14:03:00.001-04:00

Dievas Watch Company is an independent watch manufacturer producing top quality timepieces in limited quantities (all not limited editions).

Since the company’s conception in 2006, Dievas Watch Company has created a reputation for their spectacular good looks, reliability, innovation and exceptional low retail prices. Dievas designers has succeed in molding a timepieces with classic lines, reminiscent of specific historical vintage watches of decades past.

All Dievas watches follow a stringent code of quality control, all hand assembled using the finest materials, blemish-free watch cases, premium sapphire crystals, reputable swiss mechanical and automatic movements, SuperLuminova, high quality watch hands, fully machined solid stainless steel bracelets.

From the case, crystal, crown, dial and hands down to the finest dial. No detail is spared. As historic models are getting more and more scarce, watch enthusiast can now own a piece of history.

Inspired by military watches of yesteryear, the Vintage 3646 was used by the Italian forgmen during the 1930s. The simple 12, 3, 6, 9 dial is clear and straight forward and used by many military timepieces. The dial is a sandwich dial like the original where the lower layer is applied with luminous and a top opaque layer is laser cut with the design to allow the luminous underlying to glow through. The luminous has been given special treatment to give it a warm vintage feel. The gold luminous hands was chosen specifically to be as close to the historic model. The Dievas Vintage 3646 features a Swiss Made Unitas 6497 mechanical movement.

Reference#: Vintage 3646
Case: 46.5mm high polished 316L stainless steel. Contoured sides.
Complications: 42 Hour Power Reserve
Movements: Swiss Unitas 6497 mechanical manually winding movement
Dial: Black sandwich with vintage colored luminova 12,3,6,9 hour markers. Gold hands.
Strap: Thick calf leather strap with vintage knife edge sewn-in buckle
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Domed scratch resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $650.00

[source Gnomon Watches]

Gents Tungsten and Carbon Fiber Ring

2009-09-28T18:47:00.010-04:00

Gents tungsten carbide wedding band has a silver carbon fiber inlay. A superb ring does not have to cost so much. With reasonable budget, you could get a first-class look by wearing this tungsten carbide ring. Moreover, the light sparkling color of the carbon fiber is truly the attention grabber. As tungsten carbide is a tough material, you could wear it anywhere without worrying about the scratches.

[source Titanium Kay]

Grand Seiko Automatic Mecahnical Hi-Beat 36000

2009-09-23T18:31:00.006-04:00

The recent requests for the Spring Drive movement have many enthusiasts looking at the hard-to-find Grand Seiko line because of the newly released Hi-Beat SBGH001 and SBGH003 watches with the new 36,000 Beats Per Hour (BPH) 9S85 caliber. The caliber 9S85 is a state of the art mechanical movement, with accuracy of +5/-1 seconds per day, the GS Hi-Beat is arguably the most accurate mechanical wristwatch in production today.

Worried about the typical 36,000 BPH fall backs like increased servicing requirements and a need for a stable power flow through the gear train? It has been addressed by Seiko and improved the mainspring and the design of the escapement wheel.

The mainspring was developed for the Springdrive but tweaked the mainspring dimensions to deliver a more consistent band of power throughout the 9S85’s 55hr power reserve.

The lubrication issue also was addressed by a newly developed micro machining method, which improved polishing and hardening of the escape wheel teeth, and a honeycomb-like design within the wheel which improves long term stability in the escapement.

The traditional Grand Seiko design includes the dauphine hands, solid oyster divers bracelet and a traditionally designed 40mm case. Both satin and bright finishes are carried throughout the case and bracelet.

Reference#: SBGH001 and SBGH003
Case: 40mm Stainless Steel with brushed finish and bright finishes
Complications: High Beat, 55 Hour Power Reserve
Movements: Seiko Caliber 9S85 self-winding automatic high beat movement
Dial: White with hand applied sticks or Green with applied sticks
Bracelet: Stainless Steel Oyster Divers bracelet
Water Resistance: 10m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Sapphire
Estimated Price: $5,500.00

[source SeiyaJapan.com]

True Blood Jewelry for us Humans

2009-09-19T21:57:00.008-04:00

HBO is giving their True Blood fans something to sink their own teeth into, and it is totally legal. The network today launched a jewelry line that has been designed in collaboration with designer renown designer Udi Behr.

Udi Behr designed the collection of rings, necklaces and earrings using the TV show's themes as inspiration. The collection incorporates sterling silver, stainless steel, leather and rubies and mixes them with the shows Gothic philosophy. The collection includes rings, bracelets, neck chains all with little attributes like fang clasp closures and warm leather cuff bracelets with ruby accents.

Prices ranges from $59 to $1,295.

As Seen in the Picture:
True Blood Stainless Steel Necklace with Long Front Extension with Ruby
SKU ID #109333
Price: $875.00
Made from stainless steel and connects around the neck then extends down 16.5” to the 30” adjustable belt. Featuring a ruby inspired by the blood seen throughout the series.

[source HBO]

Ouch! What? I Can't Afford This Repair!

2009-09-18T22:27:00.003-04:00

"Ouch! What? I Can't Afford This Repair!" and/or "Why is this repair so expensive?" are similar phrases I hear all the time from clients who own mechanical chronograph wristwatches. Unfortunately these people purchased these watches from other so-called jewelers who don't know what they are talking about during the sale and therefore pass their lack of knowledge and bull sh@t onto their customer.

A chronograph watch is a stop watch inside a wristwatch. They typical chronograph is made of two "movements"... one a time-keeper-stop-watch which measures time and one a standard wrist watch that displays the time of the day.

Why are mechanical chronograph repairs or chronograph maintenance cost more than a typical non-chronograph wristwatch? Simply answered in basic terms... more parts, more complex the movement is all creating the more chances it has to be handled by a "senior" watchmaker with more than 10 years experience. A mechanical watchmaker with less than 10 years but more than 2-3 years will work on basic day/date, hour/minute/seconds and hour/minute/seconds/date movements. Typically an apprentice watchmaker is a technician that works on quartz movements or basic mechanical movements until they can build the confidence and accuracy to move up to more complex movements... like your chronograph

So that was pretty obvious right? But there is also another factor... YOUR CHRONOGRAPH is not designed to run 24 hours a day 7 days a week. It's a time-keeper for a specific task at hand that usually last around 12 hours. The center sweep second hand is not part of the time keeping of the watch, it's part of the chronograph. The second hand that is for "real time" or "daily time" for a typical chronograph watch is usually located at 9 o'clock or 6 o'clock. Keeping the chronograph center sweep second hand running 24/7/52 (hours/days/weeks) will actually wear parts down faster... because... they are NOT designed to continually run 24/7/52.

So think before you buy. Are you really going to use the chronograph or are you buying it because it's "cool"? Because the "cool" factor is going to charge you every 3-5 years upwards of $700.00 compared to $300 for a basic mechanical wristwatch. Your money. You chose.

German Made Mesh Bracelets

2009-09-17T19:21:00.008-04:00

Are you looking for the REAL German made stainless steel mesh bracelets? Maybe you are looking for custom made mesh watch bracelet? These are the real closed link mesh bracelets, not the typical open-hair-pulling mesh bracelets! Say no to open link and yes to comfortable closed link stainless steel mesh bracelet.

They are available in 18 , 20 ,22 or 24 mm with stainless steel divers deployment buckles. All bracelets feature an adjustable by spring bar in the clasp for quick tightening or quick loosening.

All sizes are available in polished, satin or sand blasted and run approximately $109.00 for 2.8mm thick or $259.00 for 4mm thick. (2.8 is the average thickness for the average watch while 4mm is for thicker cases and/or divers watches)

They will need the exact bracelet length in millimeters only. Your wrist size and the bracelet length is without your watch from spring bar to spring bar (with clasp closed).

(1 inch is about 25.4 mm)

[source Jürgen's, USA]

Classic Black Titanium Band

2009-05-11T16:03:00.005-04:00

From the Edward Mirellcollection, here is a black titanium band ring.

Edward Mirell offers a wonderful selection of men's accessories in titanium; choose a functional and sturdy titanium money clip, an easy to handle yet durable titanium key ring, a set of fashionable black and silver titanium cufflinks for those special occasions or an ultra durable and a indispensable titanium business card case.

There is no need to deny yourself the pleasure of wearing beautifully crafted jewelry because of skin sensitivity, titanium is 100% hypoallergenic, the same metal that surgical instruments are made.

Classic dome profile titanium ring in midnight black.

Material: Titanium
Width: 6 mm
Metal Finish: Polished
Metal Color: Black
Ring Profile: Dome Profile
Fit: Comfort
Theme: Classic
Occasion: Anniversary,Wedding
For Whom: Men & Ladies

[source JustMetal]

Bell & Ross BR01 Instrument with Diamonds

2009-05-10T16:50:00.002-04:00

Bell & Ross BR 01-96 Big Date Top Diamonds watch features a 46x46mm stainless steel case, white mother of pearl dial with luminous indexes and a big date display. One would argue the best part is the bezel and case top are paved with diamonds. The whole top, not just the bezel creating a total of 1.44ct of G-H colored, Full Cut, VVS beauties. A grey alligator strap with stainless steel tang buckle and sapphire crystal wraps up the exterior while the . This Bell & Ross BR 01-96 Top Diamonds watch utilizes a selfwinding ETA 2896 automatic movement. Water resistant to 100m and additional black nylon strap and tool pack included.

Reference#: BR01-96
Case: 46x46mm Stainless Steel with brushed finish and diamonds
Complications: Large Date, 42 Hour Power Reserve
Movements: ETA Caliber 2896 self-winding automatic movement
Dial: White Mother of pearl with luminous arabic numerals and hands
Strap: Gray Alligator with stainless tang Buckle and additional black nylon velcro strap.
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Sapphire
Estimated Price: $9,100

[source Time Imports]

Panerai For Ferrari Granturismo Chronograph

2009-05-04T14:34:00.005-04:00

This Ferrari Granturismo Chronograph Model FER00004 features a black grid textured dial with the world famous Ferrari logo and Prancing Horse at the 12 position and also on case back. The 45mm polished stainless steel case with a brushed finished Bezel & edges matches well with the black crocodile strap with reverse white stitching and inner red backing, equipped with a Ferrari branded steel deployant Buckle. The luminous hands & hour markers and the sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating helps enclose the automatic chronograph movement. Added security comes in the way of the screw down crown and chronograph pushers giving the Panerai Ferrari a water resistant rating of 100m. Extra black rubber strap and screw driver to change the straps is included.

Reference#: FER00004
Case: 45mm Stainless Steel with brushed finish
Complications: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronograph, Tachymeter Scale
Movements: Panerai Caliber OP XII self-winding automatic movement
Dial: Black with luminous arabic numerals and red accents
Strap: Leather Black Alligator with White Stitching and Red Backing with Deployment Buckle with Push Button release
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Cambered Sapphire
Estimated Price: $9,100
Limited Edition: 800 Pieces

Other Series Model Number:
FER 00013; FER00001; FER00003; FER00005; FER00006; FER00011; FER00012; FER00017; FER00018

[source Swiss Luxury]

IWC Classic Pilot Mark XVI Pilots Watch

2009-04-30T15:57:00.003-04:00

The IWC watch company initially built their existing pocket watch movements into their wristwatches; and soon developed extremely precise movements to complement their new IWC watch product line. Emerging pilots began using IWC watches, as they were over-sized for readability and unaffected by the harmful magnetic fields in flight. Modern aviation professionals continue to use IWC watches.

The modified ETA 2892 is now an IWC 30110 caliber automatic movement is protected against the elements by a perfectly sealed case, water resistant to 60 meters. A soft iron shield beneath the case back provides the movement protection against magnetic fields, while the secured sapphire crystal resists the displacement that can occur due to drastic changes in air pressure.

This 39mm IWC Spitfire Mark XVI has a date display at 3 o'clock and carries a 42 Hour Power Reserve.

Reference#: IWC325501
Case: 39mm Stainless Steel with brushed finish
Complications: Anti-magnetic, Power Reserve
Movements: IWC 30110 caliber self-winding automatic movement
Dial: Black with luminous Arabic numerals/ hands
Strap: Black Alligator with stainless steel tang buckle
Water Resistance: 60m
Crystal: Anti-reflective sapphire
Estimated Price: $3,500.00

[source The Watchery]

Zenith Defy Xtreme Open El Primero Stealth Limited Edition

2009-04-24T20:16:00.002-04:00

Here we have a Zenith Defy Xtreme Open El Primero Stealth Limited Edition watch which features a titanium case and matching bracelet with deployant clasp. The large rotating bezel helps secure the hesalite crystal. Below the crystal is a carbon fiber and brushed aluminum dial. The Zenith Defy Xtreme Open El Primero Stealth watch utilizes a Zenith in-house Caliber 4021 SX self-winding movement with a chronograph complication, subsidiary seconds, and a power reserve indicator. This timepiece is water resistant to 1000m and measure 46.5mm.

Reference#: 95.0527.4021/01.M530
Case: 46.5mm Titanium with brushed finish
Complications: Chronograph, Chronometer, Power Reserve, Sub Seconds
Movements: Zenith Caliber 4021 SX self-winding automatic movement
Dial: Black carbon fiber and brushed aluminum
Bracelet: Titanium with tri-folding deployant buckle
Water Resistance: 1000m
Crystal: Multi-layered hesalite
Estimated Price: $25,000

[source Prestige Time]

17.16ct Diamond Tennis Bracelet

2009-04-19T15:28:00.004-04:00

What could be prettier than a circle of diamonds shimmering on your wrist... besides a timepiece? I found this stunning Prong Style tennis bracelet set with 17.16 carats of diamonds (tdw). To make matters sweeter, the diamonds are set inside platinum and range G/H in color, VS2/SI1 in clarity with a hidden box clasp. Average length about 7.5" long. Tiffany & Co. knock your socks off especially with the free Lifetime Maintenance and free Lifetime Upgrades!

Item Number: 101822
Gram Weight: 32.30
Metal Type: High Polish Platinum 950
Total Diamond Weight: 17.16 cts
Diamond Color: G/H
Diamond Clarity: VS2/SI1
Diamond Cut: Oval
Estimated Price: $45,999.00

[source Wonder Jewelers]

Romulus Perpetual Calendar

2009-04-17T19:12:00.003-04:00

Corum has introduced a perpetual calendar in newly revised classical Romulus watch series. Offered in an a limited edition of 25 pieces world wide, the Romulus Perpetual Calendar features a polished 41mm 18kt red gold case with a brushed hand-engraved Roman numeral bezel and a black dial decorated with sun-pattern guilloche. The perpetual calendar displays day, date, month, leap year and phases of the moon. All these displays are clearly organized around the dial center.

The anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal and sapphire crystal in the caseback reveals both, an intricate hand-engraved CO-183 automatic movement and the dial respectively. As expected, the movement is highly dressed while giving the wearer a power reserve of 45 hours.

The Corum Romulus Perpetual Calendar watch is completed by a black crocodile strap, and an 18K red gold deployant clasp which is engraved with the Corum logo. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters.

Reference#: 61523.011101
Case: 41mm 18kt Rose Gold with brushed/bright finishes
Complications: Date, Day, Month, Moon phase, Perpetual calendar, Year
Movements: Corum Caliber CO183 self-winding automatic movement
Dial: Black Guilloche
Strap: Black Alligator with 18kt Rose gold Deployment Buckle with Push Button release
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Cambered Sapphire
Estimated Price: $55,000
Limited Edition: 25 Pieces

[source Swiss Luxury]

Concord C1 Quantum Gravity Aerial Bi-Axial Tourbillon

2009-04-16T16:19:00.005-04:00

An aerial bi-axial tourbillon mechanism from BNB Concept. A vertical power reserve. Individualist seconds. A stripped-down dial and spectacular volumes: the latest specimen from the C Lab Series defies all theories. Even better, it creates its own rules: emptiness is its core material, engineering its constancy; chemistry a dare and transparency a must.

limited edition of 10, was created.

Fall 2008... on the heels of the C1 Gravity release, Concord decided to create another masterpiece... the C1 QuantumGravity. Not all inhouse mind you, but still a masterpiece! BNB Concept created the movement, while Studio Bellon finalized the design.

Traditional watch design has been demolished to make way for a power reserve indicator made of glass and filled with liquid. The liquid is made up of green phosphorescent nanoparticles. this helps with reading "time left" by rising up and down from its base.

The movement is literally suspended, rotates in a multi-dimensional manner on two axes... the main one being vertical. Its design structure was adopted from cable-stayed bridges: one arm, extended from cables measuring just 2/10th of a mm-wide and fastened to the plate, maintains the carriage vertically and thus reinforces the impression of an independent arrangement. The suspension mechanism is supported by an elastomeric self-tensing system, which enables the cable/arm hinge to be precisely adjusted and the dilatation effects, compensated.

Measuring an outstanding 48.5 mm diameter x 22 mm depth, the C1 QuantumGravity was designed to remain wearable thanks to its lugless design which ensures a perfect fit on the wrist. The use of Titanium for the case and Aluminum for the majority of movement components bestows a lightness on this timepiece that is as astounding as its size.

To build the C1 QuantumGravity, Concord needed 511 parts while keeping space and transparency alive and well. This was done by 400 hours of fine adjustment and creating 5 sapphire crystals to wrap the case so the movement is visible from all angles. A see through officer-style hinged caseback completes the case.

Concealed entirely, a "time-setting key" can be ejected by simply pressing on the push button. As for the seconds, they are tucked away on the side of the case. to continue the feel of "openness". They are engraved in luminescent orange against a black aluminum roll and can be seen through a window whose cut echoes the push button of the crown. A lateral sapphire crystal reveals the rotating orange blades of the seconds wheel.

The dial has also been designed for maximum openness displaying only hours and minutes.

The mechanical manually wound movement shows off it's skeletonized bridges, the gear-trains that transmit energy to the tourbillon carriage and the cable adjustment. The finishing touch was to add a black aluminum plate against anthracite aluminum bridges, rubies against polished steel screws to complete the emptiness and colored luminescent materials.

Reference#: N/A
Case: 48.5x 22mm Titanium and Aluminum
Complications: Bi-axial tourbillon, Liquid 3-day Power Reserve, External roll of seconds
Movements: Mechanical manually wound Caliber C104 movement
Dial: Aerial skeletonized black with hours and minutes off-center at 2 o'clock
Strap: Black vulcanized rubber fixed to the case with 4 screws with buckle
Water Resistance: N/A
Crystal: 5 Sapphire Crystals
Estimated Price: $N/A

[source C1-Quantum.ch]

Citizen Aqualand Eco Drive Dive Log

2009-03-22T13:56:00.003-04:00

Citizen Aqualand Eco Drive Dive Log Stainless Steel 20th Anniversary Edition features a depth display to 300 feet in digital format, depth and time of dive, current and lowest water temperature display, surface interval measurement and dive log memory for up to 20 dives. As you know Citizen men's Eco-Drive Aqualand with Dive Log celebrates the 20th Anniversary. No matter where you dive - Thailand, France, Canada, or Peru the Citizen 20th Anniversary men's Eco-Drive Aqualand JV0010-08E Watch is your tool for accuracy. The JV0010-08E is part of a collection that celebrates the creation of innovative watches suitable for the diver. The features of this JV0010-08E watch are unmatched by any other. The Citizen 20th Anniversary men's Eco-Drive Aqualand JV0010-08E Watch is the ultimate in diving equipment. 5 Year Citizen's U.S. Warranty.

Reference#: CIT-JV0010-08E
Case: 49mm Satin Stainless Steel
Complications: Current Depth Display in Digital. Depth Display to 300 Feet. Measures Maximum Depth and Duration of Dive. Dive Log Memory for up to 20 Dives. Auto-Start Dive Mode. Water Temperature Display & Memory (Curr & Lowest). Measures Surface Interval. Calendar with Day & Date
Movements: Citizen Quartz Eco Drive movement with a 180-Day power reserve
Dial: Black with digital screen and luminous indexes
Strap: Soft rubber diving strap with buckle
Water Resistance: 200m
Crystal: Scratch Resistant Mineral Glass Crystal
Estimated Price: $468.75

[source Dexclusive]

Fossil Analog White Water Dial

2009-03-21T14:18:00.006-04:00

For the ladies who want something different, but not over the top. A splash from the past, this special edition timepiece celebrates creativity, innovation and the 25th anniversary of the Fossil brand. Fossil gives you a special look with the gears and water floating around, but nothing too glamorous. It is created out of stainless steel and features a quartz battery movement. The crystal is made out of mineral crystal and the bracelet was shaped so it catches the light and plays with it.

Reference#: JR9949
Case: 40mm Stainless Steel
Complications: None
Movements: Fossil Battery Operated Quartz Movement
Dial: White with silver indexes, bubble and loose gears
Bracelet: Satin finished and bright finished stainless steel with deployment buckle
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Mineral crystal
Estimated Price: $90.00

[source Fossil]

Men's Tungsten Blue Carbon Fiber Inlay Ring

2009-03-20T14:34:00.002-04:00

Here is your ring gentlemen! Almost virtually indestructible tungsten ring with a blue carbon fiber inlay just to dress it up. It's a great size... coming in around 8mm and the carbon fiber gives it a sports car feel. Not much I can say about it besides it's got weight and it's tungsten so it can put up with your abuse.

Metal: Tungsten and carbon fiber
Finish: Polished
Width: 8mm
Estimated Price: $120.00

[source Goldmine.com]

Black Ceramic Shark Tooth Pendant

2009-03-19T14:46:00.006-04:00

A modern twist to the typical shark tooth pendant. You still get the look and feel of the shark tooth, but you get a black ceramic pendant that it modern and clean. The fine steel horn shape black ceramic pendant, accented with round diamond is attached to a black cord or you can get an optional steel chain. A beautiful single white diamond creates a simple accent to an already beautiful pendant.

Material: Stainless Steel, Ceramic
Metal Finish: Polished
Chain: Leather Cord Included
Gemstone: Diamond
Gemstone Shape: Round
Gemstone Quantity: 1
Estimated Price: $199.95

[source JustMetal.com]

Sterling Silver Amethyst Butterfly Pendant

2009-03-18T15:51:00.002-04:00

Round and marquise amethyst stones form bright butterfly wings in this charming sterling silver pendant. The stones are held securely in prong settings and frame a silver centerpiece detailed with polished bead accents. The pendant slides along an 18 inch sterling silver link chain that fastens in back with a spring ring clasp.

Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a gemstone that has been prized by royalty throughout the ages for its regal purple color.

Reference#: B000MFGN68
Pendant Material: Sterling Silver
Height: 10mm
Width: 10mm
Chain: 18 inch Sterling Silver with spring ring closure
Number of Gems: 4 Amethysts
Stone shape: round brilliant and marquise
Color: Purple
Estimated Price: $25.00

[source Amazon.com]

Grand Seiko Spring Drive GMT Chronograph

2009-03-17T14:47:00.003-04:00

Extremely rare and hard to find outside Japan. The Grand Seiko Spring Drive GMT Chronograph is a masterpiece all to itself. Why is it not sold outside of Japan? I have no idea. The Spring Drive movement and the build quality will rival the best of what Switzerland & Germany has to offer. For now, we have to order it via online stores and wait for it.

Unlike the cheap quality of all other Seiko's, the Grand Seiko and Seiko Spring Drives are a different breed. No quartz or auto-quartz movements... just the Spring Drive movement and attention to detail. The silver dial and bright blue hands are just the start. The push buttons and solid stainless steel case/ bracelet hold the Spring Drive movement on your wrist and the accuracy of +/- 15 seconds a month beats any quality COSC +/- 6 seconds per day by at least 165 minutes a month!!!

The case size isn't very large, measuring 43.5mm and provides 100m of water resistance. The Seiko GMT also features hours, minutes, seconds, GMT, Power reserve indicator and a date. The chronograph counts seconds, hours and minutes.

Reference#: SBGC001
Case: 43.5mm Stainless Steel
Complications: Power Reserve, Chronograph, GMT
Movements: Seiko Spring Drive Caliber 9R86 Automatic Movement
Dial: Silver with silver indexes, blue hands and silver subdials
Bracelet: Satin and bright finished stainless steel with deployment buckle
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $7348.00

[source Seiya Japan]

Fun Facts on Vertu Phones

2009-03-15T16:19:00.004-04:00

Fun Facts on Vertu Ascent, Vertu Constellation and Vertu Ascent Ti. The standard Ascent models come in many different leather colors, such as: Black, Brown, Red and Orange while the Special Edition models come in White, Azure Blue and Pink. The Summer Collection models come in Strawberry Red and White. Variations of the Ascent also include the Race-Track Editions and Ferrari Edition. Side note: As of 2009, the Ascent is no longer being produced by Vertu... the Constellation, Ascent Ti and just updated Signature are still in production.

The mobiles themselves are made from very expensive materials such as gold, titanium sapphire crystals (for the mobile screen), rubies (for the bearings) and fine leather that is treated to withstand many everyday spills and chemicals (make-up too). Plus, each mobile is hand made like a swiss timepiece.

My company works with, or has worked with Vertu phones and everyone has the same question(s). So what I'm going to do is best describe the phone and it's services as best as I can.

Is there a yearly plan I have to pay?
Yes and No. Here is the break down YES - You have to pay a small monthly fee (as of 03/01/2009 it was $99.00) for the "Vertu Concierge", which is accessed through a special button, the "Concierge key" on the side of every Vertu phone. The service comprises a team of assistants to help the owner around the clock. You also have to pay for the cellular service(s). NO - If you chose not to pay for the concierge, you will have no additional charges BESIDES your cellular service(s) fee.

Who is the carrier?
Any major carrier you chose. All you need is a "sim card" (Subscriber Identification Module) to activate it.

What networks does the Vertu phone work on?
It does depend on the model. Some phones are tri-band and some phones are quad-band. They do work on GSM and CDMA.

Can I get emails and the internet?
Yes. Some models allow up-to 5 email accounts. Just configure your Vertu phone and you're up and running.

What is the price point of a Vertu phone?
The “inexpensive” Vertu starts at $5,100 and the most expensive has sold for more than $300,000. The average price point is $7000.00 for a quad-band Ti.

Who owns Vertu?
Nokia does. Vertu is not a "wing" of Nokia, but another company all to itself. The operating software is Nokia based with little tweaks.

What makes Vertu so expensive anyway?
According to Vertu each phone includes up to 388 mechanical components, holds a total of 74 patents protect its intellectual property, under each of the 18 keys is a ruby bearing to help reduce wear, the crystal is 69.25 carats of sapphire crystal which is the “largest piece of complex cosmetic sapphire in the world”.

What are the average metals used?
stainless steel, 18ct red gold, 18ct yellow gold, 18ct white gold, platinum. Diamonds and other precious gems are also used on the exterior, but they are rare.

There you go. As I type this, Vertu is releasing a new Signature model and is planning a "smart phone" to be released within 2009/2010.

Diamond Studs - Single or Pair - Your Choice

2009-02-26T12:57:00.003-05:00

Are you looking for a single Diamond Stud or pair of Diamond Studs? Men can buy just one diamond stud in a 4 or 3 prong setting, or a pair with the same 3-4 configuration. Diamond friction back, or diamond screw on settings plus different types of metals are on the menu also.

They also have black diamond studs, black diamond necklaces and white diamond jewelry.

30 plus years, Diamondstudsonly, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma has been manufacturing jewelery and selling them to thousands of retail jewelry stores in the United States. They are so serious about their craft, their Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, which as you know, is the world’s leading authority on gemstones and diamonds.

For an example, I found the following for you to drool over. A pair of 2.080 Total Weight Brilliant Round Diamond Stud Earrings Certified by GIA. You can also split the set for a single stud!

Cut: Excellent
Color: H
Clarity: SI1
Symmetry: Very Good
Polish: Very Good
Depth: 61.50%
Table Size: 59.00%
Girdle: M
Dimensions: 6.46-6.54x4.00
Lab Certification: GIA Certificate
Estimate Retail: $10,928 per pair, or $5,464 or a single stud

[source DiamondStudsOnly]

Tahitian Black Pearl Necklace in 14K White Gold

2009-02-23T13:29:00.002-05:00

I bet you like the Mikimoto Pearls in Motion, but do not want to pay Miki's price. Well I may have found something you may enjoy. Here is an example of a single Pearl in Motion from Mikimoto, but from Hawaii and at a very reasonable price. A 14K white gold necklace set with one natural semi-round Tahitian black Pearl measuring 10-11mm and blackish in color with beautiful pink-green under-tones. The pearl resides on a 0.9mm 14kt solid white gold Round Snake chain which measures 18inches in length. Pearl color will vary, but each one just as amazingly beautiful.

You can also have a box chain or a Espiga chain or larger/smaller pearls.

Reference#: 006-05140
Precious Metal: 14K White Gold
Jewelry Type: Necklace
Primary Gemstone: Tahitian Black Pearl
Estimated Price: $525.00

[source Maui Divers of Hawaii]

Bedat Sold to Luxury Concepts

2009-02-11T14:47:00.000-05:00

Bedat & Co. was sold by the Gucci Group to the Luxury Concepts Watches & Jewelry company. Now based in Kuala Lumpur Bedat joins the family of a specialized brand management company focused on introducing and managing highly-specialized watch and jewelry brands to the East Asian market. Other luxury brands Luxury Concepts represents and distributes exclusively in East Asia include Armand Nicolet, BLU, Frank Vila, Hysek, Korloff, Rebellion, Romain Jerome and TechnoMarine. It also operates five luxury boutiques in Kuala Lumpur, including one for Bedat & Co.

Details of the sale weren’t released, but it is known that Bedat & Co. will not be selling their watches in the United States... a shocking move to my customers, but it is what it is. Bedat will no longer be a watch for the U.S. market.

Bedat & Co will continue to design, market, and sell luxury Swiss watches under the Bedat & Co. brand.

About the Watch Shown:

BEDAT & CO Watch : No3 Ref.334
Ref. 334.051.101

Stainless steel case
External bezel set with 80 diamonds
White dial
BEDAT & C° luminescent blued steel hands
Mille mailles bracelet · Folding clasp
Total carat weight: approx. 1.75

Bedat & Co No 3 Tonneau-shaped case,, waisted at 6 and 12 o’clock
Crown integrated within the caseband
Dial stamped with a wavy sunburst guilloché pattern
Black Roman numerals
Date window at 3 o’clock
Sapphire crystal

Quartz movement
ETA caliber 7 3/4 M 956.112
Simple calendar
Water resistance tested at 50 meters

[source Bedat & Co]

14k White and Rose Gold Pink Diamond Butterfly Pendant

2009-02-08T16:23:00.002-05:00

A great gift under $200.00. Perfect for a valentine's day gift, a birthday or a "just because" gift. Here is every girls favorite insect created in white gold with genuine pink diamonds. A cluster of seven pink diamonds are set in a pave set in 14kt Rose gold, creates a lovely focal point for this open butterfly pendant. The butterfly is fashioned in solid 14kt white gold and loops directly over a slender 18 inch white gold box chain. Fresh, contemporary, and fun, this a perfect accent for springtime and beyond.

Pendant Material: 14kt rose gold, 14kt white gold
Height: 18mm
Width: 22mm
Chain: 14kt White gold 18 inch box with spring ring closure

Number of diamonds: 7
Stone shape: round brilliant
Color: Pink
Clarity: I1
Total Carat Weight: 0.07 carats

[source Amazon]

Issey Miyake TO Automatic Stainless Steel Watch

2009-02-05T16:51:00.004-05:00

Let me introduce you to the Issey Miyake TO Automatic. It's designed by renown and award winning Tokujin Yoshioka while being produced by Seiko Japan.

The TO is a fabulous and futuristic twist of the timepiece. While staying rugged, the TO is also sophisticated so it holds up nicely to any wardrobe. Featuring a 45mm stainless steel case, 25mm band, and carved bezel which all matches the dial. Every exterior piece is crafted to give the feeling the TO was crafted out of 1 block of stainless steel. The ingenious minimalistic design is created by using sticks separated by two revolving disks (1 for the hour and 1 for the minute) while the hours are represented by grooves on the bezel. Also offering a durable mineral crystal, reliable 23-jewel Caliber NE15A Seiko automatic movement, and is water resistance to 330 feet.

Reference#: SILAS001
Case: 45mm Satin Stainless Steel
Complications: None
Movements: Seiko caliber NE15A automatic movement
Dial: Two stainless steel rotating disks with hour and minute sticks
Bracelet: Satin finished stainless steel with deployment buckle
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Anti-reflective mineral crystal
Estimated Price: $1360.00
On Sale: $937.93

[source Kenmar Watches]

Gimmicks - Going Out Of Business Sale

2009-02-04T14:33:00.005-05:00

The biggest gimmick of all gimmicks and you're the one that will be holding a "dud" later on. Here's why.

1. In many cases when a jewelry store goes out of business, it already filed for bankruptcy and is looking for the court system to get the creditors off their backs. In many (if not all) the creditors are the parent companies (or manufacturers) of the product the jewelry store inventories.

2. When the newly bankrupt jewelry store needs to sell everything, the jewelry store or court will go out and hire a liquidating company. Then the liquidating company will offer pennies on the dollar off the "real" cost of the item, not retail. The manufacturer of the products the jewelry store carries will know of the liquidating company because they usually have to accept these low-ball payments so they can recover something besides the product itself.

The manufacturer knows what is in the inventory because they sold the items to the jewelry store. Many, if not all manufacturers even know the EXACT serial number where they will notate in their computer systems which product is now a "gray market" item.

3. The liquidating company (also known as a gray market supplier) now has an arena to sell the goods they just purchased or previously purchased. See... the liquidator doesn't sell everything so they have to hold on to their purchases and move them to store to store to liquidate. The "going out of business" or "everything must go" sale the consumer is visiting has older product mixed in the the new product. The consumer purchases the older product because it's a better deal.

Example:
The sign outside says "Circuit City", but it's really not Circuit City running the sale. It could be one or more of the six of the largest professional liquidators could be running the stores now; Hilco Merchant Resources, Hudson Capital, Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, Great American Group, SB Capital Group and Tiger Capital Group. Liquidators will hire many of the original employees.

These processes repeat over and over, and in many cases the liquidator will "wholesale" out their items to smaller "at-home" companies. You see these products everyday! Overstock.com, eBay.com and Amazon.com to name a few are the biggest "at-home" point-of-sale locations. The manufacturer knows this.

So what does this have to do with you. In many cases, if not almost all cases, a consumer will walk into these sales and buy a watch up to 35% off and think they are getting a warranty. But the warranty is invalid. Many of these watches have been purchased "years ago" and have been transported around... increasing the chance of damaging the movement.

When the consumer starts having issues with the watch, in many cases they will have issues, the consumer will send the watch out for repair thinking they are covered because it's within the "manufacturers warranty" period. But the harsh reality is that the manufacturer will not accept the warranty and the repair charges will become the sole responsibility of the owner... not the manufacturer.

I know, I know... not every "going out of business" sale has a liquidator. And I know that in those cases the manufacturer will accept the warranty. And there are also examples that the manufacturer accepted a warranty from a liquidator. BUT THESE ARE RARE CASES.

See... a liquidator is a gray market supplier and the manufacturer doesn't accept gray market items. The consumer, aware or not buys from a gray market supplier.

What am I trying to say? Be careful and know what you are getting yourself into. If you don't care about the warranty then make sure you get a GREAT deal because the cost of a repair could be hundreds to thousands of dollars and take weeks at a time.

Average repair costs:
An average ETA Automatic (no complications): $400.00
An average ETA Automatic (complications): $500.00 - $800.00
An average in-house Automatic (no complications): $600.00
An average in-house Automatic (complications): $800.00 - unknown (I've seen an $1800.00 GP repair)

White Gold Diamond Journey Circle Pendant

2009-02-01T16:35:00.003-05:00

Sparkling white diamonds set together to create a spiraling circle shape in this gorgeous journey pendant. Why get the traditional circle pendant, when you can get a journey circle pendant? It is offered in your choice of 14kt white gold or 14kt yellow gold. This is a fresh spin on the classic journey design, which uses graduated stones to symbolize the journey of life and the growth of your love for her over time. The diamonds are arranged in shared prong settings that accentuate their shape, and the pendant is completed with a sleek 18-inch box chain.

Pendant: 14kt white gold prong set gradual diamond pendant
Height: 15mm
Width: 14mm

Chain: 14kt white gold 18 inch Box Chain with spring ring clasp

Number of diamonds: 33 round brilliants

Color: I
Clarity: I2
Total Carat Weight: 0.47 carats

[source Amazon]

My Citizen EcoDrive Just Stopped - What Happened?

2009-01-15T16:08:00.003-05:00

I hear that question every day mostly from people who use this type of watch for "formal" reasons (they don't wear it to work). Where do they leave it? Most people say in a draw or in the box. Is this you? Most likely, but for some, more likely.

For more on how the Eco Drive works, please click here.

First Citizen claim:
"The Energy Cells featured in our Eco Drive product have a life of 40 years. Even after 20 years it will still maintain 80% of its original charge capacity. It is highly unusual for one of these special cells to fail."

Second Citizen claim:
"Your Eco-Drive needs light to operate correctly. While most types of light will charge your watch, it can take extended periods of time with "normal" lighting. In these circumstances, we recommend charging by exposing your watch to direct sunlight. Sunlight through a window is acceptable but do be aware the glass in your window will refract and minimize light energy coming through so additional charging time may be needed. After fully charging your watch, be sure to do the all reset/0-positioning(some models) and set your watch, otherwise it may continue to operate in an unusual manner. Charging rates vary by model."

Third Citizen claim:
"Eco Drive = Never Needs a Battery"

Most of what Citizen claims is true, but only to a point. Without knowing the exact chemical composition of the Citizen Lithium-Ion battery, I can only give you specific facts on a traditional lithium ion battery.

Fact 1.
A known drawback of the Lithium-ion battery is that its service life is dependent upon it's shelf life. From day one (regardless if it was charged or the number of charge/discharge cycles) a lithium ion battery will decline slowly in power capacity. This means an older lithium-ion battery will not last as long as a new lithium-ion battery, unlike other batteries. As this capacity decreases over time, the time required to charge it also decreases proportionally (you see it everyday with your cellular phones).

Fact 2.
Lithium-ion batteries should not be allowed to fully discharged below their minimum voltage, 2.4 V to 3.0 V per cell. Lithium ion batteries should be kept in a cool dry environment. Aging will increase at high temperatures like in front of a window or directly under a lamp.

Fact 3.
Lithium-ion batteries will rupture, could ignite, or explode when exposed to high temperature environments, for example in an area that is prone to prolonged direct sunlight through a window.

Fact 4.
Our (meaning the human race) battery technology is slowly involving to a better battery, but we are not there yet. Don't believe me? Why does the average cellular phone battery die in 3-5 years? Why are we not driving in electric vehicles. While our batteries are getting better in weight and longer life, it still isn't "there" yet.

So with those facts in hand about a lithium-ion battery, are those claims made by Citizen entirely true? Not exactly. You will need to replace the lithium-ion battery. When? Like I mentioned above, I don't know the exact chemical composition of the Citizen Lithium-Ion battery, so I can only give you ideas... maybe 5 years to 20 years? Yes it is a big difference in time because some people may abuse their ecodrive, and some may not.

If you your eco-drive watch died and you followed step-by-step guidelines outlined in your Operating Instructions Booklet, then contact Citizen directly to send your watch in for repair.

Notes Regarding Recharging your Citizen Ecodrive:
1. Always Make Sure to Recharge Frequently - watch out for long sleeves too! Long sleeves can block light.
2. When you take off your Eco Drive, place it in a bright, cool location as best as possible.
3. Avoid recharging the Eco-Drive in close proximity to an incandescent lamp, halogen lamp, on the dashboard of an automobile or other locations subject to high temperatures.
4. If you have to charge the watch by a lamp, keep the Eco-Drive about 2 feet from the light source to prevent your watch from getting hot.

Please visit CitizenWatch.com for more advice on your Eco Drive.

More In depth - Platinum and it's Family

2009-01-12T22:33:00.001-05:00

Platinum is a rare precious metal that's used to in jewelry, laboratory equipment, electrical contacts, dentistry, catalytic converters for vehicles and used to make gasoline. Platinum by nature is heavy, durable and a natural conductor which makes us to use it constantly. Platinum is used in so many industries because it is resistant to corrosion.

Fun Fact:
Of the 239 tons of platinum sold in the year 2006, 130 tons were used for automobile catalytic converters, 49 tons were used for jewelry, 13.3 tons were used in electronics, and 11.2 tons were used by the chemical industry as a catalyst. The remaining 35.5 tons produced were used in various other minor applications, such as electrodes, anticancer drugs, oxygen sensors, spark plugs and turbine engines.

Platinum receives it's name from the Spanish term "platina del Pinto", which means "little silver of the Pinto River".

Platinum's natural gray-white luster provides the perfect material for diamonds, but it's a metal that's just as elegant when used all by itself.

Platinum Marks:
Jewelry can contain different percentages of pure platinum like it's competitor... gold.

The content of Platinum versus other metals is usually expressed as the amount of pure platinum the jewelry contains in parts per thousand. 1,000 is pure platinum while 900 is platinum mixed with 100 other metal. Jewelry containing at least 950 parts per thousand of pure platinum may be described as "Platinum" and market as such.

Jewelry that contains at least 950 parts per thousand of the platinum family, with at least 500 parts per thousand of the total pure platinum, may be marked as platinum as long as the numbers of each metal are disclosed.

* 550Pt 350Pd 50Ir (or 550Plat 350Pall 50Irid) for 550 parts pure platinum, 350 parts palladium and 50 parts iridium

The FTC is currently considering a request to allow manufacturers to mark jewelry as platinum even if it contains metals that are not part of the platinum group.

Introducing the Platinum Family:
Platinum - see above

Iridium - A very hard, brittle, silvery-white metal and is the second densest element and the most corrosion resistant metal. One of the most versatile metal when mixed with other metals/alloys. Can be found in your home, in your personal accessories, in your vehicle, in a hospital, in a space vehicle to factories.

Palladium - A rare and lustrous silvery-white metal with the lowest melting point and is the least dense of the family. Palladium is used in dentistry, watch making, blood sugar test strips, in aircraft spark plugs, in the production of surgical instruments, but the biggest application of palladium is in electronics.

Ruthenium - A hard white metal that does not tarnish at normal temperatures, but will oxidize when exposed to air. Small amounts of ruthenium can increase the hardness of platinum and palladium. It is used in platinum and palladium alloys to make wear resistant electrical contacts and added to titanium to improve its corrosion resistance. Used as a catalyst, in sensors to being researched for possible anticancer properties. Add other metals/alloys and Ruthenium's use increase tremendously.

Rhodium - A rare, silvery-white, hard metal and is used in alloys with platinum and as a catalyst. It is typically the most expensive precious metal. Rhodium is an alloying agent for hardening and improving the corrosion resistance of platinum and palladium. Besides finding Rhodium in your white gold jewelry, you will find it in furnaces, electrical contacts, aircraft spark plugs, used as a catalyst in a number of industrial processes to filters used in X-Rays.

Osmium - A hard, brittle, blue-gray or blue-black metal and is the densest natural element. Usually found in fountain pen tips, electrical contacts and in other applications where extreme durability and hardness are needed.

For more on Platinum, please click here.

Cartier Tank Francaise 18kt Rose Gold and Steel Pink Mother of Pearl Ladies Watch

2009-01-10T18:02:00.002-05:00

Under-estimated since day one. The Cartier Tank Francaise 18kt Rose Gold and Steel Pink Mother-of-Pearl Ladies Watch features 18kt rose gold and stainless steel case and matching bracelet. The bracelet has bright and satin finishes and a tri-folding buckle clasp. A gorgeous pink mother of pearl dial ties in the warm 18kt gold with the classic Cartier black roman numeral hour markers. Another classic Cartier styling is the traditional sword shaped blued steel hands and a blue spinel mounted in a 18kt red gold crown. Scratch resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial and Cartier caliber 057 quartz movement. Water resistant at 30 meters.

Reference#: W51027Q4
Case: 25mm x 20mm Stainless Steel
Complications: Date
Movements: Cartier Calibre 057 Quartz Movement
Dial: Roman Numeral Pink Mother of Pearl, Sword Shaped Blue Hands
Bracelet: Polished and satin finished stainless steel with 18kt red gold centered links with deployment buckle
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Sapphire
Estimated Price: $5600.00

[source Amazon.com]

Wide Pave White Diamond Eternity Ring

2009-01-07T18:20:00.004-05:00

What a deal! I classify this ring as a unisex ring because it looks great on guys and just as fabulous on a ladies finger! This is a classic and gorgeous looking diamond eternity band with a huge diamond look. A full pave diamond eternity ring that measures 7/16 of an inch wide and features pave white diamonds set in solid 18k white gold. The diamonds are "G to H" in color, "VS" clarity range and have a combined weight (total diamond weight) of 5.25 carats.

Reference #: 2001134
Diamond Cut: Round Brilliant
Diamond Color: G - H
Diamond Clarity: VS
Total Diamond Weight: 5.25 carats
Metal Type: 18K White Gold
Metal Finish: High Polish

MSRP: $9,400.00
SALE PRICE: $5,640.00 40%OFF

[source Lussori]

More In depth - Gold Variations

2009-01-03T22:32:00.000-05:00

How pure is your gold jewelry? Chances are the jewelry you are wearing is marked 18K, 14K, or 10K, or with a numeric number like 750, 585 or 417. Each is the gold amount stamp, which you can learn more about it if you chose. In many cases, plated jewelry will not be stamped, but in some cases they are. For more on gold jewelry finishes, please continue below.

Now here is a list of terms you will see when shopping for jewelry, accessories and why they are used. In most cases gold is applied on to a much less expensive metal in order to reduce the item's overall cost. The thicker the layer of gold, the less likely it is to wear away easily and expose the metal underneath.

Gold Filled:
Gold Filled jewelry is of a higher quality because the layers are 50 to 100,000 times thicker than regular gold plating, and 17 to 25,000 times thicker than heavy gold electroplate. Gold filled jewelry is a solid layer of gold bonded with heat and pressure to a base metal like brass. Gold filled items have markings that indicate how much and what type of gold was used for the layer. A marking that says 1/20 12K G.F. means that the jewelry is at least 1/20th 12K gold by weight. It is also sometimes referred to as "Rolled Gold". Any Gold Filled item must be at least 5% gold by weight by law.

Gold Plated:
The layer of gold in gold plated jewelry is thinner than the gold filled jewelry, so plated jewelry usually wears away more quickly. Gold plating is a method of depositing a thin layer of gold on to the surface of another metal by chemical or electro-chemical (chemical and electricity - most common term is 'electrolysis') means. Other plating techniques include vapor deposition under vacuum and sputter deposition. The base metal could be silver, stainless steel, copper or another less expensive metal.

Vermeil:
Vermeil is a combination of sterling silver as a base metal and gold. It is commonly used as a component in jewelry or tableware. The most typical example is sterling silver coated with 14 carat gold. Gold Vermeil must also be at least 10 carats and be at least 1.5 micrometers thick. Sterling silver covered with another metal can not be called vermeil.

Gilded or Gilding:
Gilding is applying a thin layer of gold, or another metal to a surface. Surfaces range from paper to metal to leather. Gilding is also known as gold leaf.

So what should you buy? If you are looking for jewelry to wear today then plated will do. If you are looking for a lifetime and beyond, then highest quality gold your budget allows.

More in Depth - Colored Gold Alloy

2009-01-02T22:30:00.007-05:00

I bet you have confused by these terms during a sales presentation: white gold, green gold, and rose gold? During the presentation you are thinking: "gold is yellow so the other colors are imitations?" Well they are not imitations, they are alloys created with yellow gold and other metals.

Gold Alloy:
This is the typical "gold" used in anything jewelry related. Pure gold (24kt) is too soft to be used for jewelry, so other metals are added to give the gold strength.

24K gold = pure gold, but in actuality it isn't 100% pure gold. The refining technology can't remove all non-gold particles.
18K gold = 18 parts gold and 6 parts of another metal(s) = 75% gold
14K gold = 14 parts gold and 10 parts of another metal(s) = 58.5% gold
12K gold = 12 parts gold and 12 parts of another metal(s) = 50% gold
10K gold = 10 parts gold and 14 parts another metal(s) = 41.7% gold

White Gold Alloys:
Nickel can be mixed with gold to create a white (or gray) color; it can cause allergic reactions. The nickle gold alloy isn't pure white, so an additional step is needed to get that pure "white" look... rhodium plating or platinum plating or palladium plating. Once the white wears off, you will need to replate the metal.

Palladium is another metal used to create white gold alloys. Related to platinum, it is more expensive than nickel, but is less likely to cause allergic reactions. Palladium Gold mixture won't need as much as a plating than nickle and silver. Once the white wears off, you will need to replate the metal.

24K white gold gold = doesn't exist
18K gold = 18 parts gold and 6 parts of nickle (or palladium) = 75% gold
14K gold = 14 parts gold and 10 parts of nickle (or palladium) = 58.3% gold
12K gold = 12 parts gold and 12 parts of nickle (or palladium) = 50% gold
10K gold = 10 parts gold and 14 parts of nickle (or palladium) = 41.7% gold

The lower the karat, the brighter the "white" alloy and less chances of needing to plate the alloy.

Rose, Red and Pink Gold Alloys:
Copper is added to make gold-colored alloys, but additional copper creates pink and rose tones -- the more copper, the deeper the effect.

You can also see palladium added with copper to give a "crisper" rose/pink color. As the standard Rose/Pink/Red gold alloy, you don't need to plate it. It's color is through out.

18K gold = 18 parts gold and 6 parts of copper = 75% gold
14K gold = 14 parts gold and 10 parts of copper = 58.3% gold

Green Gold Alloys:
Greenish shades are created by adding silver to gold; it can cause allergic reactions.

Black Gold Alloys:
Electro-deposition or plating using black rhodium or ruthenium to a white gold alloy. Liquid solutions are also used that contain ruthenium give a slightly harder black coating than those that contain rhodium. These will wear off and will need to be replated. Allergic reactions are unknown.

Purple, Amethyst and Blue Gold Alloys:
Purple gold is an alloy of gold and aluminum. Gold content is around 79% and can therefore be referred to as 18 carat gold. Because of the aluminum metal, Purple gold is more brittle than other gold alloys, and a sharp blow may cause it to shatter. Blue gold is gold and indium. Allergic reactions are unknown.

Please note:
As I type this out, there are more variations of the metal alloys being produced making this write up more of a "theory" than a "factual" write up. I know Rolex uses an "Everose" which is their patented(?) mixture and Tiffany & Co is mixing up a better Black Gold. Also with more and more mixing, other colors will be released or upgrade the colors we have now.

European Markings differ from other stamps. You may see the following stamps:
18K gold will be marked 750 to indicate 75% gold
14K gold will be marked 585 for 58.5%
10K gold will be marked 417 for 41.7%

Chopard White Gold Pendant with 3 Moving Diamonds

2008-12-29T12:36:00.003-05:00

I have found a brilliant pendant that is sexy, yet different. Here is a Chopard diamond heart pendant is from the "Happy Diamonds" jewelry collection. This pendant features 3 floating diamonds set in white gold. The diamonds are bezel set and float between two sapphire crystals to give the true effect of floating. The diamonds have a combined diamond weight of .17 carats and are fully cut to give excellent brilliance. The outer heart is also solid white gold and comes with a matching white gold chain.

Metal: 18kt White Gold
Features: 3 moving diamonds
Diamonds: Brilliant Cut White Diamonds F - G color VS clarity weighing 0.17 carats
Retail Price: $ 2,550

[source dexclusive]

Panerai Luminor Chrono Daylight

2008-12-14T21:14:00.003-05:00

Panerai Luminor Chrono Daylight was created using key points of the legendary model, the Luminor, which was developed for special military missions more than 60 years ago. From the shape of the 44mm case, the lever bridge, to the clean dial. But from a technical side, there are numerous new features like a chronograph with date operated by an in-house automatic movement which also is a certified chronometer and the use of grade 5 brushed titanium replacing the traditional metal, stainless steel.

The Panerai OP XII caliber automatic chronograph movement has a power reserve of 46 hours and Incabloc anti-shock device. The movement is C.O.S.C. certified after a long 16 days of testing.

Instead of the traditional boring Panerai black, the dial is blue with the markers and numerals being coated with luminous. The hour and minute hands and the smaller hands which rotate in the sub dials are also coated with luminous for readability. The blue dial is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal which is held in place with a brushed titanium tachymeter engraved bezel.

The two push buttons of the chronograph has a smaller shape and reduced projection so they are quicker to operate and harder to catch. The Panerai Luminor Chrono Daylight achieves a water resistance rating of 100 meters.

The bracelet can easily be replaced by a traditional rubber or leather strap with the supplied tool.

Reference#: PAM00327
Case: 44mm brushed grade 5 titanium
Complications: Chronograph, Date, Power Reserve, Chronometer, Tachymeter
Movements: Panerai OP XII caliber automatic chronograph movement
Dial: Blue with luminous hours, minutes, date, small seconds hands
Bracelet: Brushed grade 5 titanium with tri-folding deployment clasp. Supplied with a tool to change the bracelet to strap.
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: 2.5mm thick Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $11,500.00

[source Officine Panerai]

Loose 1.02 Carat Diamond For Sale.

2008-12-05T16:38:00.001-05:00

Looking for a 1 carat loose white diamond? Maybe you want to compare the retail price of a 1ct diamond? Either way, Diamond.com has a great price on a 1.02 white Asscher cut loose diamond. Buy a setting, or don't... the price stays the same. Check it out and maybe you'll find a better deal than BlueNile loose diamonds.

Just go to "Loose Diamonds" under "Shop By Product" and do the adjustments on price, size, color, clarity and then chose from the results.

Item Number: G858-4A
Shape: Asscher
Carat: 1.02
Cut: Ideal
Color: D
Clarity: SI1
Depth: 62.8%
Table: 62.00%
Symmetry: Good
Polish: Very Good
Girdle: Medium
Culet: None
Fluorescence: Faint
Measurements: 6.06mm x 5.84mm x 3.67mm
GIA Certificate#: 136954400
Estimated Price: $4,840.00

[source Diamond.com]

Ladies Chopard Happy Sport Diamond Gold And Steel Watch

2008-12-03T12:32:00.000-05:00

Chopard is on to something. I don't personally understand why, but the Chopard floating diamond theme is loved by woman over other watch styles. Maybe it's the white brilliant cut diamonds set in 18kt white gold sandwiched between two sapphire crystals? Maybe it's the designer name? What ever the excuse, guys to get out of the dog house, buy your lovely female love a floating diamond watch or floating diamond jewelry and you should be forgiven until you screw up again.

Here I have a Chopard Happy Sport Diamond 18kt Yellow Gold And Stainless Steel Ladies Watch with matching bracelet with tri-folding clasp. The white dial with black 12-3-6-9 shows off the 5 floating diamonds. Sapphire cabochon crown and matching 4 sapphire cabochon lugs. Scratch resistant sapphire crystal protects the floating diamonds while a battery powered quartz movement powers the black hands. Water resistant to 30 meters.

Reference#: 27/8256-23
Case: 26mm Solid Stainless Steel and 18kt Gold
Complications: none
Movements: Quartz movement
Dial: White with blacken roman numerals and matching hands
Bracelet: Solid Stainless Steel and Gold with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $9,500.00

[source Dexclusive]

Oceanus Titanium Multi-Band Atomic Watch

2008-12-02T12:27:00.002-05:00

Not quite a luxury piece, but a great watch otherwise. Casio created the Oceanus line to further their company into the watch industry just a few years ago. Now Oceanus is a sought after watch, and what you get inside the watch for the money, I can see why. The Oceanus Oceanus Multi-band Solar Atomic Chronograph features five motors that single handily controls each of the dials functions. The motors are powered by a solar rechargeable lithium battery and get's updates via the multi-band atomic synchronization. The Oceanus is accurate to +/- 20 seconds a month (with no signal calibration).

The Oceanus receives atomic clock signals in North America, UK, Japan and Germany.
Signal: US WWVB; UK MSF; Germany DCF77; Japan JJY40/JJY60 | Frequency: US 60kHz; UK 60kHz; Germany 77.5kHz; Japan 40/60kHz

The Oceanus five-motor chronograph also features a four month power reserve, a world timer in 29 Time Zones(27 Cities), an analog tide indicator, a perpetual calendar (programmed to 2099) with date and retrograde day display, an alarm, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and black titanium case and matching bracelet.

To get Atomic clock updates, you will need to be in an area void of obstacles like large buildings and power-lines. The Oceanus solar battery is like the Citizen Eco-drive where you can only have the battery changed through the company (when it needs to be changed)

Reference#: OCWM700TBA-1A
Case: 43mm Titanium with a Black PVD treatment
Complications: Chronograph, Tide Indicator, Alarm, GMT, Perpetual Calendar, Retrograde, Power Reserve
Movements: Solar powered multi-functioned Quartz movement
Dial: Black with multi-function subdials
Bracelet: Solid Titanium with a Black PVD treatment with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $900.00

[source ewatches]

Fortis B-42 Flieger Chronograph GMT

2008-12-01T12:20:00.002-05:00

The original design and superior craftsmanship make this Fortis B-42 Flieger Chronograph GMT timepiece a classic. The automatic ETA 7750 chronograph contains central seconds, a 30 minute counter, a 12 hour counter all contained within a 42mm stainless steel case with screw-down caseback. The anti-reflective coated crystal protects the clean silver opaline dial with blacken hands and arabic numbers. Fortis B-42 Flieger Chronograph GMT also contains a day/ date indication, a tachymeter and a 24hr counter. The metal matching stainless steel bracelet with deployant clasp completes the package.

Stainless steel, 42 mm case diameter Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides Skeleton hands with luminous arrowhead Superluminova Coated indices Glass caseback Individually numbered Water-resistant to 200 m / 20 bar White dial

Reference#: 637.10.12M
Case: 42mm stainless steel
Complications: Chronograph, Day/Date, GMT
Movements: Self-winding ETA 7750 Automatic Chronograph GMT
Dial: Silver with blacken numbers/hands
Bracelet: Solid stainless steel with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 200m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $4,500.00

[source Kenmar Watches]

Watch out Breitling! More Multifunction Quartz on the Market!

2008-11-26T15:31:00.004-05:00

Watch out Breitling... there are two new competitors in your Aerospace watch category! And yes, they both deliver the same performance with added bonuses.

Bell & Ross BR03 Type Aviation
This watch was created at the request of the head of French Air Force. Each edition consists of 250 timepieces made especially for French Air Force. The objective was to create a symbolic and functional watch that meets the specific demands of the French Air Force fighter pilots.

Instrument BR03 Type Aviation comes in two variations: steel case with rubber strap and steel carbon finished case with textile strap. Both models are based on the reliable ETA quartz/ analog multifunctional movement and features easily read indexes, digital chronograph, timezones in analog and digital formats, and an alarm function all controlled by the crown. It also offers the same time-counter that you find in the Breitling Aerospace. The Bell and Ross BR03 Type Aviation also features a bi-directional rotating bezel, and water resistance of 100 meters and Logo of French Air Force at the dial. You also have a beautiful black dial with luminous arabic 12-6 and luminous markers. Covering the dial is a scratch resistant and anti-reflective crystal.

Added Bonus:
Two straps and the choice of other Bell and Ross straps, and the changing tool is included.
The case is different and more military dressed.
Number 1 choice for pilots because of the better expandable nylon strap.
It's a Bell & Ross... only a chosen few wear them unlike Breitling.

Dimensions: 42mm
Estimated Retail: $4000.00 in steel and $4500.00 with carbon

Victorinox Swiss Army Chrono Classic XLS MT 241300
The same ETA analog/digital quartz movement with a scratch-resistant anti-reflective sapphire crystal covering the black multifunction dial with luminous hands and hour markers on dial and engraved tachymeter scale. The case is 45mm and has a pvd coated steel case and matching bracelet.

The two LCD displays, digital displays time in hours, minutes and seconds, date and perpetual calendar, day in English, French, German and Spanish, countdown timer with alarm, 2nd time zone, chronograph hours, minutes, seconds and 1/100th second and split functions, low battery indicator, time-counter that you find in the Breitling Aerospace and all of this has a water resistant rating of 100m.

Added Bonus:
Better price point at a larger size
Swiss Army reliability.
Better legible dial.

Dimensions: 45mm
Estimated Retail: $1095.00

How much does the Breitling Aerospace cost? The last time I checked, it was running around $3650.00 and prices will change without notice. Now you have choices. Titanium, Steel, Carbon coated steel, PVD coated steel, square case (different), or round. 42mm or 45mm.

Coffee Table Books For The Collector

2008-11-23T17:27:00.002-05:00

If you are like me, you have a passion for beautiful things like gemstones and timepieces but can't find the correct material to have neatly stacked on your coffee table when guests arrive. Sure you probably have the typical picture book full of chairs or art. But those are so 1980's and you expect to be different.

Well ladies and gentlemen, if you have ever been inside a Tiffany boutique or a Tiffany & Co. store then you are aware of their beautiful books. They, for the most part, are authored by John Loring and photographed by the greatest fashion photographers of their day including Steichen, Horst, Hoyingen-Huene, Avedon, Scavullo, Hiro and Skrebneski.

John Loring is the Design Director of Tiffany & Co. since 1979 while authoring many books like: Abrams’ Tiffany Pearls, Tiffany Diamonds, Tiffany’s Palm Beach, Greetings from Andy: Christmas at Tiffany’s, Tiffany in Fashion, Tiffany Timepieces and Tiffany Flora & Fauna, among others.

Take your pick... they are all great and will 'up' your coffee table 'game'. Be different. Be tasteful. Buy John Loring and let the photgraphs do the talking!

To buy John Loring's wonderful work, please visit Amazon while saving a few dollars.

Why Red Gold is the of Choice!

2008-11-16T10:15:00.002-05:00

For the past decade, white gold has reigned supreme in the jewelry and watches world for it's value and platinum-like looks. It served as the gold of choice for men's watches and was especially popular in men's wedding bands. However, the past three years have ushered in a new metal hue coasting to the top spot in men's hearts (ladies too): red gold. The watch industry in particular to the jewelry industry has seen strong sales and it's increasing daily. Red gold watches are the trend and it looks like it's here to stay.

One reason for its growing popularity is its rich, red hue that looks at home on most, if not all skin tones, especially those with warm undertones or pale colors. Red gold picks up where yellow gold has failed and grabs the attention of those who are looking for something different than the 'silver' (platinum, white gold, stainless steel, palladium, polished titanium etc) color.

Also, unlike white gold, red gold has a wide range of hues ranging from a warm light pink to hot fiery amber which gives red gold a versatile quality. Deeper red gold tones will perfectly compliment warm colors while the lighter pink colored red gold looks lovely against a cooler color palette.

The rising popularity of red gold in engagement rings and wedding bands is evidence that red gold is here to stay. More and more couples are choosing the rich tones of red gold to play against a diamond’s 'dance of colors' for a unique look to last a lifetime.

Did I mention, with red gold... there is no 'upkeep' so there is no more additional plating fees and it's a lot less expensive than platinum.

James Bond Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Limited Edition

2008-11-15T18:16:00.004-05:00

Get it while you can! Only 5,007 pieces made... unlike the previous James Bond Seamaster run of 10,007.

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Quantum of Solace features Omega’s caliber 2500 self-winding chronometer movement with 48hr power reserve fitted with the revolutionary Co-Axial Escapement and a water resistant rating to 600 meters. The 45.5mm satin finished stainless steel is home to both a helium escape valve and a black unidirectional rotating bezel.

The Quantum of Solace Limited Edition features bright white Super-LumiNova on its indexes and hands while the only indication that this Planet Ocean is the Limited edition, the words "Quantum of Solace" are laser engraved on the inside of its sapphire crystal. The Omega name and logo and the Arabic numerals are applied on the black dial that is textured to be reminiscent of the grip of Bond’s trademark Walther PPK. The red tip of the seconds hand and the Seamaster logo present a stark contrast to the black dial.

The Arabic numerals are located at 12, 6, and 9 with a date window is located at the 3 o’clock position on the dial.

The bracelet it the Planet Ocean divers bracelet with a satin finish and divers push button clasp.

Retail: $4000.00

Carl F.Bucherer Patravi Chronograde

2008-11-04T16:30:00.003-05:00

The Carl F.Bucherer Patravi Chronograde has six functions, as well as a retrograde hour display for the chronograph function. The functions are: a chronograph; flyback function; big date; annual calendar and a power reserve indication. When engaged, after each rotation of the central chronograph hand, the minute totalizer at 9 moves along one more graduation mark. Once the hand has completed a single full rotation, this information is in turn transferred through the gearing mechanism to the hours counter between 7 and 8, where the corresponding counter moves downwards through a semicircular scale. When the hours counter reaches the end of its scale, it shoots instantly back to its starting position, in order to start its journey again from this position.

The 42 hour power reserve Patravi Chronograde caliber CFB 1902 automatic movement is housed within a 44mm stainless steel case and has a water resistant rating of 50 meters. You can chose between a leather strap or a stainless steel link bracelet. Both strap and bracelet features a quick release tri-folding clasp. The large and clear black dial shows off the matte silver sub dial rings and red accents. The big date sits at 12 and the month indicator is located between 4 and 5.

Reference#: 00.10623.08.33.01
Case: 44mm Stainless Steel
Complications: chronograph, flyback, big date, annual calendar, power reserve indicator, retrograde
Movements: Carl F.Bucherer caliber CFB 1902 automatic movement
Dial: Black with silver and red accents, sword shaped silvered hands
Bracelet: Polished stainless steel with deployment buckle or leather with deployment buckle
Water Resistance: 50m
Crystal: Anti-reflective Sapphire
Estimated Price: $13,000.00

[source JR Dunn]

Tag Heuer Mens Grand Carrera Chronograph

2008-11-02T12:44:00.004-05:00

What is the Rotating System (RS) anyway? Basically Tag Heuer created the RS self-winding automatic mechanical movement to be reminiscent of a sports car instrument panel and gauges. Instead of the typical hands telling time, date and/or counters for elapsed time, the wearer can easily read the numbers on the rotating system(s).

This Tag Heuer Grand Carrera Calibre 17 RS 43.2mm stainless steel watch features a gorgeous silver guilloche dial with two visible and legible rotating systems. Like other Carreras, the tachymeter is located on the outside of the bezel and a case matching stainless steel bracelet with tri-folding clasp.

The movement, Calibre 17 RS features an automatic C.O.S.C tested movement with a chronograph function and a date window. This Tag Heuer Grand Carrera Calibre 17 RS watch is water resistant to 100 meters.

The TAG Heuer Grand Carrera Chronograph also features a screwed-in crown with matching screw-in chronograph push buttons. The hand applied date window at 6 and the 2 Rotating Systems, one at 3 and one a 9, are half mooned styled and decorated with “Côtes de Genève” and diamond polished facets. Small seconds is located at 3, while the chronograph minute is sitting pretty at 9.

Also available with an alligator strap with solid-steel folding clasp with safety push buttons and hand-applied TAG Heuer logo.

Reference#: CAV511B.BA0902
Case: 43.2mm stainless steel
Complications: COSC, Chronograph
Movements: Self-winding Calibre 17 RS Automatic Chronograph
Dial: Silver with two RS windows
Bracelet: Solid stainless steel with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $5,800.00

[source TimeImports.com]

Azimuth Officier Squelette Art Deco

2008-11-01T13:29:00.006-04:00

The Azimuth Militare-1 collection recalls the pilot watches from the World War II era, commonly known as the B-Uhr, with its over-sized onion crown, over-sized dial with bold, highly legible Arabic numerals, and riveted calf strap. The military ordinance markings in German style on the caseback add to the nostalgia of the original German's Luftwaffe military equipment.

The Azimuth Militare-1 collection consists of 2 series... the Bombardier series consists of pilot watches based on vintage movements that are restored in limited editions runs. The second series is the B-UHR which consists of pilot watches equipped with modern modified movements cased in a solid case with hunter back, which has military ordinance inscribed.

The Azimuth Officier Squelette Art Deco is a military officers dream. It's rugged, large (measuring 47mm) and modern. The dial, or there lack of, is skeletonized with a traditional 19th century pocket watch style with blued hands too. The large stainless steel case is water resistant to 30m and has a large 22mm alligator strap.

The movement is a manual winding Unitas 6498 movement that is beautifully decorated to show off the skeleton effect.

Reference#: Azimuth Officier Squelette Art Deco
Case: 47mm stainless steel
Complications: none
Movements: Manually-winding Unitas 6498 movement
Dial: Skeleton
Strap: Brown Alligator with buckle clasp
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $4,400.00

[source Jackson Square Fine Jewels]

Breitling for Bentley Flying B

2008-10-20T15:23:00.005-04:00

"The greatest luxury in life is time." That is Breitling for Bentley famous quote, and it is so true. Having time is definitely a luxury. Breitling created the Bentley watch line is encompass power, luxury and exclusivity much like Bentley's car line. The same exact standards of reliability, precision and materials go into each vehicle and each timepiece.

Here is just one such watch you need to have on your wrist. The Breitling for Bentley Flying B 38.5 x 57.3 mm case is created from a solid stainless steel block and is created as a dedication to the "winged B" which served for years as their mascot. The solid stainless steel bracelet gives the case an anchor to the wearers wrist without discrediting the case. The silver dial is distinguished by details inspired by Bentley instrumentation, hour markers carved in a half tubular shape from mother of pearl and the subtle touch of color in jumping hour window. The curving shape of the beveled sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating on both sides.

The Breitling for Bentley Flying B is powered by the Breitling Calibre 28B mechanical self-winding movement with jumping hour mechanism which is officially chronometer certified by the COSC. Water Resistant At 100 Meters.

Reference#: A2836212-B8-982A
Case: 38.5 x 57.3mm stainless steel
Complications: Jump Hour, COSC
Movements: Self-winding Breitling Calibre 28B with jumping hour mechanism
Dial: Silver with Bentley inspired trim bright luminous hands and MOP hour indexes
Bracelet: Solid stainless steel with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $15,500.00

[source Brietling For Bentley]

Limited Edition Graham Swordfish PVD

2008-10-12T15:32:00.004-04:00

Here we have the Graham Black Knight Swordfish Limited Edition which is the typical Graham size measuring to 46mm. The matte black PVD coated stainless steel matches the matte black dial which also glows in bold yellow-green color. Other colors on the matte black dial include a white minute circle, bright yellow hour markers, over-sized Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 positions and red and white counter dials with yellow-tipped hands. The dial with yellow coated luminescent sword-shaped hour hands.

The Swordfish trade mark is their eye-catching magnifying sapphire crystals at 3 and 9 which are part of the main sapphire crystal.

The automatic chronograph caliber G1710 has a 42-hour power reserve, water resistant to 100m and a black rubber strap with PVD-coated pin buckle completes this package.

Reference#: 2SWASB.B19A.K06B
Case: 46mm matte black PVD coated stainless steel
Complications: Power-reserve, chronograph,
Movements: Self-winding automatic caliber G1710
Dial: Matte black with bright luminous numbers and hands
Strap: Black rubber with PVD coated tang buckle
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating, 2 magnifying sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coatings
Estimated Price: $11,800.00
Limited Edition: 500

[source World Lux Inc]

Blancpain Leman Moonphase and Complete Calendar

2008-10-07T12:21:00.008-04:00

Attention Ladies! Here is Blancpain Leman Moon Phase that won't break the budget. The Blancpain Leman Moon Phase comes complete with a complete calendar but doesn't stop there. The alpha day and month windows are displayed beneath the 12 o'clock position while the numeric date shown using a third hand with an arrow pointing to the date on the outer rim of the dial. The Moonphase sub-dial and small seconds are located at the 6 o'clock position.

Blancpain Leman Moon Phase is powered by Blancpain's own in house Caliber 6763, which is composed of 262 components & 30 Jewels. The movement creates enough energy to power the watch for an estimated 100 hours.

The ladies Blancpain Moon Phase is created out of stainless steel features a 33.5mm case and stainless steel bracelet with tri-fold deployment buckle. The gorgeous mother of pearl dial is accented with diamonds and silver hand applied roman numerals. The watch is water resistant to 30 meters.

Reference#: 2360-1191a-71
Case: 33.5mm stainless steel
Complications: Power-reserve, Full Calendar, Moonphase
Movements: Self-winding automatic Blancpain Caliber 6763
Dial: Mother or Pearl with day/date/month/moonphase windows
Bracelet: Stainless steel with tri-folding deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $9,800.00

[source LuxLux.com]

IWC Big Pilot's Watch

2008-10-05T16:27:00.006-04:00

Since 2002, the Big Pilot’s Watch has been IWC’s flagship and with its in-house 51110 movement contains all the features that have proved their worth in the long history of IWC mechanical watches. The Big Pilot's Watch from IWC is an interpretation of its Pilot's watch that was manufactured in the 1940s with new tweaks.

The giant IWC Big Pilots Watch is among the pilot’s watches embarked upon 2006 with a number of modifications like being available in white gold with a slate grey dial or in stainless steel with a black dial, as well as a crocodile leather strap in black or dark brown. Both white gold Pilots watch and stainless steel Pilots watch feature a soft iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields while the shapes of the hands and the dial designs have been modified to match those of the other models in the series. All models in the Pilot’s Watch Classics collection now have the same uniform appearance.

The stainless steel case measures an amazing 46.2mm in diameter and a total weight of 150 grams. This is a big watch with a black with luminous hands/ indexes dial equally matches the case size.

The IWC Big Pilots watch also features an automatic pellaton 51110 in-house movement, currently the largest of its kind in the world, generates a power reserve of 8.5 days. The movement only runs for seven before a mechanism automatically stops it. This is because the torque that drives the movement decreases as the mainspring winds down, leading to a loss of amplitude in the balance and possible inaccuracy. A power reserve indicator and date window is also powered by the movement. The IWC Big Pilots watch is water resistant to 60 meters.

Reference#: IW500401
Case: 46mm stainless steel
Complications: Power-reserve 7 days (168 hours)
Movements: Self-winding automatic IWC caliber 51110
Dial: Black with date and power reserve indicators
Strap: Thick black Alligator with case matching buckle clasp
Water Resistance: 60m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Estimated Price: $11,800.00

[source Exquisite Timepieces]

Chronoswiss Delphis Jump Hour Retrograde

2008-10-04T20:11:00.005-04:00

The Chronoswiss Delphis Jump Hour wristwatch combines two different display systems in one timepiece. The Delphis is powered by the self-winding automatic Chronoswiss caliber C.124 with Incabloc Shock-Absorber which powers a retrograde and jump hour display.

The Retrograde portion is the minutes portion of the jump hour. After reaching 60 minutes on the semicircular arc located at 12, the blued central minute hand instantly leaps back to 0 minutes. In addition, when the minute hand reaches the 0 position, the digital hour indicator at the 12 position spins (or jumps) rapidly forward to show the next hour.

To power these two simultaneous jumps, the patented, 60-piece cadrature on top of the movement continuously accumulates energy for 60 minutes before releasing it at the end of each hour. Below the minute hand the progress of seconds is shown in familiar analog fashion.

The polished 19 pieces that make up the 38mm stainless steel case with a decorative bezel holds the movement securely with a anti-reflective sapphire crystal displaying the copper colored sterling silver dial. The screwed-on strap also has a patent with it's Autobloc system. Wear this remarkable "chronometrical trinity" on a genuine crocodile leather strap with red gold and steel buckle.

Reference#: CH1423CO
Case: 38mm stainless steel
Complications: Jump Hour, Retrograde
Movements: self-winding automatic Chronoswiss caliber C.124 with Incabloc Shock-Absorber
Dial: Copper colored sterling silver
Strap: Brown Alligator with case matching deployment clasp
Water Resistance: 30m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective
Estimated Price: $8,500.00

[source World Lux Inc]

Looking to be a Watch Technician?

2008-10-02T21:50:00.003-04:00

What is the difference between a watch maker and a watch technician?

Some would say a watchmaker can build and/or customize watch while a watch technician can only overhaul (clean/oil/adjust) watches. Well... basically that sums it up. There are limits though... technicians can't work on your extremely complicated movements and mainly stay with quartz repairs and basic mechanical movements.

But here's the thing... you can be a very successful individual if you are a watch technician. Like I mentioned before, there is a HUGE need for technicians and websites that cater to horology are selling more and more video's and technician guides.

Here are some sites worth mentioning.
- Horology Source - Self-proclaimed to be "the most extensive collection of horological resources on the internet". Maybe they are correct?
- AWCI - American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute. Do you need to go any where else?