Category: High-end Watches

In-Depth – A Look at Shaped Watches by Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe through History

When thinking about the archetype of the round Swiss watch, the first names that come to mind might very well be Patek Philippe or Vacheron Constantin. As the custodians of Geneva’s watchmaking tradition, influenced by the sober protestant spirit, both brands stand for subtle, understated elegance. However, beyond the design conventions dictated by the round wristwatch, Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin have in common a long, rich legacy of shaped watches. After Cartier, Monochrome brings together a (non-exhaustive) selection of shaped watches from Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin.

8 years ago

Introducing a new independent watchmaker, Kaj Korpela, and its “Timepiece No. 1”, a properly hand-made tourbillon

In the watchmaking industry, some terms are certainly often misused, like for instance “independent watchmaking” or “hand-made“. What we are going to show you today represent these two notions in their purest form, something in the vein of Roger Smith, Georges Daniels or Philippe Dufour – don’t expect us to make comparisons on the watch or the level of finishing here, we’re talking about the spirit behind the watch. Today, open your eyes and enjoy the Kaj Korpela “Timepiece No. 1”, a truly hand-made tourbillon, from a properly independent watchmaker. This is why we love watches here at Monochrome and it immediately brought a big “WOW” on our lips. And keep in mind that this is the first watch, from a new brand…

8 years ago

Introducing the Ateliers deMonaco Admiral Chronograph Flyback Saphir

Ateliers deMonaco might not be the most famous company around. In fact, some of you might not know this watch manufacture (and yes, it is a manufacture and not just a watch brand). However, Ateliers deMonaco has solid basis and isn’t new in the game. Indeed, it was founded in 2008 and it is in fact the high-end brand behind Frederique Constant, sharing the same owners, the same facilities and also being used as a laboratory for future developments at FC. And their latest creation has some appeal. Here is the Ateliers deMonaco Admiral Chronograph Flyback Saphir.

8 years ago

Hands-on – Patek Philippe 5230 World Time, the evolution of an icon (live pics, specs & price)

World Timers are among Patek Philippe’s most popular complications, with a history spanning over almost 80 years (thanks to the collaboration with Cottier). A cult status confirmed at Phillips May 2016 auction, when a rare Patek 2523/1 from 1954 achieved US$ 2.5 million. At Baselworld 2016, Patek Philippe introduced two new models featuring this practical function, the 5930 World Time Chronograph and the 5230, replacing the now iconic reference 5130. Monochrome takes a closer look at this new take on an icon.

8 years ago

A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph Boutique Edition – Full Review with tons of Photos, Specs and Price

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph Boutique Edition is yet another example of the superlative chronographs, developed by the Haute Horlogerie brand from Glashütte, Germany. We were given the opportunity to test and wear the watch for a couple of weeks. To cut a long story short: we loved it. As we already introduced the watch to you earlier, in this article we will focus on the chronograph movement, more specifically its characteristics, what distinguishes it from other chronograph movements, and how it actually works. It looks great but what is what, and what does what? What is the purpose of all those wheels, levers, bridges and springs? Read on to learn how a chronograph actually works. 

8 years ago

Hands-on Review: Vacheron Constantin Overseas World Time – Live Photos, Specs and Price

There’s something about luxury sports watches. For me this category of watches -if we can call it a category at all- is the most versatile, comfortable, and useful around, and these are probably the best every-day watches that you can find. Wear ’em under the shower, in the swimming pool or sea, they are good when playing with the kids, or when you’re working out in the gym. They even look great with suit & tie behind your desk or in the board room. From my perspective this category of watches could use some more competition, so I was happy to see Vacheron Constantin launch a completely redesigned Overseas collection earlier this year. During a recent event I had a lot of time to see and wear the new Overseas, Overseas Chronograph and the Overseas World Time. Today we’re going to show you the latter, a comfortable worldtimer, that’s as versatile as it gets. Here’s the Vacheron Constantin Overseas World Time.

8 years ago