Introducing – A. Lange & Söhne 1815 “Cuvette” Limited Edition (For the 10th Anniversary of the first Lange Boutique)

While the brand A. Lange & Söhne was revived in 1994 (with the launch of an entire collection, including the iconic Lange 1), the first boutique of the brand only appeared in September 2007. This means that this Dresden-based store now celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. In order to pay tribute to 10 years of presence in the superb city of Dresden, A. Lange & Söhne introduces a limited edition of the emblematic 1815, with a specifically engraved hinged “Cuvette” – dust cover or officer back – to make it really special.

9 years ago

Celebrating 100 Years Of The Iconic Cartier Tank – Part 2, The Important Early Models

Last week, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Cartier Tank, we brought you part.1 of our in-depth look at this modern-day icon. Our focus was on the Tank Normale, the very first Tank ever created, which made its debut in 1917 (or 1919, depending on who you ask). This early model would lay the foundation for what has gone on to become one of the most recognisable watch designs ever, leading to numerous variations and of course homages from other brands. It also serves as a testament to the idea that well-executed, simple designs can stand the test of time. A bit of luck and a few celebrity endorsements here and there certainly don’t hurt either! What has perhaps been most fascinating about the Tank over the years, however, is its incredible versatility. This was particularly evident in the early Tank models, i.e. those made in the 1920’s and 1930’s, which we will be looking at today. Each is very different in its own way, and yet each is unmistakably a Cartier Tank.

9 years ago

Review – Piaget’s Vision of the Sports-Luxury Watch, the Polo S Chronograph

When the Piaget Polo S Chronograph (and time-and-date too) was unveiled last year in New York, the response was divisive to say the least. Many thought it paid too close a homage to certain other iconic steel sports watches, whilst others welcomed this bold move by Piaget to offer some more accessible models. Now, more than a year on, the dust has settled a bit and (presumably) emotions aren’t running quite so high, which makes it the perfect time for a hands-on review of the Piaget Polo S Chronograph in steel.

9 years ago

MY WEEK WITH: The Piaget Altiplano 40mm Ultra-Thin date pink gold

This week on the wrist is borne almost purely out of curiosity. I have tried on Piaget Altiplano watches over the years and found them unusually comfortable to wear. In interviews and conversations with Altiplano owners, there’s always a resounding refrain of “it’s hard to go back to heavier/larger/thicker watches once you get used to it”. So, when given the chance to have an extended period of time with the Ultra-Thin date in rose gold, I jumped at it. My first impression was… That it’s a clean, deeply stylish statement, and that I might need a new wardrobe. A watch this slight and minimal seems to draw a lot more attention to the wrist, and the cuff, and the accessories that are being worn with it. While it’s saying very few words, they’re all well chosen, and they’re all expensive. Good luck dressing down this quiet achiever. Once I put it on, it felt… Hey, wait, is this thing actually on? Any heft you associate with gold does not exactly apply. While this Altiplano model is indeed pink gold, it is extremely light, and the comfort Altiplano wearers swear by is in full effect. Looks-wise… It’s minimal and mercurial. Having said that, it’s very…

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9 years ago

VIDEO: The Cartier Tank Américaine, now in steel

As Sandra so helpfully informed us yesterday, Cartier introduced the Tank Américaine in 1989. A bulked-up version of the Cintrée, with broad, muscly brancards, this Tank managed to capture not just the spirit of the times but also the bold, entrepreneurial spirit of the continent for which is was named. I can’t help but think that if Wall Street had been made a few years later, Michael Douglas would have been wearing an Américaine instead of a Santos. This year, as part of its Tank centenary celebrations, Cartier has released three new Tank Américaine models, in small, medium and large. And while the form is fundamentally the same as the 1989 model (and, indeed, the 1917 version), the big news is the case, which is — for the first time — steel. Not only does this give the Américaine more of a utilitarian, casual feel, it makes wearing a Tank every day a real proposition. Cartier Tank Américaine in steel Australian Pricing Cartier Tank Américaine, steel on alligator, $8050

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9 years ago

History of the Patek Philippe Calatrava Part 3 – Major Modern Models

Today we conclude our three-part series on the Patek Philippe Calatrava with a look at the present-day models currently available from the brand. After reading Part. 1 (focussing on the very first model of the collection, the reference 96) and Part. 2 (the most important vintage models), I’m sure you will agree that the humble Calatrava is one of the most iconic dress watches of all time and has played a significant role in shaping the entire dress watch category. Incredibly, its underlying design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1932, some 85 years ago. While it’s true we’ve seen many variations over the years, the fundamentals have always remained the same, which is great news for vintage enthusiasts and new buyers alike.

9 years ago