Time Square

'Sparkle Week' to include luxury watch exhibit

2009-04-09T23:27:00.000-07:00

New York--In conjunction with the first-ever "Sparkle Week Spring 2009," a weeklong celebration of jewelry to be held in New York City from April 20-26, the National Jewelry Institute will present a luxury timepiece exhibit.

Titled "Time and the Jeweler's Art," the exhibit will feature luxury timepieces that display trends and portray personalities of fashion culture, according to the National Jewelry Institute.
Participating watch brands include Dior Watches, H. Stern, Harry Winston, Patrizzi and Co. Auctioneers, Piaget, Timex, Tiffany and Co., Valentino Timeless, Van Cleef and Arpels and Vincent Berard.

This exhibit will be on display at The Forbes Galleries on Fifth Avenue from April 24-June 27.
Sparkle Week's events will include festivities at small and large boutiques, specialty stores and department stores across New York City's five boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island.

In addition, New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg will issue an official proclamation on April 6 designating the week of April 20 as Sparkle Week.

Limited Edition Bob Dylan Luxury Watch

2009-04-08T23:45:00.000-07:00

Every year Oris Watch Company does something extraordinary, they create a limited edition watch dedicated to a musical legend and this year’s musical legend is Bob Dylan.

The new luxury watch has Bob’s Dylan’s signature etched into the dial and is portrait is engraved on the case back. Like the intricacies of his career, a small glass window gives wearers a look into the mechanical movement of the Oris red rotor, made famous by the company.

The best part of this limited edition watch of 3,000 pieces is the Honer Marine Band harmonica which comes with the watch. The stainless steel case of this luxury watch features sapphire crystal glass and 30 meters of water resistance as well as a Swiss ETA automatic caliber, 25 jewels, and a power reserve of 42 hours

The End of ‘Wife Wear’

2009-04-08T00:55:00.000-07:00

“Wives wear pink” was once a mantra for all those dutiful spouses standing by their men, whether as an appendix to a new role for the husband or as a unwilling partner to a confession of marital infidelity.

Political wives in particular have had their parameters drawn around a smart suit and a tailored coat, a hat as an optional extra and nylons de rigeur (meaning rigorously applied).

Although Nancy Reagan famously wore red and Barbara Bush chose royal blue, the spirit has been the same since Jacqueline Kennedy set the gold standard of tailored coat and pillbox hat in 1961. That first lady may have looked her most glamorous in a silk headscarf, a pair of Capri pants, bare legs and ballerinas — but in public she was obliged to look “appropriate.”

The ideological gulf between Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin in last year’s presidential election was reflected in their clothes: the trouser suit for the feminist Democrat; the suit, but mismatched for modernity, for the Republican vice-presidential hopeful.

At that point, no one looked much at Michelle Obama’s choice of clothes or read into it any message. Right up to that crowning moment of delirious joy on election night, when Mrs. Obama took to the stage with her family in a bright dress, half-covered with a cardigan, there were no expectations of her as a fashion icon.

But with that woman-friendly “cardy,” turning her broad back on the mannish jacket, the future first lady was re-defining what was appropriate for the White House, for Buckingham Palace and for the daunting task of being photographed beside the former model and French presidential wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy.

Whereas Mrs. Obama implied that the knit she pulled on over a scarlet and black Narciso Rodriguez dress in Chicago was merely to dispel the chill, her London appearances suggest otherwise. From a black cardigan with the British prime minister at 10 Downing Street to a sparkly knit from the sportswear brand J. Crew with his wife, the message was clear: not just that a White House wardrobe need not be expensive, but that it does not have to be formal. Only a string of pearls links Mrs. Obama with any kind of historic dressing up.

The cardigan — whether it was in black from the niche designer Azzedine Alaïa or in a bold plaid pattern from the Japanese Junya Watanabe — is a signal that powerful women no longer need to prove their strength by dressing shoulder to padded shoulder with men. The only jacket that the first lady wore in Europe was taut, short and again from Alaïa.

For Mrs. Obama has broken with another cherished rule: that her wardrobe has to wave the national flag. Unlike Jacqueline Kennedy, who asked her sister Lee Radziwill to smuggle Givenchy gowns to New York and who had her milliner copy European styles, the New First Lady has embraced diversity. Her wardrobe has focused on Asian designers — often first-generation Americans — rather than the well-known names.

Thakoon Panichgul’s scarlet and black dress hit the headlines at the Democratic convention and the Thailand-born designer scored again in Strasbourg with the colorful coat and bow-necked dress that stood up defiantly against Mrs. Bruni-Sarkozy’s prim Dior outfit.

Jason Wu, 26, born in Taiwan, was catapulted to fame when his one-shoulder white gown, embellished with organza flowers, was worn by the first lady at the inaugural balls.
Where in the mix are Ralph Lauren or Calvin Klein — those pillars of American fashion, or Donna Karan, its female flag-waver? Only Michael Kors scored for the official first lady photograph, which caused controversy over Mrs. Obama’s bared arms (although Jacqueline Kennedy wore a similar dress).

Unlike Mrs. Sarkozy, whose natural style is streamlined and sporty but whose public wardrobe is built on France’s iconic fashion names, Mrs. Obama has eschewed the famous worldwide brands. Mr. Alaïa, who created the black dress with frothy frills that Mrs. Obama wore on Friday in Baden-Baden, is the ultimate insider’s designer. Etro and Moschino, the Italian labels that provided tops to go with pants, are also outside fashion’s “magic circle” of Armani, Gucci, Prada and Versace.

It is no secret where Mrs. Obama finds her wardrobe: via the Chicago boutique Ikram. But although she exudes pride both in being the wife of the first African-American president and as a mother of two girls, the only fashion message she seems eager to convey is that she is her own woman.

Hats off (especially pill boxes and “My Fair Lady” millinery) to women who fought for equality by grabbing pantsuits from their male equals. But the first lady is making her own contribution to fashion history by dressing as a woman of strong character — rather than as a presidential wife.

Related articles: Michelle Obama and France’s Carla Bruni-Sarkozy followed by fashion at G20

Michelle Obama, the pet of fashion world

Travel Watches

2009-04-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

What kind of watch is good for travelling? My criteria for a travel watch is as follows:

1. It must show at least 2 timezones simultaneously, and clearly...it is very easy to get confused when your biological time is upset, especially after travesing several timezones, and in a strange city.

2. It must feature luminous hands and hour markers. It is always too dark in the plane during the journey. changing the local time must be easily accomplished. I always adjust my watch to the destination time immediately after take-off when the pilot announces this. I much prefer push buttons which advance and retards the time by hourly segments without affecting the minute and seconds hands, though this is not essential.

3. It should preferably be automatic. It is very difficult to remember how long ago you wound that watch, so that you can rewind it, again made more complicated the more timezones you cross.

4. It must be reasonably accurate. Anything worse than +6s/-4s a day is not going to be good enough. Anything better would be a bonus. I don't need better accuracy, because I usually only wear the watch when I travel, and I would adjust it at the start of the journey...and I seldom travel for more than 2 weeks each trip. (max +1.4min/-56s for the entire trip)

5. Must be inexpensive, and not draw too much attention. I travel a lot to Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok, Milan, and some other less savoury cities, so this is important to me...if not entirely for reasons of my safety so much as for my sanity.

After a long time musing, and thinking over the various options available, I arrived at purchasing an Oris Worldtimer, blue dial, bracelet in SS of course. It meets all the above criteria and I get +5s a day, so it is fairly accurate...not wonderfully so, but sufficient.

I think the Worldtimer is a great watch. The finishing is not great, but it has no pretentions to be so. I would consider it good, especially in price range.

The bracelet's shiny finish is a little tasteless, and I would have preferred a buff finish. It looks more stunning with the blue strap, but a travel watch must take a lot of sweating, especially when I have to lug baggage in strange airports, or be in humid climate.

Here are some of the other watches I considered:

I have hesitated long against buying the AP Dual Time as I really like the RO look. But the Royal Oak Dual Time shows the local time indication at the small dial at six, while displaying home time on the large dial. I think, for a travel utility watch, this is not acceptable. The lack of a quick date set, and the lack of a seconds hand further makes it less attractive. Of course, a RO being quite recognisable as an expensive watch may catch the eyes of the local low-life too easily for comfort...

Although the JLC Master Geographique is probably many an enthusiast's choice, I have shunned it. It suffers from the same small local/large home time dial arrangement. Also, I feel the city dial, visible in an aperture on the dial at 6 is superflous. And I can't find Singapore (hey I live here!) and other cities I frequent on it. The JLC's movement is of course first rate, and the rathr discrete design of the case should render it quite safe. I have given the JLC Reverso DuoTime a miss, as I dislike rectangular cases...though the dual face is rather elegant.

Another interesting watch is the Patek Phillipe has the World Traveller. I think the Patek is perhaps less rugged...or at least I would perceive it to be so considering its cost. And of course, is would be a little too much a flash in the eyes of the local toughies in the places I travel to. Although, the movement is first rate, and the uncluttered design of the dial elegant. I especially like the hidden gold hour hand which is used to indicate home time during travel, hidden normally. But the Patek lacks a day/night indicator for the home time, which is useful for figuring out whether it is a good time to make that phone call home.

One new entrant is the GP WorldTime, which has the additional bonus of an alarm...very useful for waking up, or reminding me of the pending airplane departure times. I am not too excited of its looks, and would be still more comfortable with an entry level, low cost watch like the Oris Worldtimer.

Other options include the Rolex Explorer II or the GMT series. My reasons for rejecting these is that they use a single 24hour hand to indicate the home time, which is often non-intuitive.

Daniel Roth also makes a dual timezone watch housed in the classically exquisite Roth case. But I feel that it is easy to confuse the home time with the date. I suppose after a period of acclimatization, I would get used to it, but I think perhaps it could be clearer.

Ulysee Nardin GMT+/- comes close to the Worldtimer. It too has twin pushers which allows the local time to advance or retard in hourly quantums without affecting the running of the watch. And the home time is displayed in 24 hour fashion in a window perforation at 10 o'clock. But the UN lacks the ease to forward and reverse the date as with the Oris.

But dual timezone watches are not new...the picture above shows the Waltham Dual Timezone pocket railroad watch, used by train masters in the early half of the 20th century. Note similarity to the Patek's World Traveller's use of two hour hands.

JeanRichard Discount Luxury Watch

2009-04-07T01:35:00.000-07:00

This watch is not only the deal of the day, but it’s a stunning representation of JeanRichard Luxury Watches, especially the silver dial and brown leather strap. The favorite feature is the large brown Arabic hour markers.

In case you didn’t know, JeanRichard luxury watches are owned by Girard-Perregaux and they reflect the the young designers bold and charming details. Other attributes of this specific JeanRichard luxury Watches include TV Screen XL Chronograph with a polished stainless steel case, brown leather bracelet, silver dial, luminous hand indicators, scratch resistant sapphire crystal, automatic movement, and 100 feet of water resistance.

Cartier Tank Louis Ladies’ Watch

2009-04-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

Today watch pick comes from The Watchery, the number one seller of discount luxury watches.

This Cartier Tank Louis Ladies’ Watch comes in 18k Yellow gold with a silver dial and brown leather strap. The Cartier Tank luxury watch is a Cartier classic and one of watchmaking’s best designs of the 20th century.

The Cartier Tank watch was created by the one and only Louis Cartier in 1917 to tribute World War I’s Allied tank commanders. As a result this watch is coveted by men and women worldwide.

This particular Cartier luxury watch is for women and it has an 18k yellow gold case, brown leather strap, silver dial, blue hand indicators, black roman numerals hour markers, scratch resistant sapphire crystal, and 30 meters of water resistance.

KOBE Steps into luxury, Black Mamba starting at $25,000

2009-03-27T23:29:00.000-07:00

As the pet of Coca Cola and Nike, Kobe also has a good income outside the basketball court. Now Swiss watches also starts their action.

Swiss watchmaker, Nubeo, will be introducing the Black Mamba collection, at Baselworld 2009, which begins on Thursday March 26th. They have recruited one of the best basketball players in the world, Kobe Bryant, to promote this new collection. The Nubeo Black Mamba collection's main draw, other than being backed by one of the NBA's best, is its 131 component case. The Black Mamba features a 48 mm case made of titanium treated with DLC. The bezel is ceramic. Rubber is used on the crowns, pushers and strap. Water-resistance is 100 meters. And it will be available starting at $25,000.

Top 10 Golden Cities for studying in the United States

2009-03-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

The United States is a dream country for studying for many students. And for some students, they even only recognize American’s Universities and will not go to other countries for studying. And people in USA even pick the top 10 students’ favorite cities for studying abroad. In these cities, there are not only a large number of famous universities, but also beautiful sceneries, special humanities and international metropolises. They are:

I. Boston

It lies at the back of the mountain and faces the sea and has an amazing geography location, Boston has the highest college and university density in the world, and also the location of many famous research institutions, Harvard University and MIT. It is just like a magnet attracting students from all over the world to study in her cradle.Boston has been very popular with students from Western Europe, and it is also the city owning most foreign students in the USA. The ultimate purpose for most students studying in language schools is to get a degree, but for many other students, they just want to experience the atmosphere of the city.

II. Chicago

Chicago lies at Illinois and near to the bank of Lake Michigan, which is a place full of culture and recreation atmosphere. Chicago has delicious food, wonderful nightlife; meanwhile the students can enjoy a wonderful tour to Lake Michigan. And you can also go to visit the famous gallery, special Posh Boutique and global well known museum by convenient electrical buses.

Chicago is one of the most multi-cultural cities in USA and around the world. There are minority groups speaking more than 50 languages here. You will see how rich the multi-cultures are just through the large number of parades and celebration activities hold by each group in the whole year. Chicago’s economy does not rely on heavy industries such as steel industry or meat industry any more, but rely on the communication, information industry, finance industry, trade and the academic R&D which have been developed.

III. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is one hour drive away from Miami, having the unique Palm Beach, since the water channels are crossed, so it is also well know for “American’s Venice”. There are water channel, lakes and rivers in the center of the city, and a 12 km long white beach with palm trees. The blue sea water is from the warm and clean Atlantic.

Fort Lauderdale locates at the center of Florida, having miles of beautiful beach, water sports and relaxing living style and the world famous nightlife. It is the Americans’ most favorite holiday destination. Each spring there are a lot of American students coming here to have their holidays. In addition, the American biggest natural park and the only subtropical preservation zone in North American- Everglades National Park is around the city, so there are some natural scenery zones nearby. Furthermore, the students can also have a good time in Disneyland and the global cinema.

IV. San Francisco

San Francisco consists of many areas, and each area represents one aspect of this multi-cultural city. You can ask anyone in San Francisco for his or her view towards this city, he or she will tell you how wonderful the city is. And as long as you go and visit the city once, you will find that they are telling you the truth. San Francisco is a special, friendly and beautiful international city. People from all over the world live, work and study in the city.

San Francisco is the most beautiful city in the USA. The city lies in a narrow and long peninsula, along the city are the rugged coastline and peaceful bay and modern buildings, the two-store buildings built on the cliffy hills and the thriving markets and shopping center.

V. Los Angeles

Among the famous cities in the world, Los Angeles of CA in the west bank of USA is the pronoun of the real American experience. Apart from the synonym of thriving Hollywood and Beverly Hills which emits the fashionable glimmers, Los Angeles is also the home of many movie and TV stars.

Los Angeles occupies an area of 1,200 sqkm, and has a population of 9.90million, which is the third biggest city in USA. There are many specialties around the city: Beverly Hills is the home of stars, many fashionable shops; Hollywood is famous of its film industry; the West Hollywood is the most entertainment place in the city, including Sunset Strip and Sunset Plaza, and top class Posh Boutique and restaurants. In addition, the West Hollywood village which is famous for Spanish style buildings and luxury boutique also locates here.

VI Miami

Miami is in the south of Florida, a little far away from other states but quite near to Bahamas. There are a lot of Spanish in Miami, so you can easily feel Latin styles of the city. Miami is a multi-cultural city, attracting people from all over the world. The people in Miami are easy to get along with, and they have a relaxing life. Students have a large number of chances to speak English.

VII. New York

New York is the most famous city in the world, so students will choose to come here to study languages. It is a very international city, gathering cultures of America, Europe, Asia and Latin America. Students can experience the cultures of all over the world here and cultivate a good world view. For many people, before they come to New York, they have had a lot of expectations, because this city can offer you all sorts of activities. The Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, endless museum are the famous landmark of the city. And many students also think that it is a heaven to do shopping. There are a lot of shops in the Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue and Greenwich village, which can satisfy your desire of shopping.
You have a lot of chances to get high education in New York, there are a lot of universities and colleges here. Many students come here for improving their languages abilities at the first place but later they choose to study in schools here.

VIII San Diego

For each visit to San Diego, the students will be fasniated by the beautiful sceneries, relaxing life and other things in this city, and it is a place worth visiting.

San Diego locates at the south bottom of USA, close to the boundary of Mexico. Many people come here to have their holidays. The weather in San Diego is warm for the whole year, and it is also not far away from beach, mountains and deserts. The comfortable climate and nearing to the beach make the water sports in this city so popular. Surfing, visiting whale, swimming and sailing are the most popular activities. Apart from the water sports, students can also visit mountains and deserts as their after school activities. Students can play golf, ski, boat and ride a bicycle among the hills and even drive a jeep to explore in the desert. It is very convenient from San Diego to Mexico, Disneyland, Hollywood, Las Vegas and Grand Canyon.

IX .Seattle

Seattle is the business and culture capital of Washington D.C, locating along the Puget Sound with nice views. The good geography location makes it easy to explore the nearby areas. For example, it is very convenient from Seattle to Victoria or Vancouver of Canada. Seattle is also near to the Safeco Field.

Other places worth of mentioning include Olympic National Park and volcano. The last eruption of Mount St Helen was in 1980. At present, there are still movements inside the volcano. On the other hand. although the international big companies such as Microsoft and Boeing bring great wealth to this city, the local people still live a relaxing life and there are many chances for shopping here. Students like to visit Pike Place Marke.

X. Washington D.C

The American capital Washington D.C is named after the first President of USA-George Washington. Washington is designed by the French architect major Charles in 1791, and it is the first capital which was built after planning and designing.

If you want to have an overview of the politics of this country, then the Columbia special zone of this capital city is an ideal place to study. Many national landmarks here are also one of the most popular tourism destinations in USA.

Brad Pitt’s hairstyle and clothes, more and more popular!

2009-03-26T21:01:00.000-07:00

Brad Pitt has golden hair and clear eyes, always with attractive smiles and it is an absolute mac daddy in the film world. Today, he has changed into a hot and charming man from a sexy idol who is top box office draw. And his styles is worth noting, let us have a look.

Keyword: Suit, white shirts, watch

Comment: in 1991, Brad Pitt became famous in the female film” Thelma & Louise”, from then on, his refulgence in the film world just can not be resisted and he has created a lot of wonders. Look at his dress: deep gray suit, simple designed white shirt, matching with the nice look short hair, with a big golden watch on the wrist, really show the strong and dignity. He is hard not to become famous just with such a dress.

Keyword: T-shirt

Comment: Brad Pitt is so handsome. It is said that when he shoots a scene, he hopes the audience more care about his acting than his appearance and also less care about his gossip. Just look at this pic, we know that there is enough reason to say that. The lovely T-shirt with letters’ pattern and a small heart, without any strange accessories, the only thing which attracts your attention is his charming eyes. It is not often to see such a relaxing and low-pitched dress for Pitt, but the effect from which is also unique.

Keyword: black suit

Comment: women are a necessary topic when talking about Pitt’s life, especially his relationship with Jennifer Aniston. Although they have separated, you can see this handsome man’s sweet love from the dress. Pitt and Jennifer Aniston both showed up on the rep carpet with sexy black and white evening wear. As time goes by, Pitt’s dress becomes more and more stable. It is still a gentlemen manner to choose black suit, and the short hair makes him look more vigorous. This real handsome man starts to show his taste.

Keyword: black evening suit satin tie

Comment: another important woman in Brad Pitt’s life- Angelina Jolie. She is the best partner to Pitt at the moment, and look Pitt, who seems to reach the peak of his life, still wears the classical black suit, matching the simple designed white shirt, and the improved long satin tie and the lapel of black satin reflects each other. Who says you will get old as time goes by? Learn how to dress from Pitt, old but strong, and handsome.

Keyword: cream-colored suit, hat

Comment: this is Pitt’s dress when participating 65th Venice International Film Festival, and it is really a very successful dress. Cream-colored suit, matching with the same color hat, showing the relaxation and elegance. The light color suit reduces the heaviness of black, and it also suits Pitt’s mood at that moment. The dress includes many things and his costume is interpreting all of this. He is a successful actor, a father of several children. Of course, what is more important is that he is still the classical and old handsome Brad Pitt.

Everyone loves Bond’s cars

2009-03-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

As the modern Royal cavalier, James Bond absolutely needs a noble and elegant car which can match with him. From the beginning “Dr. No.” to today’s “Quantum of Solace”, 007 never makes us disappointed.

Aston Martin DB5

The God’s Choice

The “Goldfinger” indicates the coming of “Bond’s Trend”: Beautiful women, dream scenery, the evil badass and extraordinary weapon and racing cars…all of these should owe to props director Ken Adam, he decides to choose Aston Martin DB5 as the modern luxury Chariot on the land for 007.as a favor racing car lover, Adam has been always pursuing a feeling which surpasses the realism, so we see the classical ejection seat, and this car also becomes one of the symbols to the Bond’s legend. To Aston Martin, this is absolutely a business victory. Although originally the company suspected about this cooperation, 007 made them famous overnight and make hundreds of thousands of dollars. In the shiny history of DB5, various derivative products are also included, such as the same model produced by Corgi sold out exceeds 20million sets, creating a record in the toy sales history! Now, Aston DB5 has become the “small” Aston V8
Vantage, it is believed it will also be very popular.

Toyota 2000 GT Cabriolet

Less is more

The big success of “Goldfinger” and “Thunderball” makes most of manufactures pay attention to the golden egg-007 and they start to find a chance for cooperation. So when “You Only Live Twice” was confirmed to be filmed in Japan, Toyota started to step into the film . so we see a rare open 2000GT, and it became the Japanese Bond lady Aki’s car. With the closed circuit television on the car(absolutely fashion in 1967), the 2000GT became the pursuing goal of the media, greatly improving the reputation of Toyota. Now, the stunning Nissan GTR is just as the modern chariot for 007, the only difference is that it has a real top roof.

Alpine Sunbeam Series 5

To be the No. 1

In the 1st episode of Dr. No, James Bond did not have his own car. So when he went to Jamaica to perform the task, he only rent an Alpine Sunbeam to spy the enemy. To the tall Connery, this little open car seems too small, and it seems to be more suitable for those playboys with Ray-Ban sunglasses. Choosing this car also prove that the character construction was in a period of exploring, which was not mature as later. Today’s Mazda MX5 is just like the Sunbeam at
that time, it inherits the racing car spirit of 1960s, but also fully of pizzazz and relax.

Bentley Mark IVFaithful to the original work

“From Russia with Love” is the most faithful film to the original work. At the beginning of the film, a Bentley appeared. Fleming, who loves Bentley, arranged the passenger Bond for it, but this decision made the Bond in the original work become a conservative person. As in 1963, the refulgence of Bentley after the Second World War faded, just like the old nobles in front of Beatles and Spoutnik. In 2008, the original Great Britain’s endless halo recurred through the new launch of Bentley-Continental GTC.

1968 Aston Martin DBSFull of nobility

After Sean Connery left 007, the dramatists decided to build a BOND who was more closed to life and easier to get along with for the new film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. So, the Australian man George Lazenby controlled the steering wheel of Aston Martin DBS as 007 , which was the only time in his life. Although there is no secret weapon in the car, it still attracts enough attention. The DBS, which was updated to DB6 in 1969, used to be the car of the elegant noble Brett Sinclair

in “The Persuaders”, and it becomes more and more popular with the hot play of the TV series. In 2008, Maserati GranTurismo becomes the most close car to the DBS’s noble elegance in this time.

Ford Mustang Mach 1

Absolute wildnessWith the appearance of the Bond with false hair, the vintage Conney in the “Diamonds Are Forever”(1971) did not get the success as expected.

Citroen 2CV

As Fiat has done with the 500 and VW with the Beetle, Citroen has followed the current trend for reinventing classic models. By cashing in on the charm of the original 2CV, the French firm is set to launch into uncharted territory - going up against prestige models such as BMW's MINI. With the same curved bonnet, slab sides and covered rear wheels, it looks just like the original 2CV, which first appeared in 1948. Under the skin, the 2CV is likely to use platform architecture from the C3 supermini and C4 hatch, featuring a front-wheel-drive layout and a comfortable
driving experience.The new model will be positioned above the C3 in Citroen's range, and will carry a premium price. Although the firm is tight-lipped about production, our sources indicate that a concept version could appear in 2009.

Lotus Esprit Series 1

The Spy Who Loved Me was the tenth film in the James Bond franchise and the third to star Roger Moore as British secret agent 007. It was also the first official Bond picture not to be produced by the original Saltzman-Broccoli partnership, Harry Saltzman having sold his share of Eon Productions to United Artists in 1975. The typically farfetched plot centred around megalomaniac Karl Stromberg who, with missiles captured from American and Russian submarines, planned to wipe out mankind from the surface of the Earth. Stromberg (played by Curt Jurgens) would then revert to his new undersea kingdom where he would be
the supreme ruler. Since the Toyota Roadster of 1967’s You Only Live Twice, the next ten years had seen a surprising lack of feature-packed Bond cars, George Lazenby making just a brief foray with an Aston Martin DBS in On Her Majesty's Secret Service which was followed by some spirited two wheeled driving in a rented Ford Mustang during Connery’s swansong in Diamonds Are Forever. For 1977’s epic release though, Bond would be getting his hands on undoubtedly the most spectacular machine yet to emerge from Q Branch. It was decided that Lotus’s new Esprit would be the most appropriate set of wheels for 007 and just like Connery was inextricably linked to his Aston Martin DB5, Roger Moore and the Esprit would become an era defining partnership. A pair of complete Series 1 Esprit’s were loaned to producer Albert ‘Cubby’ Broccoli, one of these being used as a camera car. Additionally there were a number of waterproofed examples built in various configurations for the scenes where the Lotus would be required to operate under the sea. Indeed, the Esprit used in The Spy Who Loved Me was unique in the Bond series as it could be used both on land and underwater. Three types of vehicles were built for the aquatic scenes, a waterproofed Esprit able to drive into and out of the water, one that could transform from car to submarine and another that was essentially a wet submarine with an Esprit body.

BMW Z3-BMW7 Series-BMW Z8

The World Is Not Enough (1999) Q decided that Bond would do very well with another BMW car and provided him with a Z8 loaded with all the standard Q requirements such as a bullet-proof body, weapons strategically hidden all over the car, a remote control that this time came in the form of the keychain, a tracking system, a listening device, etc. In our world, the Z8 is indeed a top-caliber car. With neon exterior lighting, multifunction controls, a dashboard that canted downwards to provide the driver an unobstructed view of the road, etc., the Z8 was definitely groomed to be an instant classic from the very start.

Barack Obama and His TAG-Heuer

2009-03-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

A careful examination of the available photographs suggests that Barack Obama wore a TAG-Heuer Series 1500 Two-Tone Divers watch, from the early or mid-1990's until late 2007. Over this period, this seems to have been his "daily wearer", the one and only watch that he wore over this period of 10 or 15 years.

Of the thousands of photos of Senator Obama that we find on the internet, from Google to Flickr to Getty, the following are some favorite photos that capture the spirit of Senator Obama and his watch. You can click on any of these images, to see a close-up photo of the watch.

In addition to these favorites, here are some "quickies" . . . photos showing Barack Obama, on the campaign trail, with his trusty TAG-Heuer, all along the way.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009, was President Obama's first full day on the job. During the day, he signed his first act as President, a proclamation declaring a national day of renewal and reconciliation and calling on Americans to serve one another. [Click on the image below, for a closer look at the watch.

In subsequent days, with each signing of additional executive orders, members of the public saw President Obamas "Secret Service" chronograph, and asked the question: "Which watch is Obama wearing?"

Roger Federer rolex commercial

2009-03-14T01:18:00.000-07:00

Similarity between Federer and Rolex: they are both the champion in their own feilds.

How to judge a Rolex?

2009-03-14T01:09:00.001-07:00

Rolex? Omega.

2009-03-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

1996 - Omega Watch Ad - 007 - Pierce Brosnan / James Bond

2009-03-14T00:56:00.000-07:00

Harry Winston Z1-Z5

2009-03-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

Harry Winston Rare Timepieces has consistently demonstrated a taste for challenges and devoted its energies to applying its philosophy – “nothing but the exceptional” – to each of its watches. In 2004, the brand once again set itself the challenge of creating an original and limited watch representing a bridge between heritage and modernity, in a subtle blend of sport and high-tech. This principle gave rise to the Project Z1, featuring a design and a material – Zalium, unknown to date in Haute Horlogerie – that represent a first step towards the Harry Winston timepieces of tomorrow.

Harry Winston Z1

The first Project Z1, introduced no less than three world firsts: its material, zalium, used exclusively in the aerospace industry and patented by Ronald Winston himself; its self-winding chronograph movement with off-centred triple retrograde display; and its resolutely novel case on which the famous arches – a tribute to the frontispiece of the Harry Winston Salon in New York and serving as bracelet attachments on all other models – have been moved to 3 o’clock to serve as a crown guard. An elegant, sporty watch that is both slender and powerful, the Project Z1 was already entirely in keeping with the Harry Winston spirit.

Harry Winston Z2

Thus launched, the concept was enriched in 2005 with a second complicated timepiece with a decidedly sporting character. The Project Z2 is the world’s first Zalium chronograph to be specifically designed for diving. Combining Zalium (for the case, lugs and back), platinum, a noble material cherished by the House (for the unidirectional bezel) and rubber (for the strap), the Project Z2 is a watch based on contrasts that is paradoxically also a study in harmony.

Harry Winston Z3

Providing eloquent proof that strong concepts give rise to excellent variations on a theme, the Project Z3 is a fascinating new addition to the range of expression of the concept. A real innovation available in two versions– the Vintage Spirit and the Sports Spirit – both housing an automatic tourbillon movement with hour/minute display offset at 12 o’clock, developed by Peter Speake-Marin. Based on the shores of Lac Léman, this youthful British master-watchmaker has already cooperated with Harry Winston, most notably in developing the Excenter Tourbillon (mechanical hand wounding). A specialist of complicated movements, he is known for his expertise and his flair for finishing details.

Harry Winston Z4

Designed to let you ease your way through time zones and appear in the boardroom after a dip in the ocean, the self-winding Z4 is a watch that minds its own business and minds it well.
Harry Winston’s ideal traveller’s watch is the fourth in the Project Zalium series, launched by Ronald Winston in 2004 as “watches of finesse and force.”
The 44mm case accommodates two separate hour-and-minute dials for your business and leisure time. The associated graphic displays of daytime and nighttime, for each time zone, reveal, at a glance, when to place calls around the globe.
By pressing the repeater-style trigger on the left side of the case, you can click from one time zone to the next.
The easy-to-read date, quick-set by the crown, is framed vertically in the interplay of discs for the minute display and hour.
Completing the indicators is the tiny rotating shuriken symbol — a multi-bladed throwing weapon, a feature of all Project Z watches — which shows that the movement is functioning normally.
The sophisticated time-zone module was constructed in-house by Harry Winston on a robust, self-winding calibre.
Blue on carbon black or white on anthracite grey balance clarity and discretion on four levels of the dial.
Zalium is the hard, light, zirconium alloy of which Z watches are crafted. Developed for use in jet engines, its hypo-allergenic properties and extreme resistance to corrosion make it ideally suited for watchcases. Its hue is a matte battleship grey with a celestial lustre and a dark, sophistcated gleam. The case has mobile lugs for comfort on the wrist, and those “in the know” will recognise Harry Winston’s emblematic motif protecting the crown.
Harry Winston is producing a limited edition of 300 Z4 watches. As an embodiment of Harry Winston’s promise to deliver “nothing but the exceptional,” this elegant and beautifully crafted watch is well-deserving of its place among the Project Z models.

Harry Winston Z5

Harry Winston have released a new watch as part of their Z line of dual time watches. The Z5 features a self winding tourbillon movement which is visible at the six o’clock position and a jumping display containing the names of 24 worldwide cities corresponding to each of the 24 time zones which is changed by turning the crown. The Zalium case is identical to that of the Z4 as is the rubber strap.

The Rolex Milsub

2009-03-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

The Rolex “special deliveries” are very appreciated by collectors because of their rarity of course, but also because they are the ultimate expression of the concept of toolwatch, which has made Rolex famous. Some of these watches have the usual features of the “ordinary” models and some other have specific details that make them look even sexier to the eye of the connoisseur. The milsub belongs to this category and the happy few collectors who own one of these watches usually consider them as a keeper in their Rolex sportswatches collection.

In the 1970’s, about 1200 Rolex Submariner were made especially for the Royal Navy under the references 5513, 5517 or the double reference 5513/5517. These military Submariners – nicknamed milsubs by the collectors - have the following specificities:
- There is a "T" in a circle above the depth markings, to indicate the presence of tritium in the markers. This feature is shared by other watches issued to the Royal Navy, such as the Omega Seamaster 300. The dials used on the milsubs are all similar except for a small batch of dials with larger markers and a slightly different coronet.
- The hands are specific for this model and are often referred to as "sword" hands (ref. 5513 was also issued with Mercedes hands). Again, this type of hands has also been used on the Omega Seamaster 300 delivered to the Royal Navy.
- The bezel is a standard production, but in some cases (always on ref. 5517 and sometimes on ref. 5513) the insert has minute markings around the whole insert.

- The case spring bars are fixed to fit a NATO strap only.

- The case-back has a MOD (Ministery of Defense) part number engraved, which starts with 0552 or with W10, a triangle with a hat on top and below an issue number and year. The milsubs have been delivered to the MOD in well know batches and their serial numbers correspond to their issue number. The caseback numbers are quite different depending of the delivery and the serial number is also engraved inside the caseback.

There were several configurations of mil subs that are considered correct and original depending on the age and batch.
- The 5513 milsub has been delivered with either sword hands or mercedes hands from new
- The 5513 milsub came with either full 60 minute bezel insert or 15 min bezel insert from new.
- The 5517 milsub was delievered only with sword hands and full 60 minute bezel.
Some milsubs have had their dials repainted by the MOD watchmakers in a very unusual fashion: the resulting dial has a very unorthodox “explorer” display (with 3-6-9 numbers), a huge coronet and an outer chapter ring.

The new Breitling Navitimer "125e Anniversaire"

2009-03-05T00:12:00.000-08:00

To celebrate its 125th anniversary, Breitling is reaffirming its passion for chronographs more powerfully than ever, by reminding people of the key role the brand has played in developing this type of instruments.

But the history of Breitling is also closely intertwined with that of aviation, thanks to the cockpit instruments and pilots’ chronographs that have made the company the "official supplier to world aviation".

The most famous of these instruments for professionals is undoubtedly the legendary Navitimer chronograph, with its circular slide rule designed to compute all airborne navigation calculations.

The Navitimer "125e Anniversaire" is a highly distinctive version of this cult-object, specially designed by Breitling to mark the company’s five quarter-centuries.

This limited edition of 2,009 pieces is distinguished by a particularly understated and dynamic aesthetic.

The steel case featuring alternating satin-brushed and polished surfaces is teamed with a highly original new bracelet called Air Racer – a rigid perforated wristband that pays tribute to a 1960s modern design icon.

The Navitimer "125e Anniversaire" is equipped with an exclusive movement, Breitling Caliber 26.

This selfwinding 38-jewel chronograph, chronometer-certified by the COSC, is distinguished by its 60-minute totalizer, positioned in the dial center for optimal readability.

The watch is also available in a red gold version, likewise fitted with the Air Racer bracelet.

Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands

2009-03-04T22:40:00.000-08:00

Galapagos Islands is needing help. IWC has promised to give a big donation to Charles Darwin Foundation since 2009, which is also the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth. Meanwhile, the ocean chronograph Galapagos Islands, which is the result of the continuous development in Submariner series, becomes the appealing, practical and full of sports feeling for this cooperation plan: the black is just like the lava of volcano islands formed from the bottom of the sea, the white is just like the clouds which are floating above the volcano islands. And the big turtle embossment surrounding the back cover is “Tribute to the Charles Darwin Foundation – Galapagos Islands”, reprensenting Charles Darwin Foundation and Galapagos Islands.

Referring to volcano, the special black rubber plating of the Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands is made through complicated sulfuration process, making the case with a 44mm diameter have a different vision and touching experience. Each case is pressured and heated in special made mold, melting with this warm and anti collision and skidproof material. The strap is also made by similar black rubber.

Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands Ref. 3767, stainless steel case with special painted sulfuration rubber, 44mm diameter, equipped with new developed rotary outer bezel, 79320 mechanical chronograph movement, 44 hours power reserve, day and date displays. New bracelet speedy replacement system, back cover surrounded by big turtle embossment.

The Aquatimer Chronograph, equipped with the new developed rotary submariner outer bezel with minute as marker and can only be adjusted in counterclockwise direction, has a significant change. Compared with the rotary inner bezel which can be adjusted by crown, the anti-slip outer bezel has two advantages: it can be operated very easily before getting into the water with gloves on.

It also highlight the lightness of this important diving setting(together with
minutes hand). The rotary outer bezel is a new design, will become an important structural spare part of each Aquatimer Chronograph. The measurement marker dial includes the 4mm wide sapphire crystal glass, and closely embedded in the surface of the outer bezel. There is thick Super-LumiNova® nightlight pvd on the bottom of the sapphire glass circle, even without lightening, lights can still come out through the sapphire glass circle or numbers markers. This evolved innovative design can increase the security when diving.

The second advantage: the innovative bracelet speedy replacement system. As long as you release the mechanical lock setting of the pin, you can remove and replace the bracelet or strap without using other tools. The speedy replacement only needs several seconds. The rubber strap can be replaced by ouch style extended strap so that it can be worn outside the diving clothes. The Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos has anti-pressure function and can endure a
pressure of 12bar. When it is full winding the power reserve can reach 44 hours and the accumulated recording time can reach 12 hours. The numbers on the dial and the rotary bezel are still a strong comparison with black and white. Only the small seconds hand is yellow, which is the hand to check the function.

Bvlgari 125th Anniversary Sotirio Bulgari and The Bulgari-Bulgari Moon Phase watch

2009-02-26T01:33:00.000-08:00

Bvlgari 125th Anniversary Sotirio Bulgari

Bvlgari is 125 years old and is celebrating with a limited edition of 125 watches in honor of the brand's founder, Sotirio Bulgari. Honestly, I can never figure out when to use a "v" or "u" in the brand's name, as they themselves seem to go back and forth.

This Sotirio Bulgari watch comes in gold (either pink, yellow, or white) in a 42mm sized case. It is a stunning design when you first behold it, with elements both classic and contemporary. Most notable are the broad lugs that prominently spread outward. As an homage to tradition as well as pocket watches, the rear of the watch case opens with a view into the movement (covered by a sapphire crystal).

The unique argente dial is completely made by Bvlgari with hand applied markers and partial skeletonization. The hands, in gold, are faceted for an excellent look. Being an important watch for the company, the BVL 250 automatic mechanical movement is highly decorated with a number of polishes and finishes, as well as engravings on gold rotor. It is also a thin movement at about 3.73mm thick.

With an alligator strap and an important name to live up to, this 125th anniversary watch from Bvlgari utilizes every luxury treatment the distinguished brand is known to offer in terms of quality and presentation. It is something that needs to be experienced in person to fully admire. Look for them in select Bvlgari boutique stores worldwide.

The Bulgari-Bulgari Moon Phase watch

The famous "Bulgari-Bulgari" watch collection has been joined by a new luxurious timepiece for ladies - the Bulgari-Bulgari Moon Phase watch.

Naturally, the new watch proudly demonstrates the distinctive double signature on the bezel. The magnificent watch has united diamonds, mother of pearl and a remarkable watchmaking complication.

The polished stainless steel case of the Bulgari watch measures 38mm in diameter. The timepiece is 30-meter water-resistant.

The zest of the stylish watch is a rotating indicator depicting the phases of the moon. The complicated feature is presented against a wave-pattern guilloche central part of the mother-of-pearl dial. The moon phase display advances in tiny increments during the month reflecting the movement of the Moon.

You glance will also be immediately caught by a majestic crescent paved with round brilliant diamonds. The subsidiary seconds are displayed via a sub-dial positioned at 6 o'clock. The face of the watch is protected by a flat sapphire crystal.

The Moon Phase watch accommodates the self-winding mechanical B77 movement adorned with applied Cote-de-Geneve and perlage polish decorations. The movement gives an advantage of a 42-hour power reserve.

The Bulgari Bulgari-Bulgari Moon Phase watch embraces the wrist with a white alligator leather strap fitted with a stainless steel folding clasp.

Divers in the darkness

2009-02-18T23:45:00.000-08:00

The weather is getting cool and the night is getting loner. It has become the past to adore the dazzling light. Now we have come to a time full of mysterious glimmers. The watches with black pearl light dials have become the secret divers in the winter.

White pearl is beautiful, but black pearl is even more beautiful. But what black represents? The dark pearl mother can change into blue, green and even purple: mysterious, noble and charming. It is a perfect match with the watch whose styles is just between decoration art and rock: such as New Avenue from Harry Winston. Avenue has become quite mature in design and been using quite a lot of dazzling elements after 18 years’ development. Harry Winston fully show its charm of the king of diamond through this model, which is from the creator of this New York company. The line diamond pattern on the interface between the bezel and strap is in sharp contrast with the ellipse diamond in the center of the dial: luxury and cool!

A pair of Söhne from A. Lange & Söhne have extended the tradition of hand-winding movement: Lange 1 and Cabaret are made up as a black girl and emit the charming light in the darkness, which absolutely represents the most senior watch making art. The diamond markings and red gold case and ray strap make these two watches win their own positions in the luxury jewelry, just like art atmosphere disclosed from Harry Winston’s New Avenue. From the watch making point of view, these two watches own all the technologies of A. Lange & Söhne. Both of them are equipped with hand made hand-winding movement, the round Lange 1 is matched with L901.4 movement and the Cabaret is with L931.4.

Admiral’s Cup Competition 40 of Corum is full of sports. Dark pearl dial is shining, the hexagon diamond is marked in the bezel. The minute markers design is just like the Aflutter colorful flags, which is also interspersed with diamond. CO-082 automatic movement is specially designed for 40mm diameter case. And it is waterresistant to 100m. Now the climate in southern hemisphere is quite comfortable and suits for sailing, matching with such a Admiral’s cup with white rubber strap will trigger people’s interest of going to doing water sports there in the winter.

Trends Time

2009-02-17T23:02:00.000-08:00

Grahm Chronofighter Oversize GMT Big Date

The Grahm Chronofighter Oversize GMT Big Date is made to as a great timekeeping companion to join exclusive collections of passionate watch connoisseurs or embellish the wrist of avant-garde design fans.

Drop a glance at the watch and you will immediately notice the one-of-a-kind 'left-hand drive' controls composed of a bold 'reset push-button' and extremely long 'start and stop' lever with six-sided screws. The watch features an eye-catching combination of colors-solemn black and enthusiastic orange.

The new Graham Chronofighter watch is also aimed at frequent travelers-it is provided with an easy-to-read GMT function. Moreover, the timepiece gives an advantage of a big date positioned at 12 o'clock and the signature Graham bi-compax chronograph functions.

The rugged, extremely masculilne case of the Graham watch is crafted in stainless steel case and measures 47mm in diameter. The case construction incorporates ergonomic lugs and a left-hand dual-security 9mm crown. The left-hand trigger-lever and reset push-button with a non-slip thumb grip are crafted in black PVD carbide on stainless steel, accentuating the British Racing Look. The watch is 100-meter water-resistant.

Arthur Junghans Attaché Kalender

Arthur Junghans series from Junghans has a new member: The Attaché Kalender with four features. White or black dial, equipped with steel or rose gold made hands and hour markers. This unadorned automatic has hands style date, week, month and month phase. the J800.2 movement with stripes decoration and screws is improved based on ETA 2824. The Attaché Kalender equipped with crocodile strap and fold-over clasp is sold at 1,590Euro.

Grand Tourbillon Perpetual

Arnold & Son launches a multi-functions luxury Grand Tourbillon Perpetual. tourbillon at 6 o'clock, month displays at 3 o'clock position and Day displays at 9 o'clock position. The date hands at 12 o'clock position will leap to the original position at the end of the month. Arnold & Son sets a sun time displays under the leaped date hands, which indicates the time difference between solar calendar and the local time. This Grand Tourbillon Perpetual is equipped wtih red gold or white gold of 45mm, each of them is limited to 10 pieces.

The Rose Gold Grand Tourbillon Perpetual is sold at 171,000Euro.

JeanRichard

The Bressel 1665 Automatic newly launched by JeanRichard is equipped with the self researched JR1000 movement, the case features in diameter of 42mm, thickness is 10.3mm, water resistant to 30m, and it is sold at RMB 43,800. the new Bressel Classic Grande Date has a 43mm case, and the movement uses self made JR 33 automatic movement, and it is sold at RMB 36,000.

FORTIS

Swiss Cosmonauts

B42-Official Cosmonauts Chronograph Alarm Titan belongs to Cosmonaut series, which is the third generation of Fortis, and it is limited to 300 pieces. It is equipped with the same self made F2001-5 movement as the previous Alarms and also first uses red minutes markers. Other fresh things are the buttons and the rubber protection jacket on the crown. The Titanium made case is 42mm in diameter, equipped with sapphire glass and water resistant to 200m you can observe the movement certified by COSC through the back.

BELL&ROSS
Professional diving instrument

To meet the needs of professional divers, the French brand Bell&Ross developed Instrument BR02-1000M, you can read time indicated by the hands and fluorescence scale. There is also fluorescence scale on the single direction rotary inner bezel. The diver set and adjust the diving time through the second crown at the 2 o’clock position. It is water resistant to 1,000m and the helium valve offers a perfect security guarantee. Instrument BR02 is powered by ETA 2892. This sports wine bucket shaped Bell & Ross has stainless steel version and black carbon version and the Pro Dial version with clearer markers.

U-BOAT
Strong fluorescence

In the U-Boat created by Italo Fontana, Thousands of Feet MB 1R has won a position in the famous big size automatic. The angular stainless steel case is covered by PVD painting and it is 50mm in diameter, which gives enough space for the ETA Unitas 6497 big size hand-winding movement. The case which is water resistant to 100m together with multi red fluorescence displays especially attract your vision. The dial setting design together with the left hand crown are both typical features of U-Boat. And the cowhide holes give people a strong feeling of sports. The starting sold price is 2,700Euro, making the Thousands of Feet MB 1R become the most expensive product in U-Boat.

HARRY WINSTON

Slight and rigid

The fourth member of Project zircon alloy is naturally named as Project Z4. this is a double timezone style: each timezone displays has their own hours hand and minutes hands and day and night displays. The left hand timezone can be adjusted by the left hand button and the adjustment unit is hour. The big date at 6 o’clock position is also very different，the two numbers are overlapped. The central star of the dial rotating means the watch is running. The movement of this Project Z4 is improved based on Girard-Perregaux automatic. The case is 44mm in diameter and made of slight and rigid zircon alloy.

BLANCPAIN

Leman Time Zone

Blancpain improves its time zone watch equipped with 5L60 movement. The new Leman Time Zone is 40mm in diameter and the hands follow the styles of submariner. The second time zone with hour and minute displays is at 12 o’clock position, and the day-night displays is at 9 o’clock position. The delicate movement with 100 hours power reserve can be seen through the back cover. Since the thickness of the movement is only 3.25mm, the whole thickness of the watch reaches an elegant thickness, which is only 11.4mm. the stainless steel version is sold at 9,770Euro.

Ferrari Granturismo GMT-Alarm

The Ferrari is subcontracted by Panerai, Granturismo GMT-Alarm of which is equipped with alarm setting. Different from warnings of the anti-theft alarm system, the crown below can adjust the hands with red sharp into the anticipated time. GMT-Alarm can also display the second time zone through the window. The automatic movement is AS 5008 which is improved based on La Joux-Perret. The inspiration of Granturismo is from Ferrari racing cars. The 45mm diameter case looks similar with the racing car.

Cartier brand new time concept

2009-02-15T22:41:00.000-08:00

The watches Cartier launched this year all have the Cartier splendid design styles, containing the special understanding of Cartier on time conception. The men watches launched this year all show the elegance of gentlemen and describe the life of keen fashionistas. The representative watches are: Santos Triple 100, Santos de Cartier , Roadster, Ballon Bleu De Cartier and Pasha Seatimer round diamond marking chronograph, which the ladies watches combine the noble characters of gentlewomen and the concept of pursuing innovative life. The representative watcehs are: Le Cirque Animalier de Cartier series and Cartier Libre series.

Santos Triple 100

Cartier first uses hollow-out movement and rotating three dials in Santos Triple 100. when rotating the crown, the inner setting 18K white gold movable prism will start at the same time. Under the movement of the small gear mechanism, the dial can change direction graudally and display three different pictures.it is Offered in a limited edition of 20 pieces and each one has an independent no..

Movement: Cartier 9610MC hand-wound hollow out
Case: 18K white gold, round diamond markings
Dial: 18K white gold, three dials
Strap: Black short crocodile strap, 18K adjustable three fold clasp
Diamond markings: About 7.6 Carats

Santos de Cartier

The size large case is a block of brushed pink gold and the bezel is matte black rubber. Bezel screws are matching pink gold screws, and this new Santos de Cartier should give the Audemars Piguet rose gold Royal Oak Offshore Rubberclad a run for its money. Cartier’s intention for this piece is to portray the Santos as one of strength and reinforced sportiness.

Movement: Cartier 049 automatic movement
Case: 18K rose gold brushed, matte black rubber 18K rose gold bezel, anti-scratch sapphire crystal glass
Dial: black matte dial
Strap: 18K rose gold screw connected black rubber strap, 18K rose gold needle style clasp
Water resistance: 100m

Roadster

The new Carter Roadster XL which incorporates walnut wood in both the dial and metal bracelet. Cartier chose the use of walnut wood from the inspiration of the Roadster car. Available in both pink gold and white gold, this new Cartier Roadster XL is more masculine IMO than prior versions and is perfect for the confident gentleman who wants a watch that is bold and makes a statement. Cartier launched 250 pieces limited rose gold with independent no. and 150 pieces white gold with independent no. only.

Movement: Cartier 3110 automatic movement
Case: 18K white gold case and bezel
Dial: walnut wood dial, uses metal marking wood then dealt with light painting
Strap: Roadster special strap change setting, the additional metal strap and deep brown semi-matte crocodile strap can be chosen randomly, with 18K white gold three fold clasp
Water resistance: 100m.

Panda decorated in Le Cirque Animalier de Cartier

the body of lovely panda is fully marked with sapphire and diamond, the delicate panda hands hold the black enamel dial, and there are also white bamboo and eucalypt leaves in the white enamel.

Movement: Quartz
Case: 18K white gold rhodium plate case, with round diamond markings
Dial: black and white enamel dial, 18K white gold rhodium plate panda, round diamond markings, black corundum and emerald（panda eyes）, part of details are described by black enamel
Diamond weight: 8 Carats
Strap: deep grey brush canvas strap, matching with 18K white gold rhodium plate diamond markings needle style clasp

Ballon bleu de Cartier Jewelry

There is another new member added into Balon bleu de Cartier series. The obvious satellite winding crown at the boundary of the dial, the arc sapphire crystal glass, simple and clean design, the whole semblance is mainly with roundness, which is quite generous. The latest bleu de Cartier has large, middle and small size.

Movement: 049 automatic movement
Case: 18K white gold rhodium plate case, with round diamond markings
Dial: silver painting
Strap: jewelry crocodile strap, with 18K white gold rhodium plate adjustable folded clasp
Diamond weight: 2 Carats

IWC Six legend styles Recurrence of 140 years’ brilliance

2009-02-15T22:15:00.000-08:00

Pilot, Portugese, Ingenieur, Aquachronograph , Da Vinci and Portofino are six legend styles of IWC since its birth. At the time of 140th anniversary. IWC Schaffhausen launches the vantage of these six watches, reshowing the charms of these old collections. Each version of these six watches all contain the original elements of each IWC watch nowadays.

Pilot hand-wound

As the first special watch for the still young, gruelling form of transport it already had almost all the important features on board. The modern interpretation of this mother of all IWC pilot’s watches has the dial of the original, increased in size to that of the 44 mm case, a small seconds hand and a bidirectional adjustable rotating ring with the luminous triangle fitted from the inside. This vintage is with 98300 calibre hand-wound pocket watch movement. large screw balance, Breguet balance spring. nickel-plated and decorative three quarter plate made from nickel silver and the elongated index for easier precision adjustment of the active length of the balance spring, Sapphire crystal glass, see-through back cover.

Portugese hand-wound

In 1939, as the first “wristwatch” it established the large size worn on the wrist that is very popular today. It was also the first to break the taboo of wearing a complete pocket-watch movement on one’s arm. The case (44 mm) with its fluted bezel and slightly pulled down strap lugs is in keeping with the original. The Vintage Portuguese does differ from the original in that it has antireflective, crossed out sapphire glass over the dial. It is powered by the 98295-calibre that is almost identical to the Vintage Pilot’s Watch movement: hand-wound, large screw balance, Breguet balance spring, nickel-plated silver three-quarter plate, pearled bridges decorated with Geneva stripes.

Ingenieur automatic

The Ingenieur Automatic of 1955: No watch has defined the “technical” profile of IWC quite like the Ingenieur, which was introduced in 1955 and which was the first watch to feature the IWC automatic movement developed by Albert Pellaton. With its pawl-winding system and the spring-mounted rotor, it has remained a benchmark for watch technology at the highest level – while retaining the ultimate degree of toughness.

This programmatic watch, which exemplifies the watchmaking engineering of the Schaffhausen manufacturer, launched IWC into the modern era. An icon of a quality consciousness handed down since 1868, it has remained in the product range under a number of guises.

In 1989, a legendary model, the Ingenieur 500,000 A/m, set a world record with its antimagnetic components for the resistance of a mechanical watch against the most extreme magnetic fields.

Half a century after its first appearance, IWC’s watchmaking icon was fundamentally revised. That which more than 50 years ago ensured toughness and reliability in the Ingenieur – first as the 8531 and later as the 8541 calibre – today finds its logical evolution in the IWC-manufactured 80110 and 80111 calibre. The Ingenieur Automatic is equipped with this unit, which also drives the “new” Ingenieur, presented in 2005.

The vintage watch features a 42.5-millimetre case and one of the most stylish Ingenieur dials – with the point-stroke indices (the luminescent material forms the point) and the dauphine-style hands. This model is today a collector’s rarity of the very highest order. The modern homage to this watch monument dispenses with the soft iron case of the original, thus affording an insight into the IWC-manufactured movement. With the antireflective, crossed out sapphire glass over the dial and the screw-in crown, the Vintage Ingenieur is water-resistant to 12 bar.

Aquatimer automatic

The Aquatimer Automatic of 1967: When IWC first took the plunge with its diver’s watches, only a few pioneers such as Jacques-Yves Cousteau or Hans Hass had discovered the beauty but also the vulnerability of the underwater world. But they helped to arouse people’s enthusiasm for these last paradises. For case makers in particular, manufacturing reliable watches for use under such extreme pressure conditions represented a challenge because when diving, the health or even the life of a diver depends on correct time management. IWC’s answer was the first Aquatimer in 1967. This too was the first member in a successful family lineage.

And some of its technical features, such as the rotating inner bezel which is operated using a second crown, are today a typical characteristic of all of the current range of diver’s watches from Schaffhausen. The Aquatimer Automatic in its 44-millimetre case is of course a diver’s watch designed for underwater use, equipped with the pressure barriers and sealing systems of the modern Aquatimer watches – with a screw-in main crown and the self-sealing crown developed at IWC to adjust the rotating bezel, which improves handling owing to the fact that it is not screwed in. The clear dial design corresponds to that of the first generation of Aquatimer watches right down to the details, yet is more readable thanks to its new size. The pressure resistance is tested to 12bar. With the 80111-calibre movement, the Vintage Aquatimer is superbly powered – it is the same movement that drives the Ingenieur. And this was ultimately also the case in 1967. The 8541-calibre automatic movement, the toughest of its kind at that time, powered both of these heavy-duty watches, namely the Ingenieur and the Aquatimer. However, unlike the historical model, the Vintage Aquatimer has a see-through back cover.

Da Vinci automatic

The Da Vinci Automatic of 1969: Some people see in it a design challenge, whilst others regard it as the ultimate expression of the avant-garde.

The first watch from IWC to be named after the Renaissance genius proved to be a sensation at its premiere appearance at the trade fair in Basle, and in terms of its movement technology at any rate it heralded a revolution. Equipped with the first series-produced Beta 21 quartz movement, which had been developed jointly by several renowned Swiss watch manufacturers, in 1969/1970 it set new standards at least as regards accuracy. It measured time ten times more precisely than a tested chronometer movement.

A contemporary witness with great recognizability, today it is almost an exemplar of modernity once more. But to equip the Da Vinci Automatic with a quartz movement would have contravened IWC’s principles and technical requirements. It too is equipped with the IWC-manufactured 80111-calibre automatic movement, with the tried-and-tested Pellaton winding mechanism.

Portofino Hand-Wound

The Portofino family, established in 1984, was modelled exactly on its shape, thereby following on in the old tradition of elegant, reliable utility watches from IWC, frequently with a gold case. It represented the “satisfaction in wearing a small piece of gold on one’s arm every day”, as it was put on the occasion of its launch.

In the Vintage Portofino, this “positioning flaw” is remedied by the choice of the 98800-calibre Savonette movement. And through this, the lunar phase and seconds displays finally end up at their traditional places, at “12.00” and “6.00”.

the display precision of the lunar phase has been increased considerably compared with Reference 5251, and now deviates from the actual lunar sequence by only one day in 122 years.

The lunar phase can moreover easily be corrected via the crown. The case size of 46 mm corresponds to that of the original. Antireflective, crossed out sapphire glass and sapphire glass back invite you to enjoy this magnificent new example of a typical IWC wrist pocket watch from all sides.

Panerai Luminor and Radiomir- perpetual theme

2009-02-15T19:47:00.000-08:00

Ten years ago, Panerai was first presented in SIHH, at that time, it only gave people an impression of an Italy brand which focused on watches for navies.
But today, Panerai has become a very famous brand who owns four self-produced movements and a series of professional submariner watches and chornographs.

This year, Panerai lauches another seven styles-Luminor GMT 44mm, Luminor Marina Automatic, Lumninor 1950 Tourbillon GMT 47mm titanium gold, Luninor Regatta Chronograph 44mm, Lumninor Chornograph 40mm, Lumninor 1950 Chrono Monopulsante titanium gold and Radiomir 47mm titanium gold.

Liminor GMT 44mm two time zones chronograph

The second time zone, COSC verification, high class water resistance, brushed and polished case, special crown, all of these are the most obvious characteristics of Luminor GMT 44mm two time zones chronograph. Apart from changing the diameter from 47mm to 44mm out of considering the practical function, the case of new Luminor basically copies the last generation. The case and bracelet both use brushed and polished technology, which has a good comparison effect and is beautiful.

Liminor GMT 44mm two time zones chronograph

Model no.: PAM 00297

Movement: Panerai OP VIII self-winding mechanical movement, COSO verification

Power reserve: 42 hours

Case: AISI 316 L brushed steel case, polished bezel, Panerai style crown

Dial: Black dial, nightlight Arabic numerals markers and hands, second time zone display, date display, 24hours display is in the outside circle

Bracelet: steel bracelet carved with PANERAI sign

Case size: diameter 44mm

Water resistant: 300m

Luminor Regatta Chronograph 44mm

Panerai classic regatta is an international race focused on classic yachts. Panerai will present a limited style each year just for this race. And the one for 2008 is Luminor Regatta Chronograph 44mm, and it is limited to 500 pieces. The rotary watch back is carved with posy and recorded the year of production and independent code.

Luminor Regatta Chronograph 44mm

Model no.: PAM00308

Movement: Panerai OP XXVI manual winding mechanical movement, COSO verification

Power Reserve: 46 hours

Case: AISI 316 L polished steel case, polished chronometer bezel, Panerai style crown. “Classic Yachts Challenge 2008” is carved on the back.
Dial: Black Paris nail texture dial, nightlight Arabic numerals makers and hands, double dial time keeping
Strap: the rubber strap is carved with PANERAI, XL polished steel clasp
Case size: diameter 44mm
Water resistant: 100m
Limited to 500 pieces

Luminor 1950 Crono Monopulsante titanium gold single button chronograph

Titanium alloy is a very light, solid and low sensitivity metal. Case made of this material is very good at durability. Luminor 1950 Crono Monopulsante
titanium gold single button chronograph is assembled with P.2004 movement, which is the first chronograph movement completely designed by Panerai, having 8 days power reserve and manual winding, with the second time zone display of day and night, accurate synchronous second hand return to zero setting, single button chronograph etc. the dial color is no longer the black as usual , which has been changed into elegant deep brown.

Luminor 1950 Crono Monopulsante titanium gold single button chronograph

Model no.: PAM00311

Movement: Panerai P. 2004 manual winding mechanical movement

Power reserve: 8 days

Case: brushed titanium gold case, polished bezel, sapphire transparent back, brushed titanium

Panerai style crown, chrono button at 8 o’clock position.

Dial: brown dial, nightlight Arabic numerals makers and hands, second time zone of day and night display, linear power reserve display, second hand return to zero, double dials single button chronoStrap: crocodile strap with PANERAI sign, XL brushed titanium gold clasp
Case size: diameter 44mm
Water resistance: 100m

Radiomir 47mm titanium gold watch

In the new Radiomir 47mm titanium gold watches of Special Editions Collection, a lot of elements related to watch research for Italian Navy at the end of 1930s can be discovered. The diameter of the case is 47mm cushion shaped design, water resistant to 100m, which have fully kept the aesthetics and size of the several previous generations of Radiomir. This style still uses flat face apex crown to wind the watch and adjust the hands. This rotary crown has the history sign of Panerai factory carved on it. In addition, the dial still uses a lot of interesting details of the previous Radiomir styles. The first detail is the small second dial at 9 o’clock position, quite similar with the 8-day watch produced at the beginning of 1940s, the second detail is the arrow circle which is around the markers, which simulates the helical line first used to fix the dial.
Radiomir 47mm titanium gold has two styles, one is with brown dial and the other is with black dial, not only the dial colors are different, but also the limited amount, the former one is limited to 50 pieces, and the latter one is limited to 100 pieces and each of them have independent serial no..

Radiomir 47mm titanium gold watch

Model no.:PAM00322Movement: Panerai OP XXVII manual winding mechanical movementPower reserve: 55 hoursCase: Brushed titanium gold, polished bezel, sapphire transparent backDial: Brown dial, rose gold circle. Nightlight Arabic numerals makers and handsStrap: brown crocodile strap carved by PANERAI, XL brushed titanium claspCase size: 44mmWater resistance:100m

Time Paradox

2009-02-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

Yuppies used to be the most famous popular cultural word. Yuppies is not just a non-sense expression, it has a special meaning, which is middle top class and young city players. In the so called concept of Yuppies, many details can not be neglected. If you want to be a member of this group, you even have to live based on a fixed material model.

Just like what Shawn Holley said in “Dictionary of 20th American Pop Culture”, you have to own a exquisite and elegant Rolex watch.
Rolex used to imply that five well-carved fingers have already changed into a crown.

The history structure before and after has had a subtle change, which resulted in a paradox: the Rolex Perpetual, which was an evidence of Yuppies culture, now has already replaced the significance of Yuppies. Now, it seems that the existence of Yuppies is the footnote of nowadays Rolex culture.

However, the history of Perpetual, which was launched by Rolex in 1929, is much longer than the Yuppies culture. Such self-winding watch, which powered by tourbillion, has not only already well-known when it was first launched as a precursor of self-winding watch, also brought a “self-winding” revolution to the whole watch making industry.

Although Yuppies culture has become the past, until today, we can still see all sorts of “Perpetual” dancing in the stage of Rolex.

Oyster Perpetual Deepsea

Never doubt its resistance to 3,900m. Rolex’s having the patent of RINGLOCK can make sure that the watch can endure the biggest pressure in the very deep sea, and you can adjust the length of the strap when needed through the double extension system-even if you plan to wear the watch outside the diving clothes, there will not be any problem.

The accurate RINGLOCK system, which Oyster Perpetual Deepsea owns, consist of three special items, which are stainless steel circle, blue crystal glass and the case back made of Titanium with high resistance. The arch shaped blue crystal glass used on Oyster perpetual deepsea is much thicker than the ones used on other styles. The arch design aims to take more pressure from mechanics point of view. The N alloy circle with well function which is set into the case can fix the case back very closely, so the quicksilver sea watch is just isolated.

The helium release valve is another special design of this watch, which is made of high quality stainless steel and closely connected with the case. The air getting into the watch during deepsea diving can be released from the watch when the diver reduce the pressure. The head with triple lock can be screwed down just like the doors of submariner, and it also lock three separated closed o rings tightly and stop watch and other things to get in.

This sea-dweller deepsea is also assembled single direction rotary outer ring and with a black 60 mins ring consisted of the word “CERACHROM”, making the divers can control the diving time accurately, while the numbers and scale are both carved on CERACHROM, which is filled in platinum through the PVD technology patented by Rolex. Meanwhile, due to the usage of a new luminous material which can emit blue light, therefore, the triangle zero indication on the outer scale can be seen for a longer time in the midnight or deepsea. For increasing the visibility, the same luminous material is also used on the hands.

Day-Date II

In 1956, Rolex presented the first watch which can completely show the date and day. Its launch triggered a hot reaction and attracted many top people’s attention. As the second generation of Day-Date, the Day-Date still keeps the perfect watchmaking technology which Rolex always pursues, and it is specially created for those elegant and creative men.

The Day-Date inherits the traditional characteristics of Oyster Perpetual Day-Date and fully shows the accurate watchmaking technology of Rolex.
There are 18ct gold, white gold, perpetual rose gold or platinum to choose, and it is water resistant to 100m.

The case diameter of Day-Date is 41mm and its movement uses PARCHROM hairspring which is highly anti-knocking and anti-magnetic and the new PARAFLEX knocking reducing setting, making the watch own accurate function and excellent reliability. To give prominence to its characteristics, the Day-Date II owns a face which is either modern or traditional, to suit beauty taste and can be also worn in different occasions.