The annual watch-fest that is Baselworld once again lured the timepiece enthusiasts, horologists, journalists and just plain old watch fans in their thousands to the Messe Basel exhibition centre in Switzerland to be enchanted by the sparkle and dazzle of the latest models. DiscerningGent.com was there to take in the great and the glorious, in what was a celebration of craftsmanship and technical wizardry.
Time for the discerning gent to upgrade your timepiece? Just Maybe…
Zenith Deft Classic
Skeletal watches have been something of a trend of late, with numerous timepiece makers opting to add the ‘inner workings’ model to their portfolios. This watch – one that has the versatility to sit between a day and dress watch given its 41mm diameter – looks immense with its beautifully crafted visible dial. Made simply because Zenoth thought about those watch fans who don’t want the function of a chronograph, this contemporary design combines elegance and masculine style.
RRP £4,774 – Zenith
Breitling Superocean Héritage II Chronograph 44m
The new Superocean Héritage 44mm is quite some timepiece. At 44mm is has the hefty size and weight to feel like a proper man’s watch. Featuring a panda dial – another on-trend asset, this Superocean Héritage contains the in-house B01 calibre – and this particular finish with the rubber Milanese-style strap paired with that gorgeous black dial is simply beautiful.
RRP £6,050 – Breitling
Rolex GMT Master II in ‘Oystersteel’
The GMT Master II ‘Oystersteel’ in the famed ‘Pepsi’ design has long been a true Rolex classic for years. Previously known as the 904L steel, this timepiece with the cerachrom ‘Pepsi’ two colour bezel is now available with a jubilee bracelet. Fitted with the 3285 movement, this GMT will provide a power reserve of 70 hours – a 22 hour improvement on the previous model.
RRP £7,330 – Rolex
Omega Seamaster Diver in red gold and titanium
Omega launched the 25th anniversary of the Seamaster Diver this year with a brand new collection of metal line ups, with DiscerningGent.com’s pick being the mix of titanium tantalum and red gold. The dial features the wave effect of the original piece. The watch of choice for James Bond during 007 outings, this one features the grand chronometer movement and is available in October. Limited to just 2,500 pieces.
RRP £9,600 – Omega
Carl F Bucherer Manero Tourbillon Double Peripheral
Celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, such a milestone requires an equally special addition – and that’s exactly what Carl F Bucherer has done with this addition to its Manero collection. It’s taken five years to get here but the Double Peripheral has brought together its trademark peripherally mounted rotor with a floating Tourbillion – mounted on three invisible ceramic bearings to ensure accuracy. This beauty will be available in November.
RRP £52,800 – Carl F Bucherer