The idea of creating a watch with a rotating internal bezel that could be operated by an external unit is not terribly new. However, it is this new Oris BC4 Flight Timer (Ref. 690 7615 41 54 LS) that the Swiss-based brand presented at Baselworld 2008 show that puts the whole concept on its head.
Omega Five Counter Speedmaster Olympic
Has it ever occurred to you that two counters are enough for a normal chronograph, that three is okay and even four is nothing but tolerable? Well, some people at Omega consider five counters just right for the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932. Positioned like the famous five Olympic Rings, but apparently not sized as evenly, the counters add a “days of the week” indicator and a 7-day chronograph display to the usual hours, minutes, and small second sub-dials. Meet the Omega Speedmaster Five Counter Olympic Beijing automatic chronograph!
Blancpain Speed Command Chronograph (5785F-11D03-63)
Here comes the big one. With its 45mm Speed Command Chronograph (ref. 5785F-11D03-63), Blancpain has introduced its sportiest model so far. Although the exterior defies the recent trend of making rugged-looking devices (inspired by real tools, they often come with lots of angles, lots of machine-brushed surfaces and feature deliberately rudimentary, even crude look to their components), the new Speed Command makes a strong impression thanks to its glossy black sapphire bezel and scratch-resistant body of the same color.
Chopard Mille Miglia: Finally in Scratch-Proof DLC
Chopard has unveiled the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Black (Ref. 168459-3008) chronometer back in January 2008. Visually, it differs from the previous iterations only with the color of its massive case. However, while the original GT XL Chrono featured an unremarkable stainless steel body, this one uses a relatively new (well, at least it is new for the watchmaking industry) technology that allows the case to maintain its finish for the virtually whole lifespan of the device. User discretion is advised, but it is one of the most durable coatings available at today’s level of technology.
DeWitt Academia Night Chronograph: Radiating Luminous Splendor
DeWitt delivers the stately Academia Night Chronograph (Ref. AC.6005.53.M255) in a massive 18-karat rose gold body of three different varieties inspired by long-gone days of the Golden Age that preceded the Great Depression of the 1930s. The collection’s main point of attraction is the unusual gear-shaped bezel that is matched by similarly styled sides of the massive case. Although to some the device may look a bit too extreme, it will find its share of customers even despite its obscenely high MSRP.
Code Orange: DOXA SUB 5000T Seaconqueror
The recently unveiled SUB 5000T Seaconqueror has been officially promoted to the flagship status. Featuring all the usual design traits from DOXA, the device is offered in a deliberately aggressive-looking design with lots of protruding parts that may make you hurt somebody if not used with care.