Inspired by the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore, the Baume & Mercier Riviera Magnum XXL (ref. 8835 aka MOA08835) is a relatively affordable piece of gadgetry for those not willing to spend a fortune on the real thing (or, as I think I need to add after meditating a minute or two on the subject sometime after this brief review was already published, it is not fair to use such a degrading combination of words as “a real thing” implying that this one is just a shameless ripoff: I think of it as more of an “homage” to the famous ROO, which is one of the best forms of flattery if you want my opinion.)
Swiss Brands
Corum Admiral’s Cup Challenge 44 Black Chronograph
Just like Hublot keeps exploiting its still financially successful Big Bang design, Corum keeps digging a vein of gold of its own. Offering the same easily recognizable design as the rest of the family, the new Admiral’s Cup Challenge 44 Black (ref. 753.691.93/F371 AN32) automatic chronograph follows the current trend of making watches that aren’t just bigger and bolder, but also can deliver your personal statement with a bit of arrogance.
Panerai Luminor 1950 8 Days Rattrapante PAM 319
First presented at SIHH 2009, the hand-wound Luminor 1950 8 Days Rattrapante split-seconds chronograph (Ref. PAM 319) is, perhaps, the best “affordable” offer in their whole model range refreshed earlier this year. Damn it! I am starting to fall in love with Panerai. Although the brand’s timepieces always seemed too visually unsophisticated and almost boring to me, now I see a certain rugged beauty in them.
Oris ProDiver 51mm Chronograph Diver in Titanium
The 2009 Oris ProDiver Chronograph (ref. 01 674 7630 7154-Set) is one of those intimidatingly large beasts that are supposed to be more than a luxury accessory for a successful person.
Breitling Airwolf Raven Special Edition chronograph
Originally introduced to the Professional line back in 2006, Breitling’s hi-tech Airwolf electronic chronograph with a digital-analog display is now available as the Airwolf Raven special-edition model.
Panerai Luminor Chrono Daylight Titanium Blue PAM 326
Earlier this year, Panerai has revealed its Luminor Chrono Daylight Titanium Blue Dial (PAM 326) collection.