swisswatch – Swiss Watch Makers

Introducing the Hand Wound Classima Capsule Edition by Baume & Mercier.

swisswatch — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 14:59:48 +0000

The Baume & Mercier Classima lives up to its name as a stunning dress watch, thanks to its sleek round case, spacious dials adorned with elegant numerals, and sophisticated leather straps. The newest addition to this collection, the Hand-Wound Classima Capsule Edition (MOA 10735), introduces a captivating skeletonized movement based on ETA 6498-1, featuring subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock. The watch comes to life beneath a blue sapphire crystal that covers the dial, showcasing the intricate mechanics and fine decorations in a mesmerizing blue hue. The exhibition case back further enhances the visual experience by providing a complete view of the movement.

The meticulously crafted stainless steel case boasts dimensions of 42.0 x 8.95mm and is paired with a fabric strap from Holland & Sherry that perfectly complements its color. The innovative spring bar system allows for easy interchangeability, offering the option to switch to a black alligator leather strap, which is conveniently included with the timepiece.

The Baume & Mercier Hand-Wound Classima Capsule Edition is priced at $3,950.

Rolex Oyster Case

swisswatch — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 17:07:13 +0000

The Rolex Oyster case is renowned for its innovation and historical significance in the world of wristwatches. Rolex’s reputation for respect and admiration stems from its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship. Among its many remarkable contributions to the watch industry, the Rolex Oyster case stands out. Introduced in 1926, this groundbreaking creation was the first waterproof and dust-proof watch case, marking a significant milestone. It not only transformed wristwatches from delicate accessories to durable men’s timepieces but also became a symbol of strength and water resistance. Today, the majority of Rolex watches proudly bear the name “Oyster” on their dials, a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable innovation.
The Rolex Oyster, introduced in 1926 as Ref. 679, was a significant achievement for both the brand and the watchmaking industry. It featured a completely sealed case, a winding crown, a cyclops lens, a fixed or rotating fluted bezel, a helium-escape valve for Sea-Dweller and Rolex Deepsea models, and the Chromalight display. Exploring the various components of the Rolex Oyster case will provide a deeper understanding of why it is considered one of the most significant inventions in watchmaking.
The Twinlock and Triplock winding crowns were introduced in 1953 and 1970 as patented features of the Oyster case. Their purpose was to enhance the water resistance of Rolex watches. These advancements solidified the reputation of Rolex timepieces for having highly effective waterproof cases.
The Twinlock winding crown features a double seal system (one inside the tube, one inside the crown), while the Triplock winding crown has an additional sealed zone (two inside the tube, one inside the crown). You can identify them by the number of dots or a line (one or two dots for Twinlock, three dots below the Rolex emblem for Triplock). These winding crowns, consisting of approximately 10 components, provide maximum watertight security, similar to a submarine’s hatch. They are available in Oystersteel, 18k gold, and 950 platinum options.

Rolex employs rigorous waterproofness testing for all Oyster cases, immersing each in water and applying pressures exceeding guaranteed depths by 10%, or 35% for diver watches, ensuring exceptional water resistance.

Holthinrichs ‘Deconstructed’: A Blend of Handcrafted Excellence and Innovative Design

swisswatch — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 16:44:04 +0000

Holthinrichs is a deluxe watch company from the Netherlands that began in 2016. They became well-known because they use 3D printing to make their watch cases out of metal. The founder, Michie Holthinrichs is an architect who loves watches. These watches are pretty unique since they combine modern technology with a traditional design. Their newest watch, ‘Deconstructed’, takes things to a new level. The name is based on a design process used for the watch. It draws inspiration from the architectural movement called ‘Deconstructivism’. In this approach, a structure is dismantled, and its individual parts are examined and reassembled in a new and unconventional way. For Holthinrichs, this process begins with the case made from grade 5 titanium, using advanced 3D metal binder jetting technology. This enables the creation of unique designs, such as the lugs that appear to be suspended in the air.

Holthinrichs believes in hand-finishing his watches, creating a contrast that is visually pleasing. The dial, composed of 25 components, is hand-assembled to achieve a balanced yet asymmetrical design. It is both readable and draws attention to its center. Holthinrichs reveals their first in-house movement, the caliber HW-M01, which took over six years to develop. This manual wind movement has a unique appearance as Holthinrichs creatively enhanced its inner dimensions, adding depth to both the front and back of the watch. The movement showcases an open-worked and hand-beveled main plate, a three-quarter bridge, a balance bridge with lasered frosted recess, and handmade anglage. The ‘Deconstructed’ combines high-techelements with a traditional approach, even featuring black polish on the screw heads and counter sinks.

In addition to its impressive features, Holthinrichs takes a unique approach by creating a bracelet from scratch, an uncommon practice for small brands. The remarkable craftsmanship and innovative wishbone release mechanism make it stand out. The ‘Deconstructed’ watch is also available with a rubber or alligator strap for those who prefer a more conventional option. Only 20 pieces will be produced in the initial run, priced at $38,000 USD.

Visit Holthinrichs for more information.