Is The SBGW231 The Best Grand Seiko Watch For Me?
If you've been following this series, you'll know that last week, Thomas spent some quality time with my Cartier Tank Solo. The week before, Lex spent some time getting to know RJ's Speedmaster ’57 Replica, and before that, Daan spent a week with Lex's Grand Seiko. This great watch exchange continues this week, and as Thomas borrowed my watch the week before, I figured I'd borrow one of his. Though I could have gone with any number of iconic classics, I couldn't pass up the chance of trying something slightly out of my comfort zone. So I picked a watch that I know has a lot of sentimental value to Thomas - a memento of the birth of his son - the Grand Seiko SBGW231. He was kind enough ...
The Top 5 Haute Horlogerie Timepieces Under $10,000
Another Friday, another Top 5! After two weeks with different travel watches, it’s time to move on to something different. This week, we will put the spotlight on some of the less obvious choices. But these are watches that deserve every bit of attention, I can assure you. We have selected five Haute Horlogerie timepieces that you can buy for $10,000 or less. These timepieces not only look stunning but also bring some wonderful complications for relatively affordable prices.In a world of over-stimulation of popular models from the likes of , Omega, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe, it’s easy to forget that there are so many more great brands and timepieces out there. And as a ...
Dubai Watch Week 2023: Everyone Is Welcome!
From November 16th to 20th, Dubai Watch Week will take place. This event hosted by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons exists to promote horology in the best way possible. Over 60 watch brands are participating this year, including , Audemars Piguet, Breitling, F.P.Journe, Czapek, Grand Seiko, H. Moser, Hublot, MB&F, Oris, Tudor, Trilobe, Ulysse Nardin, and many more. But besides watch brands exhibiting and introducing new watches in Dubai, there are also talks, panel discussions, and masterclasses to put watchmaking and horology in the spotlight.An event for everyoneWhat’s good about Dubai Watch Week is that it’s open to the public, unlike some of the other big shows where you still ne...
Introducing: Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC953
Around this time two years ago, Seiko introduced its first trio of Speedtimer Solar Chronograph models. The series combines vintage-inspired looks with modern technology at an affordable price, making it a tempting proposition that many watch enthusiasts embraced. Since then, the line has been slowly expanding with variations in different sizes and colorways. The newest member is a European Union-exclusive limited edition. The Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC953 comes with a dark red dial that perfectly matches the vibe of the previously released models. It’s time to check out the new Speedtimer SSC953!It’s been almost a year since I wrote about the previous EU-exclusive ...
Breguet Classique 5177 Vs. A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1
Last week, two dress-watch giants presented new versions of existing watches in their collections. First, A. Lange & Sohne showed us four new references of the Lange 1 to celebrate the model’s 30th anniversary. Then, Breguet presented us with a new platinum version of both the Classique 5177 and 7787. So, for this week’s Sunday Morning Showdown, we thought it would be a good idea to put the platinum A. Lange & Sohne Lange 1 and the platinum Breguet Classique 5177 up against each other.Both watches show the hours, minutes, running seconds, and the date. Each also comes with a glossy black dial and a hefty platinum case. However, apart from those similarities, there are mor...
Collector's phases
I will probably do a more in-depth essay on this for Fratellowatches in the future, but I just want to share the following about collector’s phases. One certain aspect to be a bit more specific, watches with the famous 5 characters on the dial, “” that is. I have found out that the brand gets an evil form of resistance by starting collectors or watchlovers who aren’t interested in the subject for too long. I have been there myself, buying Omega watches and other brands and spitting on for its image, pricing and lame bracelets and folding clasps. I really think it is a phase, first neglecting because you can get so much nicer pieces for that kind of money, even more,...
IWC Portuguese Tourbillon Hand-Wound
Me and Mr Jones…….we got a thing goin'onThe song, Me and Mrs. Jones, was a song originally performed by Billy Paul back in 1972. It alludes to the extramarital relationship between a man and his lover Mrs Jones.My relationship with F.A. Jones is more wholesome. Florentine Ariosto Jones was the American entrepreneur who founded the International Watch Company back in 1868. IWC have produced many beguiling timepieces since its inception.However, one that got away, was a limited edition hand-wound Portuguese F.A. Jones I saw a few years ago. The watch was available in different metals, but my favourite had a white dial and blued Breguet hands. It reminded me of my innocent youth as ...
Speedmaster Holy Grail For The Italian Market
Since we have the Speedy Tuesday feature here on Fratello Watches, we get to see quite a bit of Speedmasters every week. Once in a while, something really rare comes along. We already had the honour to feature an astronaut’s Speedmaster, a prototype Speedmaster that ended up on someone’s wrist and astronaut Stafford’s personal gold Speedmaster. Today we again have something special – or rare – to feature, a special version of the Speedmaster Holy Grail.This version of the Speedmaster Holy Grail – as it was nicked by the late Chuck Maddox – was produced for the Italian market in 1987. Only 200 pieces were produced of this automatic Speedmaster in a &#...
Hands-On IWC Pilot Chronograph Top Gun Review
When my interest?in mechanical chronographs?started?somewhere in the late 1990’s, the IWC Pilot Chronograph was quickly identified by myself as one of the nicer chronographs on the market (for me). At the time, the watch came either on a leather strap or on the nicely finished stainless steel bracelet. IWC used a nicely finished ETA/Valjoux 7750 work-horse movement for that model and the dial had that typical 7750 lay-out, sub dials on 12, 9 and 6 o’clock. It was their 39mm reference 3706 model, long-time out of production now. It was followed-up by a 42mm version (reference 3717) with small red seconds hand on 9 o’clock. Today it is a 43mm version (reference 3777) with the...
Chronos Wearables Turn Any Watch Into A Smartwatch
Chronos WearablesTired of wearing your Smartwatch on one wrist and your prized timepiece on the other at the same time? You wish there was a gadget to combine both, without having to swap your strap? ?? Look no further! We have the solution for you; meet Chronos Wearables. The smart disc that attaches to the back of any watch. Though this may sound like an extract from a cheap and pushy TV Shop commercial, it is actually true. The device we are about to have a closer look is the missing link between smart technology and your existing watch collection. A gadget that can turn any watch, and I mean any, into something like a Smartwatch.So far we have seen 2 types of smart watches; the Apple or ...
TAG Heuer launches the TAG Heuer Carrera Tte de Vipre Chronograph Tourbillon Chronometer
A limited edition with a rare stamp of excellence celebrates the chronograph's 55th anniversaryThe TAG Heuer Carrera chronograph has been in the pole position of the motor-racing world for 55 years. The collection takes its name from the legendary week-long Carrera Panamericana road race: first held in Mexico during the 1950s, this thrilling competition was revived in 1988 as an annual rally for pre-1955 collectors' vehicles. TAG Heuer is both the rally's partner and its official timekeeper.For more information go to https://www.tagheuer.com/en/watches/tag-heuer-carreraAnniversary edition with a rare certificate: TAG Heuer Carrera Tte de Vipre Chronograph Tourbillon ChronometerA cornerston...
Invitation For An Evening With Blancpain In Amsterdam
We would like to invite you to our Blancpain Fifty Fathoms event that we organize together with Tourbillon Boutique Amsterdam (NL) on Wednesday, November 28th.Blancpain will bring their legendary Fifty Fathoms watches?as well as their novelties introduced during Baselworld 2018. It will be a night to remember for sure, especially for Fifty Fathoms fans!Held in the Tourbillon Boutique on P.C. Hooftstraat 72 in Amsterdam, we will host a cocktail evening that will take place on Wednesday, November 28th at 18:00. We will have only a limited availability for this event, so please send us an email ([email protected]) with your name and details. We only have very few invitations left, so hurry...
Watch Strap Review Part 35 Watch Straps from LUGS
I aimed to make two vintage watches that I have, a bit fresh again. When the Swiss LUGS company contacted me to have a look at their straps, I went for their ‘Dandy’ collection to see if I could find something cool for a vintage Datejust 1600 and an Omega Constellation 168.029.Two vintage watches that deserve to see some daylight (again), but I wanted them to be on the right type of strap. Not something vintage looking, with the famous two stitches near the lugs, or too much contrasting stitching in general. A grained strap with matching stitching would be perfect for the gold-capped Omega Constellation. Classic, with a twist. Not too classic, like a glossy alligator, for exampl...
New RzR Watches Tecorn An Introduction
Say carbon fibre' and anyone with a passing interest in motorsports will immediately associate the material with high-end performance machines.For decades, the recognisable weave of carbon fibre barely hidden by thin coats of paint on a well-tuned sports car signal lightness with strength. Large, complex components moulded from a single piece of carbon fibre with epoxy resin, such as a cockpit tub of a Formula 1 car, can maintain a solid shape under incredible stress and strain.In the production car world, a noticeable premium is added to carbon fibre bodies and chassis regardless of the performance benefits. The same connotation of the provenance of carbon fibre has drifted into cutting-edg...
The SeaQ by Glashutte Original a rigorous set of tests
In spring of this year Glashutte Original launched the SeaQ diver's watch, the debut model in a new collection. Inspired by the historic Glashutte diver's watch from 1969, the Spezimatic Typ RP TS 200, the SeaQ unites history and modernity in a fascinating manner. One of the more remarkable features of the new diver's watch the first models are already in the hands of authorised dealers is its intensive testing for conformance with German as well as international quality standards.A diver's life can depend on the flawless functioning of his watch. As a consequence, for Glashutte Original's design engineers and watchmakers the fundamental objective in developing the SeaQ was to ensure maximum...
NORQAIN
NORQAIN, the independent Swiss watch brand was founded in March 2018 after Ben Kuffer left his corporate job in the Swiss watch industry and fulfilled his dream of building his own family-owned and independent watch company. Despite people's concerns about whether the Swiss watch industry still has capacities for another brand, Ben has consistently followed his dream and been determined to go his own way.Watchmaking Roots & Rebellious Spirit The Kuffer family has a great accumulation of experience in the Swiss watch industry. Ben's father, Marc Kuffer, is the Chairman of the Board and has over 45 years of experience in manufacturing Swiss luxury watches and spent 25 years on the Board of...
Wrist Game or Crying Shame: Oris Chronoris 2005 Replica Edition
Welcome back to Wrist Game or Crying Shame, where your votes are counted immediately no matter where you are! This week, we visit a florist while taking a look at the Oris Chronoris while being a tourist. Some of that is true, but first…Last week, I showed you a lightweight Hamilton Khaki Pioneer Aluminum with an anodized blue finish. You were anything but sad as you voted this interesting - and highly recyclable - automatic to a 63% Wrist Game victory. This week, we’ll also bring up a watch that may have slipped your mind. After all, 2005 was a long time ago and well before people started getting together at drinking establishments to show off their watches. It’s the Oris ...
Watch Strap Review 46 Straps By Atelier Del Sur
Welcome to this month's Watch Strap Review. The 46th article to be exact. In a few months' time, we will reach the magical number of 50. I guess we will have to do something special for that occasion. Until then though, we have yet another company to add to our long list of reviewed strap makers. The name is Atelier Del Sur and we some outstanding straps from them to look at.I opened the box with great expectations and, I am pleased to say, they were met. Consequently, it was very easy for me to sit down and write this article. That is not always the case. On the other hand, I often have to wait to get into the mood. Not this time. These Atelier Del Sur straps were easy to work with. In conc...
Hands-On: Linde Werdelin 3-Timer Nord
Straight off the bat, I will be honest with you. I have a soft spot for Linde Werdelin. I have always loved Linde Werdelin’s concept of creating luxury sports watches for exploring the deep seas and the mountains. It’s not a revolutionary idea, but the execution makes it something very special. And after trying on a 3-Timer in late 2009 I was completely sold.And that has never changed. The 3-Timer has always been “my watch”. But I still need to add a 3-Timer to my collection. Could it possibly be the new Linde Werdelin 3-Timer Nord?It seems like a strange idea that a watch I have loved for over a decade, is still on my wishlist instead of on my wrist. The answer to th...
Grand Prix D'Horlogerie De Genve 2021
That's right ladies and gentlemen! It's that time of the year again. No, not time to start rummaging through the attic for your Christmas decorations, please do yourself the favor and leave that until at least the end of November. What I'm talking about is the Oscars of the watch world, the Grand Prix D'Horlogerie De Genve (GPHG). This year, a total of 84 watches were selected, with six different watches going head-to-head in 14 different categories with a total of 19 different prizes up for grabs. In case you didn’t know, the event has just taken place - if you’re reading this, you missed it! But not to worry, here at Fratello we’ve put together a list of all the winners ...