True to form, Christopher Ward has chosen to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a stunning declaration of independence – the launch of Calibre SH21, the company’s first in-house movement – creating a significant strategic platform for the brand’s next decade of development and expansion.

Chris Ward, eponymous co-founder of the brand, describes this as “probably the most significant watch industry development by a British brand in the past 50 years”’.

Through an innovative approach and unique blend of quality, value and service, Christopher Ward has established a powerful global reputation among watch fans. Now, despite still being a relatively young and independent brand, the company has advanced to a whole new level with the launch of Calibre SH21.

Conceived and designed over the past four years by Christopher Ward’s watchmaker, Johannes Jahnke, SH21 is entirely Swiss-made by some of the industry’s finest craftsmen.

It has been developed using an adaptation of the car industry’s ‘Baukastensystem’ principle, which literally translates as “building blocks” which, in the case of SH21, means that complications such as a chronograph, GMT and even a moon phase are already plotted for future release. Not that SH21 isn’t without its own sophistication.

There is a hefty 120-hour power reserve supplied via in-series connected twin barrels, a date calendar and a hacking second hand. A small second hand modification at 6 o’clock is also already built in, though not used on this launch watch. Significantly, every SH21 will also receive chronometer status from COSC, which is further evidence of the movement’s quality.

Mike France, one of the three co-founders of the Christopher Ward brand, explains the significance of the launch of Calibre SH21: Mike France, one of the three co-founders of the Christopher Ward brand, explains the significance of the launch of Calibre SH21: “Last year, the CEO of a major Swiss luxury watch brand heard rumours about SH21 and his – frankly, affronted – comment was “What gives you the license to do that?”

“For me, that comment epitomises two hugely contrasting spirits at opposite ends of this industry; the entrenched conservatism of the established brands and the dynamism of Christopher Ward and other independents.

“We give ourselves license to do this. Ten years ago we launched the world’s first pure online business model for luxury watches; we created a new paradigm in blending supreme quality with unprecedented value that challenged the industry norm. Today, we are advancing to a new level of independence that strengthens the foundations of the business for future growth.”

“Calibre SH21 provides us with our own unique movement and helps us enhance the security of our supply line. Even more importantly it opens up a fantastic range of future options for us to develop our own family of movements as well as new avenues to fully leverage the Christopher Ward brand. The first opportunity to do this is the beautiful C9 Harrison 5 Day Automatic, housing the SH21, which we also launched today.

“Our merger with Synergies Horlogères embeds the highly developed industry know-how of Jorg Bader and the extraordinary horological design skills of young watchmaker Johannes Jahnke into our new merged business – Christopher Ward London Holdings. Together, we are set to deliver further surprises to the luxury watch industry and take our brand to a new level.”

Christopher Ward’s long-standing association with Swiss movement developers and manufacturers Synergies Horlogères SA, led by Jorg Bader, was the foundation for the development of the new calibre and the newly merged company. The ‘SH21’ name reflects the company’s initials and the ambition that this movement will become a classic of the 21st century.

Jorg Bader explains the vision behind the new movement: “Crucially, Calibre SH21 began as a blank piece of paper and a shared spirit to create something extraordinary. Johannes Jahnke and I set out to create an ultra-reliable, precision movement to ultimately match the industry’s most respected movements, such as the ETA Valjoux 7750. Johannes’s design is incredibly creative, combining tractor-like strength with incredible precision, reliability and hand-crafted finishing.”

That meticulous attention to detail is powerfully articulated in the time and supreme craftsmanship invested in the movement, such as the seemingly unadorned finish to the SH21‘s bridges and tungsten rotor, for example, which includes a traditional hand-grinding finish that utilises the delicacy of fingertip precision with leading edge technology. The subtly sophisticated result is the strongest expression yet of the brand’s long-standing emphasis that ‘less is more’.

That tone is also very much alive in the first model to house the SH21 movement – the C9 Harrison 5-Day Automatic – which was also launched at today’s event. On any other day, this beautiful new model would have had the stage to itself!

Visually, the C9 Harrison 5-Day Automatic conveys the classic understatement of design seen in other models in the Harrison Collection, perceived by many as the supreme expression of the brand’s technical and design ambitions. Never a brand to stand still, Christopher Ward has complemented this design tone with a contemporary edge, such as the vivid but graceful central hands and the elongated hour markers. All of which is underpinned by a unique powerhouse movement, including of course a 120-hour power reserve.

That mix of design and technology – with a proud nod to the past decade and a confident stride to the future – makes the C9 Harrison 5-Day Automatic, with SH21 at its heart, the perfect articulation of the Christopher Ward manifesto and the brand’s future ambitions.

Chris Ward, eponymous co-founder of the brand, sums-up: “This is perhaps the most important development for a British watch brand in the past fifty years. Over the last decade, as an innovative British brand, we have challenged many of the norms of the cabal of huge Swiss brands that dominate the watch industry and we’ve put the customer at the centre of absolutely everything we do. Calibre SH21 gives us the platform to take our revolution further and strengthens a great British presence in luxury watchmaking. License or no license, our revolution goes on!” (christopherward.co.uk)

Media Inquiries:

Sara Ashraf – Kavanagh Communications
t: +44 (0)777 198 1298
e: sara.a@kavanaghcommunications.com
kavanaghcommunications.com | @KavanaghComms | facebook.com/KavanaghCommunications

A one-of-a-kind Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 model – exclusively for the Moscow Boutique

The Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique is a Vacheron Constantin masterpiece. Crafted in a limited edition of one, this watch celebrates the inauguration of the new Moscow Boutique that has now taken up residence in Berlin House. Equipped with a tourbillon, a perpetual calendar, an equation of time as well as sunrise and sunset times for the city of Moscow, it pays tributes to the noblest horological traditions.

Rare, complex and exclusive are the adjectives that best describe the Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique watch. Issued in a one-only limited edition for the inauguration of the new Moscow Boutique, it pays tribute to a longstanding expertise, acquired over a period of almost 260 years by a Manufacture that set out to conquer Russia at a very early stage in its history.

Fashioned in 950 platinum, this model is a compendium of major horological complications. Its 457-part calibre developed and crafted by Vacheron Constantin features a tourbillon along with several astronomical-type compications such as the perpetual calendar, the equation of time and the sunrise and sunset times for the city of Moscow. This watch is also endowed with an exceptional 14-day power reserve. Its technical configuration is based on two pairs of two coupled barrels; while the power reserve is visible on the bridge side and clearly visible through the sapphire crystal case-back.

The equation of time is probably the most fascinating complication in this outstanding model. Its purpose is to indicate the difference in minutes between the variable solar time shown by a sundial and the constant mean time of clocks and watches. For practical reasons, mankind has divided each year into 365 and a quarter days, each day into 24 hours, and the hours into 60 minutes each. However, solar noon, the exact time when the sun reaches its zenith, does not generally correspond to the legal standard time shown by watches. In actual fact, solar time and mean time coincide just four times a year – on April 15th, June 14th, September 1st and December 24th. For the rest of the year, the difference between solar and mean time varies from minus 16 minutes to plus 16 minutes.

The oldest clock showing the equation of time was made by the mathematician Nikolaus Mercator in the 17th century. It enabled people in those days to convert the sun’s varying noon to the standard constant time shown on their watches. Since then, the rare instruments calculating the equation of time have been the work of extremely accomplished horologists.

Making this complication work does indeed call for particular skill. It depends on the equation cam, a waisted oval or analemma, shaped like a figure 8 and calculated according to the daily declination of the sun observed from a given spot in the course of a calendar year. The cam rotates once a year and the extreme precision of its shape governs the accuracy of the equation of time. This fascinating complication is displayed by a short hand appearing between 10 and 11 o’clock on the dial of the Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique timepiece.

This exceptional creation also features another astronomical complication seldom found in watches – the times of sunrise and sunset throughout the year at a given locality. This extremely intricate complication serves to provide an accurate daily indication of these times for the city of Moscow. Here too, the mechanism relies on a cam, the outline of which is calculated according to the latitude and longitude of Moscow Its symmetrical display shows the sunrise times at 8 o’clock and sunset times at 4 o’clock.

The tourbillon carriage, as always in the shape of the brand emblem, a Maltese cross, rotates once a minute at 6 o’clock as a small seconds indication. The indications of the perpetual calendar are symmetrically laid out with the days, the months and the dates at 9, 12 and 3 o’clock respectively, while the leap-year indicator makes a circumspect appearance at 1 o’clock.

Within the Vacheron Constantin universe, this Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique expresses the very genetic identity of the Manufacture, of its heritage and of the skills patiently acquired since its founding. Radiating an aura of understated elegance through a 44 mm round case imbued with timeless classicism, this model embodies the noblest horological traditions and establishes itself as a reference in its field.

In addition to rigorously pure aesthetic, this one-of-a-kind model displays traditional style codes expressed in contemporary language: a slimmer case, a knurled motif surrounding the screw-down case-back fitted with a sapphire crystal, dauphine hands and an opaline black dial. An engraving on the case-back soberly indicates the exceptional – and indeed unique – nature of the Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique “N°1/1”.

The Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique model also bears the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva, which is an independent and sovereign guarantee of workmanship, origin, quality, precision, resilience and competence. This seal of watchmaking perfection, among the oldest of professional labels, is reserved for a handful of Geneva manufacturers.

In an ultimate touch of elegance and refinement, the Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 Moscow Boutique model comes with a pair of 18-carat white gold and onyx cufflinks matching the Vacheron Constantin timepiece.

A Patrimony Perpetual Calendar exclusively for the Moscow Boutique

To celebrate the opening of its new Moscow Boutique that has now taken up residence in Berlin House, Vacheron Constantin presents a Patrimony equipped with a sophisticated complication: the perpetual calendar. Housing the legendary Calibre 1120 QP, an ultra-thin mechanical self-winding movement, the Patrimony perpetual calendar reveals the inherent elegance and finesse of Vacheron Constantin. This timepiece issued in a 30-piece limited edition.

Issued in a 30-piece limited edition, the Patrimony Perpetual Calendar Moscow Boutique Edition meets the demanding requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva – the highest benchmark in the field of Haute Horlogerie testifying to the quality, craftsmanship and reliability of an exceptional timepiece produced on Genevan territory. It pays tribute to longstanding watchmaking tradition expertise, acquired over a period of almost 260 years by a Manufacture that set out to conquer Russia at a very early stage in its history.

The Patrimony Perpetual Calendar Moscow Boutique model is equipped with the legendary Calibre 1120 QP, acknowledged by connoisseurs as one of the most iconic perpetual calendar movements. This timepiece will be able to keep track of all the vagaries of the calendar and require no correction whatsoever until March 1st 2100. Unlike simple calendar mechanisms that require manual correction after each month with less than 31 days, the perpetual calendar takes account of the leap-year cycle with its months of 31, 30 or 28 days, and the quadrennial return of February 29th. Since the movement must be mechanically adjusted to take account of calendar irregularities, this sophisticated function calls for considerable prowess in terms of miniaturisation. An indispensable prerequisite for integrating the calendar functions, this miniaturisation was pushed to the limit in order to create an ultra-thin perpetual calendar movement measuring a mere 4.05 mm thick.

This mechanical hand-wound movement is equipped with an oscillating weight featuring the particularly meticulous finishing that is the signature of Haute Horlogerie. Beating at a frequency of 2.75 Hz (19,800 vibrations per hour), it has an approximately 40-hour power reserve. Calibre 1120 QP drives indications of the hours, minutes and a perpetual calendar displaying the day of the week, the date, the month, the leap year on a 48-month subdial, as well as the moon phase.

Such a miniaturised mechanical marvel deserved a truly worthy stage-setting. Characterised by taut curves, a sleek profile, slender trapeze-shaped hour-markers, baton hands, a cambered dial and a minute track beaded with gold cabochons, the new Patrimony Perpetual Calendar Moscow Boutique model by Vacheron Constantin features all the distinctive characteristics of the Patrimony collection. Beneath its opaline black dial, the lunar disc portrays a golden moon set against a lapis lazuli sky. The 41 mm-diameter 18K white gold case is water-resistant to 30 metres and fitted with a sapphire crystal back revealing Calibre 1120 QP. This timepiece is equipped with an alligator leather strap secured by an 18K white gold folding clasp.

In an ultimate touch of elegance and refinement, the Patrimony Perpetual Calendar Moscow Boutique model comes with a pair of 18-carat white gold and onyx cufflinks matching the Vacheron Constantin timepiece.

A Patrimony retrograde day and date model exclusively for the Moscow Boutique

To celebrate the opening of its new Moscow Boutique that has now taken up residence in Berlin House, Vacheron Constantin presents a marvel of elegance and character, a concentrated blend of the expertise cultivated by the Geneva-based Manufacture: the Patrimony retrograde day and date Moscow Boutique issued in a 20-piece limited edition.

The inner complexity of a mechanical movement is all the more appreciable when it is expressed with finesse and subtlety on the dial. The Patrimony retrograde day and date Moscow Boutique watch is entirely in line with this approach and pays tribute to longstanding expertise acquired over almost 260 years by a Manufacture that set out to conquer Russia at a very early stage in its history.

This timepiece, issued in a 20-piece limited edition, meets the demanding requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva – the highest benchmark in the field of Haute Horlogerie testifying to the quality, craftsmanship and reliability of an exceptional timepiece produced within the territory of the Canton of Geneva.

Equipped with a double complication revealed by two retrograde indications, the Patrimony retrograde day and date Moscow Boutique watch will thrill connoisseurs – since only a solid watch culture can ensure a full appreciation of these highly original displays typical of Vacheron Constantin and which conceal their true complexity in order to enhance their allure.

The instant return of the hands from one point to another in less then one tenth of a second, across an almost 180° semi-circular sector, brings considerable forces into play for a mechanism of this size. An enormous amount of energy is suddenly released to enable the hand to move in a fraction of a second from side of the display to the other with such impressive precision. Strength, instantaneity and precision: these are the three key elements perfectly ‘tamed’ by the Vacheron Constantin so as to ensure that the complexity of the two retrograde displays remains hidden beneath a seemingly simple outward appearance.

At the heart of this timepiece forcefully proclaiming its pure, understated aesthetic, 283-part Calibre 2460R31R7 – a mechanical self-winding movement designed, developed and crafted by Vacheron Constantin – drives the hours and minutes as well as date and day of the week functions. Beating at the rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour, Calibre 2460R31R7 features an over 40-hour power reserve. It is distinguished by the meticulous bevelling of the bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève and by the circular graining on the baseplate. Its 22-carat gold oscillating weight, with a décor inspired by the Maltese cross, runs by means of an innovative ceramic ball bearing system.

The elegantly slender 18-carat white gold case – water-resistant to 30 metres – has a generous 42.5 mm diameter and is fitted with a sapphire crystal back enabling one to admire the movement decoration and finishing.

Its broad opening guarantees excellent readability of the functions displayed on the opaline black dial. The latter is based on a complex outward-curving construction and expresses the meticulous attention lavished on every detail to achieve a harmonious overall effect. It also reprises all the other design codes characteristic of the Patrimony line, meaning baton hands, four triangular hour-markers and 8 baton hour-markers curved to follow the contour of the 18-carat gold dial, as well as a beaded minute track composed of applied gold cabochons.

In an ultimate touch of elegance and refinement, the Patrimony retrograde day and date Moscow Boutique model comes with a pair of 18-carat white gold and onyx cufflinks matching the Vacheron Constantin timepiece.

A Traditionnelle model exclusively for the Moscow Boutique

To celebrate the opening of its new Moscow Boutique that has now taken up residence in Berlin House, Vacheron Constantin presents a new Traditionnelle. This elegant timepiece issued in a 30-piece limited edition is distinguished by a finely hand-guilloché slate-grey dial.

The Traditionnelle Moscow Boutique Edition is heir to a longstanding watchmaking tradition and pays tribute to longstanding expertise, acquired over a period of almost 260 years by a Manufacture that set out to conquer Russia at a very early stage in its history.

Its pure lines and harmonious proportions display its classic and timeless character, enhanced by a slender bezel, a knurled motif surrounding the screw-down case-back fitted with a sapphire crystal, 18K white gold applied hour-markers and dauphine hands.
Its slate-grey dial is finely hand-guilloché – one of the many artistic crafts cultivated by the Manufacture – and reflects a unique motif inspired by the façade of Moscow’s stellar landmark, the Kremlin.

This timepiece, issued in a 30-piece limited edition, meets the demanding requirements of the Hallmark of Geneva – the highest benchmark in the field of Haute Horlogerie testifying to the quality, craftsmanship and reliability of an exceptional timepiece produced within the territory of the Canton of Geneva.

At the heart of its case ticks the ultra-thin self-winding 1120 movement. Developed and produced in-house by Vacheron Constantin, it beats at a frequency of 2.75 Hz (19,800 vibrations/hour) and has an approximately 40-hour power reserve. Its finishing and construction are a testament to its finely crafted nature. Not only are the main flat surfaces of the movement adorned with a meticulous “Côtes de Genève” motif, but all their sharp angles are bevelled and hand-polished – as too are the screw heads.

To accommodate this demonstration of mechanical virtuosity in the style it deserves, Vacheron Constantin created the 18K white gold case of its new Traditionnelle Moscow Boutique based on two criteria that are rarely associated. While the elegantly slender profile is akin to a classical design, the 41 mm diameter lends it a resolutely contemporary dimension. Finally, the exhibition case-back is fitted with a sapphire crystal providing a chance to admire the ultra-thin self-winding 1120 movement.

Setting the perfect finishing touch to this model, Vacheron Constantin has equipped its new Traditionnelle Moscow Boutique Edition with a slate-grey Mississippiensis alligator strap secured by an 18K white gold pin buckle, In an ultimate touch of elegance and refinement, the Traditionnelle Moscow Boutique Boutique model comes with a pair of 18-carat white gold cufflinks naturally hand-guilloché to match the Vacheron Constantin timepiece.

Filippo Gabbiabi, Chief architect, Yann Bouillonnec, Vacheron Constantin International Director, Pavel Kudryashov, Boutique Director, Nicolas Deflers, Russia Brand Director, Dominique Bernaz, Vacheron Constantin Retail Director

20 June 2014, Moscow – Vacheron Constantin, the world’s oldest Haute Horlogerie manufacture with almost 260 years of uninterrupted history, celebrated yesterday the grand opening of its Berlin House new boutique in Moscow. The event was hosted by Yann Bouillonnec, Vacheron Constantin International Director and Nicolas Deflers, Vacheron Constantin Russia Brand Director, in presence of Dominique Bernaz, Vacheron Constantin Retail Director and Filippo Gabbiani, architect for Vacheron Constantin Boutiques.

At their arrival, guests had the opportunity to admire four exceptional, unique and highly complicated heritage timepieces, coming from the Vacheron Constantin heritage collection in Geneva as well as four exclusive new timepieces, specially dedicated to the Moscow Boutique, including the unique Patrimony Traditionnelle Calibre 2253 model, highlighting the technical excellence of the Maison.

Before the ribbon-cutting, Yann Bouillonnec highlighted the strong relationship between the manufacture and Russia “Vacheron Constantin has maintained longstanding ties with Russia since 1819, when our Maison delivered its first repeater watch to Prince Potemkin, followed by numerous models ordered by the Russian elite of the time. Indeed, since the early nineteenth century, Vacheron Constantin and Russia, have shared a number of cultural values around the sophisticated art of horology”.

Then, Nicolas Deflers invited the guests to enjoy the evening cocktail, on the second floor, with a live musical background and to discover the other nineteen exceptional creations of the ”Vacheron Constantin’s Treasures” heritage exhibition.

People also had the chance to admire Vacheron Constantin’s in-house High Complication watchmaker working on Calibre 2253. This exceptional 457-part calibre features a tourbillon along with several astronomical-type complications, such as a perpetual calendar, an equation of time and sunrise and sunset times for the city of Moscow, demonstrating the technical excellence of the Manufacture.

About the Boutique:

With 352 square meters, the two floors create a welcoming space for clients, displaying its exquisite timepieces in elegant showcases. The interior design incorporates contemporary elements into the traditional design through an architectural perspective that reveals the brand’s constant research for excellence and aesthetic perfection. The finishing has been created according to a color scheme, emanating a warm, cosy, discreetly luxurious atmosphere that allures customers to appreciate the culture, history and tradition of excellence that defines Vacheron Constantin.

About Vacheron Constantin:

Founded in 1755 in Geneva, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watchmaking manufacture in the world, with an uninterrupted activity almost 260 years. Founders of the very spirit of the precious and technical fine watch making, the men and the women of Vacheron Constantin continue to design, develop and produce exceptional timekeepers, remaining close to the three fundamentals of the brand: perfectly mastered technique, harmonious and inspired aesthetics and an extremely high level of finishing touches.

Vacheron Constain Berlin House Boutique
Moscow, 5, Petrovka srt., tel: 7 435 937 90 41
The Heritage Exhibition runs at Berlin House Boutique till July 13th, 2014

The marine world holds no secrets from Ulysse Nardin. Having contributed to the conquest of the oceans through the development of its legendary marine chronometers, the watchmaker has now anchored its impressive know-how in the sub-aquatic depths. Fully redesigned, the popular Marine Diver is both a highly reliable diving instrument and a fine sports watch that can be worn on every occasion.

Everything about the Marine Diver evokes the marine world in which the Le Locle watchmaker is steeped, starting with Ulysse Nardin’s anchor emblem, proudly displayed at 2 o’clock. The dial, in blue or black, is decorated with a wave-like motif. The same ornamentation can be seen on the bezel. The solid case-back reveals an engraving of a boat surrounded by the inscription: “Conquer the ocean.” This embellishes a new case designed for extreme conditions, extended by the lugs with their taut, sleek lines.

In terms of performance, this watch has all the attributes required of a diving watch. Boasting exceptional water resistance to 300 meters, made possible thanks to the screw-locked crown and case-back, it also features a unidirectional rotating bezel, which prevents any accidental adjustment to the dive time. For the same safety reasons, every aspect of the new Marine Diver has been designed to facilitate the reading of its precious indications: The impressive 44 mm face displays large hour-markers and hands with a white luminescent coating and a red stripe, for perfect visibility. The small seconds at 6 o’clock are also oversized, offering a reassuring sign that the watch is functioning as it should, even in the water’s murky depths. Lastly, the claw-shaped rubber molding over the crown ensures it is easy to grip, even with diving gloves.

Powered by the self-winding caliber UN-26 and with a power reserve of 42 hours, the new Marine Diver displays, in addition to its time functions, the date in an aperture at 6 o’clock and the power reserve in a counter at 12 o’clock. It is available in steel, mounted on a rubber strap or steel bracelet. Ulysse Nardin SA – ulysse-nardin.com

Ulyse Nardin Marine Diver – Technical Data:

Reference: 263-10-3/92 Marine Diver
Movement: Caliber UN-26 Power reserve Approximately 42 hours
Winding: Self-winding
Functions: Power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock Small seconds and round date window at 6 o’clock
Case: Stainless steel
Diameter: 44 mm
Bezel: Unidirectional rotating bezel
Crown: Screw-down security crown
Water-resistance: 300 m Crystal Anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Bracelet: Exclusive rubber strap with titanium elements and deployant clasp or stainless steel

For more information on Kisai Rogue Touch Silicone and for samples, images and  reader offers please contact marketing@tokyoflash.com. Further product details  and latest pricing are available at www.tokyoflash.com. Housed in a comfortable and lightweight silicone case with matching strap, Kisai  Rogue Touch Silicone is a fun watch to wear and includes dual-time, date & alarm, animation and LED backlighting.

The hybrid LCD/LED display in Kisai Rogue Touch Silicone gives you the best of  both worlds: no need to press a button to show the time, but will light up on demand.

Part of the attraction of this watch is its seemingly unfathomable display. So many  dials and lines look bewildering at first glance, but as with all watches from  Tokyoflash Japan there’s a simple method, which becomes second nature very quickly.

Around the outside of the display are 12 large blocks which indicate the hour in  the same position as hours on a regular clock. Just inside that are smaller dots for the minutes 1-60. The two centre most rings show time zone 2 in hours and minutes.

The touch screen display has 4 hot-zones (top, bottom, left, right) that you simply touch with your finger to change modes and settings; time, alarm, date, light up. Kisai Rogue Touch Silicone is light and very comfortable to wear. Choose black or white silicone with a natural, blue, red or green LCD display.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Displays the time and date ● Alarm mode ● LCD “always On” Display ● LED Backlight For illumination ● Animation Feature (can be turned off) ● Audio Feedback (can be turned off) ● Silicone body with metal inner case ● Adjustable silicone strap with stainless buckle ● Minimum wrist size: 100mm (approx.) ● Maximum wrist size: 210mm (approx.) ● Case dimenstions: 46mm x 46mm x 14mm ● Weight: 60 grams ● Battery CR2025 replaceable watch battery ● English instructions ● One year warranty

Tokyoflash Japan, Imperial building 203, Yamashita-cho 25, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 231-0023, Japan
Tel: +81 (0)45-228-8295 Fax: +81 (0)45-228-8296 www.tokyoflash.com marketing@tokyoflash.com

The Austrian obtained a racing license and will be racing with the Audi race experience team on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. As a guest entrant, Baumgartner has been gathering some racing experience in recent years during occasional runs in the one-make cups of the Volkswagen Group.

The big difference in the 2014 season: the Audi R8 LMS ultra provides him with a 419 kW (570 hp) ‘pure-bred’ GT3 race car. The 45-year-old is completing an extensive preparation program before competing in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring on June 21/22, 2014. His team-mates are equally prominent: The fivetime Le Mans winner Frank Biela (D), the three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner (D) as well as the GT and sports car pro Pierre Kaffer (D) will be his colleagues in the cockpit.

Zenith’s Ambassador – Felix Baumgartner to drive Audi R8 LMS at Nürburgring 24 Hours

“This task is totally exciting and I’m looking forward to driving races in an Audi,” says Felix Baumgartner. “During initial tests in the road-going Audi R8 I got to know the Nürburgring, and in the Audi R8 LMS ultra I’ve clocked a few kilometers on various tracks as well. I regard this task as one of the major projects in my life. The environment is perfect, the atmosphere is fantastic, and I feel really well taken care of by the Audi race experience. But it’s also clear that I’m basically starting from scratch because this sport is new for me.”

Former professional rally driver Josef ‘Sepp’ Haider, now the Audi race experience’s sporting director, is one of the instructors of his Austrian compatriot. “Felix is approaching his new task in exactly the manner that is the hallmark of a pro,” says Haider. “He’s eager to learn, has good judgment of the physical conditions, and is totally motivated. All team members have come to respect him in the initial tests. I’m very much looking forward to our joint journey.”

Once again the El Primero stratos Flyback Striking 10th, the first watch to break the to break the speed of sound in October 2012, will accompany Felix Baumgartner in his new adventure and will be an accurate and reliable partner all race long.

MANUFACTURE ZENITH

Maud Tiberti – Rue des Billodes 34-36 – CH-2400 Le Locle – Tel. +41 (0)32 930 65 84
E-mail: maud.tiberti@zenith-watches.com – www.zenith-watches.com

Founded in Le Locle in 1865 by a visionary watchmaker, Georges Favre-Jacot, the Manufacture Zenith earned swift recognition for the precision of its chronometers with which it has won 2,333 chronometry prizes in a century and a half of existence: an absolute record in terms of pocket watches, onboard timers and wristwatches. Having earned fame thanks to its legendary El Primero calibre – an integrated automatic column-wheel chronograph movement launched in 1969 and endowed with a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour that ensures short-time measurements accurate to the nearest 1/10th of a second – the Manufacture Zenith has since developed over 600 movement variations. This Manufacture currently stands at the exact spot where its founder built the first company workshop, thereby physically embodying a continuity that is a rarity in itself.

The details in the timepieces for this series are influenced from the 1914 4.5 litre Mercedes Benz driven by Christian and the latest Mercedes Benz AMG SLS GT racing coupe; from the vintage dials of the 1914 Benz to the carbon fiber in the SLS AMG. We invite you to preview the legend and series at a specially produced microsite at grandprix.korloffparis.com.

Technical Details:

Case:

• 001 and 002 Editions: 316L stainless steel case with five layers anti-reflective sapphire crystal.
• 003 Edition: 316L matte black stainless steel chromium case.

Movement:

• 001 Edition:- ETA 7750 Automatic chrono valjioux for chronograph face
  – ETA 901.001 x 2 movement for two time zone formal face.
• 002 and 003 Editions: ETA 901.001 x 3 movements for each dial.

Function:

• Chronograph face features tachymeter, hours, minutes, seconds and date.
• Formal face features two time zones featuring hours and minutes with exhibition dial.

Dial:

• Chronograph face on black carbon fibre dial with Arabic numbers,
• Racer red accents and super luminova treated hands.
• Formal face on pierced heart Cote de Geneve treated dial with Grand Prix 1914
• Stylized Mercedes Benz stylized dash.

Strap:

• Dual material water treated strap.
• Double-stitched crocodile on black rubber to compliment each face.
• Rubber for chrono and croco for formal face.
• Buckle Patented 316L stainless steel/chromium rotating buckle.

Size: 45mm
Water Resistance: 5 ATM
Authenticity: Swiss Made, Limited Production

SRP (USD):

001 Edition – $7,340.00
002 Edition – $4,150.00
003 Edition – $4,452.00

FOR PRESS INQUIRIES:

Christopher L.A Meek
Chief Marketing Officer
P/ +1 801.319.3339
E/ cmeek@korloffparis.net
Website: www.korloffparis.com

The BareBands watch is super lightweight, form-fitting, and perfect for exercising. It’s colorful and “cool” enough to make it an everyday watch. It’s also durable and well built, waterproof to 30m.

The bands themselves also represent a huge step forward in terms of wristbands in general. Athletes clearly like wearing colorful bands on their wrists (e.g. Livestrong, Power Balance). The same goes for people supporting causes (e.g. Breast Cancer, MS). With BareBands, the familiar and fun wristband concept can now actually DO something.

As “smartwatches” and activity monitors become more prevalent, BareBands is prepared to grow in that direction. The bands themselves can attach to several devices, not just a watch. In the end though, leaving any potential tech applications aside, BareBands is about style and creativity.

The company is now selling pre-order watches via the IndieGoGo campaign.

About BareBands

Started in 2012, BareBands is committed to helping consumers execute maximally customized watches; it’s a lifestyle brand built to support all types of lifestyles. BareBands is also committed to being a socially responsible business. Causes / communities / organizations can use the BareBands platform to easily raise money for their causes. Furthermore, BareBands will be designating a portion of all profits to BareBands.org, a charity established to support efforts geared towards eradicating infectious disease via wearable technology.

For more information visit barebands.com or email matt@barebands.com.

BareBands LLC
305 E. 9th St
New York, NY 10003
Ph: 914 400 4129

Almost a decade ago, a watch label that spoke the innate language of international watch enthusiasts was launched onto the world stage. It went by the name of Pro Hunter. Originally created for the hunting community, today Pro Hunter is the highly desirable premium brand with an exclusive number of dedicated followers across the globe.

Pro-Hunter is to Rolex what AMG is to Mercedes Benz

Summer 2014 announces the anticipated Phantom Collection. Functions and features: super slick matte finish with black carbon casing, bezel, black pearl, black lume and choice of bracelet or military NATO strap.

Pro-Hunter Phantom Daytona

Pro Hunter was created by Kamal Choraria, the world’s leading vintage Rolex sports watch dealer. Choraria was the first watch ‘academic’ to study rolex dials in order to facilitate the way in which collectors buy vintage Rolex sports watches. He created the ‘MK’ dial classification (MK I, MK II, ETC) which dates vintage Rolexes thus enabling clients and buyers to accurately value each watch and dial. This classiciation system is currently used by all auction houses and Rolex dealers in the industry. Choraria wrote a series of articles which would ultimately become the industry standard for collectors and watch enthusiasts all over the world. The technical know-how and design details recall Rolex’ golden years; the 1950’s and 60’s, while simultaneously remain loyal to the world-renown brand style and history.

Characteristic Pro-Hunter Specifications:

Anti Reflective “Diamond-Like Carbon” case coating in three styles:

• Original,
• Matt.
• and Stealth.

Military models fitted with fixed bars with a canvas strap ensuring durability and comfort for outdoor activities.

Individually engraved and numbered case backs for each limited edition. The phantom collection is the evolution of the Pro-Hunter stealth style. It is the result of the discovery of new technologies and developed coating techniques which has allowed for a unique and luxury style of Pro-Hunter that will be available initially in three ranges:

• The Submariner
• The Deepsea
• And the Stealth Daytona

Pro-Hunter designs are inspired by Rolex sport vintage models, such as the Daytona with anti-reflective bezels, the 4-Line James Bond big crowns. The military Submariners, created for the special boat squadron, the black coated Rolex submariner made for select military leaders based in Africa.

Modifications strictly adhere to the requirements of the perfect sports watch, so as to not take away from the history and tradition of Rolex – only the original Swiss-made watch parts are used in Pro-Hunters.

RRP Prices:

Deepsea: Military – £15,950 / Bracelet – £17,950
Submariner Date: Military £14,950 / Bracelet – £15,950
Stealth Daytona – £19,950

About Pro-Hunter:

Pro Hunter started out with the objective of making Rolex sports watches hunting-compatible. The Rolex – for men or women – would be coated with PVD, black and inconspicuous with a non reflective bezel; thus black prevents reflection of the sun, something that could easily frighten away an animal. (discoverprohunter.com)

For press enquiries please contact:

Juliet Rowe
Tel: +44(0) 20 7766 8259
juliet@thehouseofluxury.com

Offering the same clean, contemporary styling renowned on all Canteen editions, the latest models from ‘The Watch in Steel’ feature a 3-hand Miyota 2415 movement housed in an elegant brushed steel case – all editions coming in a 45mm size only. The side of each bezel features a shiny finish for a more luxurious look while each watch in the new range is 10 ATM water resistant.

The fun, and crucially the ‘fashion’ element, is infused into these dynamic new timepieces through the use of an amazing array of colors on the dials, hands and silicon straps – all of which use a sleek brushed steel clasp. Similarly, where the hands connect, a flash of the prominent color on each watch is also featured on the steel colored hands for extra effect.

TW500 sports a sunray dark blue dial with a matching dark blue silicon strap, TW505 mirrors this look but in green, while the other editions come in the following fashionable color pallets – TW510 ‘red’, TW515 ‘purple’, TW520 ‘yellow’ and finally TW525 ‘turquoise’.

“We really wanted to produce some Canteen models that stood out as fashion pieces while remaining true to TW Steel’s ethos of offering affordable luxury,” stated Ton Cobelens, Chief Design Officer for TW Steel. “We’ve used a bold array of colors to inject some real flair into these designs and I think they’ll prove to be very appealing to the fashion conscious consumer.”

A family-owned company, headed by Chief Executive Officer and co-owner, Jordy Cobelens, TW Steel enjoys a reputation as an innovative and bold lifestyle brand available in over 100 countries worldwide. Known for being ‘Big In Oversized Watches’, TW Steel continues to offer affordable luxury since its inception in 2005.

TW Steel Manufacturing Features:

• All TW Steel watches are produced to Swiss quality standard
• TW Steel watches are made from the highest quality stainless steel
• TW Steel watches feature Miyota movements – the leading technology from Japan
• Watches featuring PVD plating only use the best standard available

For further information please contact :

Stuart Morrison – TW Steel PR & Communications Manager
Tel: +1 514 684 2621 / Mobile: +1 514 945 3253
Email: stuartm@twsteel.com – Website: www.twsteel.com

What Makes Modillian’s Smart Strap So Smart?

Think of all those times when you had to put your phone away, in business meetings or personal events. Think how much more relaxed you would be knowing that you’re not missing out on any important call or message. Yes, a smart watch provides such notifications, but – wouldn’t you prefer wearing your lovely old watch?

This is where our solution really shines! Because:

• It’s not a bulky “mini-phone on your wrist”: it just provides the alerts you need.
• It is discrete and low-profile. Most people won’t even notice you are wearing it. Which is great when you want to show the person you’re with you are giving them your undivided attention.
• It consumes very little energy. Even if you use it all day every day, you wouldn’t have to charge it more than once a week.
• It is really simple to use.

Our Crowdfunding Campaign

We have just launched our crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, in order to raise contributions and collect pre-orders.
Prices generally start at $209 USD for the standard product (shipping included) and go as high as $235 for the premium strap. However, the campaign offers unique perks for Early Birds starting at just $165.

We now also address iOS (iPhone) users: while the current crowdfunding campaign focuses on delivery of an Android App, we plan to embark on developing the iOS app soon after. Therefore, we have included an option to acquire now a voucher for iOS users, which can be redeemed when ordering a Modillian smart strap once the iOS app is ready.

At work

Modillian at Work

Modillian smart strap on the wrist while on a business meeting, allows you to focus on your client or colleague. Get discrete notifications from your smartphone, while paying full attention to the people you’re with!

After work

Modillian with Friends

Modillian smart strap on the wrist while on a date or a social gathering, allows you to focus on your friends. Get discrete notifications from your smartphone, while paying full attention to the people you’re with!

Modillian App

Modillian App Main

The Modillian Mobile App is an easy Android application that helps you setup which notifications would be sent to your smart strap. So for example, if you are on a business meeting and want no disturbances, except a phone call from your kids’ school or an alert to remind you it’s time to leave for your next meeting, you can setup the app to do just that.

About Modillian

We are based in Tel Aviv, Israel – the startup capital of the Mediterranean. Led by Eran Reuveni and Gilad Kirshenboim, and aided by a team of product designers and consultants.

Modillian Team

Contact: Eran: +972.52.3933394 ( eran@modillian.com )
Website: www.modillian.com

The Hotblack watch uses the best craftsmen available worldwide to create what the watchmaking industry calls ‘Grade A’ quality. It comes with a jet black steel case, a jet black steel strap, and a sapphire glass that only diamond can cut. It uses Superluminova on the hands and the major chapter marks and has a proper screwdown back to protect it from the elements. Hotblack is for people who believe in rugged, enduring performance.

The Hotblack watch will cost £990, but the product launch campaign will feature Hotblack for early bird pricing of £400 <> £700. The launch campaign begins on June 23 on Kickstarter.

ABOUT THE CREATOR

Physicist Richard Hoptroff, who founded Hoptroff Ltd, is a creator of luxury watches that retain a traditional look while steaming with technology under the hood. Hoptroff Ltd is known for pioneering developments, including the highly acclaimed No.10, the first ever atomic timepiece, and 3D printing watch cases directly in gold. Richard has done nothing but create technology startups since he earned his PhD at King’s College London. Other ventures include forecasting software, Bluetooth technology and custom ASIC development.

PRODUCT SPECIFICS

Movement: Hoptroff No.7
Made in: United Kingdom, from parts sourced worldwide
Moving parts: Swiss
Case & Strap: Black PVD coated 316L brushed stainless steel
Glass: Sapphire
Dimensions: 44mm diameter, height 13mm
Water resistance: 5 atmospheres (50 meters)
Phones supported: iPhone, Android
Battery life: Estimated 3 years (CR2330 Lithium battery)
Accuracy: Estimated 10 seconds / year, temperature compensated

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Media Contact: Alex Stegall
media@hotblacklondon.com
Tel: (704) 9896533

Website: http://hotblacklondon.com (KickStarter Campaign)

MOVEMENT:

• Automatic mechanical chronograph,
• Modified and personalized at U-BOAT specifications for date display and stem position at 9 o’clock.
• Frequency 28.800 vibrations per hour; 4 Hz.
• Power reserve 44 hours.
• 25 Jewels.
• Height 7mm.

FUNCTIONS:

• Hours, minutes, chronograph,
• Counter small seconds at 3, counter 12 at 12, counter minutes at 6.
• Date window at 9 o’clock.

CASE:

• Stainless steel 316 AISI, satin hand finish,
• Sistinguishing crown on left side, with a special protective device (protected as a Trade Mark).
• Diameter 50 and 45 mm.
• Bezel ring in polished tungsten,
• Serial number engrabed on a small plate fixed on the side of the case.

STRAP:

• Hand made and hand finished calf dark brown leather, stainless steel plate,
• deployante buckle, width 23/22 for 50 mm diameter, and 20/20 for 45 mm diameter.

BACK: see through, sealed with 7 external screws, sapphire glass.
DIAL: beige or black. Arabic numerals, black or beige hands and markers, treated with superluminova.
CRYSTAL: high quality sapphire, scratchproof and anti-reflective blue coating.
WATER-RESISTANCE: 100 metres – 10 ATM

“Panerai. An Italian History”, is a precious book in 2 volumes, published by Lugs Edizioni srl, result of a long and accurate iconographic research, which tells with documents, photos, and great details the true story of Panerai watches from 1936 to 1997, year of acquisition by the Swiss company Vendôme (now Richemont group).

The box offers not only a set of historical documents regarding a collectible item of immense value, but also a couple of volumes produced and finished with a unique rebinding, result of style refinement and high end design.

There are many documents accompanying the photos taken by the photographer Luciano Cipullo, with texts edited by Loris Pasetto, in collaboration with Francesco Ferretti and Mario Paci. Unpublished information or revelations so far unknown are the fundamental elements for fans, collectors or just lovers of the historic brand.

The set can be purchased online from the website: www.paneraibook.com to the price offer of € 280.00

The Box is composed with:

Volume 1 (double language): “Guido Panerai & Figlio” of 340 pages, dedicated to Vintage Panerai Watches
Volume 2 (double language): “Officine Panerai Spa” of 340 pages, dedicated to Pre-Vendôme Panerai watches

N°.1 multimedial double language cd-rom 60 min. lasting, with photos of the book to be used as a screen saver or background, a documentary with protagonists and technicians who have made famous the name of Officine Panerai in the world

Special parchment with a preface by Maria Teresa Panerai

Section dedicates to the references, both Vintage and Pre-Vendôme, to the units issued for each reference (partitioned by year), along with the movement of each reference and description of used straps and cases, all accompanied excellent quality pictures.

To receive more informations:

Lugs Edizioni srl – Viale Fusinato, 172 Vicenza
Email: lugsedizioni@gmail.com

This summer promises to be a special one. For months now, soccer fans have been looking forward to the excitement and surprises offered by one of the greatest sporting events of them all. Because when it comes to thrills, enthusiasm and sheer partisan commitment, nothing quite equals the World Cup. And that enthusiasm is shared by premium watch brand Carl F. Bucherer. Now, as an expression of its love of sport and loyalty to the Swiss national football team, the Lucerne- based watch manufacturer is proud to dedicate a special model to them: the Patravi ScubaTec SFV Special Edition, a thoroughbred sports watch that was developed especially for the Swiss soccer team and officially presented on May 27.

In a striking combination of black and red, the limited sports model is equipped with a wealth of fascinating features: engravings of various footballers are visible on the pleochroic dial, while the logo of the Swiss Football Association – the SFV – makes the watch an unmistakable hallmark of the brand. With all the sophisticated technology of a top-quality diver’s watch, including integrated strap adjustment, automatic helium valve and unidirectional rotating bezel, the Patravi ScubaTec SFV Special Edition is the ideal sports watch both above and below the surface. The robust rubber strap and eye-catching stainless-steel bezel with black and red ceramic inserts endow the extraordinary timepiece with its unmistakably sporting character. On the case back of this outstanding special edition is another exclusive and individual detail: an intricate engraving of a football together with the name of the player to whom the watch belongs. Because, as part of a drive to strengthen and motivate the entire national team, each player will be presented with his own personal Patravi ScubaTec SFV Special Edition.

At a press conference held on May 27 and attended by distinguished guests from the worlds of football and watchmaking, three of the Swiss players, representing the entire team, received their own personal special editions. A panel discussion following the presentation led by radio presenter Andy Wolf raised lots of thought-provoking questions about watches and sport.

Equipped with the perfect wristwatch for a sporting occasion, and buoyed up by their unlimited commitment and love of the game, the Swiss national team is now ready for anything. Let the Brazilian adventure begin.

The watch will be available in stores from June.

About Carl F. Bucherer:

The name Carl F. Bucherer has been synonymous with quality, innovation, and passion since 1888. Founded in Lucerne, this modest Swiss family business has grown into the internationally renowned Bucherer brand with its own worldwide chain of stores. The Bucherer Group remains family-run today and is currently in its third generation, managed by the owner and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Jörg G. Bucherer. In homage to founder Carl Friedrich Bucherer, the manufacturing brand of the same name was repositioned in 2001. Watches and their movements are developed and manufactured in the company’s own workshops in Switzerland. The breakthrough innovation was the manufacturer’s own CFB A1000 movement, which is driven by an external rotor. Bold design and technically sophisticated inner workings are the hallmarks of Carl F. Bucherer watches, which show more than just the time.

For additional information please log on to: www.carl-f-bucherer.com

For Images and Press Information, Please Contact:

Ana Martins Public Relations
46 West 56th Street
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10019

T: 212.333.2085
F: 866.548.5448
info@anamartinspr.com