Highlights of this year’s new Hamilton watches include the interesting Pulsomatic that runs on an self-winding movement, but displays the time on a digital display. The retro-futuristic piece is inspired from the world’s first digital watch that was manufactured by Hamilton in 1970. This combination of classic watch making and modern high-tech style reflects Hamilton’s innovation and their pioneer status.

The Pulsomatic

Three new mechanical models for women reflect Hamilton’s desire to reach out to what the company refers to as an under-served market. The strategists at the Swiss manufacturer believe that women lack options for well priced, mechanical watches. If the market is as strong as they think, Hamilton will be amongst the leading manufactures of mid-size mechanical watches at the entry luxury price level.

Particularly striking amongst these new ladies’ models is the Railroad Automatic, which runs on the self-winding 2824 calibre by E.T.A and starts at only C$950. It also showcases a new system of straps that incorporates easy-to-use pushers that allow the owner of the watch to interchange bracelets quickly and without tools. The 38mm size is not oversize, but far from the tiny timepieces that women had a decade or so back.

The rest of the Railroad series is also noteworthy. The largest model in the series is the chronograph, who’s stainless steel case spans 46mm. It is equipped with a Valgranges A07-211, a fantastic movement that is greatly less common than the 7750, albeit still manufactured under the control of E.T.A.

RailRoad Chronograph

One category that is never forgotten by Hamilton watches is the aviation-style watches and this year there are several new additions. Amongst the first releases of 2010, and already available for purchase is the 46mm, automatic, Khaki King Pilot. It captures the traditional “Big Pilot” look very nicely but is offered at amazing value, starting at C$995. Watchpaper readers already know the next one. If you haven’t read HAMILTON Khaki X-Landing it is worth taking a look at, and it is featured in a video presentation embedded below.

Fans of good ol’, classic, vintage elegance will not be disappointed. A few minor retouches have been done to the very popular Jazzmaster Slim to create the new Slim 43 Petite Seconds. As the name suggests these changes include the addition of a small subsidiary dial for the seconds. In order to compensate for the added thickness of the small seconds, the back of the case has been “closed.” While no longer see-through, the case back is engraved with the company’s vintage logo.

I had a real good time visiting Hamilton headquarters. I thank Vivian and Martine who helped me organize it and showed all the amazing new Hamilton watches.

Marco is a webmaster and blogger for MattBaily.ca and an enthusiast of Hamilton watches.

If you do not see a video embedded here, visit the original post on watchpaper.com.

For all the videos produced from the Hamilton visit go to: http://www.mattbaily.ca/blog/tag/hamilton_visit_2010/

EBERHARD & Co. Chrono 4 Badboy

Eberhard & Co. gives its Chrono 4 Badboy a completely new and distinctive gutsy look, which will be revealed in all its explosive energy at the watchmaking world’s most important international occasion, Baselworld 2010.

After having revolutionized the reading of time, thanks to the specially patented device aligning four counters, the Company’s emblem collection has become a “laboratory of ideas”, revealing a maximum expression of compactness, strength and dynamism.

This is the definition of a chronograph that creates a strong and decisive impact with every aspect of its design detail. From the imposing 46mm diameter steel case to the rotating bezel with PVD-treated screws, from the screw push-pieces to the crown guard, from the thick, anti-reflective sapphire crystal to the 8 screws of the screw-down case back, ensuring water-resistance to 20atm.

A particular characteristic of the Chrono 4 Badboy is its meticulous exploration of the three-dimensional and its surprising multi-level implementation of the results. Worth special mention in this context is the subtle circular metal plate mounted on the dial. Its 6 screws, emphasize the four in-line counters, and the combination of screws at intervals around the sides of the case, on the bezel, the case back and finally the flange, challenge the limits of verticality and are complemented by the tachymeter scale expressed in km.

Further confirming the distinctly sporty, gutsy character of Chrono 4 Badboy are its unmistakable red features, namely the central seconds hand and the small numeral references of the counter displays that stand out proudly on the dial. Also the attractive black rubber strap, vertically sculpted, accentuates the thickness of the material and reinforces those qualities of robustness and compactness, with which Eberhard intended to endow the model.

Chrono 4 Badboy is thus truly part of the constant evolution of the projects and ideas signed “Eberhard & Co.” that, now more than ever, are coming skillfully and dynamically into focus in a chronograph of indomitable strength.

Chrono 4 Badboy: THE INDOMITABLE FORCE OF TIME

Technical Specifications

Reference:
31060

Movement:
calibre EB. 250 12 ½ ” – basis ETA 2894
mechanical chronograph with automatic winding
Eberhard & Co. device with 4 counters in line:
minutes, hours, 24 hours and small seconds – date.
The complete mechanism works with 53 rubies.

Case:
steel, with decorative black PVD-treated screws (Physical Vapour Deposition) on the crown guard and strap attachment

Diameter of the case:
46 mm

Thickness of the case:
14,10 mm

Case-back:
polished, with engravings, slightly curved on the outer edge – secured by 8 screws

Strap attachment:
22,00 mm

Water-resistance:
20 atm

Crown:
screw-in, with crown guard and engraved elements to provide optimum grip; personalized with the ancient shield, symbol of the Maison, in bas-relief.

Push-pieces:
screw-down, with engraved elements to provide optimum grip; decorative black PVD-treated screws

Bezel:
unidirectional rotating bezel, featuring 6 black PVD-treated screws and black engraved numerals

Crystal:
sapphire, flat, anti-reflective

Dials:
- black, with black counters and red counters hands
- black, with black counters and white circular zone – 24-hours counter with red hand
- Black Or with black counters – 24-hours counter with red hand
- white, with white counters – 24-hours counter with red hand
- white with silvered counters and black circular zone – 24-hours counter with red hand.

Shiny, with matt centre zone and snailed counters – luminescent, applique hourmarkers, either rhodium-plated or black nickel-plated.
Date window at 12 o’clock – raised brand name. Red centre seconds-hand. Tachymeter scale on the flange expressed in Km.
Depending on the dial version, the subtle circular metal plate features either a satin vertical or soleil finish and 6 steel screws, rhodium-plated or black nickel-plated.

Hands:
sword-shaped, skeleton, luminescent

Strap:
black rubber, vertically sculpted. Personalized with the “E” shield, engraved in bas-relief – “E&C” personalized steel buckle

Optional:
Déclic deployment clasp in steel – Patent Pending

Note:
Patented – Registered Design

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Dreams

The 38th Baselworld Show has wound up with smiles all round: firstly from the Swiss exhibitors, with confirmation of the signs of recovery recorded in January and February of this year; then from the visitors in their response to the superb pieces created by Switzerland’s watch and jewellery makers; and, finally, with attendance up on last year, from the organisers.

Recovery confirmed for Swiss watchmakers

2010 started out on a positive note, with Swiss watch exports on the rise for the first time in fifteen months (+ 2.7% in value terms in January and + 14.2% in February), and these signs of recovery were confirmed at Baselworld, the sector’s most important barometer. While performance varied from one brand to another, there was one constant, irrespective of markets or positioning: the large stocks that have weighed on retailers’ budgets since the end of 2008 are being absorbed. There is now an urge to buy, made possible by a renewed availability of liquidity.

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Dreams

Another significant feature of the show was the return of American buyers, who had practically deserted it in 2009. Beyond the obvious business perspectives, their very presence symbolises a general upturn, considering that it was in the United States that the financial crisis began before spreading around the world.

Backed by these signs of a lasting recovery, Swiss watchmakers are banking on second-half growth this year comparable to the figures achieved in 2007 and 2008, depending on the region.

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Visions

Watchmakers opt for a blend of tradition and innovation

This year’s timepieces display considerable mechanical originality, as though Switzerland’s watchmakers wished to pay tribute to the impressive patrimony they all share. While the crisis put an end to any kind of ostentation, 2010’s creations focus on the métiers d’art. Rarely has finishing achieved such heights of sophistication in watches of unpretentious refinement. Discretion, moreover, seems to be a must where elegance is concerned, as testified by the ladies’ watches, with brands opting for small, even ultra-small, models to highlight their precious character. The men’s 2010 models, like those for women, display a refined aesthetics, the guarantee of good taste capable of defying the dictates of fashion.

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Emotions

Switzerland’s jewellers

Results for Switzerland’s jewellers have been more mixed. While brands benefiting from a strong name have skilfully overcome these difficult times, designers with small advertising budgets have had trouble making any impact. Getting people to buy has proved more difficult, especially as stocks remained relatively high, which is not the case in the watch sector.

Despite a certain overcautiousness amongst buyers – Europeans mainly – exhibiting at Baselworld has proved to be an imperative for Switzerland’s jewellers. Getting oneself known, communicating and making contacts today appear to be the determining factors for success tomorrow. True to their values, our jewellers have confidence in the future and are committed to putting quality and reliability above everything else. This year’s Swiss jewellery pieces at Baselworld embody the most striking expression of this philosophy: aesthetic research, new alloys offering original nuances in gold, palladium or platinum and, above all, extraordinarily fine hand-finishing work

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Elements

Related branches confident in the recovery

Once again, Europe has confirmed its position as the manufacturing centre for the watch and jewellery sector, while South America continues to grow in importance, confirming the trend started last year. There were, however, fewer visitors from the Gulf and Asia at the related branches’ stands. In general, the crisis has prompted a certain wait-and-see policy, shown by a hesitation to invest in production tools. Nevertheless, the recovery in the watch sector should have a knock-on effect in the related branches over the next few months. While this is bound to take some time, there have already been encouraging signs among suppliers on the job front.

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Inspirations

A “good show”

Baselworld 2010 will go down as a “good show” for the Swiss exhibitors, even though there was no repeat of the records attained in 2007 and 2008. The size, quality and reputation of the show, the attendance figures and holding it during the first three months of the year have all laid the groundwork for a robust and lengthy upturn for the whole watch, jewellery and related branches sector. See you next year at Baselworld 2011, from 24 to 31 March!

BASELWORLD 2010 Hall of Impressions

BASELWORLD 2010 in figures

Date
18 to 25 March 2010

Visitors
100,700 | + 7%

Media representatives
2,900

Exhibitors
1’915

Swiss brands
456

Exhibition space
160,000 m2

Dates
2011: 24 to 31 March
2012: 8 to 15 March
2013: 25 April to 2 May

Source: www.swisstime.ch

Photos: www.baselworld.com

TW STEEL TW671 Renault Formula One Team

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (March 17, 2010) – TW Steel celebrated the start of BASELWORLD 2010 by unveiling its new ‘Renault F1 Team’ collection – the first executions produced as the Dutch watch brand beings its associations as ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team in 2010.

TW Steel’s newest offerings are based on two separate design platforms. The four-model ‘Renault F1 Team Pilot’ collection celebrates Renault’s early association with the aviation industry and specifically the origins of the first oversized watches. The ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ collection, also with four-models, offers a more luxurious edge to TW Steel’s partnership embracing the team’s world championship winning pedigree.

“This was an exciting project for me and I’m please that we have a collection that reflects both the best of TW Steel and the Renault F1 Team,” stated Ton Cobelens, TW Steel’s Chief Design Officer.

“I was fascinated with Renault’s background in aviation and developed the Pilot models from this research. Pilot watches were known for being oversized with bold, easy to read faces to ensure greater visibility at all times. We’ve developed this concept with the use of big numbers clearly visible in both the day and night. We’re offering the consumer a strong, distinctive looking watch with its roots planted firmly in Renault’s illustrious history.”

On the ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ executions Cobelens remarked, “In addition to the Pilot models we wanted to offer something that reflected more of the prestige associated with both Formula One and obviously the Renault F1 Team’s on0track successes. The Renault F1 Team CEO Tech watches purposefully mirror the values that have made TW Steel’s current CEO collection a success, by offering a more elaborate watch very much in keeping with the lifestyle associated with the sport.”

TW STEEL TW681 Renault Formula One Team

The TW670 (45mm) and TW671 (48 mm) Pilot models feature a three-hand, big caliber movement on a bold black dial sporting the Renault F1 Team logo. The TW672 (45mm) and TW673 (48mm), also in the Pilot collection, feature a chronograph movement with all executions using a hardened mineral crystal and black leather straps – complete with TW Steel’s two steel dot signature.

The TW680 (45mm) and TW681 (48mm) in the CEO Tech collection feature a chronograph movement able to measure and display time to 1/20th of a second with real sapphire crystal – a rarity for a watch with these case dimensions. The steel case is complimented by the use of a soft black silicon rubber strap.

The TW682 (44mm) and TW683 (48mm) editions, both with a chronograph movement, feature AA-grade black PVD coating on the case. The crown and screws on the bezel utilize AA-grade gold plating for further distinction. All Tech watches are waterproof to 10 ATM.

TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, can be found at BASELWORLD 2010 in Hall 1.1, ‘Hall of Desires’ – Stand No. A71, March 17th – 25th, 2010.

Perrelet Double Rotor: A1006/9

Black or silver-white, the new Perrelet designs highlight alternating structures. Guilloché, sand-blasted or snailed decorations contrast with the detail of the polished and polished-satin finish of the steel indexes. True to its code of aesthetics, Perrelet maintains its quality of clear legibility.

These different interpretations housed in their distinctively fluted cases, a specialty of the Brand, are absolutely unique.

The “Classical Double Rotor” is the perfect embodiment of this distinctive character. With its unique design and Perrelet patent, the Double Rotor actually represents the identity of the Brand. The complexity of its mechanism enables one to observe and visualize the automatic winding function on the dial.

The synchronization of the two rotors, lower and upper, makes it possible to check the proper functioning of the movement and improves the winding efficiency in comparison with traditional models.

The Perrelet timekeepers are essential gems for the discerning person, whether in a professional or leisure context, and are fitted with a genuine alligator strap and stainless steel folding clasp.

Refined and simply elegant, the new Perrelet collection of black or silver white dials holds some beautiful surprises in store for its owners.

TW Steel TW 127 (48 mm)

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (March 18, 2010) – TW Steel, the Dutch watch brand ‘Big in Oversized Watches,’ launches its latest TECH executions at BASELWORLD 2010 today. On display for the first time, the collection consists of seven new models, available in either 45 mm or 48 mm editions, with the styling founded on the popularity of the now sold-out special edition TW Steel A1GP TECH watches.

Responding to consumer demand to build on that design platform, the seven new TECH models comprise a stylish blend of rugged looks with a high-end finish – all watches, of course, featuring top grade stainless steel and a unique construction that connects the bezel to the case back by using pillars and engine screws.

Notable stand-outs include the TW128 (45 mm) and TW129 (48 mm), which take their inspiration from TW Steel’s successful Canteen Style ‘Cool Black’ editions, featuring a greyer dial and in keeping with the ‘dark’ trend prevalent in current consumer taste. In addition, the TW126 (45 mm) and TW127 (48 mm) both feature a sleek black dial offset against a stainless steel case and steel bracelet and folding clasp.

TW Steel TW 129 (48 mm)

The 2010 TECH models all sport a chronograph function with an OS25 movement, accurate to 1/20th of a second. All watches feature soft rubber straps with an anti-dust protection layer, with the exception of the aforementioned TW126 and TW127 with the steel bracelet. All the crystals feature a sapphire layer.

The TW130 / TW131 / TW132 / TW133 editions utilize AA-grade rose gold plating on the cases while the TW128 and TW129 feature AA-grade PVD black coating for a distinguished finish. Finally all new TECH watches are waterproof to a depth of 100 meters.

TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, can be found at BASELWORLD2010 in Hall 1.1, ‘Hall of Desires’ – Stand No. A71.

TW Steel TW 131 with AA-grade rose gold plating

Antonio Calce with Daniela and Angela wearing Corum novelties Photo: Gregory Maillot

This is with “Happy Birthday” by the Beatles that the conference began. Major event, the Basel Fair is a unique opportunity to meet during 10 days all our partners and the international press.

A landmark event for Corum that celebrates in 2010 the anniversary of two of its main pillars: Admiral’s Cup and Corum Bridges.

DISTRIBUTION

With the take-over of the U.S. market in October 2009, the opening of its first boutique in own name on December 25, 2009 in Hong Kong and the reorganization of its market in South America and the Caribbean in early 2010, Corum has reaffirmed its presence around the world and strengthen its strategy of selective distribution.

MOVEMENTS & PRODUCTS

Corum goes on with the integration of technical and watchmaking skills, from its engineers to its master watchmakers. Corum is aware of the value of human capital and their unique knowhow and seeks to perpetuate and enhance the historical value of the watch brand. Corum develops in-house movements and to both generate and control production of exclusive movements.

In 2010, they are exceptional pieces affirming the creativity and know-how that let Corum be once again among the brands of Haute Horlogerie.

Among the 36 new models launched in 2010, 4 models stands out now among the talking that will set a stone in time. The Golden Bridge Tourbillon with the smallest tourbillon cage escapement in silicium, the Ti-Bridge Tourbillon with a flying tourbillon anchored on a ARCAP bridge (material used in aeronautics) and the Admiral’s Cup Tourbillon Minute Repeater with complications dress a sporty case, the Admiral’s Cup Deep Hull waterproof to 1000 meters with a unidirectional rotating bezel and a helium decompression valve.

COMMUNICATION

2010, an intense year as Antonio Calce, Corum CEO, also confirmed the signature of two new partnerships, one with a new ambassador and the second with a sailing event. Today Corum built partnerships in line with its values and history. If the ambassadors of Corum are distinguished by their sporting qualities, they are also friends of the brand whose human qualities prevail. To top off the press conference, the new website of the brand has been unveiled in a preview. A virtual showcase that takes you to visit the know-how of the brand, to discover our human capital and our history.

www.corum.ch

LINDE WERDELIN Oktopus Moonphase Complication

With a titanium case and a rose gold bezel and details on the dial, the new Oktopus Moonphase has been designed in a classic yet innovative way to show seven phases of the moon from new to half and full. The moon phases are entirely made out of Super LumiNova enhancing the effect and placed along 4 and 8 o’clock to maximize dial legibility.

Based on a Frédéric Piguet automatic movement, the complication is built on the date function to also provide a countdown to the next full moon, read on the moonphase dial. “This allows us to simplify a complicated function like the moonphase and make it easier for the user”, says Morten Linde creative director and co-founder of LW. While encompassing the same case dimensions as the rest of the Oktopus models, the Moonphase bears a sapphire crystal case back, which reveals the skillfully crafted Frédéric Piguet movement and the rotor bearing the AG and LW logos. It has been tested to withstand the pressure of 888 meters and the integrated helium escape valve at 9 o’clock ensures the watch endures the pressure during resurface time.

“Linde Werdelin’s launch of its first complication is an important step for us. We are very pleased to continue our collaboration with Svend Andersen and also start using a Frédéric Piguet movement for our watches” says Jorn Werdelin managing director and co-founder of LW.

On the decision to have the moonphase complication on a divers’ watch, Morten says, “moonlight creates the perfect conditions for after-hours sports activities and particularly diving. More and more people these days enjoy sports under the full moon. This is one of the reasons why we wanted to produce a moonphase complication for our diver’s watch. One can plan their next diving trip by checking when the next full moon is going to be, then clip the Reef for a safe dive.”

Limited to 29 pieces, connoting to the days before the next full moon, the Oktopus Moonphase will be available for deliveries in the fall 2010 on LindeWerdelin.com or from any LW authorized retailer.

Technical Specifications

Limited to 29 pieces

Size
46mm (w) by 49mm (l) by 14mm (h)

Movement
Automatic mechanical Frederic Piguet movement caliber 1150, Linde Werdelin & Andersen Genève personalized oscillator
72 hour power reserve / 28 jewels / 28,800 bpm
Moonphase complication by Svend Andersen with luminous photorealistic moon phases and moonphase countdown, manually adjustable by second crown position

Case
Titanium grade 5, microbille finish
3.00mm screw on case-back with sapphire crystal
Rose gold unidirectional turning bezel with 10 minute markings & Super LumiNova marker at 12 o’clock
3.8mm anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Screw in crown with LW logo
Helium escape valve at 9 o’clock

Dial
Black matt dial
Arabic numerals rose gold plated applied indexes with Super LumiNova

Hands
Rose gold plated, diamond cut rhodium plated with applied Super LumiNova

Water Resistance
888 m/2913 ft

Strap
Black alligator strap with titanium ardillon buckle

US Retail Price
$21,700

Source: LindeWerdelin.com

ALPINA Genève Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture

Following the great success of its first Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture – the Full Black version – at Baselworld in 2009, ALPINA Genève is proud to present two new models in gold, both issued in an extremely limited series of just 18 numbered pieces.

These new versions, both as astonishing as the first, feature a “Full Black” dial and a caliber consisting of 188 parts, equipped with a Silicium Escapement Wheel and the latest development: a Silicium lever.

After three years of Research and Development, the experts at ALPINA Genève, Swiss manufacturer of high quality sports watches, were ready to present the brand new, inhouse automatic Manufacture Tourbillon Regulator movement. A team of specialist designers, engineers and watchmakers worked hand-in-hand to revive ALPINA as a true Manufacture. Supported by the latest in high-precision equipment and driven by a passion for innovation.
Based on the award-winning Manufacture Regulator caliber, ALPINA Genève developed its own Manufactured Tourbillon Regulator: the AL-980, completely
conceived within its workshops in Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva. A unique movement that presents several specific, innovative features: Silicium Escapement Wheel and Silicium lever, Smart Weight Balancing™, fast oscillation at 28’800 BpH and an individually numbered Tourbillon cage.

ALPINA Genève Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture

The specific and technical designs of these new Extreme Tourbillon Regulator Manufacture models capitalize on the strong brand philosophy of ALPINA: highest level of accuracy, extremely high readability, shock resistance, sturdiness and reliability. The timepiece, with a bold case diameter of 48 mm, is crafted from either titanium with a pink gold bezel, or pink gold with a black ceramic bezel. The matt black dial features finely brushed steel ALPINA Double-Digit indexes. The iconic ‘Extreme’ design elements remain, and have been coupled with a more elaborate dial design: satin-brushed touches of black in the center of the “Regulator” sub-dial, skeletonized hands in black brushed steel, unique and originally decorated bridges in the Tourbillon cage and a black PVD signature ALPINA oscillating weight, visible through the sapphire crystal case back.

The Tourbillon is one of the most valued and sought-after complications by collectors and aficionados of premium timepieces alike. A Tourbillon mechanism is extremely complex to manufacture due to the required accuracy of all the parts involved. It requires highly qualified and experienced watchmakers to be able to manufacture the ALPINA Tourbillon caliber. By combining technical complexities with the sports characteristics that contribute to the charm of this timepiece, ALPINA presents undoubtedly one of its most extreme creations in history…

RSW Outland 3H

Technical Specifications

Reference
7120

Case
Height: 52 mm, width: 44 mm, thickness: 12 mm
Four variations are available: mat 316L steel, black PVD steel, black PVD steel combined with mat 316L steel, or 18 carat pink gold combined with mat 316L steel
All cases are available with or without diamond‐setting (88 diamonds – 0.62 ct)
Sapphire crystal
Crown with patented fold‐out crank system
Water-resistant to 10 ATM
Patented folding crank‐crown mechanism.

Movement
Swiss‐made, mechanical movement with automatic winding

Functions
Hours, minutes and seconds
Date window

Dial
Black mat print index and number superluminova white.
Black mat print index and number superluminova orange.
Black mat print index and number superluminova green.
Black mat print index and number superluminova blue.
Black mat print index rose gold finish.
White mat print black mat squares superluminova white.
Silver mat print black mat squares superluminova white.
Yellow print black mat squares superluminova white.

Strap/bracelet
Black rubber with folding clasp