Haute Time’s Favorite Baselworld Watches: Part I
One way of sparking passionate debates in Haute Time’s editorial department is to ask about putting together a list of the ten favorite watches from Baselworld. Some make a convincing case for the latest triple-axis tourbillon, while another thinks that a top ten is not complete without that gorgeous time-only. As personal and arbitrary as these lists are, they do give a good indication on where the watch world is currently standing, and which new watches made the biggest impressions.
Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante Chronograph
Breitling surprised with the introduction of the Navitimer Rattrapante Chronograph. This complication, which has been absent for a while from Breitling’s collection, now returns powered by Caliber B03 which the brand makes in-house. Breitling kept the design very discreet, with the button for the rattrapante function beautifully integrated into the crown. In gold, it makes for a true classic, while in steel it becomes a very tempting sports watch.
Hublot Techframe Ferrari 70 Years Tourbillon Chronograph
Hublot impressed in many ways, with their first bi-axis tourbillon, with the second Depeche Mode watch for charity, but it was the Techframe Ferrari 70 Years Tourbillon Chronograph that made the deepest impression. Dedicated to celebrating the 70th anniversary of Ferrari, the watch combines in an unprecedented way the DNA of both Hublot and Ferrari in a single timepiece. This results into a beautiful synergy of design and micromechanical excellence thanks to the intricate tourbillon chronograph movement.
Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5320G
Perpetual calendars by Patek Philippe occupy a realm of their own for many collectors. With the addition of the new 5320G, this position will only be strengthened. While the lacquered cream dial with Arabic numerals is already quite the eye-catcher, it is the case with the stepped bezel and lugs that give this watch, even more, a sense of vintage refinement. With a diameter of 40mm Patek Philippe has also found the perfect balance between a classic look and a modern day wrist presence.
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic
With the Octo Finissimo Automatic Bulgari is not only the current record holder for world’s slimmest self-winding watch but also showed once more the strength of the Octo Finissimo design. The matt titanium case adds even more to the wearing comfort of this thin watch, as it is so light. Bulgari even went through the trouble of developing a superb bracelet for the watch, which not only complements the design but also follows the shape of the wrist perfectly.
TAG Heuer Autavia
With the re-launch of the Autavia TAG Heuer has brought back a collectors favorite. Now slightly enlarged to a diameter of 42 mm, it if fitted with TAG Heuer’s manufacture caliber HEUER 02. It retained much of its 1960’s style, with its characteristic Panda-dial, as well as the 12-hour bezel. This is especially a handy feature for travelers as it allows the watch to show the time in two different time zones.
