Haute Time’s Hottest Watches Of 2020 Part II

Despite the pandemic, many brands did not hold back when it came to releasing new models. What usually would be launched at one of the fairs or during a special event was now presented by Zoom- and Skype-meetings. Fortunately, this doesn’t make the watches any less impressive, as the following five prove;

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41
In 2020, Rolex surprised us with colored dials in the Oyster Perpetual. While these watches in Rolex’s world may be considered ‘entry-level’ in terms of price, they are true descendants of the original Oyster, which launched in 1926. Now enlarged to 41mm in diameter, the new Oyster Perpetual is a slightly bolder statement than the previous 39mm model, with more room for the dial to shine. The lacquered dials of the Oyster Perpetual 41 are available in turquoise blue, yellow, coral red, and green, each giving the watch a character of its own.

Patek Philippe Ref. 6301P Grande Sonnerie
A Grande Sonnerie is always a treat, but even more so when it comes from a brand like Patek Philippe. For their Ref.6301P, they opted for a stunning deep black dial in Grand Feu enamel, set with Breguet numerals made from white gold. The case itself is 44.8mm in diameter and crafted from platinum. Its complexity is mainly hidden, although its two power reserve indicators on the dial give a hint. A discrete lever between the lugs at six o’clock allows you to select between silence, grande, or petite sonnerie. A pusher, integrated into the crown, activates the minute repeater. The movement that powers this watch is based on that of the Grandmaster Chime, leaving very little to be desired. Pasha de Cartier Tourbillon
For Cartier, 2020 was the year of the Pasha. This iconic model celebrated its 35th anniversary, which ‘La Maison’ marked by launching a new generation. One of the most remarkable new models is the Pasha de Cartier Tourbillon. Cartier has achieved quite a reputation with its skeletonized watches in recent years, and this Pasha continues that tradition. Stripped to only the bare essentials is this watch a technical delight to behold, all the more because it is fitted with a flying tourbillon. The Arabic numerals and hour markers double as bridges for the movement, while the Vendome lugs and canteen crown give this watch its distinct look, which was originally penned down by Gerald Genta.

Richard Mille RM 72-01 Lifestyle In-House Chronograph
While Richard Mille‘s watches are always impressive, the RM 72-01 is that even more as it represents the brand’s future. It is the first chronograph movement that Mille developed entirely in-house. It stands out, among other things, by replacing the traditional vertical clutch with two oscillating pinions to transfer the power to the chronograph. This results in a distinctly slimmer watch with a higher power reserve. Housed in the brand’s signature tonneau-shaped case, was also wearing comfort top of mind for Mille. The layout of the complications on the dial is distinct, designed not only for optimum readability but also to underscore the unique character and technical progress of this next generation of Richard Mille chronographs.

Louis Vuitton Tambour Damier Graphite Race
Louis Vuitton launched a new chronograph within its Tambour line this year, linking the past to the future. The dial is decorated by the Damier pattern, originally designed by Louis Vuitton himself, to distinct his high-quality trunks and suitcases from those of the competition. The Tambour Damier Graphite Race combined this with vivid green details, which give the watch a very contemporary look. The case is made from sandblasted stainless steel with an anthracite PVD coating, to which a rubber strap is fitted. As a true sports watch, this Tambour is not afraid of getting wet either, as it is water-resistant up to 10ATM/100 meters.