Haute Time’s Hottest Watches Of 2021 Part II
The pandemic has not slowed down the development of new watches. Also this year, many brands launched new creations, proving that creativity and technical advancement has not been halted. It also seems that particularly this year, more time was taken to reexamine one’s strengths and make new models that truly represent the brand’s DNA. This resulted in captivating watches that represent, yet also defy, time, like the following;
Grand Seiko SLGA008
The watchmakers and designers at Grand Seiko find a lot of inspiration in the beautiful nature surrounding their manufacture in Japan. Fascinated by the growth rings of trees, which are a timekeeper in their own right, they created a most exceptional dial for the SLGA008. It offers a very warm contrast in combination with the pink gold case. Inside we find one of the brand’s signature Spring Drive movements, caliber 9RA2. Thanks to this innovative technology, Grand Seiko can offer an accuracy that deviates around 10 seconds per month, an exceptional accomplishment for a mechanical watch.
Richard Mille RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne
Richard Mille also enjoyed an outstanding year with the launch of several different models, including the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne. It is the perfect calling card of the brand, as it combines an exceptional finish with innovative materials, a technically advanced movement all wrapped in a stunning design. For the RM 21-01, Richard Mille used Haynes 214 to increase the stiffness of the watch. This special alloy of titanium, iron, nickel, and chromium was used to craft the mainplate in a distinct honeycomb pattern. Combined with the bridges of grade 5 titanium, does it result in a high-performance and ultra-light movement.
Longines Spirit Titanium
That the past, present, and future can seamlessly merge in a single watch was proven by Longines with the Spirit Titanium this year. Available in 40mm and 42mm, this watch features all the signature design cues of its predecessors yet is housed in a titanium case with a contemporary finish. Longines paid particular attention to the finishing of every detail, which makes the watch captivating. It also balances because of that on the edge of being a dress watch or a sports watch. However, Longines went all in to ensure that you won’t be disappointed if you use it as the latter. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters, offered with either a titanium bracelet or a nylon strap, and comes with a Chronometer-certified movement with a generous 72-hour power reserve.
TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph Special Edition
One of the major announcements this year was made by TAG Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault regarding the collaboration of his brand with Porsche. This natural partnership was kicked off with the Carrera Porsche Chronograph Special Edition. This bold chronograph seamlessly merges the DNA of both brands. The dial resembles the layout of a car’s speedometer, with an asphalt-like texture as a backdrop. The ceramic bezel is engraved with a tachymeter scale and with the name of the iconic sportscar manufacture. As its automotive counterpart is also this TAG Heuer fitted with a more than capable engine. Manufacture caliber Heuer 02 features automatic winding, a column-wheel operated chronograph, and a power reserve of 80-hours.
