Vintage Inspired
The watch industry love an anniversary, as it allows for a rummage into the archives and create an homage to a classic which provides the emotive story that we all buy into when purchasing our watches. What you soon realise is that nearly everything produced these days pays some sort of doffed cap to the past. To those in favour of these revivals, The Rake is one such specator, Watches & Wonders did not disappoint.
CARTIER TANK NORMALE
Cartier have done it once again, with its latest iteration of this legendary watch that dates back to 1919. Cartier’s commitment to Classic elegance and wonderful craftmanship ensure that any introduction to the Tank family will be well received. The latest Tank Normale does not disappoint and is a fitting tribute to an icon. The platinum limited edition of 50 pieces was a particular standout, with a black alligator strap and winding crown with a beautiful ruby cabochon. The Tank Normale is also available in yellow gold with blue sapphire cabochon and brown alligator strap, and skeleton versions in both yellow gold and platinum also limited to 50 pieces.
TUDOR 54
The Tudor 54 was one of the highlights of the show this year. Sometimes less is more, and this 37mm watch looks and feels vintage. A wonderful nod to the 1954 Tudor.... with a 37mm case the Tudor feels like a vintage Rolex Sub. Perfection is rarely attained, but with this I can see many a collector considering this piece a must have in their collection.
IWC INGENIEUR
The watch we all wanted to see last year, when every brand dipped their toes into the integrated bracelet SS sports watch. Particularly when two of the three most popular Genta-designed integrated bracelet watches are either unavailable or too expensive, it was no surprise that the market would react the way it did and help fill the void and growing demand. Hence the disappointment many felt that IWC’s Ingenieur did not make an appearance last year. So, was the watch worth the wait Aesthetically I would say yes. The watch is everything I had hoped it would be, with a work horse IWC 32111 movement to boot. My only real concern with the watch is the price. Yes, it looks good, but then so does the Baume & Mercier Riviera (celebrating its 50th Anniversary).
TAG HEUER CARRERA CHRONGRAPH
The glass box Tag Carrera in stainless steel and black racing strap is the first Tag I have ever considered buying for myself. A beautiful tribute to Heuer’s most iconic watch, and fitting to its 60th Anniversary. If you have not tried one on, I highly recommend a visit to your nearest store, as the glass box sapphire case works wonders with the enhanced visibility of the dial. My guess is that unless you act fast, they may be tricky to find, even for display.
