Editorial

Our In the Metal editorials share first-hand experiences with watches that have been tried and tested by our editors. By contrast, our Point of View articles provide fresh and unique viewpoints regarding certain timepieces, collections or certain developments inside the watch industry. Meanwhile, First Look editorials will give you the facts, as well as points to consider, regarding brand new pieces. Finally, A Closer Look will take things a step further, diving deeper into the details.
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An Introduction to Independent Watchmakers: Who to Watch Out For – Part 1

To those relatively new to watches, the term ‘independent’ can often appear to be thrown around like a cheap joke on Christmas Day, making them wonder what on earth the term actually means? Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet are privately…

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Point of View: How Powerful is LVMH Destined to Become in the Luxury Watch Industry?

The luxury goods group LVMH has just promoted Frédéric Arnault to CEO of the LVMH Watch Division, and Julien Tornare to the new CEO of TAG Heuer, as the group continues to massively expand its competencies in the watch segment.…

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Porsche Design Custom-built Timepieces: Watchmaking of Tomorrow

Despite iconic watch models in their 51-year history, many collectors and connoisseurs of fine mechanics do not necessarily associate Porsche Design with the term ‘watch manufacturer’. And yet Porsche Design’s Swiss subsidiary, Porsche Design Timepieces AG, is currently developing something…

Swisswatches 24 Days of Christmas: Top Watches of 2023

It’s been another extraordinary year for us all, and the watch world is no exception. That is why the Swisswatches team sat down once more to comprise a list of our top watches of 2023. From anniversary models to world…

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50 Years Wempe Weinstrasse: A Conversation With Its Managing Director, Marc Autmaring

The Wempe branch on Munich’s Weinstrasse has been an integral part of the city for half a century, and has been managed by Marc Autmaring since 2009. Over the past 14 years, the engaging and determined manager has succeeded in…

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Master of Materials: Uncovering Rado’s Deep Connection to Ceramics

‘Born to dare’, ‘Don’t crack under pressure’, ‘Live for greatness’ – every brand has a mantra by which it defines itself. Swiss watch manufacture Rado, aka the self-proclaimed ‘Master of Materials’, stands by the words: ‘If we can imagine it, we can make it. And if we can make it, we…

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Montblanc Head of Watchmaking Laurent Lecamp’s Incredible Adventure Into The Ice

Here’s why Montblanc manufactures diver’s watches – and is proving more successful at doing so than ever before. Behind every successful wristwatch, there tends to be a particular person advocating it. For over three years, the man behind Montblanc has…

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One of a Kind Travel Stories From Vacheron Constantin: Les Cabinotiers ‘Récits de Voyages’

Vacheron Constantin is kicking off the week in style with the release of six new watches from its most esteemed department, Les Cabinotiers. Les Cabinotiers is home to the brand’s master watchmakers, whose role is to produce bespoke timepieces for…

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Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon SR_A: Samuel Ross on the Futuristic Collaboration

Forays into the fashion world are an increasingly prevalent – yet often vehemently contested – occurrence in the Swiss watch community. Comments on various horology sites vary from ‘Do you even know your audience?’ and ‘In what way do you…

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The Mysterious Case of Christie’s Passion for Time Auction

On 6 November, Christie’s held what the auction house described as one of the most significant private collections it has ever auctioned. Exceptionally rare and historically important: this is the best way to describe the impressive collection of Mohammed Zaman,…

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How the Cartier Santos Took Flight

Whether donned as a mark of distinction or simply to appear in-vogue, wristwatches are considered an indispensable companion for many a gentleman. Be it glowing in gold or shining in stainless steel, round or square, sporty or elegant – the…

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A Hidden Gem: Patek Philippe Aquanaut ‘Luce’ Ref. 5261R-001

It seems that over the last decade, Swiss watch manufacturers have been taking a leaf or two out of the tech companies’ books. As well as getting more sophisticated, their new releases seem to be getting larger in diameter almost…