Press Release: Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD.

Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD

The new era of Ferdinand Berthoud, chronometer-maker.

As the first step of its renewal, Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD presents an exclusive timepiece inspired by the remarkable marine clocks developed by the founder of this House. Born in 1727 in the Val-de-Travers - Switzerland, Ferdinand Berthoud was granted the title of “Master  Clockmaker” in Paris in 1753. This exceptional horologist and tireless researcher who served as “Horloger-Mécanicien du Roi et de la Marine” - Horologist-Mechanic by appointment to the King and the Navy - left behind him an exceptionally broad body of work, notably in the field of marine chronometers. 

It was in tribute to this master horologist that Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, co president of Chopard and President of Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD, wished to orchestrate the revival of the illustrious name of Ferdinand Berthoud. Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD will offer only exceptional timepieces issued in extremely limited production numbers. Chopard Group is thereby laying a new milestone in its watchmaking development and further reinforcing its presence in Fleurier, in the Val-de-Travers region of Canton Neuchâtel - Switzerland, where the Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD company is established.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele: orchestrating the revival of a legend. 
Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD was born of the initiative of Chopard’s co-president Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, who acquired the name in 2006. This move was driven by a determination to give a new lease on life to an impressive heritage, by launching a creative new brand of exceptional timepieces crafted in highly limited series in tribute to the master horologist and thus restoring his name to its former glory. 

Passionately interested in culture and history, Karl-Friedrich has long admired the exemplary creations and the career of Ferdinand Berthoud, born in 1727 in Plancemont-sur-Couvet, 5 kilometres from Fleurier. He has assembled an exceptional collection of timepieces exhibited at the L.U.CEUM in Fleurier. His fascination has steadily grown in discovering the fabulous legacy of this brilliant artisan – whether in the domain of marine chronometers, pocket watches or regulators. 

This keen enthusiasm shines through in his comments: “His life and work are absolutely unique and his destiny truly remarkable. A shrewd diplomat, he made his way from the Age of Enlightenment to the French Empire period, while surviving the French Revolution. Acknowledged and respected for his creations, Ferdinand Berthoud was also an exceptional horological theoretician and the author of a number of reference works. But the most important aspect of all is undoubtedly his visionary spirit, since a large proportion of his works remain as timely and relevant as ever.” Officially announced at the end of 2013, the development of Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD has taken root in Fleurier and is now being materialised in an extremely sophisticated creation.

A contemporary expression for an emblematic name in watchmaking.

With the birth of Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD, the Chopard Group is laying a new milestone in the development of its watchmaking division and further consolidating its presence in Fleurier in the Val-de-Travers, a region of Canton Neuchâtel steeped in an age-old horological tradition. It is doubtless no mere historical coincidence that Ferdinand Berthoud was born a few kilometres from Fleurier, which is already home to Chopard Manufacture, which handles the production of L.U.C Haute Horlogerie movements; Fleurier Ebauches SA, which produces Chopard’s mechanical movements; as well as the L.U.CEUM, which harbours some of the most admirable examples of the watchmaking art. Long months of intense creative reflection, guided by stringent development requirements on both technical and aesthetic levels, have given rise to the first contemporary Ferdinand Berthoud timepiece which is intended as a natural continuation of the work accomplished by three generations of master-watchmakers: Ferdinand, Pierre-Louis and Charles-Auguste Berthoud. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele explains the spirit that guided the development of this new watch: “We have sought to transpose what Ferdinand Berthoud might have created if he was living now. The contemporary translation of his genius consists in drawing inspiration from the master-horologist’s most remarkable accomplishments in order to offer modern creations bearing reinterpreted distinctive features and evoking emblematic historical constructions.” The President of Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD goes on to emphasise: “We have a major responsibility in bringing the legendary Ferdinand Berthoud back to the forefront of the watchmaking scene. Our goal is not to develop nostalgic commemorative models, but instead to offer contemporary watches that will prove worthy of the great name they bear and of the excellence that is legitimately inspires.”

The Ferdinand Berthoud signature - a lifelong quest for precision.

Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD evokes an illustrious name, that of a watchmaker, and an exceptional researcher who left an indelible imprint on watchmaking history through his inventiveness and his remarkable mechanical talents. It is also a story punctuated by inventions, technical challenges and constant progress in the realm of time measurement. At the forefront of these major advancements are the marine chronometers introduced by Ferdinand Berthoud. They made it possible to calculate longitude with extreme precision and thereby contributed to the conquest of the oceans in the 18th century. It is from this substantial legacy that Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD derives the DNA of its new timepieces. These contemporary yet timeless watches bear the signature characteristics embodying the excellence and the renown of the Berthoud dynasty.

Dedicated and entirely independent development.
While the Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD is part of the Chopard Group, the development, design and production of Ferdinand Berthoud watches stem from a separate, autonomous and dedicated creative process. To guarantee this exclusivity and this independence, specific watchmakers have been hired in order to develop the original calibres and exteriors of these incomparable timepieces. For the time being, the highly qualified watchmakers devoted to assembling the first watches by Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD ply their trade in dedicated premises provided for them in Fleurier. While fully autonomous in its horological development, Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD will naturally benefit from the stature and expertise of the group. This inherently exclusive firm will create exceptional timepieces in limited series, distributed through an equally exclusive, international and independent network of points of sales specialised in high-end, complex watch products. 

Mid-Autumn festival: Vacheron Constantin's Nice Gesture.

Mid-Autumn festival also known as Mooncake festival is celebrated across Asia and is held on the 15^th day of August of the Chinese calendar. It is a tradition to mark the end of the autumn harvest that became popular during the Tang Dynasty. The full moon on this day is believed to be the brightest. Mooncakes are the highlight of this occasion and families will gather together, where the kids light up lanterns while the adults enjoy mooncakes and sip Chinese tea.

This year, I was pleasantly surprised to receive this lovely box of mooncakes from Vacheron Constantin. Unlike many versions of mooncakes nowadays, featuring unique flavours from salted caramel to chilli padi (yes, you’ve read it right), these are the traditional baked ones made with white lotus seed paste and salted egg york. They are definitely one of my favourites. It comes in a beautiful black box with Vacheron Constantin's signature Maltese Cross motifs.

A pack of four pieces.

The Maltese Cross imprinted on the mooncakes.

The single salted egg york taste good and add a rich flavor to the light lotus paste.

Thank you Vacheron Constantin for the nice gesture!  

Press Release: Panerai Pre-Watches And Wonders 2015.

With its timeless design and the sophisticated technical solutions created by the new Manufacture in Neuchâtel, the Radiomir 1940 is the main focus of the new

Panerai collection presented at Watches & Wonders 2015. References to history, contemporary high-end watchmaking, Italian design and Swiss manufacture combine to create unique and immediately recognisable timepieces, to be presented to the public in an international preview at the main Asian exhibition of high-end watches, taking place in Hong Kong from 30 September to 3

October 2015.

The Radiomir 1940 is the watch which recalls a fundamental moment in the history of Panerai: the transformation of the traditional cushion case of the first Radiomir (1936) into the imposing Luminor 1950 case, fitted with the iconic crownprotecting device. This transition came about to meet the needs of the Italian Navy, which wanted to provide its commandos with a water-resistant watch, that was extremely robust and mechanically reliable, with a dial that would be perfectly legible even under very poor lighting conditions in the dark and underwater: the characteristics which made the Panerai watch the first military diver’s watch in history.

The lines of the Radiomir 1940 illustrate the exemplary purity and simplicity of the Panerai design, a simplicity which is the result of a complex process of design and manufacture. The orderliness of the form and appearance of both the case and the dial is closely linked to the function which the watch was to fulfil. The equilibrium arises from a design in which high quality materials and technical perfection made any decorative details superfluous. The design of the Panerai watch is an example of the international style in the years between the two World Wars. The emergence of the Modern Movement had already revolutionised architecture and design, and Italy’s significant contribution to this revolution was due to the architects and designers who took part in the remarkable phenomenon of Italian rationalism. Thanks to these masters, in the 1930s and 1940s timeless masterpieces were created in Italy, objects and buildings which communicate purity, knowledge and wisdom, in the best tradition of the Italian style and in perfect harmony with what was happening in the rest of the world. Like other icons of its time, the Radiomir 1940 is a classic of modernity which, many decades after its creation, continues to fascinate enthusiasts of watchmaking and design.

It is the calibre P.1000, a new hand-wound movement with a power reserve of three days, which powers the new Radiomir 1940 3 Days, available in steel or red gold with a diameter of 42 mm. Unmistakably Panerai in their design and respect for the company’s historic characteristics, the two new models have sizes and features which make them the ideal choice for all enthusiasts looking for a watch with pure lines but a strong personality, versatile and suitable to every situation.

The new P.1000 calibre – entirely made in the Panerai manufacture in Neuchatel – is a very solid, reliable movement with a large brush-finished bridge covering the major part of the wheelwork and a bridge with two supports firmly holding the balance, which oscillates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour). Thanks to the two spring barrels connected in series, the calibre has a long power reserve (three days), a requirement which has been part of the identity of the brand since the 1940s, when the Florentine watchmakers Panerai decided to use Angelus calibres with a power reserve of eight days for the watches supplied to the Italian Navy. Its commandos had to be able to count on an instrument with reliable timekeeping which would not be subject to wear or leaking as a result of frequent rewinding.

The new Radiomir 1940 3 Days also has the system for stopping the balance which operates in conjunction with the device for zeroing the seconds hand: when the winding crown is pulled out, the balance wheel stops and the seconds hand, rotating in the classic subsidiary dial at 9 o’clock, is moved back to zero, so that the watch can be synchronised exactly with the reference time signal.

The watchmaking technical expertise of the P.1000 calibre is contained within a diameter of just 26.8 mm (12 lignes) and a thickness of 3,85 mm, so it is perfectly suited to the proportions of the Radiomir 1940 case, which is 42 mm
in diameter. The case is water-resistant to 10 bar (a depth of about 100 metres) in the polished AISI 316L stainless steel version and to 5 bar (about 50 metres) in the gold version. The latter is made of 5NPT red gold, the special gold alloy used by Panerai, which has a high percentage of copper, as well as a small amount of platinum which helps to prevent the precious metal oxidising.

The sapphire crystal of the porthole on the back of the new Radiomir 1940 3 Days enables the construction and finish of the P.1000 movement to be admired while the polished bezel frames the classic Panerai black dial, with large bar
markers and figures. The dial has the sandwich structure invented at the end of the 1930s to maximise the visibility and legibility of the markings: two superimposed discs contain the luminous substance which shines through the holes in the upper one, which correspond to the dial markings. In the steel model (PAM00574) the alligator strap is coordinated with the light green of the Super-LumiNova®, while the model in red gold (PAM00575) is supplied with a black alligator strap.

Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio- 42mm (Pam 574)

MOVEMENT: Hand-wound mechanical, P.1000 calibre, executed entirely by Panerai.

FUNCTIONS: Hours, minutes, small seconds.

CASE: 42 mm, AISI 316L polished steel.

DIAL: Black with luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers. Seconds at 9 o’clock.

POWER RESERVE: 72H.

WATER-RESISTANCE: 10 bar (~100 metres).

Radiomir 1940 3 Days Oro Rosso- 42mm (Pam 575)

MOVEMENT: Hand-wound mechanical, P.1000 calibre, executed entirely by Panerai.

FUNCTIONS: Hours, minutes, small seconds.

CASE: 42 mm, 18 ct. polished red gold.

DIAL: Black with luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers. Seconds at 9 o’clock.

POWER RESERVE: 72H.

WATER-RESISTANCE: 5 bar (~50 metres).

PRESS RELEASE: CVSTOS Challenge Jet-Liner Inkvaders Skull Limited Edition.

The edition of 100 pieces in black steel with titanium components was created in collaboration with Christian Nguyen, tattoo artist and founder of the "Inkvaders" Studio that gives the limited series its name. Temporary resident of other studios during his travels around the world, Christian Nguyen places the skull in the center of his artistic universe.

Produced based on a handmade drawing, the skull dial was polished to reveal all the complexity and details; the movement coated with black PVD perfectly highlights this beautiful dial.

Born in Geneva, multi-talented artist, designer and musician, Christian Nguyen is particularly recognized for his artistic tattoo work. Fascinated by tattoos since young, his professional career began in 1992. Regularly traveling around the world, he has developed a strong base of fans in Denmark, France, Holland, Japan and the USA. Christian’s diverse and faithful clients are friends from varied worlds of sports and music; Yvan Muller (4 WTCC titles), Goran Bezina (NHL and Hockey Switzerland) and Romain di Marchi (freestyle snowborder), Fred Durst, Wes Borland and John Otto (Limp Bizkit), Danny Boy, Everlast (House of Pain, La Coka Nostra), DJ Naughty J (Suprême NTM) or DJ Remady and DJ Lethal, amongst others.

Specifications: 
Case: Tonneau shaped case 41mm x 53.7mm

Limitation: Limited Edition of 100 pieces.

Materials: Black Steel with Titanium Components.
                 Polished and satin-finished case

Caseback: Open with sapphire crystal.

Crystal: Sapphire, none-reflecting coating 2 faces.

Water-resistance: 100 meters

Screws: Polished, exclusive CVSTOS TECHNOLOGY pattern.

Crown: Screw-down, grain, CVSTOS decoration in polished titanium. Black Nitril.

Dial: Skull dial designed by Christian Nguyen. “INKVADERS” inscription

Hands: Pierced, chromed and Super-Luminova treated.

Calibre: Automatic wind skeletonized CVSTOS CVS350
movement. Black Plasma treatment.

Functions: Hour, minute, seconds in the center and date with skeletonized disc.

Power-reserve: 42 hours

Jewels: 25

Freqency: 28,800 vibrations per hour

Bracelet or Strap: Black Rubber (Nitril-NBR®)

Buckle: Black Steel folding clasp with "CVSTOS" logo

PRESS RELEASE: Davide Traxler is appointed Chief Operating Officer of Montres Corum.

With immediate effect, Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Davide Traxler as COO of Montres Corum.

This strategic appointment demonstrates once again Citychamp’s long term vision, confidence for sustainable development and continuous growth of the brand. This is an important milestone in pursuance of Corum long-term strategy which started a few years ago for the redevelopment of the Brand.

Mr Davide Traxler is the new leader of Corum management in implementing global strategy and business operations of the Brand. Mr Jacques-Alain Vuille will continue to share his over 35 years’ watch making experience with the Company.

Mr Tao Li, the Executive Chairman of Citychamp European Development Board, said "It is my great pleasure to have Mr Davide Traxler accepting this challenge. His extensive experiences and glorious achievements in Swiss Haute Horlogerie will allow him to develop the brand worldwide”.

About Davide Traxler
With more than 15 years of extensive experience in luxury, first in Bulgari then in Chopard with a wide experience including roles as Managing Director of Chopard Italy, Chopard USA, and Director of Licenses, Davide Traxler, born in New York (USA), is Swiss, having lived most of his life abroad; he graduated in Political Science in Milan Italy. He carries a strong multi-cultural background.

About Corum
Recognized both for its aesthetics and its technical excellence, Corum is proud to contribute to perpetuating the values and know-how of traditional high-end watchmaking, and project them into the future by creating the watchmaking of tomorrow today. Founded in 1955 in La Chaux-de-Fonds (Switzerland), Corum has made creativity, consistency and long-term vision as its guiding mission. Following in the lines of the founders, Corum is more than ever faithful to the iconic collections that created the reputation and brand awareness, but giving them a powerful modern twist its hallmark innovation and technical progress.

PRESS RELEASE: OMEGA Launches The Moonwatch “First OMEGA in Space” Numbered Edition.

OMEGA launches the Moonwatch “First OMEGA in Space” Numbered Edition.

Commemorating a historic moment for the brand with a classically inspired chronograph.

In 1962, astronaut Walter "Wally" Schirra made history for OMEGA when he wore his own personal Speedmaster during the “Sigma 7” mission of the Mercury program. Blasting into a clear blue sky on October 3rd, it marked the start of a long history of space exploration for OMEGA’s now-iconic Speedmaster Chronograph. In fact, almost two and half years later, the watch would become officially certified for all manned missions.

Today, the Speedmaster "First OMEGA in Space" reprises the classic look inspired by Schirra’s pioneering moment.

The updated 18K Sedna™ gold case is based on the original “pre-professional” Speedmaster, with symmetric lugs and a 1962 Seahorse medallion on the caseback.

On its face, the timepiece features a unique brown polished ceramic bezel ring and a matt chromium nitride tachymeter scale. This rich brown colour is also included on the PVD subdials and mintues track, which encircles a central opaline silvery dial. Along with the applied indexes, the hands are all made of 18k Sedna gold and contain a mix of "Alpha" and "Baton" designs.

For the unique touch, the caseback features special engravings including "THE FIRST OMEGA IN SPACE", "OCTOBER 13. 1962" AND "NUMBERED EDITION No."

To complete this remarkable watch, there is a brown leather strap with beige stitching, and a central core driven by the Omega calibre 1861, the same movement used in the famous "Moonwatch".

At a time when humans were first going beyond our Earth, it's remarkable to think that OMEGA was part of the journey. For that reason, this particular Speedmaster has been designed to be special in its own right. Those who wear it on their wrist are not only reminded of the brand's momentous milestone, but also of the beautiful Speedmaster design that has long stood the test of time.  

Press Release: IWC Schaffhausen Honours Patrouille Suisse With A Limited Edition.

The renowned watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen is again paying tribute to the high-flying excellence of the Patrouille Suisse with a special edition for 2015. The pilots of the Swiss Air Force display team have been wowing international air show crowds for decades with the precision and perfection of their formation flying. This year IWC is recognizing the exceptional flyers of the Swiss aerobatics squadron with a Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Patrouille Suisse”, a special version of the iconic watch first produced in 1940 which will be limited to 250 watches.

“Our association with the team from the Patrouille Suisse is based on our shared passion for aviation, and goes back many years,” explains Linus Fuchs, Managing  Director Switzerland at IWC Schaffhausen. “Our Pilot’s Watches

and the aerobatics squadron with their red and white Tigers both stand for reliability, precision and perfection. 

These shared values combined with a strong tradition going back over decades are the inspiration behind the special edition of our iconic watch from 1940. The limited edition Big Pilot’s Watch is a homage to the excellence of these exceptional pilots and the powerful interaction between man and technology,” Fuchs continues.

The Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Patrouille Suisse” (Ref. IW500910) is the ideal companion for ambitious high- flyers. This special edition is presented in grey with a case of blasted stainless steel featuring the characteristic design elements that make this professional timepiece for pilots instantly identifiable.

The 51011 calibre – the largest automatic movement manufactured in-house by IWC Schaffhausen – combines all the features that have proved their worth in the long history of mechanical watches from IWC. Within no time at all, the spring-mounted rotor and Pellaton pawl-winding system build up a power reserve of over 7 days, and after exactly 168 hours the movement is mechanically stopped by an ingenious train in the power reserve. Stopping the movement before all the tension in the spring has been exhausted eliminates the danger of diminishing torque in the mainspring. This ensures the same level of accuracy the whole time the watch is running. The power reserve display at “3 o’clock” provides a reliable indication of the time remaining until the movement comes to a stop.
A special feature of the Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Patrouille Suisse” is the small seconds at “9 o’clock”, symmetrically opposite the power reserve display. The date display is at “6 o’clock” as usual. The 46-millimetre case encloses a
soft-iron cage that protects the movements against extreme magnetic fields.

IWC’s historic 52 T.S.C. Big Pilot’s Watch of 1940 is clearlyrecognizable as the model that inspired the design of the Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Patrouille Suisse”. It is a style icon and the model which established the standard design
on which all classic pilot’s watches are based. A clearly organized dial, the arrowhead index at “12 o’clock” and the bold, luminescent numerals and hands guarantee minute-perfect legibility of the time regardless of lighting conditions. The Big Pilot’s Watch is the only model made by IWC Schaffhausen to feature such an imposing crown, a reminder of those pioneering days of aviation when pilots were exposed to the elements in unheated – or even open – cockpits. To combat this they wore thick gloves with their quilted flying suits, which made it difficult for them to wind and set their watches. Hence the need for an unusually large, chunky crown. The current stainless steel variant is rounded off by an anthracite-coloured wristband of embossed calfskin with a folding clasp.

The case back features an engraving of three jet planes resembling the Northrop F-5E Tiger II – the planes the Patrouille Suisse pilots use to perform their aerial displays with the same high levels of precision we associate with Swiss watches. The inscription “TRIBUTE TO PATROUILLE SUISSE” and the consecutive numbering on the case back (001/250, 002/250 etc.) indicate the exclusivity of this special limited edition. The Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Patrouille Suisse” will be available from September 2015 at IWC boutiques in Switzerland and from Swiss retailers, then later at IWC boutiques worldwide.

For almost 80 years, IWC Schaffhausen has been making robust, reliable timepieces for pilots and their passengers. Right from the start, IWC Pilot’s Watches were designed to offer optimum legibility by day and night and established the instrument look: in 1936, the Special Pilot’s Watch, as it was known, took up its professional mission in the service of pilots. It was designed to withstand the tough conditions encountered in the cockpit of aircraft at that time. The Schaffhausen-based manufacturer’s passion spurred its engineers and watchmakers on to ever-greater technical achievements. IWC’s Pilot’s Watches are extremely popular timepieces and elegantly combine state-of-the-art technology with traditional values.

Press Release: A. Lange & Söhne at Watches & Wonders 2015.

The 200th birthday of Ferdinand Adolph Lange will be in the spotlight during A. Lange & Söhne's appearance at the third Haute Horlogerie Exhibition in Asia. New timepieces will also be unveiled in Hong Kong.

Having been a great success for the past two years, the Haute Horlogerie Exhibition in Asia, Watches & Wonders, will take place from 30 September to 3 October 2015 in Hong Kong. A. Lange & Söhne is once again among the twelve exhibitors who will be present-ing their top-tier products at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

When he established his watch manufactory in 1845, the Dresden-born watchmaker Fer-dinand Adolph Lange laid the cornerstone of Saxony’s precision watchmaking. “This year, we are celebrating his 200th birthday,” says Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid. “He de-fined the most important distinguishing elements of the Saxon style of watchmaking, which can still be found in our modern timepieces. We look forward to sharing this knowledge with watch connoisseurs in Asia on the occasion of the third Watch-es & Wonders.”

The Asia-Pacific region is of great importance for traditional manufacturing. It enjoys a strong position in this region, which is characterised by a highly developed watch cul-ture. As a gesture of appreciation to watch enthusiasts and collectors in the region, A. Lange & Söhne will be unveiling four debuts in Hong Kong, among them the 1815 CHRONOGRAPH. This special white-gold chronograph model features blue numerals and a pulsometer scale. The rhodiumed gold hands for the hours and minutes and the blued steel for the chronograph sweep seconds, minute-counter and subsidiary seconds hands reflect the colour combination of the dial. It is available only in the 16 A. Lange & Söhne boutiques worldwide.

Press Release: IWC Schaffhausen Becomes The Official 'Festival-Time' Partner Of The Singapore International Film Festival.

IWC Schaffhausen is renowned not only for its luxury watches, but also for its long-standing passion for the world of filmmaking. To further underline its commitment, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has partnered with the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) and will support the 26th edition of this well-established film event in the role of Official ‘Festival-Time’ Partner from 26 November to 6 December 2015. 

“We are pleased to be the Official ‘Festival-Time’ Partner of the 26th edition of the Singapore International Film Festival. For years now, we have been involved with the film business, and this significant partnership underscores our increasing commitment to the world of filmmaking and the South East Asia region. The worlds of watchmaking and film have a lot in common, as they are both steeped in tradition and pioneering spirit. The creation of master­pieces, be they timepieces or films, is based on skill and expertise. Films are about storytelling and so are IWC watches,” says IWC CEO Georges Kern. 

IWC Schaffhausen has several commitments that testify to its passion for the film industry. The Swiss watch manufacturer has established close and long-standing relationships with internationally acclaimed actresses and actors as well as renowned filmmakers and other in­fluential figures in the movie business. Hollywood stars Cate Blanchett and Christoph Waltz as well as the cele­brated Chinese actress Zhou Xun are among those celebrities who not only represent IWC on the red carpet, but are also personally engaged in joint projects, such as films and photo shoots. Apart from this, watches from IWC have been favourite accessories in countless mov­ies and TV series.

“The shared values between the world of luxury and film are abundant. Both worlds are enriched with evocative stories of inspiration and experiences. This partnership is the start of a wonderful collaboration that is aligned to IWC’s long-standing commitment to filmmaking. I am pleased that we are supporting an important event that recognizes and honours the passion and endeavours of filmmakers across South East Asia,” says Managing Director of IWC South East Asia, Matthieu Dupont.

 

Ms Yuni Hadi, SGIFF Executive Director, adds: “Every film that is shown at the Singapore International Film Festival is an expression of the filmmaker’s passion and crafts­manship. IWC Schaffhausen’s support of SGIFF attests to its recognition of the many independent cinema talents in our region and their pursuit of excellence. We are excited to work with IWC Schaffhausen to inspire new discoveries and champion Asia’s story in film.” 

Aiming to help aspiring filmmakers follow their dreams, IWC Schaffhausen also supports international film festivals in New York/Tribeca, Zurich, London, Angoulême (France), Dubai and Beijing under the guiding principle “For the Love of Cinema”. IWC is not only the official partner of these events, it also presents the IWC Filmmaker Award, which includes a grant to allow up-and-coming filmmakers to fur­ther establish themselves and pursue their art. Past recipi­ents of the award have been recognized for their talent and their impact on the world of filmmaking.

The 26th SGIFF will be held in Singapore from 26 Novem­ber to 6 December 2015. Founded in 1987, it is the larg­est and longest-running film event in Singapore and has become an iconic event in the Singapore arts calendar, widely attended by international film critics and recog­nized worldwide for its focus on Asian filmmakers and the promotion of South East Asian films.

Press Release: Vacheron Constantin Historiques Cornes de vache 1955.

Vacheron Constantin: Pre-Watches and Wonders 2015.

Celebrating a heritage forged by 260 years of uninterrupted expertise and innovation, Manufacture Vacheron Constantin welcomes an exclusive new chronograph inspired by an iconic wristwatch developed by the Manufacture in 1955. Named Cornes de vache 1955 because of its distinctively-shaped ‘cow-horn’ lugs, it embodies a singular combination of bold design and absolute technicality. 

Featuring a central complication in line with the heritage of the Geneva-base Manufacture, the Historiques Cornes de vache 1955 is powered by hand-wound Caliber 1142, housed in a 38.5 mm diameter platinum case. 

This timepiece bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, is a contemporary interpretation of the first water-resistant and anti-magnetic chronograph presented by Vacheron Constantin 60 years ago. This now legendary timepiece symbolises the ancestral art of the Maison in creating high-end chronographs.

Corum Opens Its Doors To The Public Every Tuesday.

Every Tuesday morning, Corum offers a guided tour of its workshops. Developed in partnership with the cities of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Locle and Neuchâtel Tourism, the visits offer the public a unique opportunity to discover the brand “behind the scene” and to become familiar with the know-how and heritage that have made the reputation of the region.

Photo Credit: Guillaume Perret

Initiated by Neuchâtel Tourism, the idea of developing a tourist offer in relation with watchmaking has emulated since the inscription on tours are sold out several weeks in advance. Thus, Corum is the first watchmaker to open its doors to the public on a weekly basis. Tourists, fine watchmaking enthusiasts, businesses and students, therefore urge every Tuesday to discover the CORUM universe. Limited to 8 people, the visit aims to be qualitative. Audio guides allow non-Francophones not to miss any explanation and anecdote narrated by Neuchâtel Tourism guide.

Articulated in three stages, the tour begins with tracing the patterns that have marked the history of Corum. Ensues a discovery of the workshops, in total immersion with the watchmaking expertise. A presentation of the new collection completes the experience - the opportunity to dream, but above all to perceive the result of the work of the infinitely small.

PANERAI: History And Legend Exhibition Part 2 Media Preview.

Thanks to Panerai, I was able to attend the media preview of the exhibition. Enjoy the pics! .......for Part 1 of the Press Release click here.

Affectionately known as the "Pig". A full size replica of a "slowspeed torpedo" known as Siluro a Lenta Corsa takes centre stage in the exhibition.

I can't ride on the "pig" but this little fellow can.

Left: Alban Fauchille (GM, Panerai Singapore)

 Examining the details of the vintage pieces.

Shawn Yuen (Trainng Manager, Panerai Hong Kong) with Panerai fans from NUS Horology Club!

 A special guided tour was arranged for the media.

  

Top editors from various watch publications were also present for the preview.

Vintage Militare with Angelus movement 1950s......a stunning piece!  

A vintage wrist compass (1950s) and signal touch for divers.

1940s Depth Gauge. 

vintage wrist compass (1940s)

Vintage Radiomir L'egiziano 1956. If you have the Pam 341, you will want this too....if you can find one!!

Ref 3646 from 1940s movement signed Rolex.

The 2015 collection was on display as well.

Adriano Toninelli showed us how a dial and movement assembly is done.

Last but not least some wrist shots!