Revolution, Author at Revolution Watch

A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

Revolution — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 03:48:47 +0000

A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

The technically exceptional timepiece is produced in a limited 30-watch edition in a monochromatic gray dial configuration.

News

By Revolution

Oct 25, 2023

The Zeitwerk is a phenomenon. Take it from this story here, which contains an incredible breakdown of the model, taking a close look at its gargantuan (yet likable) jumping main hours, acoustic indications of time, and its other nifty features that has become everything the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk we all recognize today.

Yet of course with A. Lange & Söhne, it’s not just about what’s on the surface. Its inner workings has given the Zeitwerk a reputation of the first mechanical wristwatch that combines a jumping numerals display with a decimal minute repeater. At the push of a button, it sounds the hours, ten-minute intervals and minutes.

A. Lange & Söhne now presents a new model in a honey gold version with a gray dial, whilst running the faithful in-house caliber L043.5.

The Zeitwerk with exceptional sound

Crafted from Lange-exclusive honey gold, the case material isn’t just visually striking. The material is favored to create a resonant body, emanating a distinctive, rich, and warm timbre when the repeater chimes.

Anthony de Haas, Director Product Development at A. Lange & Söhne, emphasized that different materials result in unique sound qualities, much like musical instruments. “Every minute repeater has its own, one-of-a-kind sound,” de Haas explained in a statement.

“Apart from the gongs and gong hammers, the case material has the greatest impact on the sound. That is the case with our novelty in honey gold. It sounds different to all other materials ‒ truly distinctive.”

The Lange-style chiming system

The innovation doesn’t stop at aesthetics. The mechanism and the operating systems have been meticulously fine-tuned to ensure perfect harmony.

A unique button system triggers the repeater, and thanks to the twin mainspring barrels, there’s no need for the traditional slide found in minute repeaters.

Furthermore, safety mechanisms are integrated into the movement to prevent the repeater sequence from prematurely stopping due to low power reserves. When the striking mechanism is activated, the numerals discs switching action is delayed, ensuring the acoustic indication of time remains unimpaired.

The Zeitwerk Minute Repeater Honeygold is limited to just 30 watches and is exclusively available in select A. Lange & Söhne boutiques.

Tech Specs: A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Minute Repeater Ref. 147.050F

Movement: Manual-wound Lange manufacture calibre L043.5; 36-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; Subsidiary seconds; Striking mechanism with decimal minute repeater
Case: 44.2mm; 18-carat Honeygold®
Dial: 925 silver; gray
Strap: Hand-stitched dark brown leather; Deployant buckle in 18-carat Honeygold® and 18-carat white gold
Availability: Limited to 30 pieces

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Angelus

ANGELUS x REVOLUTION CHRONODATE "ANGELS' SHARE"

$23,800.00

TECH SPECS

Movement	Self-winding caliber A-500; 60 hours power reserve
Functions	Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph and date
Case	42.5mm; titanium; water resistant to 30m
Dial	Salmon (6N gold plated) with gené or frosted area; Super-LumiNova filled Arabic numerals
Strap	Ballistic gray rubber; titanium folding clasp

The post A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater appeared first on Revolution Watch.

From Military Legacy to Modern Luxury: The Ascendant Identity of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms

Revolution — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:00:45 +0000

From Military Legacy to Modern Luxury: The Ascendant Identity of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms

Blancpain

By Revolution

Oct 19, 2023

Reflecting today’s rapidly evolving tastes and lifestyles, “quiet luxury” has emerged as a trend that guides the modern consumer, eschewing conspicuous branding, flamboyant colors, loud names, and excess use of precious materials such as gold and diamonds — unless you’re a rapper or music mogul, in which case that is only par for the course. Rather, quiet luxury puts a strong emphasis on pure quality and distinct identity.

This notion of luxury appeals especially to those who value excellence and discretion, often striking a chord with individuals of “old money”, such as those so accurately reflected in the HBO series Succession. Indeed, even Jay Z has moved on to quiet luxury timepieces these days, for they possess an inherent elegance that resonates with all who desire luxury in its purest form.

So for those who lean towards subtlety, functionality, and seek a more understated form of luxury, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms emerges as a unique and compelling option.

The epitome of luxury dive watches

To grasp why the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms holds such a special place in the world of contemporary luxury, we first need to understand the essence of luxury watches. At its core, a watch is designed for timekeeping — a function it should execute with flawless precision. However, the line between a basic timekeeping instrument and a luxury timepiece is marked by the meticulous craftsmanship, intricate design, and superior finishing that elevate the latter to an exceptional standard.

From left: Fifty Fathoms “Nageurs de combat” in steel, Automatique in red gold (Image © Revolution)

And what of dive watches? These rugged timekeeping tools are engineered to excel in challenging underwater environments. Borne of pure utility, their primary mission is to keep accurate time while remaining legible and durable to ensure the safety of divers. So can a dive watch transform into a luxury timepiece without compromising on practicality and straying from its identity as a reliable tool watch? The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms provides a compelling answer to this question.

Over the course of 70 years, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a utilitarian dive watch into a symbol of modern understated luxury. Very much a cult favorite among dive watch enthusiasts today, it resonates with individuals who possess discerning taste and who seek something genuinely distinctive, and that traces its origins to a most seminal moment in modern watchmaking history.

Consider this: The bezel insert of the present day Blancpain Fifty Fathoms isn’t a typical polished ceramic disc commonly found in dive watches. Instead, it features a dramatically domed piece of sapphire crystal. This might be but a minute feature in the grand scheme of things, however, when you see it up close, you’ll immediately sense its elegance and the opulent aura it exudes. More importantly, there is nothing else quite like it, and over time the domed sapphire crystal along with other signature hallmarks has come to define the core aesthetic of the Fifty Fathoms.

Fifty Fathoms Automatique

Likewise, the watch’s crystal also takes a rounded and domed design, exuding an unmistakable aura of sophistication and elegance, making it ever popular among watch enthusiasts. While the modern Fifty Fathoms stands at a robust 45mm, don’t be daunted by its dimensions. The broad bezel effectively reduces the available dial space, resulting in a more compact overall appearance. Those short and downturned lugs minimize the watch’s footprint and guarantee a comfortable fit on your wrist. In select models, the use of lightweight titanium or ceramic keeps the watch lightweight despite its strapping proportions. These thoughtful details combine to ensure that the Fifty Fathoms exudes confidence and a commanding presence while maintaining a balanced and non-overwhelming feel on the wrist.

Fifty Fathoms Automatique in titanium

Through the years, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms has also consistently evolved in the horological sense, featuring some of the manufacture’s signature high and medium complications such as the 8 Days Flying Tourbillon, its triple calendar with moon phase display, the day-date function, the big date function, and many more. Yet at its core, it remains true to its roots as the earliest dive watch in recorded history. Its style doesn’t flaunt opulence; instead, it embodies refined taste, becoming a symbol appreciated by true enthusiasts who recognize its stature.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tourbillon 8 Jours, Ref: 5025-12B40, with NATO strap

But how did the Fifty Fathoms come about?

To truly understand the story of the Fifty Fathoms and thus the significance of its modern identity, we must trace its origins and evolution. The first chapter begins with Jean-Jacques Fiechter, who played a pivotal role in the company from 1950 to 1980. Fiechter was not only a businessman but an avid diver as well. His firsthand diving experiences inspired solutions for underwater timekeeping challenges, which included a double-sealed crown, a bezel lock, and a system securing the “O” ring in the case back channel, all patented by Blancpain.

Jean-Jacques pursuing his underwater hobby. Image by Blancpain.

Simultaneously, French combat divers Captain Robert “Bob” Maloubier and Lieutenant Claude Riffaud faced difficulties with the choice of watches available in Paris, which were challenging to read underwater and prone to leakage. Their path crossed with Jean-Jacques Fiechter’s, resulting in the birth of the Fifty Fathoms. It passed the rigorous tests of the French military and became an essential tool for divers.

However, a supply issue emerged as the French government mandated the sourcing of all dive gear from French companies only. This led to a partnership with Spirotechnique, a subsidiary of Air Liquide, who then marketed the Fifty Fathoms under their “Aqualung” brand.

An early Fifty Fathoms with Arabic numeral markers at the quarters. Image by Blackbird Watch.

From that point, the Fifty Fathoms found rapid success in the military and later on, the civilian markets. Notably, it forged an important connection with Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the renowned French naval officer and oceanographer. Cousteau, whose wife’s family owned Air Liquide, selected the Aqualung-branded Fifty Fathoms watches for his diving team, which were delivered through Spirotechnique.

The manufacture’s early history also involves Allen V. Tornek, a New York-based diamond dealer and friend of Blancpain’s owners. Tornek saw the chance to supply these watches to the US Navy, but Blancpain couldn’t do it directly since it wasn’t a US company. Tornek then set up a local testing lab and secured a US government contract, resulting in the co-branded Tornek-Rayville “Milspec 1” Fifty Fathoms, with an initial order of 611 watches. Rayville, as watch aficionados are well aware, is the name of Blancpain’s US registered company and an inversion of the word Villeret, where the Blancpain manufacture is located. Later, the “Milspec 2” (TR-900) was produced with minimal magnetic materials to avoid triggering bombs, with a total of 1080 pieces delivered.

The moisture indicator, a distinctive characteristic of the MIL-SPEC 1, can be seen at the six o'clock position. Image by Blancpain.

In the civilian market, Blancpain recognized that not everyone could pull off a large 41mm watch. Just a few years after the debut of the original Fifty Fathoms, the brand introduced the smaller Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe, featuring cases as small as 34.5 mm. Later in the 1970s, Blancpain produced a wide variety of Fifty Fathoms and Bathyscaphe models, with funky colors and designs that perfectly captured the spirit of that era. These stylish smaller models marked the first step in the Fifty Fathoms’ transition from a practical tool to a unique accessory.

Two vintage Bathyscaphe models from the early years. Image by Blancpain.

After its formative years, the Fifty Fathoms went through a second chapter marked by modernity and a zest for adventure. In 1983, Jean-Claude Biver and Jacques Piguet took over the brand, embarking on a renaissance rooted in traditional watchmaking while also expanding its repertoire to encompass sports watches. In 1997, the brand unveiled a Trilogy of sports watches designed for air, sea, and land applications, all sharing a common 40.3 mm case, bezel, and bracelet design. The Fifty Fathoms represented the sea, the Air Command took to the skies, and the Fifty Fathoms GMT was tailored for land.

An unusual Fifty Fathoms from the Trilogy era featuring a white dial. Image by Fratello.

This period is remarkable for two reasons: the revival of the Fifty Fathoms and the infusion of modern creativity. Blancpain introduced significant changes, such as updating the traditional black bezel with a bright metallic one featuring raised numerals, adding an elegant touch. They also ventured into new materials, including precious metals like rose, yellow, and white gold — a first for the Fifty Fathoms line. In 1999, the Concept 2000 collection pushed the boundaries with its stylish two-tone steel and rubber bezel and bracelet.

The Trilogy era, spanning from 1997 to 2003, witnessed significant success attributed to the exceptional quality in terms of design and finishing of the watches, along with an impressive movement providing a 100-hour power reserve. It marked the second phase of Blancpain’s transformation of the Fifty Fathoms into an easily wearable accessory, highlighting as well the fusion of luxury and functionality.

Turning into an exclusive icon

Forging ahead in the new millennium, this chapter is where the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms saw its most dramatic evolution yet. In 2002, its current President and CEO Marc A. Hayek took over the helm of the company and he had very quickly recognized the allure of the Fifty Fathoms. The watch was to celebrate its 50^th anniversary in 2003 and seizing the opportunity, he introduced a new and modern re-edition within the year. That pivotal model was the Fifty Fathoms 50th Anniversary.

The 50th Anniversary model, accompanied by a special rubber strap in addition to the metal bracelet. Image by Blancpain.

What sets this watch apart and why is it significant? The Fifty Fathoms 50th Anniversary model marked a significant departure from Jean-Claude Biver’s era of all-metal bezels. Instead, it debuted a sapphire bezel insert, paying tribute to the vintage bakelite bezel, but with enhanced practicality — the sapphire bezel concealed the luminescent numerals beneath. This shift set the tone for all subsequent modern Fifty Fathoms watches. Limited to 150 pieces, it was divided into three batches for the European, Asian, and American markets, with the case backs engraved as Series I, II, and III.

Then in 2007, following four years of preparation since the 2003 anniversary launch, Blancpain reintroduced a full-fledged, regular collection of Fifty Fathoms. This relaunch brought about two significant changes: the 45mm case that still characterizes today’s collection and the introduction of complicated models. Notably, its tourbillon with eight-day power reserve, as well as audacious professional models like the X Fathoms, designed with a depth gauge.

In 2013, Blancpain revived the Bathyscaphe line, featuring a more modest 43 mm case compared to the 45 mm Fifty Fathoms. The Bathyscaphe evoked the spirit of the original with a sleek, angular case design and a cleaner overall dial. Image by Blancpain

It was within this modern era that the Fifty Fathoms reasserted its status as a pioneering dive watch and even attained a cult following. Several key models garnered significant attention following fervent demand, notably the special limited editions featuring a 40.3 mm case. These pieces have been introduced almost annually since 2017.

For instance, in 2017, Blancpain unveiled the Fifty Fathoms “Tribute to Mil-Spec,” a 500-piece limited edition featuring a highly wearable case with elements reminiscent of the early military models. The revival of the “Mil-Spec” designation after decades delighted true enthusiasts and collectors. In 2018, Blancpain introduced the Fifty Fathoms Ocean Commitment III, featuring a blue dial and bezel, and the brand’s Ocean Commitment logo at six o’clock to emphasize the manufacture’s contributions to ocean conservation.

The “Mil-Spec” limited edition from 2017

2019 witnessed the debut of the Fifty Fathoms Barakuda, with its instantly recognizable red and beige hour markers inspired by a 1970s version for the German Navy. In 2020, Blancpain revisited the “Mil-Spec” with Hodinkee by removing the date, and in 2021, Blancpain resurrected the highly coveted “No Rad.” All of these models featured the coveted 40.3 mm case, distinguishing them from the modern 45mm Fifty Fathoms, and contributing to their overall desirability. Vintage watch lovers might be glad to recall that all the Fifty Fathoms watches made at the turn of the millennium were also in 40.3mm.

The “No Rad” limited edition from 2021

The modern limited editions truly define the latest phase and identity of the Fifty Fathoms, as they are exquisite, unique timepieces that exclusively resonate with connoisseurs and are highly sought after within that select circle.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 2 – Tech Gombessa

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 3

Over the last seven decades, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from its origins as a military underwater timekeeping tool into a symbol of understated luxury. The Fifty Fathoms 70th anniversary Acts 1, 2 and 3 provide a cool visual summary of the watch’s incredible horological journey.

It has continually embraced advancements in materials, water resistance, movements, and most importantly, new and creative designs. Furthermore, the introduction of special limited editions paying tribute to historical eras has further heightened its prestige. Its limited production quantities assure its exclusivity to a discerning circle of connoisseurs who love nothing more than to revel in its long and storied history.

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Unimatic x Revolution U1 Milsub "Blue"

$1,220.00

TECH SPECS

Movement	Self-winding caliber SW200-1b; 41-hour power reserve
Functions	Hours, minutes and seconds
Case	41.5mm; 316 steel with Cerulean blue stonewashed Cerakote coating, matte vintage navy aluminium bezel insert; water resistant to 300m
Dial	Matte vintage navy; hour markers outlined in Super-LumiNova
Strap	Vintage navy TPU-coated nylon; additional vintage navy nylon with fabric keepers
Limited Edition	Limited Edition of 200 pieces

The post From Military Legacy to Modern Luxury: The Ascendant Identity of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms appeared first on Revolution Watch.

Rexhep Rexhepi, The Remarkable Journey of the Horological Prodigy

Revolution — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 04:42:58 +0000

Rexhep Rexhepi, renowned as a formidable watchmaker and horological prodigy, solidified his reputation through a remarkable journey. His exceptional career took a significant turn when he joined one of contemporary watchmaking giants, Francois-Paul Journe.

In 2012, at the young age of 25, Rexhepi embarked on his horological odyssey by establishing Akrivia, a watchmaking studio bearing a name that embodies “precision” in Greek.

In 2018, Rexhep Rexhepi’s first Chronometre Contemporain (RRCC) earned the Best Men’s Watch Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Geneva.

Join Wei as we unravel his horological journey, coming together with the legendary casemaker, Mr. Jean-Pierre Hagmann for his Only Watch 2023 entry.

Additionally, we delve into Rexhep Rexhepi’s core values, his artistic approach to design, and his meticulous thought process, which he applies to achieve unparalleled attention to detail in his horological masterpieces, including Akrivia’s celebrated AK series and his eponymous brand, Rexhep Rexhepi Chronometre Contemporain.

The post Rexhep Rexhepi, The Remarkable Journey of the Horological Prodigy appeared first on Revolution Watch.

Capturing the World’s Imagination: Jacob & Co. “The World is Yours” Dual Time Zone

Revolution — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 01:02:41 +0000

Capturing the World’s Imagination: Jacob & Co. “The World is Yours” Dual Time Zone

We look back at some of most iconic Jacob & Co. multi time zone watches, leading to this year’s recreation of the dual time watch that sparked the brand’s venture into watchmaking.

News

By Revolution

Oct 6, 2023

Jacob & Co. is known today for having created some of the most visually and conceptually spectacular watches in the world where mechanics and entertainment are folded one into the other. Examples like the Astronomia, Twin Turbo Furious, Oil Pump automaton, and Jean Bugatti Tourbillon Chronograph are just about as outrageous yet intellectually rewarding as one can get. In Singapore, Sincere Haute Horlogerie is well known as a specialist retailer in this type of wildly visionary complications, so it makes sense that you can find Jacob & Co. in their showcases. So how did the rapper-beloved jeweler become a high-concept watchmaker? Its trajectory and path to prominence in watchmaking can in fact be charted by its multi time zone watches.

It all began two decades ago at the height of its success, having hacked a path to stardom by attending to a clientele that was largely overlooked by the jewelry and luxury business – hip-hop artists. Jacob’s name was a recurring motif in the verses of countless rap anthems, and his jewelry became the key to the hip-hop kingdom’s gates. But as hip-hop permeated pop culture, Jacob & Co.’s jewelry ultimately transcended its rap origins, establishing itself as an integral part of mainstream celebrity culture. For Jacob Arabo, the brand’s visionary founder, the next step was venturing into the world of watchmaking.

The Shape of Things to Come

In 2002, the brand unveiled the diamond-encrusted Five Time Zone watch which was inspired by a dual-time watch that was gifted to him by his father at the age of 13. The Five Time Zone was a round watch with a sub-dial that was demarcated in a primary colour at each corner of the dial, along with central hands, enabling it to display five time zones at once. Its ubiquity in celebrity culture defied exaggeration; it graced the wrists of hip-hop’s impresarios, from Jay-Z to Busta Rhymes, as well as style icons like Nigo of Bathing Ape, David Beckham, and even Leonardo DiCaprio in its heyday.

The coveted Five Time Zone

What intrigues, however, is that beneath the whirlwind of success, the timepiece remained, like a piece of jewelry, rather accessory-like in nature, driven by a quartz movement. This was later rectified in 2006 in the H24 Time Zone Automatic, a mechanical version that would mark the start of the jeweler’s journey down the horological rabbit hole

H24 Five Time Zone Automatic

A Deep Dive into Watchmaking

The next multi time zone watch would already be a world apart, evolving in mechanical sophistication to the point of being remarkably original. It was the Epic SF24 in 2013, a dual time watch that displayed the first time zone on the main dial and the second time zone, along with the city name on split flaps that recalled digital flip clocks of the 80s. Developed by Luca Soprana, a fourth generation watchmaker and the founder of complication specialist Studio 7h38, the movement’s unusual split flaps are mounted on notches within and between a series of wheels arranged perpendicular to the main dial. Each set of wheels carries a set of 24 flaps and the flipping action is facilitated by a spring such that each flap is rotated by 180 degrees when the wheels are rotated by 15 degrees. These wheels are linked to the motion works by a reduction gear train where the motion of the hour wheel, which completes a rotation in 12 hours, is transferred through a gear train to drive two other wheels such that they complete one full rotation in 24 hours.

Jacob & Co. Epic SF24

Thus, when the user sets the time on the main dial using the crown at four o’clock, the gear train drives the shutters to indicate the time at a selected city. However, if the user wishes to change the city to display another time zone, this is achieved by pressing the pusher next to the city name. The set of wheels associated with the cities then drives the second set of wheels dedicated to the corresponding time display. In many ways, the Epic SF24 embodied an unconventional, maximalist approach to complications that the brand has grown increasingly renowned for over the years.

The Culmination of Jacob & Co.’s Visual and Visceral Approach to Complications

The next time Jacob & Co. introduced a multi time zone function it would be in a grand complication, the Astronomia Maestro Worldtime Tourbillon Repeater Carillon in 2021. By then, Jacob & Co. had created what is arguably its most conceptually singular, visually striking, and undeniably beautiful line of watches – the Astronomia. In fact, no contemporary watchmaker produces overload with as much beauty or technical appeal. Under a massive domed crystal, a four-arm carrier supporting a variety of complications rotates above the dial, enabling the three-dimensional movement to be fully admired. Its ingenious construction was developed by Luca Soprana and produced by Le Cercle des Horlogers. Apart from the barrel, the winding and setting mechanism, everything is positioned above the dial.

Astronomia Maestro Worldtime Tourbillon Repeater Carillon

In the Astronomia Maestro Worldtime Tourbillon Repeater Carillon, the time display has been moved to the center of the dial. The four-arm carrier performs a rotation in just 10 minutes and supports a triple-axis tourbillon, a miniature sculpture of an astronaut, a Jacob-cut 1-carat diamond representing the moon and an oversized magnesium globe of the earth serving as the worldtime complication. Hand-painted in blue, the globe completes a rotation in 24 hours and the position of the continents can be intuitively cross-reference with the single hour marker at 12 o’clock. The backdrop for the whole show is aventurine that is hand-painted with a Milky Way galaxy.

The watch is also a carillon repeater, which is characterized by three gongs and three hammers instead of two. The hours are signaled by a low tone, the minutes a high tone while the quarters are sounded by a sequence of three tones. Additionally, the gongs are cathedral gongs which are nearly twice the length of conventional gongs, producing a richer, deeper sound with a longer reverberation. The three gongs in the Astronomia Maestro elegantly spiral upwards over the base plate can viewed from the side of the case. The strike train is partially exposed on the aventurine dial. Located between the hammers is the repeating barrel that powers the strike train, the speed of which is regulated by a flywheel governor visible at eight o’clock.

Going Back to The Start

This year Jacob & Co. unveiled the “The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone Watch that pays homage to his father Nison Arabov, and the timepiece he presented to Jacob in the late 1970s. The watch was a Wakmann that bore an engraved, gold-plated world map on its dial. It was particularly distinctive because Jacob’s family resided in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which, at the time was subject to strict limitations and censorship concerning depictions and visual representations of the West. The watch also seemed as if it was his father’s way of encouraging Jacob to set out and conquer the world. The story and the recreation of the dual time watch are evocative because conquered he did.

“The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone

Naturally, the “The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone is mechanically and materially more sophisticated. The original dual time Wakmann was powered by two independent ETA movements, each dedicated to a different time zone display at nine and six o’clock. The “The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone, on the other hand, is driven by an ETA base movement that is topped by proprietary dual time module developed by ETA for Jacob & Co. In addition to the dual time sub-dials at six and nine o’clock, there is also a small seconds sub-dial in the center. The small seconds hand takes the shape of a wind rose with four arms, one of which is highlighted in red to serve as an indicator.

The case is rendered in rose gold and measures 43 mm, which falls in line with Jacob & Co.’s approach of go-big-or-go-home when it comes to watch design. But the expansive dial has been put to good use; if a watch is going to exceed the sacred 38mm, it might as well offer the world. The dial base, made of brass, was stamped with a steep dome, which has been laser-engraved with the outlines of the continents. Additionally, their depressions are formed through stamping with the use of a precision mold, resulting in a realistic depiction of the topography on the continents. Flanking the sub-dials are the Americas on the left and Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia on the right. The map continues onto the solid case back that has also been laser-engraved in relief. All the sub-dials are carved in relief on the dial and are decorated with a sunray finish. The entire dial then undergoes a galvanic treatment that coats it in rose gold. Subsequently, the oceans are painted with blue lacquer, creating a striking contrast.

Both sub-dials are adjusted via the crown. A major upside to such a display mechanism compared to a regular GMT watch is its ability to independently adjust the minutes for both time zones. In other words, it is one of the few travel watches that can accommodate countries with unique 30-minute and 45-minute time offsets like India, Nepal, and Venezuela.

While every multi-time zone watch is an invitation to voyage, this one is woven with the extraordinary journey of Jacob the Jeweler – a story of his remarkable ascent from humble beginnings in Tashkent to the grandeur of both a renowned jeweler and watchmaker. But whichever way the Dual Time Zone appeals to you – the literal, symbolic, or abstract sense – it sure is stunning.

Jacob and Co. timepieces are available exclusively at Sincere Fine Watches boutique at Takashimaya S.C., #01-12, and SHH (Sincere Haute Horlogerie) boutique at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, #B2M-202.

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FROM THE SHOP

Bell & Ross

Bell & Ross x Alessandro Palazzi x Revolution & The Rake Bellytanker Chronograph "Vesper"

$5,250.00

TECH SPECS

Movement	Self-winding caliber BR.CAL-301; 42-hour power reserve
Functions	Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph and date
Case	41mm; CuAI7Si2 bronze; water resistant to 100m
Dial	Sunray brushed with applied, gold-plated indices
Strap	Black calfskin; satin polished bronze folding clasp
Limited Edition	Limited edition of 50 pieces

The post Capturing the World’s Imagination: Jacob & Co. “The World is Yours” Dual Time Zone appeared first on Revolution Watch.

Unveiling the Jacob & Co Opera Godfather Minute Repeater with Alain Schiesser

Revolution — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:47:13 +0000

Join Wei and Alain Schiesser, Co-founder of Le Cercle des Horlogers SA, as they delve into the extraordinary Jacob & Co Opera Godfather Minute Repeater. This exceptional timepiece is a part of the Opera Collection, where the realms of high watchmaking seamlessly blend with the enchanting world of music.

The 49mm Opera timepiece stands as a pioneering work of luxury horology, bringing together a high watchmaking minute repeater visible through the large sapphire crystal and rose gold case and a triple-axis tourbillon movement with a two-comb, two-cylinder Swiss music box. Elevating this fusion to an unprecedented level, it introduces the iconic theme music from “The Godfather,” marking a remarkable convergence of watchmaking and music. Jacob & Co. holds the exclusive rights, in collaboration with Paramount Pictures, to feature The Godfather logo and the iconic melody within this extraordinary Opera timepiece. Moreover, a stylized depiction of Marlon Brando as Don Corleone, found exclusively on the Opera Godfather Minute Repeater, graces the 18K gold, black-lacquered piano, adding a unique and collectible touch to this remarkable creation. Winding the watch is a delightful experience with its violin-shaped handle at 3 o’clock, while setting it is made easy using the 18K gold lift-out bow on the case back. Notably, the power reserves for the movement and the music box function are distinct. The watch boasts a 44-hour power reserve, while the music can be played three times before requiring winding once more.

The post Unveiling the Jacob & Co Opera Godfather Minute Repeater with Alain Schiesser appeared first on Revolution Watch.

Exclusive: Jean Arnault and Alexandre Mille In Conversation with Wei Koh

Revolution — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:32:17 +0000

We had the distinct privilege of hosting two influential luminaries from the next generation of watchmaking leaders: Jean Arnault, the Marketing and Product Director for Watches at LVMH, and Alexandre Mille, the Sales Director of Richard Mille and the son of the brand’s founder, join us to delve into their respective journeys, the foundational principles that guide them, and their pivotal roles in upholding and advancing the remarkable legacies they represent.

Accompany Wei as he engages in a heartfelt and candid dialogue with two of the foremost leaders in the new generation of watchmaking. Discover the authentic humility and approachability that define these remarkable individuals in the world of horology. Hats off to Jean and Alexandre!

The post Exclusive: Jean Arnault and Alexandre Mille In Conversation with Wei Koh appeared first on Revolution Watch.

Revolution, Author at Revolution Watch

A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

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Tech Specs: A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Minute Repeater Ref. 147.050F

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A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

A. Lange & Söhne presents a new limited-edition Zeitwerk Minute Repeater

The Zeitwerk with exceptional sound

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