Haute time
A brilliant mix of strong designs, clever watchmaking, interesting—and at times contentious—variations on classics defined Baselworld 2017. Charlene Co brings you some of the highlights of the show in a roundup that barely scratches the surface but should
Longines has created a limited anniversary version of the Flagship watch to mark the model’s 60th year. Brand ambassador Kate Winslet chose the face of the watch, inspired by a vintage piece displayed at the watchmaker’s Saint-imier headquarters. The timepiece comes in steel, yellow gold or rose gold. There’s a new member of Omega’s much-loved Speedmaster collection, and it’s a looker. The Speedmaster 38mm is more refined and has been given a nice cappuccino dial. Its case is made from a combination of stainless steel and 18K Sedna gold, complemented by a bezel of pavé diamonds and a tachymeter scale. A taupe leather strap is the perfect finishing touch. Breguet has steadily expanded its exceptional Tradition Dame collection since its launch two years ago. On this occasion, it adds a version in rose gold. Overlapping with its rose-engraved barrel at 12 o’clock is a mother-of-pearl dial adorned with clous de paris engraving, and on its bezel 68 brilliant-cut diamonds. This beautiful piece sees mother-of-pearl introduced to the Grand Seconde collection, an iconic line inspired by the pocket watch created by the brand’s founder, Pierre Jaquet-droz, in 1784. The Grande Seconde Tourbillon Mother-of-pearl timepiece comes with a 39mm red-gold case set with diamonds, and promises an impressive seven days of power reserve.