FRIDAY WIND DOWN: First-ever steel Code 11.59s, new Hublot x Murakami, Dubai Watch Week 2023

Zach Blass

We have yet to lose novelty steam in 2023, so once again we have a fair bit of news from the week to recap. Vamos!

Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet makes its first-ever debut in stainless steel

Steel makes its first ever-debut in the Code 11.59 collection, resulting in a new lower CHF 21,000 entry point
Six configurations, three time and date and three chronographs
Each trio set to utilise blue, green and smoked beige dials with a brand new hand-crafted guilloche stamp

Hublot unveils 3rd Hublot x Murakami watch collaboration

The new Hublot x Takashi Murakami Classic Fusion All Black will be limited to 13 unique pieces
The 13 unique watches, which vary in dial color, are joined by 13 corresponding unique NFTs
Features a 45mm black ceramic case, kinetic Murakami petals, and manufacture UNICO movement with 72 hours power reserve
Sales begin early April 2023, but strictly to owners of at least one of the 324 NFTs issued in the previous collaboration

Dubai Watch Week to return for its 6th edition

Dubai Watch Week will return for its 6th edition from November 16
It is set to take place once again at The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Open to the public, guests can expect an array of horological fun, entertainment, cultural activities and gastronomic experiences

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Zach

Watch meme of the week: You’re not that guy pal

One of the most heartening recent developments in the watch world is that big cases are no longer the default option for men. More and more watches are now appearing in the sub-40mm category – a refreshing correction given that traditionally men’s watches always enjoyed these less imposing dimensions. The bottom line is that for most people, a small watch will invariably prove more wearable, versatile and elegant. As any right-minded watch lover will know, there’s nothing remotely effeminate about a compact watch.

Wrist shot of the week: “Poohtier” Crash?

Rhonda Riche, Editor-At-Large for Watchonista, made me stop in my scrolling tracks earlier this week with what she has aptly dubbed her “Poohtier”. The curvature of Winnie the Pooh’s face for the watch case bears (pun absolutely intended) a striking resemblance to the highly sought-after Cartier Crash. For those, like me who immediately wondered who made it and when it was manufactured, it is a ’90s Timex watch that can be found on eBay for less than US$15 – far, far less expensive than an actual Crash!

Time+Tide Shop select of the week: Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Auto 38mm

A century-long pedigree in military timepieces combined with lightweight materials make the Khaki Field Titanium Automatic the ultimate all-purpose watch for modern heroes. Truly fit for life in the field, the 38mm case size accentuates comfort and adaptability with a historically authentic design.

The Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Auto 38mm is available, and is exclusive in Australia to, the Time+Tide store here. Price: A$1525

Model and Reference No.	Khaki Field Titanium Automatic –38mm: H70205860 and H70205830 (brushed titanium), H70215880 (PVD-coated); 42mm: H70545560, H70545540 (brushed titanium).
Case Material	Titanium
Water-Resistance	100m
Dial	Green, blue, black, grey
Strap	Khaki, brown or grey nubuck strap
Movement	H-10
Power Reserve	80 hours

Our favourite Time+Tide coverage of the week:

INTRODUCING: Honouring the “First” with maki-e magic – the new Grand Seiko SBGW295 Limited Edition

In honour of the 110th anniversary of Japan’s first wristwatch, Grand Seiko unveiled a new limited edition SBGW295 watch. It takes inspiration from Grand Seiko’s first watch from 1960 known as the “First”, and has caught the gaze of collectors with its black urushi lacquer dial and maki-e (sparkling picture) 24K powdered gold indices crafted by master Isshu Tamura. Learn more about the Grand Seiko SBGW295.

VIDEO: The IWC EasX-CHANGE straps refresh old favourites with a sporty touch

As the popularity of rubber straps becomes ever more apparent, and to aid in providing the best personal touch to their wearer’s watches, IWC is introducing a slew of options for the members of their Pilot’s range. Over the last 18 months the brand has updated the water resistance of their core Pilot’s range to 10 bar, and while most pieces within the Pilot’s range are available on a swimming-ready, stainless-steel bracelet, the traditional and iconic calf skin leather straps aren’t recommended at your next pool party. The new range of EasX-CHANGE rubber straps offer that easy transition from land to water. Check out the video above to learn more.

The 5 best Casio watches under $50

Whether it’s a beater for laborious work, a gift for the niece, or simply something humble to wear, we all love a cheap watch. A crisp Aussie $50 note can barely pay for a takeaway dinner these days, but you’d be surprised at how many great options there are for watches from the dominators of digital — Casio. Fergus has a list of five for you right here.