FRIDAY WIND DOWN: TAG launches new Connected Watches, 2022 looks promising for Longines
Zach BlassA lot has happened over the last seven days, but earlier today TAG Heuer ushered in their next generation of Connected Watch: the Calibre E4.
Some collectors scoff at the idea of a smartwatch, claiming that such a digital device does not have the artistic essence of a traditional mechanical timepiece. But let’s face it, the majority of the world digs smartwatches – after all Apple sells the most watches in the world. I think it is incorrect to assume that mechanical watch lovers cannot appreciate the appeal of smartwatch functionality. The beauty of the new TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 lineup, along with previous generations, is that you get the best of both worlds – a Swiss-made case designed and executed by the very same watchmakers who produce their more traditional timepieces, with competitive functionality that makes it a top-option in the smartwatch category. Have I piqued your interest? If so, you can read a full introduction and find out what is new within the Calibre E4 lineup by heading here.
I feel like I am being such a tease, because I ultimately cannot share with you all what I saw at Longines just yet. But Ricardo and I both agree that there is a lot to look forward to with the brand’s forthcoming novelties throughout the year. One thing I can say is that based on the presentations, as well as what we were able to hold in hand, it was very clear that Longines really engages with their consumers and the watch community as a whole. It’s one thing to accept feedback, it is another, much better, thing to actually act on it. Many of their new designs address a variety of concerns #watchfam are known to rant about. You can expect a wide range of releases across multiple collections, and we were definitely impressed with what we saw. I know, such a tease… but stay tuned.
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Zach
Watch meme of the week: Ableism
Normally I’d like to think I usually accompany the meme of the week with some thoughtful commentary. We are all too familiar with the jests and jabs at the “unobtanium” phenomenon plaguing watch buyers today, but this one I found in the Scottish Watches Facebook group made me almost spit out my coffee in laughter. Don’t have much to say here other than this is hilarious.
Wrist shot of the week: UK rapper Dave is already flexing the new 16202BA
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UK rapper Dave is already known to have an extensive Audemars Piguet collection, which notably includes Double Balance Wheel Openworked Royal Oak watches in multiple case metals. A few nights ago, however, Dave made me more jealous than I have ever been – sporting the new 18k yellow gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra Thin ref. 16202BA while winning an award for best album at the Brits Award.
It has become tradition, at each of my visits with AP when I get a chance to go hands-on with their new novelties, to offer up one of my kidneys in exchange for my favourite watch. Unfortunately they have yet to accept my offer. I know some of you may think I am kidding, but I genuinely would consider it here. The gold-gradient dial is stunning, and the yellow gold case and bracelet, in my opinion, best convey the incredible hand-finishes applied to the case and bracelet. Sadly the watch is not particularly in my budget. Ah, to be a major recording artist…
Recommended reading: “Why Do People Get So Upset About Iced-Out Watches?”
Within the watch community, it is a known stance amongst collectors that aftermarket diamonds or “bust-down” watches is a cardinal sin. Comments range from it “hurts the value of the watch” to “it’s a garish practice that ruins the integrity of the original design”. But we tend to forget that the watch community is in the minority. Our tastes and viewpoints do not always represent the larger marketplace. Penned for Harper’s Bazaar, Brynn Wallner, a.k.a Dimepiece, gets down into the trenches of the subject and plays devil’s advocate – addressing both sides of the coin. In the process, however, it becomes clear there is a larger issue potentially at play here. Brynn writes: “Purists say it’s about respecting the craft of horology, but something more sinister is simmering underneath the surface.” Click here to find out what that something more sinister is.
Our favourite Time+Tide coverage of the week:
The super-exclusive Tudor Black Bay that you’ve never seen before
There are a lot of watches out there and while we endeavour to stay across as many as we can, truth be told, some fly under the radar (fly being the operative word in this case). That’s why we were delighted when a Time+Tide reader, Edouard, informed us about a watch we’d never encountered – a 32-piece limited military edition that was issued for a specific squadron of the British Royal Air Force. He happened to discover the watch after talking to an ex-pilot from the squadron and here he kindly shares the story of the Tudor Black Bay 32 (The Royal) Squadron. Many thanks Edouard! You can check out the full story here.
VIDEO: The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 collection
The Aquaracer line from TAG Heuer has become as iconic to the history of the brand as the Monaco and the Carrera, given that it can trace its roots all the way back to the 1978 ref. 488. Although the name wasn’t conceived until 2004, it’s almost impossible now to leave them out of the discussion when talking about some of the best looking Swiss divers, particularly give their aggressive sportiness and unique facets. Now in 2022, we’re treated to the next evolution of the Aquaracer in the Professional 200 collection that reduces the model’s diameter and thickness while increasing the comfort. To learn more, dive into the video above for a full overview.
WATCHSPOTTING: Two unexpected celebrities join the Nautilus club
Last July, a still-sealed, green-dial Nautilus notoriously sold at an Antiquorum auction for $490,000 USD – over 10 times its recommended retail price. Such crazy price spikes for the 5711 also caused a ripple-effect, pushing up the prices of Patek’s adjacent steel references in turn. But high demand and dizzying prices are apparently no problem if you’re an A-list movie star, judging by these two unexpected celebrities who recently joined the Nautilus club. Head here for the full story.