SIHH 2012: Five Watches That Deserve Your Attention

If you happen to be sharing a drink with any of your fellow watch enthusiasts anywhere around the country right now, chances are the conversation is going to turn to the upcoming SIHH 2012. Not surprising really when you consider that this is the watch show where some of coolest (and biggest) brands in the world choose to showcase their latest offerings for the new year. Don’t despair though if you haven’t had a chance to keep up with all the latest per-releases, we’ve got you covered with a selection of 5 timepieces that we think deserve your attention.

Check them out after the jump and let us know what you think in the comments section. We’re happy to take suggestions too!

Montblanc Vintage Tachydate

Showing that the vintage trend is still alive and well in the luxury watch industry Montblanc presents its classically styled Tachydate from the Villeret 1858 Collection. Featuring mono-pusher chronograph functionality and date display, the versatility of this new offering from Montblanc is a welcome surprise. Add to that stone-cold good looks and the reasonable 43.5mm case size and you have a very strong contender for your new daily wear. Be quick though as it is a Limited Edition of just 58 pieces in white gold and 58 pieces in red gold.

Piaget Altiplano Skeleton Automatic

At the complete opposite end of the scale we find the futuristic Altiplano Skeleton from Piaget, coming in at just 5.34mm thick. Although this is probably not a piece I would ever wear personally I cannot deny that I am absolutely mesmerized by the open-worked dial and the stunning view of the automatic movement which by the way is only 2.4mm thick! I still can’t decide which side I like looking more at, the front or the back!

A. Lange & Sohne Datograph Up/Down Watch

Of course if you really want to impress even the most hardcore of your watch-loving friends with your knowledge of fine timepieces than all you need to do is drop the words ‘Lange & Sohne Datograph’ into the conversation. First released in 1999 this new incarnation of the Up/Down Watch (the name is in reference to the new power reserve display at 6 o’clock – don’t worry, it sounds cooler in German) features an improved 60 hour power reserve and a refined dial. A perennial favorite with collectors this is one piece that is sure to cause a bit of a stir this year.

IWC Top Gun Miramar Pilot’s Watch

Let’s face it; nothing says badass like an IWC Top Gun pilot’s watch. Make no mistake though, you better make sure you’ve got what it takes if you want to strap on the new Mirimar. At 48mm this is not a watch for the faint-hearted (or thin-wristed for that matter!) and has a decidedly military feel, from the dark grey ceramic case to the green textile strap. In short, if you’re job doesn’t require you to face danger on a daily basis than this is not the watch for you. Fear not though, as this is the year of the Pilot, so plenty more to come from one of our favorite brands!

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionnelle 14 Day Tourbillon

Rounding out our 5 is this exquisitely refined timepiece from Vacheron Constantin. Deceptive in its apparent simplicity this is not your average tourbillon, boasting an incredible 14-day power reserve (that’s 336 hours for those who can’t be bothered doing the math)! This is the watch for those in the know, those individuals who appreciate a highly complex timepiece without having to go to great lengths to advertise the fact.

The Final Word
It promises to be another exciting year in the world of luxury timepieces and better still its only just beginning! Share your thoughts below and let us know if you think we got it right with the five above plus don’t forget to add a few suggestions of your own!

Tags: featured, IWC, Lange & Sohne, luxury, Montblanc, Piaget, SIHH 2012, Vacheron Constantin

Category: Exclusives and Previews, SIHH 2012, Watch News