Posts Tagged ‘black’
New Ball Watch Engineer Hydrocarbon – Tool Watches As They Should Be
If you’re looking for a timepiece that is tough and hard-wearing yet at the same time still refined enough for the boardroom and reasonably priced, perhaps its time you consider the Engineer Hydrocarbon collection from American-owned Swiss watchmaker Ball Watch Co. Given a complete makeover ahead of its up-and-coming debut at Basel World this year, the new look collection promises a subtle blend of functionality and form, with neither suffering for the benefit of the other.
The Company
Over the last century, Ball has carved out a well-respected reputation for making robust and reliable tool watches. These timepieces have been designed to be worn in any and all conditions, whilst still maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and legibility possible. According to the brand the Engineer Hydrocarbon collection is the ultimate personification of this identity, representing the application of all their technological expertise, knowledge of materials and the readability standards inherited from the brand’s founder, Webster C. Ball who established the company back in 1891.
The Engineer Hydrocarbon Collection
Several components in the new collection have been modified and improved, including the rotating bezel. As one would expect it retains its unidirectional function with its notch calibrated at 30 seconds, however, it has been made slightly wider and flatter making it much easier to manipulate even when wearing gloves. Ensuring easy reading, even at night, the Hydrocarbon bezel is equipped with a H3 marker inserted into a protective container at 12 o’clock. Further, the graduation from 0 to 14, along with the digits 15, 30 and 45 all have very powerful luminescent paint emitting a blue glow.
The dial is simple and uncluttered, ensuring the wearer only has access to the information that is actually required in a format that is very easy to read. Just from looking at the clean lines and intelligent use of contrasting colors it is obvious that the high legibility is almost guaranteed in any situation. Be it under water or even in outer-space! Brand ambassador Brian Binnie, a former US Navy pilot and astronaut, certainly seems to think so. It was this watch that he chose to strap to his wrist on a recent ‘space-walk’.
However, legibility is nothing without accuracy. So to make sure that the time you are reading with ease is always correct, these timepieces are powered by a chronometer-certified ETA 2836 movement, with day and date calendar, delivering extreme precision.
Keeping It In Place
Sometimes the importance of a top-quality bracelet and clasp can be overlooked in favor of case design and functionality. However, for a watch that has been created to go anywhere you go, keeping it attached firmly to your wrist is of the utmost importance.
In recognition of this, the innovative folks over at Ball have developed their very own, patented triple folding clasp and extension. To improve the strength and durability of this clasp, it is machined from a single block of 316L stainless steel. Ensuring optimum comfort and fit, the clasp’s balance is perfect and the unfolding components are spread evenly under their cover; and a 22-millimeter extension system has been added on both sides of the bracelet so that the watch can be worn over sports gear. Opening and closing operations can be performed single handed. The clasp operates with a robust locking mechanism enabling it to withstand extreme traction forces when in the closed position.
No word on pricing yet but expect it to be well under US$10,000.
The Final Word
Yet another well-designed, highly functional timepiece from American owned Ball Watches. The company’s rich history in the rail industry has certainly placed them well in terms of making pieces that are reliable, accurate and above all highly legible. This is a watch that will provide a lifetime of loyal service without breaking the bank, whilst still being versatile enough to be worn for pretty much all occasions.
Ball make tool watches as they should be, and we think that’s a good thing.
Technical Specifications
Model Number: DM2036-SCAJ-BK
Movement: Automatic ETA 2836-2, COSC certified chronometer
Functions: Hours, minutes, sweep seconds, day and date
29 micro gas tubes on hour, minute, second hands
and dial for night reading capability
Case: Stainless steel case with luminous unidirectional rotating bezel
Diameter 41.5 mm, Height 16.1 mm
4mm anti-refl ective sapphire crystal
Patented crown protection system
Water-resistant to 333 m
Antimagnetic to 12,000 A/m
Shock-resistant – withstands 7,500 Gs shock test
Band: Tapered stainless steel bracelet, with patented deployant buckle
& extension system
What do you think? Leave a comment. | Filed under BaselWorld 2010, Watch Reviews
Weird Watch Wednesday: BR 01-92 Radar
Bell & Ross is starting to become a bit of a favorite when it comes to Weird Watch Wednesdays. A couple of weeks ago we told you about the BR01-94 Carbon Fiber Chronograph, made from a single block of carbon fibre. This week we’re going even more stealth, if that’s possible! Designed for the hardcore naval and military enthusiasts out there, the aptly named BR 01-92 Radar looks like exactly that. A Radar.
Breaking With Convention
I really have to hand it to the creative guys over at Bell & Ross, they never seem to run out of ideas when it comes to ‘re-imagining’ their classic lines. First shown at Basel World 2009, the Radar model uses the standard black BR01 case and a very clever dial design to create a very cool and distinctive looking watch.
The unique circular radar display uses colored radial lines, thus giving the illusion that the rotating hour and minute hands are scanning for blips. Based on the above picture I am guessing that the inner ring is the seconds indicator, the middle ring is minutes and the outer ring is the hours, however, I am not 100% sure.
I have to say I really like the selection of bright colors which provide a stunning contrast against the darkness of the dial and case, although it is not overbearing in any way.
The BR01-92 Radar is limited to a production of only 500 pieces worldwide.
The Final Word
I have to say this is probably one of the coolest variations of the classic BR01-92 model I’ve seen so far. Admittedly the watch is quite unconventional and it will probably take a little time to get used to reading the time but it is definitely eye-catching and I imagine mesmerizing to watch in action.
Maybe not an every day watch but definitely worth a second look!
Weird Watch Wednesday – The Black Belt Watch
A new watch has been introduced into the market specifically to honor the achievements of black belt martial artists, aptly named the Black Belt Watch. Apparently this new piece has been designed to recognize the achievements of martial artists who have reached the peak of their chosen art. Forgive my ignorance, but I thought that was what the actual belt itself was for? Regardless, the Black Belt Watch is this week’s weird watch and for good reason.
Are They Serious?
Firstly, I’d just like to state that I have the upmost respect for those who have shown the skill and dedication required to achieve black belt status in their chosen martial art. That said, this new watch concept is quite possibly one of the most ridiculous things I have heard in a long time.
Next we will see watches designed exclusively for hairdressers who have reached the pinnacle of their profession. Certainly nothing against hairdressers here but you the see point I am trying to make.
The grading systems that exist within most forms of martial arts have been passed down through generation after generation. There is no way a simple watch such as this one could even seek to pay sufficient homage to this incredible history. Add to this the fact that this is possibly the most unattractive watch I have ever laid my eyes on and you understand my misgivings.
The Watch Itself
Precious little information is available on the official website about the watch other than that it was “imagined, designed and manufactured by the best watchmakers”. This in itself makes very skeptical, as I am quite confident that the best watchmakers in the world could not produce a monstrosity such as this. The site indicates that the watch is powered by a self-winding mechanical high-end movement entirely manufactured in Switzerland. I am going to go out on a limb here and suggest that this is a ETA movement of some description.
The case is stainless steel with satin-finished and highly resistant PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating. The bezel is also steel and has been sandblasted and stamped with polished Kanji characters. Featuring prominently across the dial (there is no mistaking what this watch represents!) is an engraved “Black Belt” which is stamped with its emblematic representation. As a final touch the background’s pattern emulates the fabric used for kimonos and the hands have been designed to replicate a Shinai, the sword used for practice in Kendo.
The Final Word
The Black Belt Watch has failed to impress me in any way, shape or form. It seems that little thought has gone into the creative design of the piece and it is more than likely just another Swiss Made watch powered by a simple ETA movement and certainly not worth the 3,000CHF price tag that comes attached with it. The only redeeming factor of this watch is that a percentage of sales will be donated to the No Difference program that aims to grant young people with a handicap, the chance to realize their passion for a martial art.
Having said that, as the watch is only being offered exclusively to black belt holders, of which I am not one, none of the above really matters I guess. Would I buy one if I did hold a black belt in some form of martial arts?
Would you!?
Go Minimalist With Newcomer Defakto
Looking for something a little different? Perhaps something with a clear, uncluttered dial, clean lines and a smooth black finish? Well maybe its time you considered familiarising yourself with the all-black Eins Schwarz model from German new comer Defakto. And really, at only 425 Euro, why wouldn’t you?
Young, In Age And Design
Defakto is very new to the market, having only been established at the start of 2009 by Raphael Ickler. The youthful nature of the brand is reflected beautifully in the watch’s design, which is decidedly subdued and classic and yet at the same time fashionable and exotic.
The minimalist dial features only a single hand which may take some time to become accustomed to but it is well worth it. This design quirk gives the watch a truly unique appearance and although there are other single hand watches out there, this is one of the first models that I actually really want to wear.
Simple Beauty
The all-black stealth appearance contrasts exceptionally well with the white, luminous indices and Defakto’s red and white logo above 6 o’clock provides the only other source of color. The watch is designed to be uni-sex and at a very reasonable dial size of 42mm this is a watch that will definitely appeal to both genders.
Powering this simple beauty is a Swiss Made ETA 2824-2 Automatic movement enclosed in a stainless steel case with a sapphire exhibition caseback. The case has received the PVD treatment and is complemented by a black calfskin strap. Water resistance is rated at 50m which is about standard on this type of watch.
The Final Word
There are a number of things that I love about the new all-black Eins Schwarz model from Defakto, not least of which is the price. The watch is very versatile offering a piece that can be worn for almost any occasion, either dressed up with a suit and tie or casual with a polo.
At the same time, at only 425 Euro it is also a watch that you can buy without feeling guilty to simply sit in your collection for those times when you feel like something completely different. Plus, the watch is also featured in stainless steel if you don’t like the PVD look.
Overall a very solid performance from this newcomer, I for one will be watching to see what comes next!
For more information and to order yourself a watch check out Defakto’s official website.
Ernst Benz Great Circle Chronoscope Instrument Series Limited Edition
A few months ago Swiss engineer and inventor Ernst Benz announced the introduction of four new limited edition models in the Great Circle Chronoscope Instrument Series. Big and bold the new dial and set of hands has been designed to be reminiscent of the original precision aircraft instrumentation produced by Ernst Benz himself back in the 1960s and 70s. Although the original concept is over thirty years old, the end result is actually quite appealing.
Big And Beautiful
Ernst Benz is known for making big watches and this new release is no exception. Available only in their trademark 47mm size these watches have been designed to be easy to read, as you would expect from a purpose built aviation watch. You also have the choice of two different dials; matte black as featured in the original aircraft version and designed primarily for legibility or alternatively a carbon fibre mesh finish.
The numerals and hands are finished in either white or orange and are coated with luminescent for legibility. The latter color has special significance as or orange is used specifically in aviation for attention. The hands were designed to be exactly like the needles of the gauges of Benz’s original aircraft instruments, and for this release, custom black calendar disks were produced to complement the finish of the dial printed in corresponding colors to match either the white or orange numerals.
As is all the rage at the moment, especially with oversized pilots watches, the case has received the black PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) treatment to ensure it is non-reflective and to further resemble the finish of an aircraft cockpit panel.
Like all Ernst Benz watches this new line has been designed and manufactured in Switzerland. The pieces feature an exhibition back so that you can view the custom rotor for the movement. This new signature EB rotor has been cut out with the EB symbol flagged by wings so as to give the appearance that the rotor is almost flying as it spins. For this series, the rotor has been coated in black PVD to match the finish of the case.
The Final Word
I love the design of these new limited edition pieces from Ernst Benz but the oversized 47mm dial means they are simply impractical for every day wear, at least for most people. Having said that the simple and uncluttered dials of these stunning pieces will make them very appealing to professional pilots and other professionals who require a hard-wearing watch that is highly legible, even under the most stressful conditions.
We can only hope that Ernst Benz decides to release a reduced size model for us earthly bound mortals. 42mm would suit me just fine!
|
|
search the watch lounge
enter your email to get updates in your inbox
Latest Comments
- Chris: The lugs, the lugs, the lugs. Bremont did an amazing job designing this watch, especially...
- Cliff: I already have one of these. I like it. Built like a tank, and almost as big! So I had to...
- Ramsay Taplin: It looks like a watch Vicky Pollard might wear. http://www.littlerbritain.c...
New This Week
- Looking for the latest posts on The Watch Lounge?
- The 'New This Week' Category features all the posts published for the week from Sunday through to Saturday
- Its refreshed every Sunday to make it easy to quickly find the latest stories that have been published.
So to see what's new on The Watch Lounge this week just click here!