Tag: certina

Full Black: New Wyler Genève Code-R chronograph

| August 31, 2009 | 1 Reply

Wyler Genève Code-R chronograph

It seems that black is back and its here to stay. I for one could not be happier. Especially when you consider the number of high quality, stealth look watches that have been steadily introduced to the market over the last 12 months.

Wyler Genève Code-R chronograph
Take for example the new full-black Code-R chronograph from Wyler Genève. The brushed titanium case is subtle and refined yet the all black styling gives it a hint of toughness and reliability. And for a watch brand so closely linked with motorsport, reliability is key. That’s why the Code-R is powered by arguably one of the most reliable Swiss automatic chronograph movements presently on the market (at least within this price range) and has a power reserve of 42 hours.

Design Cues
Further demonstrating its strong links to motor racing the Code-R takes it design cues from the materials and technology used in the sport. As previously mentioned the external casing is made from lightweight yet incredibly resilient titanium with carbon-fibre resin for its inner frame. The rubber-coated crown is reticent of a car tyre and the chronograph pushers are pedal-shaped.

Function Over Form
However, just as in motor racing, design plays second fiddle to practicality in the Wyler Genève chronograph. A watch, no matter how stunning, has little use if it cannot be read and this problem is further magnified on an all-black timepiece such as the Code-R. To counter this, the hands and minute track numerals are coated with black SuperLuminova which ignite the dial at night to allow the user to view it clearly.

Ensuring comfortable wearing the Code-R is fitted as standard with a black rubber bracelet with pushbutton-operated fold-over clasp in steel and titanium and comes with a 2-year warranty.

The Final Word
Wyler Genève make stunning watches and the Code-R chronograph is no exception. The subtle stealthy allure of the watch cannot be denied and although I generally do not like titanium casing I would most certainly make an exception in this case (excuse the pun). This would make a great every day watch or a very nice addition to any collection.

Check out www.wylergeneve.com for more information.

Certina, A Podium Finish Every Time

| August 27, 2009 | 1 Reply

certina

Certina has been in the business of making outstanding Swiss watches since 1888. Now into its 120th year of enterprise the company has remained true to its vision of innovation and excellence. Even after all this time the watchmaking ethos of the company can be expressed in three key words: style, reliability and precision.

This is perfectly illustrated by the latest chronograph model in its emblematic DS Podium line. Equipped with the famous Valgranges movement for large watches, an autowinding movement with a very long energy reserve (the power curve is very smooth), and a calibre that lends itself very well to customization, it is growing in stature and confirming its temperament.

For many successful years now, Certina has been an official Partner of the BMW Sauber F1 Team and their ace driver Robert Kubica. This strong association with motorsport is evident in every aspect of the design of this stunning timepiece, especially the clarity of the dial. Many chronographs can often appear cluttered and difficult to read, however, the DS Podium line does not suffer from this affliction. In fact quite the opposite is true, the dial is almost striking in its clarity and the colour scheme chosen makes a strong statement that legibility is a priority.

The specifications for this wonderful timepiece are equally as impressive:

  • Movement – Automatic, ETA Valgranges 16½’’’ A07.231, 27 jewels
  • Functions – Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph, date and tachometer
  • Case – 316L steel, 44 mm, DS “double security” system, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, anti-reflective coating on both sides, transparent back, water-resistant to 100 m
  • Dial – Black or silvered, hour, minute and seconds counters
  • Date window at 4.30
  • Bracelet/Strap – Brown or black leather with two-button folding clasp
  • Other versions – Black dial with satin-finished steel bracelet and safety clasp

This new offering certainly honours Certina’s proud 120 year history of creating fine swiss timepieces and continues to strengthen their ties with motorsport.

Truly a podium finish!