Categories
Tudor Replica

Replica Tudor’s Black Bay vs.Pelagos

Photoshopping and its related manipulative ilk. We talk about such electronic chicanery a lot for human models, but not so much for replica watch models. Why? We can be similarly seduced, mislead, astonished, disappointed, persuaded into reckless expenditure, after all.

No I am not here today to tell a sorry tale of how a photoshopped replica watch bewitched me out of my last cents, but to share how different my impressions of Tudor’s Heritage Black Bay and Pelagos models turned out to be when I managed to see them together for the first time ‘in the metal’ at The Hour Glass here in Sydney.

I blogged about the Black Bay (on the ST blog) when it came out. Inspired by the brand’s vintage divers from the 1950s but modernised, the ‘snowflake’ references for the replica watch relate to the distinctive shape of the hands, a feature of some 1970s models (e.g. ‘Snowflake Submariner’) – it’s basically a 1950s Tudor with 1970s influences sized for 2012 preferences, and with added colour.

I admit that I fell a little bit in love with the photos of the replica watch, the vintage-inspired domed crystal and the matte burgundy bezel in particular. The vintage-styled leather strap version was my preference.

The second Tudor dive replica watch that was launched at the same time was the Pelagos. At 42 mm, it has a satin-finished titanium case with a black ceramic bezel, is rated to 500 m (1640 ft) with a helium escape valve, and contains the same ETA 2824 as the Black Bay. Again there are vintage nods in this replica watch, with design cues also coming from the Snowflake Submariner, and pointy crown guards which reference early Tudor Subs.  In seeing the photos of the Pelagos, it didn’t do all that much for me, perhaps because I struggle to personally get overly excited by Submariner type replica watches, however much I may be able to appreciate their function and design.

It was only when I had the opportunity to see the both of them together that I realised that yet again, image manipulation had messed with my mind; the Pelagos changed places with the Black Bay.

Why? Well firstly, the Black Bay, although an attractive replica watch, just didn’t turn out to be as I’d expected based on the official photos I’d seen. The tone of the burgundy, which had been a major drawcard for me, just didn’t seem quite the same. I discovered that the colour I saw ‘in the metal’ was even slightly different to how it appeared in my own photos.

The second unexpected thing that arose was that the dial was more brown than I had thought it would be. I gather that it’s technically black, but there is definitely a brownish aspect to it. It’s not a bad looking replica watch (and unlike most people, I like the burgundy accent on the crown), but when a replica watch’s appeal has been largely due to aesthetic reasons related to colour, and when those colours appear different in real life, as was the case in this instance … unfortunately it just didn’t grab me anymore.

On the other hand, the utterly function-focused Pelagos to which I’d not paid much attention, now had me. The brushed titanium and ceramic bezel are matte, very modern, and surprisingly elegant. I love the use of titanium in particular, both in terms of looks, and weight. It’s very much a streamlined functional tool replica watch, complete with a spring-loaded clasp that allows for fine adjustments and an active setting that will tighten the clasp automatically during diving. It’s a sleek and discreet, and looks particularly good on a rubber strap.

Black Bay vs. Pelagos : which is your pick?

ADDENDUM (DECEMBER 2015) : Subsequent to these two models there have been a number of new colours released of both models. For my thoughts on some of these, go to this link for the Pelagos Blue and this link for the Black Bay ‘Black’ in particular. I own the Black Bay Blue and it is still my preferred colour for the Black Bay. For the Pelagos, I still think the black version is king.

Categories
Swiss Replica

A replica watch designed by a Swedish photographer? Meet the Fortis B-47 BigBlack

In this the 100th anniversary year of Fortis, we have covered the chilled out white commemorative Frisson. Now it is time for its palette flipside, the B-47 Big Black. Like the Frisson, this is not a replica watch that is intended for broad appeal, but that’s where the similarities come to the usual shuddering halt.

Fortis has a history for unexpected designs for their timepieces. Whilst you’re hard pressed trying to see anything on the Frisson, there’s not much that you can’t see on the Big Black. It takes the idea of a skeletonised replica watch, which is more regularly seen in dress replica watches, and makes it sporty and bold.

One of the biggest problems with ‘all black’ replica watches, which had their heyday a couple of years ago but are nonetheless still buzzing along happily in the background as a trend, is legibility. There have been a lot of all black replica watches that haven’t been legible, which somewhat defeats the purpose of a replica watch.

At 47mm it is big, but in 2012 it is not considered an exceptionally large replica watch. We’ve covered a 47mm Panerai, a 53.3mm x 47mm Devon Tread and even a 55mm Laco for example, though admittedly the latter two are on the upper end of the spectrum.

The B-47’s case is PVD coated stainless steel with an in-your-face uni-directional rotating rubber coated bezel with a serrated edge. The rubber means that it’s easy to turn, but it is also aids shock resistance and helps protect the replica watch if you are prone to dings and the like.

An anti-reflective sapphire crystal shows a transparent matte black tinted dial that is dominated by a view of an ETA 2836-2 automatic day/ date movement (which Fortis call their F-2016), with incabloc shock absorber.

There is a semi-opaque dial over the day/ date discs, which are used as a rotating dial. As the day or date changes, you will see the wheels move in opposite directions. The SuperLumiNova hour and minute hands are outlined in white and skeletonised so as to not cover up too much of the dial, and the centre seconds hand is also tipped in white SuperLuminova.

If you look closely you can see triangles at 3 and 9 o’clock that indicate the direction of the crown for quick adjustment.

The Big Black has a screw-down crown and 200m water resistance and comes on a rubber strap with an easy to operate butterfly deployant clasp.

Designed by Swedish photographer Thomas Monka and inspired by space exploration (well it is night time at the moment, so it does look rather black up there), the B-47 Big Black received a Good Design Award in 2011, and a red dot honourable mention in 2012.

As I mentioned at the outset, this is most definitely not a replica watch for everyone. Some may find the visible text on the discs too busy, but it’s surprisingly legible at a glance. It’s a bold replica watch, and you are likely to either love it or hate it. In the spirit of the anniversary year, the B-47 Big Black is in a limited edition of 2,012 pieces and shouldn’t be too difficult to get from your local Fortis authorised dealer.

Categories
Hamilton Replica

Replica Vintage Hamilton BuShips canteendiver

Today I bring you another 1940s American military replica watch. Not an unissued one this time, but nonetheless still an original one, complete with strap, in pretty good condition.

As mentioned previously, whilst the A-11s were produced in large quantities by Elgin, Waltham and Bulova, Hamilton also produced US-issued military replica watches in much more limited production runs. The Hamilton USN BuShips canteen divers’ replica watch is an example of this.

So what is a BuShips canteen replica watch?

‘BuShips’ stands for the United States Navy’s Bureau of Ships, established by Congress on June 20, 1940 through the passing of a law which consolidated the functions of the Bureau of Construction and Repair and the Bureau of Engineering. The new Bureau was headed by a Chief and Deputy-Chief, one selected from the engineering corps (Marine Engineer) and the other from the construction corps (Naval Architect). Rear Admiral Samuel M. ‘Mike’ Robinson was named BuShips’ first Chief, and Rear Admiral Alexander H. Van Keuren BuShips’ first Deputy-Chief.

The United States Navy Bureau of Ships’ responsibilities included supervising the design, construction, conversion, procurement, maintenance, and repair of ships and other craft for the Navy; managing shipyards, repair facilities, laboratories, and shore stations; developing specifications for fuels and lubricants; and conducting salvage operations.

The BuShips was abolished by DOD Order of March 9, 1966 as part of the general overhaul of the Navy’s bureau system of material support, succeeded by the Naval Ship Systems Command, now known as the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

Hamilton USN BuShips canteen replica watches were issued to members of the Naval Combat Demolition Units’ (NCDU) underwater demolition teams (UDT), who were responsible for clearing harbours and obstructions. Many of these teams were engaged in clearing harbours and obstructions during war.

With its service number stamped on the case back, the Hamilton canteen has a screw-down watertight outer crown. Canteen replica watches are unusual in how they protect themselves from water via a thin metal rim fitted on the crystal which is soldered to the case and attached to the ‘canteen’ (named for its resemblance to the design of water canteens) crown cap.

The case measures 31.26mm x 38.8mm and comes with the original issue grey navy strap. The movement is a 987S with hacking, and 17 jewels. The service number is SS 55 XXX H2, which dates it to 1944-1945 (SS43001 – SS61500). The 987S was used between 1941 and 1948.

There is a ‘W’ stamped between the lugs. From the information that I’ve been able to find, this seems to indicate that it is a case made by Keystone case company. The Star and Keystone case companies made the cases for Hamilton, Elgin, and Waltham military replica watches. I can’t work out what the ‘H2’ designation means, so please leave a comment if you know.

It appears that there were eight variants of the pre-1960 Hamiltons with centre sweep second hand that feature the 987S movement of which two (the non-dive and dive aka ‘canteen’) were made for the USN BuShips. The others were made for the Royal Canadian Air Force (2,000), U.S. Marine Corps (15,888) and U.S. Navy (22,410).

If you look very carefully at the replica watch (preferably with the aid of a loupe) you can see a very faint stamped ‘Hamilton’ at 6 o’clock.

This old milwatch shows normal wear and patina for a replica watch of its age and purpose but is in remarkable condition for an issued replica watch. BuShip canteens don’t come up very often, so if your interest has been piqued, do some research for all the BuShip options and keep your eyes peeled. Also, be sure to remember that it is only a fraction over 31mm in size.

As I’ve noted previously, the world of milwatches is a huge and complicated one. I’ve only scratched the surface for this particular replica watch, but would commend the Military Replica Watch Resource Forum to you as a good source for further information or if you want to venture into the milwatch world. By modern standards, vintage milwatches are small, so if you are looking to get one to wear, as opposed to collect, it’s probably best that you try and see one ‘in the metal’ first.

Categories
Hublot Replica

Space shuttle tiles, tank armour – it’s the Bullet BANG!

So, is replica Hublot’s Big Bang Bullet Bang (hereafter called ‘Bullet Bang’ for ease) bulletproof? The case and bezel are made of micro-blasted Cermet, an alloy made from CERamic and METal (bronze in this case). Cermet is used for tank armour, space shuttle tiles and bullet proof vests. It is also used in the manufacture of more commonplace items such as saws, tools, resistors, capacitors and other electronic components which may experience high temperatures. The Bullet Bang’s case is supposedly unscratchable. Whether or not it is bullet proof is a test that I shall defer to others; please do tell me if you conduct such a test, and remember, photos or it didn’t happen.

In many ways, Big Bangs seem to be replica watches that generate a lot of discussion, and they can be divisive. There are numerous reasons for this, including the sheer enormity of the range (both limited and regular production), and the unabashed in-your-face design of many of them. However, there is no doubt that they are much talked about and that Big Bangs have many fans. Today’s Bullet Bang, name aside, is one of the more discreet of the BBs.

As is the case with its Big Bang siblings, the Bullet Bang is a 44mm case with titanium H-shaped screws and an anti-reflective sapphire. Its crown is black PVD steel with a black rubber insert and the replica watch is water resistant to 100m.

The Bullet Bang is a limited edition of 500. What is interesting is that an unknown number of the early editions (possibly fifty) used a column wheel chronograph (called the HUB 44 RAC), and were identifiable as such on the dial. The rest of them, including this one, are the workmanlike Valjoux 7750 which makes then naturally less expensive than the early ones. The column wheels have a Lajoux-Perret calibre and are Ref. 303.BI.1190.RX whilst the 7750 are Ref. 301.BI.1190.RX. Given that it is a 7750 movement, I’m not entirely sure about the necessity of an open caseback, but here it is.

The pushers are made of stainless steel with black PVD and require a firm hand to activate. Next to the pushers, the side inserts are made of black composite resin. The crown is also stainless steel PVD.

The dial has good legibility, and the matte black case contrasts nicely with the polished hands, applied numbers and indices, which are bronzed to match the case.

In terms of its sturdiness and scratch resistance, the use of Cermet and PVD makes the Bullet Bang an option as a solid toolwatch if you are looking for a toolwatch at this price point. You don’t have to worry too much about damaging it.

This is on a rubber gummy Alligator, which suits it well and is comfortable. The deployant is PVD coated and easy to use, though its length means that for smaller wrists, it will cover the entire bottom of the wrist, so it may be more comfortable if it is pushed up a little from the wrist.

The Bullet Bang is surprisingly lightweight and easy to wear. As far as Big Bang goes, this is a relatively low key one, and despite coming out a few years ago it fits in well with the 2011-2012 bronze trend, though as it is Cermet, it will not develop the patina that many bronze enthusiasts are keen about. If you like the look of it, it’s still available, including here in Australia.

Categories
Omega Replica

Wearing your replica Omega Speedmaster the NASAway

Do you want to get your NASA Speedmaster geek on? Well look no further than modern versions of the NASA straps.

Forty-three years ago on July 21st 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first man to set foot on the moon. ‘Buzz’ Aldrin, however, was the first astronaut to wear the Omega Speedmaster Professional on the lunar surface.

NASA supplied each of the Apollo astronauts with a standard issue Omega Speedmaster Professional with a velcro strap. As is now well known, unlike almost all other Apollo equipment, the luxury replica watch was not manufactured for use specifically by NASA or in space but had been on sale in retail outlets in the United States from 1957 as ‘Speedmaster’ and then as ‘Speedmaster Pro’ after its approval for NASA use. It was only through the purchase and evaluation of a number of replica watches including the Speedmaster that the now longstanding NASA-Speedmaster relationship bore fruit, when it was deemed the most suitable replica watch for the job.

Although Speedmasters were and are still sold on bracelets, if you want that authentic Earth-Moon-experience you can find Velcro straps online that are made to the NASA blueprint (see below) with the serial numbers stamped onto the tag, or straps that are ‘in the style of’ the NASA straps. They are generally available in a long version, in keeping with the original design where it could be worn over the space suit (the standard black Velcro strap used by NASA flight crews was 640 mm long) and a short version for those days when your space suit is at the dry cleaner.

This strap (the one in these photos was purchased on the Bay) gives a very different look to the Speedy, is of a good solid construction and not ‘cheap’ quality wise considering their price. Even the short version pictured here is long enough for a large wrist. I’m not a NASA (or Speedy) nerd, and never thought I’d take the bracelet off my ‘Snoopy’ Speedy, but changing to this Velcro strap has not only given a radically different look, but it has made it more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun. I’d recommend getting one of these straps without any hesitation, but given that there are a couple of people making these, I would advise doing some research before choosing one. You can get them starting from about $20 (excluding postage) going up to several times this amount.

The history of NASA and space travel has its unsung heroes. In ending today’s post, I’d like to introduce you to some of these – the seamstresses behind the first American space suits. They worked for International Latex Corporation and you can read about them here.

Categories
Swiss Replica

Hands-on with a 55mm LacoType-A Replica

I’ve written before about early ‘navigators’ replica watches’ such as the Longines Weems Second Setting replica watch and the Longines Lindbergh. Today, I bring to you a modern version of a very different type of pilots’ replica watch, with its roots in Germany.

When World War II broke out navigators’ replica watches, which had become an important military tool, were put into full production. It is believed that A. Lange & Söhne, the principal supplier of the time, could not deliver the replica watches in time in the quantities required, so the German government recruited four other companies to aid production. The five companies that were assigned to build the replica watches were A.Lange & Sohne, International Replica Watch Company (IWC), Laco, Stowa and Wempe.

Called ‘B-uhr’ replica watches, derived from the German ‘Beobachtungs-uhr’ meaning ‘observation replica watch’, they are also now more commonly known as pilots’ replica watches. Plotting precise locations during flights was the job of the Beobachter, or observer, who wore a replica watch over his flight jacket so that it could always be referred to quickly, at a glance.

The core design principles of the B-uhr replica watch were the 55mm diametre (pocket replica watch movements of the era were around 42mm-46mm), that it be anti-magnetic, have Arabic numerals, a hacking centre seconds hand, large onion or diamond shaped crowns to allow for easy adjustment when wearing gloves, and a long double riveted buffalo strap to be worn over thick pilot’s jackets (the rivets were used to adjust for different wrist sizes) as mentioned above. In addition, a triangle marker at 12 o’clock with two dots on both sides was required for easy dial orientation during night flight or bad weather conditions.

Over the years, many brands beyond the original five have released their (smaller) versions of this design, and the five brands themselves have not been averse to doing the same. However, reissuing them in a 55mm case hasn’t been so common.

In recent years, Laco has done this a couple of times, and this FL 23883 (Ref. 861771) Observation Replica Watch has been its latest effort. Only a hundred of this newest limited edition have been produced, with what is called the A-Baumuster (or Type A) dial.

The case is laser engraved (between the lugs) with the original ordnance number FL23883, and the stainless steel case back has been similarly engraved with the original details but including, in this instance, the replica watch’s limited edition number out of a hundred.

A double-arch sapphire crystal that gives this already huge replica watch a height of 20 mm.

The black dial has SuperLumi-Nova C3 indicies, which is also used to fill the hour, minute and second hands. The hands have been finished in a blue lacquer. In keeping with the original design, the replica watch has a black, closed-loop aviator strap made of calf skin.

Inside is an ETA A07.111, modified to a manual wind with hacking. Although you can’t see it, Laco states that the modified ETA is decorated with a Geneva grinding finish, perlage and blued screws. It is 28.800 VPH with 24 jewels.

ISO 3157:1991 defines color codes for the daylight appearance of lume, i.e. when it is not glowing; C3 is yellow.

To state the obvious, this is a huge replica watch. It’s not just large but it’s thick, and it’s heavy. I’ve seen the MeisterSinger 55mm, and that feels smaller than this Laco. Having toyed with the idea of getting a Laco 55mm (Type B dial) over a year ago, I can now safely say, after having tried this one, that I am glad that I didn’t. It’s simply impossible for me to wear, even for a bit of a lark, and though I am prepared to do the odd daft thing in the name of replica watches, wearing a 55mm replica watch over a pilots’ jacket is stretching it a step too far.

As you can see, it looks big but not stupidly so, on its owner’s wrist. He can wear it with panache and has been enjoying it immensely. It’s a big gamble, to purchase a replica watch of this size sight unseen.

The replica watch is as you’d expect, quality wise, for Laco. It’s a sturdy and pretty decent looking clock err replica watch. The blued hands could be improved in the sense that they are a lacquered blue, but the lume is nice and bright, and it really is a joy to play with this replica watch.

What is most noticeable thing about this replica watch is how highly reflective the crystal is. I took these photos indoors at night, and it proved impossible, except at an angle, to not see myself reflected in it. An anti-reflective crystal would have been preferable.

The strap is surprisingly versatile for a replica watch of this size, covering a huge range of wrist sizes from mine to even a 10 inch wrist, without difficulty. I neglected to try it over a jacket.

As you can see, it’s a fraction too large for me. I brought along my Stowa as a point of comparison. It is a petite 40mm.

The limited edition Lacos are popular. This one sold out pretty quickly from Laco’s own website, but it is still possible to find some for sale if you are interested in getting one. However, unless your wrist is at least 9.5 inches or you want one for collecting reasons, I’d probably advise caution before making the commitment.

Categories
Swiss Replica

Replica Devon Works’ Tread1 Hands On

Bulletproof electro-mechanical American belts and motors powered by a lithium battery that is rechargeable via a magnetic-induction dock. What else but the Devon Tread 1? Announced in 2010, it arrived in Australia last year, but I had not managed to see it until recently.

As is now well known, time is illustrated on the Devon Tread via the use of belts (the eponymous treads) and read through windows placed over the belts.

Incredibly large but surprisingly ‘light’ given its size and presence, its stainless steel case is 53.3mm by 47mm and 19mm thick, the crystal is polycarbonate (hence the bullet-proof comments, as it is the same material used for bullet-proof glass).

Part gadget and part replica watch, inside the Tread 1 is quartz based assortment of microstep motors, belts, and a processor, which controls the functions and all the motors. The belts are driven by four tiny motors, which are co-ordinated by an on board microprocessor. The ‘crown’ at the bottom of the replica watch is more akin to a on/ off button. Just for good measure, the window is made of a bulletproof polycarbonate.

This film supplied by Devon shows its operation; as time passes, a motorised tread moves. As mentioned, the replica watch is powered by a lithium polymer battery. It has an approximately two week power life, and is recharged by placing the replica watch on top of a magnetic induction charger. Naturally, its somewhat of an energy guzzler, but the Tread 1 does include a quiet ‘off’ mode. When it is in this energy saving mode, the replica watch stops showing the time and goes silent. It is still ‘telling’ the time, but it doesn’t show it until you reactivate the replica watch.

This is a replica watch meant to attract attention, and it certainly does that. Placed in its own section of the retailer’s window, it was impossible to miss and on the wrist, impossible to ignore.

There are four iterations of Devon Works’ Tread 1, called A – F. Stainless steel with different treatment (polished, brushed, DLC) and since its release, a Tread 2 has also come out.

The brand is named for its founder and creative majordomo Scott Devon, and not for any Australian link. If you want to see this replica watch ‘in the metal’, and it is worth taking a look at, there is one here in Sydney at Vendome Wollahra’s CBD boutique. It is definitely a niche timepiece, and not just because of its size and distinctiveness, but regardless of whether it’s your type of timekeeping tea or not, you have to admire its design and technical inventiveness.

[Thanks go to MsBrownMouse for the wristshot for this post]

Categories
Swiss Replica

Hands-on with the replica Steinhart Triton 100 SSDiver

Watches with lume – not just practical but well, just plain fun. Whether the replica watch has luminous hands, markers or even dial, whether it is tritium, superluminova or radium, there’s something about a replica watch lighting up at in darkness that just mesmerises us.

When researching elegant replica watches with good lume, a number of models and brands seem to come up repeatedly as having particularly good luminosity. One of these is German brand Steinhart’s Triton 100, which comes in a couple of versions. Today, we look at the stainless steel one.

The Triton 100 is a bead blasted stainless steel diver powered by the ever reliable ETA 2824-2. At a size of 45mm and 14mm thick, it may be a slightly larger size than many are comfortable with, but what you notice most about it is its heft – it’s a decently weighted 199 grams on the rubber. If you are used to lightweight replica watches, I’d suggest that you test drive this or a similarly weighted replica watch before buying this one, or perhaps put it on a NATO strap.

The black dial has a good clear design, with white numbers, orange markers, and the white border of the (quick set) date window harmonising and balancing well with the ’12’ marker. It feels functional and uncluttered. The hour and minute hands are large and distinctive, their inverted colour designs quirky.

helium valve at 2 o’clock

A helium release/ escape valve is a feature found on some diving replica watches. Commercial divers often spend prolonged hours in diving bells under pressure breathing a breathing gas that contain the gases helium or hydrogen. These gas atoms are able to work their way inside the replica watch, around any o-rings or other seals the replica watch may have. When the decompression stops during resurfacing aren’t long enough, a pressure difference builds up between the trapped gas(es) inside the replica watch case and its environment. The helium molecules diffuse and penetrate the material of the gaskets and may result in the replica watch’s crystal popping off.

The Triton 100 has a flat sapphire crystal is coated with two layers of anti-reflection coating and the dual coloured luminosity of the numbers, index, minute and hour hands comes up every bit as well as they say. This is definitely a replica watch for people who love good lume. As I am not a diver, I cannot speak about its functionality as a diving replica watch but I’d say that visibility wise, it should fare well.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Reference: T0209
Case: Bead blasted stainless steel.
Bezel: Uni-directional. 120 clicks.
Dimensions: 45mm in diametre, 55mm lug to lug, 14mm thick
Movement: Swiss ETA2824-2 automatic
Dial: Luminous  (Superluminova) Arabic numbers, markers, hour and minute hands
Date: Quickset date at 6 o’clock
Crown: Screwdown signed crown
Crystal: Flat sapphire, 5 mm, with two layers of anti-reflecting coating on the inside
Strap: Thick 24mm rubber strap with deployant clasp
Water resistance: 1000m

With a power reserve of approximately 40 hours, this is a sturdy good looking tool replica watch with a good secure deployant. Of particular note, the different colour of the lume on the minute and hour hands make the time easy and quick to read in darkness, and I liked the matte-ness of the blasted SS. I was really taken with this replica watch in photographs and in the metal it proved to be equally likeable, the only unexpected factor being the weight.

All in all, it’s a well-priced piece. If you are on the lookout for a diver at about this price point and want to look at a brand that is not on most people’s radars but which is still known for producing solid replica watches, the Triton 100 is worth considering.

Steinhart replica watches come with a 2 year international warranty and you can buy them direct from their website. The Triton 100 Stainless Steel is currently priced at 570 EUR (incl 19% VAT) and 479 EUR (excl. VAT). The DLC version is currently 580 EUR (incl. VAT) and 488 EUR (without VAT).

Categories
Panerai Replica

Replica Midnight encounter with a PAM372

An unexpected midnight encounter with a great replica watch after having just eaten a pretty good hot dog and curly fries?

That.

Fortunately, I had my camera with me.

When it was announced in 2011, the PAM 372 was a clear front runner, with people phoning their local ADs and boutiques as soon as they heard about. I was one of those immediately drawn to it but not one of those who put my name down for one. At 47mm, it’s far bigger than anything I’d even contemplate.

Part of Panerai’s ‘Historic’ collection, the PAM 372 Luminor 1950 3 Days or ‘Fiddy Base’, as the Paneristi immediately started calling it, has a 47mm polished steel case topped with a 3mm plexi crystal (rather than sapphire) in keeping with its historical bent, and Panerai’s P.3000 hand-wound mechanical movement inside.

The historical look of the 372 is also picked up in the clean hour and minutes ‘base’ sandwich dial with as well as the plexi and case shape. As well, the reference engraving between the lugs, faux patina look and gold hands are additional historical nods that have proven so attractive to Paneristi and Panerai enthusiasts alike.

I’d heard from friends that despite its 47mm size, it was quite wearable, but as an owner of the 40mm PAM 48 who feels comfortable wearing a Radiomir but not a Luminor 44mm, I wasn’t sure that this would be the case for me.

What do you think?

It sits more comfortably than I’d have envisaged, but when it sits on my wrist proper, as opposed to pushed slightly up, the crown guard jams slightly into my hand when my hand is at particular angles. This is really a very attractive replica watch, every bit as nice in the metal was it was in photos, but unfortunately it’s just too big for me.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Case : 47 mm, thickness 5.3 mm
Movement : Caliber P.3000 (5.3mm thick). Manual wind.
Jewels : 21
VPH : 21, 600
Power reserve : 3 days
Water resistance : 100 m
Strap : Leather (with an additional strap and screwdriver for strap changing)

Production has been 3500 in the N series and it’s priced at around USD 10,000.

Categories
Swiss Replica

The vodka inspired Fortis Frisson replica watch

In 2008, German artist and designer Rolf Sachs designed the limited edition ‘IQ’watch for Fortis. This year, he has again collaborated with Fortis for another limited edition, this time to celebrate the brand’s 100th birthday.

Rolf Sachs IQ

Sachs’ inspiration behind the limited edition ‘Frisson’ stems from the image of a vodka glass freshly out of the freezer. The mineral crystal has a frosted over finish, giving it a ‘chilled’ look. This makes numerals difficult to read, but the bright blue hands make the time fairly legible, even through the frosted crystal.

before & after

What drew me to this luxury replica watch was its interactivity. The application of a small amount of moisture (preferably water. The use of vodka, as per the design inspiration, is a decision for you) to the frosted crystal clears it, exposing the dial, though the period of clarity doesn’t seem to last for very long. The intention was to give the wearer an opportunity to actively engage with the replica watch.

At a comfortable 40mm, the Frisson’s white dial has Arabic numerals, a hand-drawn styled FORTIS logo, and hour and minute hands coated in superluminova blue. There is a date window (circled in red) at 3 o’clock, though for all practical purposes it’s not that useful, as it is only visible when the replica watch has been ‘cleared’ through the application of a liquid/ moisture.

The luminous hands and indices glow a very bright blue, and legibility is arguably clearer when looking at it in its lumed form than in its normal frosted state.

It’s a sturdy replica watch that comes on a fairly comfortable transparent silicone strap which makes sense in the context of the aesthetics of the replica watch, but I have chosen to change it for a NATO for regular use, both for comfort and because it is a bit ‘white’ for me with the original strap.

This is clearly not a classic ‘watch person’s replica watch’, and will not appeal to everyone in a broader sense, if for no other reason than that legibility might be a challenge for many people. However, the Frisson’s design is in keeping with Rolf Sachs’ IQ; it is intended as a modern playful fun replica watch with a quirky angle, and it’s definitely that. It’s not for those with a short attention span, as you are likely to find yourself bored with it rather quickly, but its novelty hasn’t yet worn off for me, and I doubt that it will.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Reference: Fortis Frisson Limited Edition 595.11.82 SI29
Case material: Steel, brushed. Screw-down case back
Case size: 40mm
Crystal: mineral crystal with frosted effect
Movement: automatic Swiss
Jewels: 25
VPH: 28,800
Water resistance: 200m/ 20 bar
Strap: transparent silicone strap with folding clasp
Limited edition: individually numbered (xxx/999) on the case back