The Manual Wind: JLC for IGY

By Ian Schwam April 30, 2014

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Jaegar-LeCoulture introduced the Geo-physic chronometer in 1958, which at the time was believed to be ‘the most precise watch in the world.’ The watch was introduced as a tool for scientists and explorers, two professions solidified in accuracy. The Geophysic was only in production for one year before it was replaced by a self-winding watch called the Geomatic. As such, the original Geophysic remains one of the most rare chronometer grade watches of the 20th century. Today the Geophysic has been reborn in a limited collection of watches.

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Steel, Platinum, and Rose Gold encase this tribute trio. 38.5 millimeters in diameter gives this piece a modern upgrade while still maintaining a classic size to today’s standards. Contrasting against the ivory dial are what truly sets this piece apart, the hands. Attracting the eyes of the collectors and everyday enthusiasts alike, these patina flaired dagger-shape hands keep their 1958 proportions. Below lies an in-house Jaeger automatic movement with a forty-three hour power reserve. All three pieces are limited edition with the highest production, 800, in stainless steel. With exact matching dial from 1958, the Platinum has the smallest production of 58 pieces and will only be available in a Jaeger LeCoultre boutique. The Rose Gold falls between at 300 pieces only.

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The watch industry is constantly looking to reinvent what is relevant to today’s market. While many may have an eye towards a flashy luxurious timepiece, the Geophysic embodies what really matters, smarts and looks. JLC has paid tribute to a piece from the past as well as redeclaring the embodiment of the brand. A piece in platinum will set you back $32,000. Rose Gold comes in at $20,800. The stainless steel is the one to call your dealer for come October at a very fair $9,800.

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The Manual Wind: Zenith Synopsis

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When shopping for a timepiece there are always tough choices. Unlike the auto industry, where their are only so many cars per segment, the watch industry is flooded with options. One of the toughest watches to decide on is a dress piece. Classic and simple, a dress watch can only variate so much. One brand that has shown its horological chops as well as maintained affordability in this segment is Zenith.

At the ideal modern dress size of 40mm, Zenith’s standout release from Basel 2014 is the Synopsis. Keeping its design to two hands and a seconds tri-hand subdial, the Synopsis has dropped right into the dress watch segment, but with a twist. Exposed is the beating heart of the famous El Primero chronograph movement.

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The Manual Wind: Offshore Safari

manual wind offshore safari ap

Revision has been the driving force in the watch world over the past twenty-five years and Audemars Piguet is no exception. There came a time when even the iconic Royal Oak design would hit the drawing board. In 1989 a designer for Audemars Piguet by the name of Emmanuel Gueit took on this task and re-imagined the once ground breaking design. Eventually receiving the necessary support, Gueit's revision would become what people refer to as the Royal Oak on steroids; The Royal Oak Offshore. Over the years this ahead of its time timepiece has taken on many forms in size, case material, and dial configuration but none more recognizably simple than that of the Safari. The original Safari placed a cream dial with dark arabic numerals in the standard stainless steel Offshore 42mm case (which wears more like a 44mm).

Attached with a brown and white stitched horn-back alligator strap the piece looks like it was built for your African adventure. Now one of the hottest watches in the market adorning the wrists of celebrities and collectors alike has received its update. New for 2014 Audemars Piguet has once again re-envisioned a classic. The 2014 Safari joins a number of new Royal Oak Offshore designs but is a certain stand out. New to the piece are ceramic chronograph pushers and crown for greater durability as well as a new dial and exhibition case back.

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The Manual Wind: Summer Rubber B

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With warmer temperatures continuing to swell, so comes the annual wardrobe change. We revel in the ability to transform our lives for the casual and sporty dog days of summer. Activity plays a larger role in defining style and functionality and the timepiece must follow suit. With its mainstream introduction into the high end watch world in the early 1980s, the rubber strap has completed its long journey to acceptance. Now this common material can be found snuggly fit alongside precious metals and high end movements. Hublot might have been the originator, but now, if a brand does not offer this option they are missing the yacht.

One major brand out there that curiously does not offer a rubber strap for their timepieces is Rolex. Arguably the most notable and collectable watch brand in history has yet to succumb to what is no longer a trend but a staple. One company, however, has taken it upon themselves to break open this market and they have done it well; Rubber B. This American company has brought a well designed and produced vulcanized rubber strap to fit a variety of Rolex watches.