Watches exist in a strange middle ground: They’re not wholly necessary anymore, but people still adore them for their aesthetic grace. What does that mean for the way that watches are designed?
The fact that watches straddle the line between “classic” and “modern” is the root for the assertion that the finest watches are those that seamlessly harmonize the two. Today, we’re going to be taking a look at a few watch companies that are taking classic craftsmanship and mixing it with modern chic in surprising new ways:
TAG Heuer
When you’re looking for a watch that really captures the automotive spirit of the early-to-mid 20th century, you turn to the TAG Heuer Autavia collection. Having been out of production since 1957, these timepieces’ sudden return is a marvel.
The aero-automotive design remains focused on the era, with the crown featuring a “gear” retro design for ease of use and a tire-and-propeller logo on the back of the case.
But with a state-of-the-art oscillator whose carbon-fiber hairspring and balance wheel allow for high precision, the Autavia is the right blend of past and present.
Tissot
Along similar lines, the Tissot Heritage collection celebrates the history of the Swiss designer while pairing the classic beauty with contemporary technology.
Take the Tissot Heritage Navigator watch: Its leather strap, clean steel case, and sans-serif numerals all speak to a vintage masculinity; but its COSC-certified automatic chronometer allows the watch to be set to 24 different time zones instantly.
Its sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and water resistance down to 100 feet are merely feathers that Tissot adds to the cap of this genius watch.
Piaget
If you visit a jewelry store and see a Piaget watch, you know you’re looking at a history of excellence. Since 1874, Piaget has been blurring the line between jewelry and timepieces, utilizing the skills of goldsmiths and fine artists to create watches that embody an ethos of timeless craftsmanship.
Among Piaget watches, one of our favorite classic/modern timepieces is the aptly-named “Exceptional” Emperador Cushion Watch. The absolute treasure trove of 753 diamonds encrusted in this timepiece would have been enough to dazzle, but with the technological advancements of 856P ultra-thin automatic mechanical “perpetual calendar” movement and complications such as a retrograde day and date display, and dual time zone markers, you know you have a true art piece on your wrist.
Cartier
Cartier is practically a household name. There aren’t many people who wouldn’t recognize the name of the Cartier atelier immediately, and there’s a reason for that: Cartier watches are the paragon of Swiss-quality engineering.
Appropriately for this article, one of the most delightful examples of classic/modern is the Santos de Cartier collection, which was first designed for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos Dumont in 1904.
The modern reinterpretation of this vintage collection boasts the same square bezel, as well as luxury elements like 18K pink gold set with a faceted sapphire, silvered opaline dial, and blued-steel hands.
But don’t overlook the technological perfection of these Cartier watches. The automatic mechanical movement and water resistance down to a staggering 330 feet speak to the technical mastery of the company.
Now It’s Your Turn!
What are your favorite classic/modern watch collections that have captured your attention this year? Stop by our Facebook or Twitter page to let us know your favorites!
Don’t forget to check out our sister blog, Premiere Jewelry Design, for the latest women’s jewelry fashions!