The 2012 hand-wound Zeno Basel Vintage Classic Chrono (Ref. 4100-i4) pilot’s watch features all the usual stuff that you expect from a Valjoux 77xx-powered device. There is a chronograph, a rudimentary calendar, and an almost inevitable moonphase complication. Basically, everything that a gentleman needs in a vintage-style “aviator.” Presented in a slightly oversized stainless steel body, the 4100-i4 is powered by a rare(-ish) version of the hand-wound caliber and features a somewhat eclectic, but pleasant to look at, dial. It was first unveiled during Baselworld 2012 show.
44 mm
Clerc Hydroscaph Central Chronograph CHY-554 Black DLC
The new Clerc Hydroscaph Limited Edition Central Chronograph (ref. CHY-554) comes equipped with a central chronograph minutes hand that not only makes the timekeeper’s dial more interesting to look at. The design also significantly simplifies the task of measuring short periods of time: something that most common chronographs with their tiny, difficult-to-read totalizers are not always good at.
Under Pressure: Alpina Extreme Diver 300M
During Baselworld 2012 trade show the Swiss watchmaker Alpina has presented a pretty sexy automatic diver. The new Alpina Extreme Diver 300M not only sports a nicely-shaped case with an easy to grasp notched bezel but also features a pretty much impressive water resistance rating of 30 ATM: that’s 300 meters!
Breitling Chronomat 44 TOPGUN Automatic Chronograph LE
Going into an all-out assault against its archrival IWC, Breitling will soon start selling a limited edition Chronomat 44 TOPGUN. The new self-winding chronograph is going to proudly wear the colors of the famous U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, which is more known under its “TOP GUN” nickname thanks to the eponymous Hollywood blockbuster starring Tom Cruise.
Rodania XSEBA is Another ETA 7750-Based Generic
Okay, it looks like we will soon see yet another 7750-type chronograph. The watchmaker that was founded back in 1930s in Switzerland, almost went bankrupt in late 1990s and then re-launched by a Belgian family, is going to present its new Rodania XSEBA Black Edition (ref. RS2505326) chronograph.
Glashutte Original Senator Observer in Stainless Steel
I somehow missed it last year when the German Manufacture has introduced its elegant Glashutte Original Senator Observer. Presented in white gold, it was as beautiful as it was expensive, so, for this year, the guys from the town of Glashütte decided to introduce a slightly more affordable version of the Observer in a finely crafted stainless steel body. Officially presented at Baselworld 2012, it was designated as ref. 100-14-05-02-04.