Most watch collectors know of Universal Genève by now – likely the Compax and Polerouter models. Most also know of Gérald Genta and the watches he designed – Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak, Patek Philippe’s Nautilus, and the aforementioned Polerouter, among others. But considerably less may… Read More »The Shadows of Universal Genève
At the outset, the Gallet Multichron 12 and Jim Clark are a phenomenal pairing. Gallet & Co. is an influential watchmaker, but generally flies under the radar of many watch enthusiasts. Likewise, Jim Clark is an actual racing legend, but relatively unknown to modern racing… Read More »Jim Clark and the Gallet Multichron 12
The name Cartier is nearly synonymous with luxury today. In fact, Cartier carried this association throughout the majority of its history. And rightfully so. Louis-François Cartier founded the brand in 1847 but his three grandsons actually propelled the brand into worldwide prominence. They each ran… Read More »Two Pioneers – Alberto & Cartier Santos-Dumont
Before Rainbow Daytonas, Datejusts, and Royal Oaks there was a different kind of rainbow in watches. Actually, its a rainbow watch within a rainbow watch. Under the first layer is the Zenith Rainbow El Primero, a line of sport chronographs launched in 1992. The second… Read More »Almost a French Pilot’s Watch – The Zenith Rainbow Flyback El Primero
The history of watches is overflowing with stories. But, this is also a history peppered with myths from time to time. One such myth is of Mercedes Gleitze, Rolex, and the English Channel. On October 7, 1927, Mercedes Gleitze, a 26 year old London typist,… Read More »The True Story of Mercedes Gleitze and the Rolex Oyster
The connection between military and dive watches goes back over 100 years. It is well documented and a keen focus of many watch collectors. Some prolific examples include the Rolex Milsub for the British and the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms used by the French. The Italian… Read More »Sharks & Frogmen – The Squale Marina Militare
