Good evening everyone.
Time flies and December is drawing to an end, with only a few days left in the year, but how has this year been for you all?
As for the watch industry, Patek Philippe recently announced the Tiffany Blue Nautilus, Ref. 5711/1A-018, which left it feeling like it stole the show in the end, but this year has also seen the release of many attractive new models from various brands.
This time, we would like to introduce eight mechanical watches that made an impression among the new models released in 2021.
Titled, [ 2021] Mechanical Watches "The 8 Best New Models"
The selections have been made based on the author's own personal opinions and biases, so please read to the end with an open mind.
New Best Model①
[Rolex]
Explorer
"Ref.124273"
April 2021. I'm sure there were many people who were very surprised when they saw it on the Rolex website. A combination model of the Explorer!?
However, the impression you get from the photo and the actual product is completely different, and it's honestly so cool! That's what all our staff say.
The basic design of the 3, 6, and 9 indexes and Mercedes hands remain the same, but the case diameter has returned to 36mm for the first time in 11 years, down from 39mm for the previous model "Ref. 214270". This popular model, which combines a universal design with an elegant essence, is a model that has been betrayed by the actual machine in the best way in 2021. I personally like the fact that the edges of the indexes are gold.
[Source] Rolex
New Best Model②
[Patek Philippe]
"Calatrava"
"Ref. 6119R-001"
The second watch we would like to introduce is the Calatrava, a simple three-hand model with a small second hand.
It features a guilloched Clous de Paris (hobnail pattern) bezel and is presented in a contemporary size, 39mm case diameter.
The new hand-wound movement "Cal.30-255PS" with a 65-hour power reserve, which can be seen through the see-through back, is simply beautiful. Instead of dolphin hands, it uses softer dauphine hands, and the combination of rose gold and grained silver makes it an elegant piece. While the prices of sports watches have risen significantly, the number of customers considering dress watches is increasing, so this is a model that we would definitely recommend.
[Source] Patek Philippe
New Best Model③
[Audemars Piguet]
『Royal Oak』
"Ref.15503BC.OO.1220BC.01"
The third watch we would like to introduce is a model that is not listed on the Audemars Piguet website, the new 2021 Royal Oak "Ref. 15503BC.OO.1220BC.01".
This model features a vibrant blue dial of the Grande Tapisserie and is made with a white gold case, and is limited to 300 pieces worldwide.
The texture of the case and bracelet is different from that of the stainless steel model, and the shine is immediately recognizable, with a beauty that captivates the viewer. The dial is also different from the blue of the stainless steel model, with a glossy finish and a more vivid impression. The list price is about 7.15 million yen, but it already has a premium attached to it.
[Source] Audemars Piguet
New Best Model ④
[Grand Seiko]
"Water Surface"
"Ref.SLGA007"
The fourth watch we would like to introduce is the Heritage Collection [Seiko] 140th anniversary limited edition model "SLGA007", which features a dial depicting the surface of Lake Suwa.
This model was released on December 10th and is limited to 2,021 units worldwide (500 units for sale in Japan), and has attracted so much attention that all pre-orders have already sold out.
The movement is the latest Spring Drive "Cal.9RA2". It has a power reserve of 120 hours. The wave pattern blue dial (Minamo pattern) and the gold logo and second hand are very beautiful, like sunlight reflected on the water. This kind of detailed color scheme is wonderful in recent Grand Seiko. I was able to see it through the showcase at the exhibition, and I thought it would be popular, following the white birch (Ref. SLGH005), so I introduced it.
[Source] Grand Seiko
New Best Model ⑤
[Tudor]
『Black Bay Fifty-Eight』
"Ref. 79010SG"
The fifth watch we would like to introduce is the Fifty-Eight "Ref. 79010SG", which comes with a 925 silver case and is derived from Tudor's masterpiece "Ref. 7924", also known as the "Big Crown".
The case back is see-through, allowing you to appreciate the distinctive sandblasted finish of the Cal.MT5400. The strap is available in taupe fabric or brown grain leather.
In our store, all of the Fifty Eight models are popular because the 39mm size and thickness make it easy to use every day, and the price range is relatively affordable. The different textures of the silver, SS (stainless steel) and 18KWG (white gold), are nice. Personally, I like the grain leather version, but I recommend purchasing a fabric strap separately and using it in the summer or when you sweat a lot.
[Source] Tudor
New Best Model ⑥
[Vacheron Constantin]
"Historic American 1921"
"Ref. 82035/000G-B735"
The sixth watch we would like to introduce is Vacheron Constantin's Historiques American 1921, which opened a new store along Harumi Dori in Ginza in December 2021.
This Historique American 1921 is celebrating its 100th anniversary since its birth in 1921, and in addition to the PT (platinum) model, an 18KWG (white gold) model has been released.
The grained dial features Arabic numerals in a retro font, and the brown calf strap goes well with it, making this a very stylish piece.
[Source] Vacheron Constantin
New Best Model ⑦
[Laurent Ferrier]
"Square Micro Rotor Retro"
"Ref.LCF0013.AC.G3N"
The seventh watch we would like to introduce is the Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Rotor Retro, which debuted at the Basel Fair in 2010.
The founder, Laurent Ferrier, is a watchmaker who worked for Patek Philippe for many years. In 2019, DKSH Japan became the official distributor, and sales in Japan began in earnest. It is a brand known only to those in the know.
The dial features Arabic numerals, also known as pilot numbers, giving it a casual feel while still providing excellent visibility. The combination of the stainless steel 41mm x 41mm square case and the silver-white dial gives it a sophisticated look. If you are considering a dress watch, why not give Laurent Ferrier a try?
*18K rose gold x black dial "Ref.LCF013.R5.N2W"
[Source] Laurent Ferrier
New Best Model 8
【omega】
"Speedmaster Moonwatch" "Ref.310.30.42.50.01.001/310.30.42.50.01.002"
The last model we would like to introduce is Omega's popular classic model, the Speedmaster Moonwatch.
I was debating whether to go with Chopard's Alpine Eagle Cadence, which has been rising in popularity recently, but I came to the conclusion that I should go with the classic model that has made a good impression on me.
*The new 2021 Speedmaster is available in a closed back model (310.30.42.50.01.001) and a see-through back model (310.30.42.50.01.002).
The only differences between the two models are the material of the crystal and the specifications of the bracelet. Other minor differences include the design of the tachymeter and whether the "Ω" logo is printed or applied.
In this article, we will talk about the "bracelet with improved usability." The parts themselves have become smaller, each link has been slimmed down, the taper angle of the bracelet has become deeper, and the width has become narrower, improving the fit.
The clasp has also been updated with stripes, making it more comfortable to wear and giving the Speedmaster a new look. The price is relatively reasonable, making it a recommended watch!
【source】
Omega Reference 310.30.42.50.01.001
Omega Reference 310.30.42.50.01.002
summary
What did you think.
Thank you very much for your continued patronage of Commit Ginza in 2021. In 2022, we will continue to do our utmost to provide you with satisfying services and products.
Finally, as this will be my last column for this year, I wish you, your family and friends good health and happiness. Happy New Year!
see you!