The Basle fair is over for yet another year and we felt it was only good and proper to let you all know about the new releases that will shortly be appearing here at Banks Lyon. As official stockists of all the brands mentioned in this article, please do not hesitate to contact us with any queries on 01524 381020, by emailing [email protected], use BOLDCHAT or fill out the online enquiry form.
Rolex as ever were causing a stir. There wasn't even a whisper of the new model GMT however, the new model Submariner Date and the two new DateJust's are all worth a mention:
The new Submariner, 116613 LB, has the same 40mm case as it's predecessor. With a new ceramic bezel, oyster bracelet and glide lock clasp. The changes are minimal but effective.
The iconic Datejust, has two new additions to it's ranks firstly a new 41mm case. This new larger case is available in yellow and white rolesor is only available with an 18ct fluted bezel and oyster bracelet. With some this is a controversial move as many Rolex lovers feel the fluted bezel looks best with the jubilee bracelet and that the domed bezel suits the oyster bracelet best. Non the less this new model with it's own unique dial design collection, the - now as standard - easy link oyster clasp extension and 48 hour power reserve is breaking new ground.
The other additon to the datejust family is the new adaptations to the 36mm. This size, which until now has been deemed a gentleman's watch, has been redesigned with the lady in mind. The new collection consists of eight models in rolesor with diamond set bezels and a new distinctly feminine dial collection. Here at Banks Lyon opinions are mixed towards these new dials, flowers are the rather distinctly feminine addtion with dials in pink, grey, blue and green and of course Mother of Pearl diamond dot dial.
The 36mm datejust has certainly not left the rehelms of the gentleman's waterproof dress watch, for many it is still the perfect case size. Due to the fashions of the age Rolex have simply acknowledged the growing trend amongst women to wear a larger watch bringing the 36mm into a unisex catergory.
Fear not though chaps, there is the 41mm if you do feel slightly demasculated every time your good lady borrows your datejust for the day! Â
Back to the fair and Omega had the Ploprof 1200M to talk about. A rather definate nod to the famous 1970's original model, the first released solely for the diving professional. The watch gets it's rather unusual name from the french 'PLOngeur PROFessionnell', which ofcourse when translated simply means 'professional diver.'
After a quick glance at this watch you may question the distinct lack of a Helium Expulsion Valve (HEV) which in todays market is a clear indication of a divers watch. The Ploprof preceded research into the HEV and instead relies solely on it's water seals at depth however fear not as the original design undertook 4 years of extensive testing with the American Diving Research centre deeming it 'more water tight than a submarine!'
Those who use the ploprof are following in the footsteps of the must loved historical figure, Jacques Cousteau who used this watch when conducting his famous research into man's physical and psychological capabilities at depts of 500m. Anyone whos dabbled in the sport of diving is aware of the effects of the dreaded benz and the ploprof comes equipped to help any diver avoid the unpleasant effects of ascending too quickly. The rather inviting red button on the right hand side of the case is a lock mechanism for the bezel. For every 100m ascended a diver must pause for 5 minutes to adapt to the pressure change, this lock ensures the divers don't miscount those rather important minutes and fall foul to the effects of such actions.
A quick break down of the watch:
'Shark' proof metal link bracelet
Waterproof to 1200m (the original was to 600m)
Calibre 8500 movement
Bi-directional rotating bezel and security push button lock
Screw down and protected crown
Breitling threw yet another fabulous party - they have become THE party to attend - and heralded the arrival of the Navitimer 125 and Calibre B01 movement...
....and last but by no means least, TAG detailed their new Monaco 40th Anniversary re-edition.
The original that was released in 1969 simultaneously in both Geneva and New York, was launched into iconic status by Steve McQueen who wore the watch famously in the 1971 film 'Le Mans'. The Monaco, with it's calibre 11 movement was the first commerically available automatic chronograph watch.
This new model has the blue dial and red dial hands as seen in the Steve McQueen special edition, and the same 38mm case as the original model. This 40th Anniversary re-edition has a calibre 11 movement, unlike the other additional Monaco releases which now all have a calibre 17 movement.
The watch is due for release in June and with only 1000 examples being produced it is going to be a struggle to secure one. The good news is, Banks Lyon have been promised at least one example and are accepting pre-orders!