HELSON Gauge V2.0

By TLex HELSON Watches have had a second release of their specialist 3500m diver, the Gauge. The watch features a Titanium mono-bloc case with an HEV at the 12 o'clock position, a bronze fixed bezel and a highly domed vintage-style sapphire crystal. Its crown (positioned at 6 o'clock) is completely protected by the case when screwed down and is operable via a small tool that is used to screw, unscrew and set the time.

The Gauge V2.0 comes in two dial versions, one with a traditional 3 hands set and one with single a hand, which allows its user to tell the time in 5 minute steps. The watch houses a Swiss made ETA cal. The V2.0 now has an increased lug width of 24mm. Just 25 examples of each version have been made, a total 50 peices. Price is 1699USD; shipping starts on January 13th . . .

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HARRY WINSTON Ocean Sport� CHRONO

By TLex Following on from the HARRY WINSTON Ocean Sport � AUTO, which we took a first look at last year as part of the new Ocean Sport � COLLECTION. Here is the new HARRY WINSTON Ocean Sport � CHRONO with its impressive open worked dial, ultra-modern 44mm Zalium� case and notched bezel with treated DLC markers, also in Zalium� . . .

Ocean Sport� for him: The Ocean Sport� men�s watches proudly display a 44 mm diameter made from Zalium� that is DLC-�coated on the indexes. The lugs, arches and pushers are taut, distinct and resolutely sporty. The flange bears a chapter ring, while Superluminova markers ensure optimal readability. Equipped with a self-winding movement, the men�s Ocean Sport� watches are prepared to face each and every challenge.

Visual depth, fine mechanics, technical sophistication: the Ocean Sport� Chronograph watch offers a total immersion experience plunging observers into the very heart of time technology. The Zalium� unidirectional rotating bezel features DLC-�coated indexes enhancing its powerful, contemporary personality, while the Zalium� case frames an openworked three-�dimensional dial with a metallic smoked finish that lends added depth to the time functions.

The intricate workings of the skeletonized movement are clearly visible beneath the Superluminova--enhanced hands distinctly pointing to the hours and minutes marked on the flange. Other luminescent elements ensure perfect legibility of the time. The black ruthenium colored and skeletonized date disk turns steadily in order to clearly display the date at 12 o�clock, inviting the gaze to boldly explore the intricate gearwheels of time itself.

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HARRY WINSTON Ocean Sport� AUTO

By TLex Last November we took a brief look at Harry Winston's new diver COLLECTION, which consisted of an Auto and an Open-Work CHRONO. Today we take a closer look at the Ocean Sport � AUTO with its chiseled good looks, sporty angular-shaped 44mm Zalium� case and impressive bezel with treated DLC markers, also in Zalium�.

The Ocean Sport� men�s watches proudly display a 44 mm diameter made from Zalium� that is DLC�-coated on the indexes. The lugs, arches and pushers are taut, distinct and resolutely sporty. The flange bears a chapter ring, while Superluminova markers ensure optimal readability. Equipped with a self-winding movement, the men�s Ocean Sport� watches are prepared to face each and every challenge.

High-�-tech modernity is highlighted by a decidedly geometrical approach. The Ocean Sport� Automatic watch radiates the stature of natural-born winners. The three�-dimensional dial is delineated by a hatched pattern echoing the notches on the bezel.

The architecture is accentuated by silver-�-toned edges accentuating the resolutely contemporary and masculine design. The date is boldly displayed through a broad opening at 3 o�clock opposite the signature Harry Winston arches. Its blue numerals match the color of the central sweep-seconds hand, while phosphorescent accents enable optimal read�-off of the time information.

The new Ocean Sport� is the epitome of innovation and design. A state of mind nurtured by challenges. A strength of conviction. Carved out of the exclusive Zalium� alloy, it bears the signature of innovation. Its sporting personality highlights its powerful nature. Its design places it firmly in the avant-garde of a 21st century spirit distinguished by innovation and accomplishment.

Light, non-allergenic, harder than titanium and extremely corrosion-resistant. The cases of the Ocean Sport set the bar extremely high in terms of performance. The material called Zalium� from which they are fashioned propels the collection firmly into the era of cutting�-edge technology. Its impressive chemical properties are matched by its rarity: zirconium is far scarcer than titanium and its exceptional hardness makes it very hard to machine.

Its specific technical characteristics echo the sporting spirit of the Ocean Sport� collection, molded by a distinctive approach to design. The men�s models feature a DLC coating on certain bezel elements that further enhances its resistance to wear. Calling for a blend of know-how and mastery, Zalium� mirrors the qualities of the entire Ocean Sport� collection: energetic, contemporary and impactful.

The Harry Winston signature styling is apparent in even the slightest design details. The brand�s taut, prominent signature arches clearly assert their personality, while the angular pushers also establish a strong presence on either side of a Zalium� crown which is DLC treated on the men�s models.

The ratcheted bezel confirms the sporting spirit of the collection through a forceful design, and the dial architecture adopts the same attitude through distinctive relief and depth effects. 

Blue accents here and there set the finishing touch to the powerful character of these watches, while also perfecting their readability. Finally, the bright and athletic Superluminova-enhanced hands adopt a beveled profile that further accentuates the dynamic appearance of the dial.

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OMEGA Seamaster DIVER Co-Axial 300M [NewGeneration]

By TLex The Seamaster DIVER 300M has been one of OMEGA�s most popular dive watches watches since it was first launched in 1957. Some 55 years on and this iconic diver been updated, upgraded and brought into the 21st Century, where it should gain as much of a following as it has in the past.

Four updated Seamaster 300M models are now available; all of them are equipped with OMEGA�s latest generation of revolutionary Co-Axial caliber 2500 mechanical movements. There are two 41mm versions of the Seamaster Diver 300m, and two with smaller 36.25mm stainless steel cases. Each of them are available with a choice of either blue or a black ceramic bezel inserts that have been designed to perfectly match their new glossy lacquered dials. An orange version wouldn�t have gone amiss, though. Their screwdown casebacks have been stamped with a large �Seamaster� seahorse emblem.

The Seamaster Diver 300M is equipped with a number of professional divers� features, such as; a manual-release helium escape valve, a unidirectional rotational divers bezel and tough scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Polished, facetted skeleton rhodium-plated hour and minute hands have been applied with SuperLumiNova as has the central second hand. The SuperLumiNova on the hour and second hands now fashionably emits a blue light as do the indexes. While the minute hand and 12 o�clock bezel marker have been applied with green SuperLumiNova for maximum efficiency when keeping track of dive-time.

Each of the new models are presented on a brushed and polished OMEGA patented screw-and-pin stainless steel bracelet with a divers' deployment clasp. And as its name suggests, the OMEGA Seamaster Diver Co-Axial 300m has a water-resistance to a depth of 30 bar / 300 meters / 1000 feet.

The OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M was the first dive watch that I considered almost 15yrs ago, when looking to buy my first really decent diver. It had been used by the British special forces, specifically the SBS and had been worn by Bond, and that was good enough for me. In the end, though I actually opted for a BREITLING to pacify my then obsession with extreme water-resistance. However my point is, as little as I knew about dive watches in those days, which wasn�t much at all, I did know that if I wanted a truly great Swiss diver other than a Submariner that there was only one other watch really worth considering, and that was the Seamaster 300M.

I applaud the new updates, who doesn�t like a ceramic bezel or blue lume, which are pretty much de rigueur for the modern divers watch anyway. And what's not to like about the new Cal. 2500?! The Seamaster 300M can now sit proudly alongside the new Planet Ocean collection, and as long as the price-tag hasn�t been �upgraded� too much, these new version should continue the great Seamaster Diver 300M legacy . . .

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L�M-TEC 300M & MBRONZE

By TLex L�M-TEC have kicked off 2012 with 17 new models. Their first new model is a 300 meter dive watch. The 300M features: an automatic movement (the NH35, which both hacks and winds) and a 60-click uni-directional rotational divers bezel with a sapphire inlay.

The 300M will be available in two case sizes 40mm or 45mm XL and with two 316L case finishes, brushed or Titanium Carbide PVD hardened coating. Special offer prices range from 743USD - 786USD

L�M-TEC have also redesigned their M series watches, which now sport new enhanced 300 meter cases, similar to the M Tungsten. The new M series watches will include 2 new automatics (also NH35) with 44mm solid bronze cases.

The special offer price for the MBronze is circa 845USD. It is available in two dial colors, black or brown. For further details on pre-ordering follow the Lum-Tec logo below . . .

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RADO D-Star 200

By TLex RADO claim to be making waves with their new D-Star 200 diver, I'd have to agree. The automatic RADO divers, which are said to demonstrate a watertight style with reliable performance above and below sea level look pretty sensational. This is RADO's first new divers model in a number of years (not sure exactly how many, but it's been a while).

And this is RADO's first contemporary divers model to use an external rotational divers bezel. The D-Star 200 is available as either a 3 hand auto or a chrono. Water-resistance is 200m, case size is 42mm x 46mm x 12.5mm. The black Chrono version is absolutely stunning. More to follow soon, until then a few words form RADO . . .

The D-Star 200 watches, diving-inspired design features flow into an eye-catching case, all sealed by water resistance up to 20 bar. As the latest additions to the Rado D-Star family, they cause a refreshing visual splash with their looks, and give these depth with a Swiss automatic movement, robust materials and uncompromising attention to detail. There are five chronograph versions and five classic three-hand models. These watches belong to the essential equipment of sporty individuals in all locations, regardless of whether they are wearing a dry suit or a business suit.

Navigating New Waters - From a performance perspective, the Rado D-Star 200 watches are ready to navigate new waters confidently. The main family descends directly from the Rado DiaStar, the world�s first scratch-resistant watch, launched in 1962. Elegantly punctuating this heritage with modern touches, the three-hand executions integrate a Cyclops cut magnifying lens in the gently domed sapphire crystal, over the date display.

Meticulous design detail adds further buoyancy to wearability and practicality, such as bracelets integrating high-tech ceramic links or sturdy rubber straps. This finds further expression in metallised, steel- and gold-coloured applied indexes, a uni-directional bezel inserted with high-tech ceramic and a moving anchor symbol, trademark of the Swiss-made automatic movement inside.

Style landmarks - Each of the ten Rado D-Star 200 watches has its own distinctive identity. Immersing itself in the nautical theme is a model with a glimmering ocean-blue dial and matching bezel. Brushed and polished stainless steel further mirrors the maritime mood. Moving closer to dry land is a piece combining sleek black elements with the shining stainless steel structure, ideal equipment for sporty individuals.

And captaining a classical look is a version with an elegant grey dial, black bezel and silver-coloured stainless steel bracelet. Wearers will never be at sea when it comes to choosing the appropriate watch to time their active, fast-paced lifestyles.

RADO D-Star 200 Automatic CHRONO

MOVEMENT 13 � ETA A05.H31, automatic chronograph, 27 jewels, 5 hands, date at 6 o�clock, 54 hours power reserve, Small seconds, 30-minute and 60-second counters, Add and Split functions, black oscillating mass, Movement exclusive to Rado

DIAL Black, sunbrushed with 9 steel colour applied indexes with white luminous Anchor moving symbol, White printed Rado and Automatic logos

CASE Polished steel with steel turning bezel with black high-tech ceramic insert and steel-colour metallised numerals, Steel middle part, Pressed on steel back with sapphire crystal, Curved sapphire crystal with integrated magnifier, Water resistant to 20 bar (200m)

HANDS Steel-colour with printed black line, white luminous, Steel-colour second and counter hands

BRACELET 3 row solid steel with black high tech ceramic middle links, Titanium 3-fold buckle

DIMENSIONS 44.0 x 48.2 x 15.7 (WxLxH in mm)

RADO D-Star 200 AUTOMATIC

MOVEMENT 11 � ETA 2824-2, automatic, 25 jewels, 3 hands, date at 3 o�clock, 38 hours power reserve, decorated movement

DIAL Blue, sunbrushed with 11 steel-colour applied indexes with white luminous, Anchor moving symbol, Silver-colour printed Rado and Automatic logos

CASE Polished steel, Steel turning bezel with blue ceramic insert and steel-colour metallised numerals, Steel middle part, Pressed on steel back with sapphire crystal, Curved sapphire crystal with integrated magnifier, Steel crown, Water resistant up to 20 bar (200m)

HANDS Steel-colour with printed blue line, white luminous, Steel-colour second hand

BRACELET 3-row solid steel, satin brushed and polished, Titanium 3-fold buckle

DIMENSIONS 42.0 x 46.0 x 12.5 (WxLxH in mm)

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JIUSKO Deep Sea

By TLex Taiwanese factory brand, JIUSKO have a several divers in their line up. The Deep Sea was one that caught my eye; not only for its unique dual case design, but because it's basically the same watch as the DEEP BLUE Carbon Aqua.

The JIUSKO Deep Sea has a 46mm x 15mm Stainless steel case with a screwdown crown and caseback, a sapphire crystal and a water-resistance of 200m. It houses an automatic movement. I'm not really sure which one, though; could well be the Seiko NH25, which the DEEP BLUE Carbon Aqua uses. The JIUSKO Deep Sea's carbon dial comes in three colors; orange, black, blue or green.

I quite like the case design, crown, lugs bezel etc. But I'm not really digging the dial or the Aquagraph bezel insert. And the JIUSKO company slogan 'Yes, I Can' is a little - how can I say - sad! Nevertheless the JIUSKO Deep Sea's price tag, which should be sub 300 dollars means it's going to be pretty good value for large diver with a sapphire crystal and mechanical movement. This is going to make someone a nice beater.



Click HERE to check out another cool Chinese DIVER . . .

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ENNEBI Fondale BRONZO Ref.9680

By TLex I have just received these images from a friend of mine in Prato, Italy. They are of my new ENNEBI Fondale BRONZO Ref. 9680. The Fondale Bronzo is based on the regular Fondale, a watch that has garnered itself a bit of a cult following from dive watch aficionados. They even have a fan or two in Hollywood!

The sumptuous finish of the watch case has been achieved by a method of patinization, which gives it its warm dark tones. The new Fondale BRONZO further distinguishes itself from its predecessors because unlike them, it now features a new ENNEBI signed crown and a sapphire crystal. Thank you, Alessandro and Luciano, I can't wait for it to arrive!

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