Baselworld 2019: Dress For Success

Baselworld, the fair, is truly trying to dress for success, as its new layout and decorations have a more luxurious air. This was needed if only to match the atmosphere in which the brands that exhibit exist. In the past it where their dress watches that gave that feeling of luxury. While these classic dress watches are not be such a dominating segment of the market anymore, new watches have taken over this position. They might not all be gold, three-handers, but they are refined creations, often on the understated side, that feels most comfortable on the wrist of people who know that success is not an end station, but an everyday quest.

Patek Philippe is a brand which knows success themselves, and obtained it by always aiming for perfection. With the reference 5172G, they offer their classic chronograph now with a white gold case and complement this with a blue dial. Caliber CH 29-535 PS ticks all the boxes of a high-end chronograph movement. Not only because of its superb architecture and finish, but also because of its column wheel and horizontal clutch. To add even more to its appeal is it not only manual wind but did Patek Philippe also fit the watch with a ‘box’ shaped sapphire crystal.

With the new Octo Finissimo GMT Chronograph Bulgari is snatching up yet another world record for slimmest watch. While great and impressive by itself, it also combines this with the breathtaking, contemporary design of the Octo Finissimo. While a chronograph is one of the most popular complications, Bulgari added a GMT function as well, making it the perfect travel watch. It is sturdy enough to handle an active lifestyle, something that cannot be said of all ultra slim watches, while its appearance can be matched as easily with a pair of jeans as with a pinstripe suit.

With the L.U.C XP we get to see a more casual side of Chopard‘s top of the line collection. A stunning blue dial features rose gold hands, numerals and hour indexes, and is captured in a stainless steel case, and fitted with a strap made of virgin wool (yet lined with alligator!). It is powered by a refined movement, caliber L.U.C 96.53-L, who’s micro-rotor powers two coaxial barrels which give the watch a power reserve of 58-hours.

Some watches are not created; they are sculpted. The Hublot Classic Fusion Orlinski is such a watch. Both the case, as well as its unique dial, show an incredible play of light and make it such an expressive watch. While the DNA of Hublot remains strong, the hand of Richard Orlinski is clearly visible. Combined they reach a synergy that turns this modest three hander, into something really special.