To round off 2018 with a bang, LUXUO has curated its own list of flashy and over-the-top watches that are simultaneously icons and exemplars of fine watchmaking in their own leagues. Court a subject of interest or just head out winter vacationing with these mechanical marvels that are sure to turn heads and trigger lustful envy.
Rolex Rainbow Daytona
Initially, Rolex released the Rainbow Daytona in yellow gold and white gold, both of which quickly attained cult status. Rolex embellished 36 baguette-cut sapphires in rainbow hues on the bezel and 11 of the same gemstones as hour markers. Now, the most collectible Rolex timepiece is also available in Everose Gold, and it is far from just a crowning display watch – this Rainbow Daytona demands to be owned.
Girard-Perregaux Neo Tourbillon with Three Bridges Skeleton
Unveiled at SIHH this year, the Neo Tourbillion was reimagined and skeletonised, revealing the intricacy of the iconic Tourbillion. Three black-coated arched bridges made of titanium replace existing elements so the overall architectural-style is not overworked, but more sophisticated than ever. Possible with the convex sapphire crystal that sites on the case band with no bezel, two other similar arched bridges can be seen in the back, taking the place of a solid base plate. The result is a complex timepiece that somehow manages to remain stately.
Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Arpels Planétarium
Set in a mere 38mm case, the diamond-encrusted Planétarium can be spotted from a mile away. As its name suggests, the watch paints a picture of the vast universe that is both highly complicated to produce and beautiful to look at. Sitting on the dial made out of Aventurine concentric rings are precious materials including pink mother-of-pearl, green enamel, turquoise and yet another diamond to represent various planets. The watch depicts a perfect marriage between horology and jewellery that further underlines the maison’s artistic expression for their timepieces.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Latin America
For Audemars Piguet, astronomical observation has played a huge part in the inspiration behind some of their most exceptional timepieces, such as the Perpetual Calendar complication, one of the most iconic complications in the history of Haute Horlogerie. The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Latin America Edition watch boasts a pink gold dial with the “Grande Tapisserie” motif, matching rose gold hands and blue hemispheres. Not only is the case and bracelet made of 18kt rose gold, but the engraved rotor is also made of gold, visible through the sapphire case back.
A. Lange & Söhne Triple Split
Launched at SIHH 2018, the A.Lange & Söhne Triple Split Chronograph is the brand’s latest instalment of watches with some of the most impressive chronograph movements in the modern watchmaking world, following its Datograph and Double Split. It is essentially a first of its kind, marking a milestone for its ability to time split events in not just minutes and seconds but hours – up to 12 of them, far surpassing Double Split’s 30 minutes. Housed in a 43.2mm case, the Triple Split also represents a major achievement in the watchmaking world by increasing its complexity while maintaining the size of the case.
Antoine Preziuso Tourbillon of Tourbillons
Its name speaks for itself, as the contemporary watchmaker Antoine Preziuso designed and produced the Tourbillon of Tourbillons in collaboration with his son, Florian. More than a decade-long in the making, the extravagant timepiece is a triple tourbillon – three one-minute tourbillon regulators mounted on a main plate – that work together to produce an unparalleled precision in timekeeping. To balance out and bring attention to the heart of the timepiece, it is enclosed in a stainless steel case with simple lines and a neat, brushed finishing. This visibly marvellous complication is a glorious addition to any tourbillon collection.
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