The Retter 22 is a melding of design language from some of the greatest integrated sports watches of the past and present. In particular, it draws inspiration from Gerald Genta’s seminal Royal Oak, but also from the bracelet in Jorg Hysek’s Vacheron 222. In fact, the name of the Retter 22 is nod to that latter influence, as well as being a celebration of the year in which the brand launches its own first watch. Continue reading Off the Cuff: Retter 22
People marvel at what they cannot understand. And the function of a mechanical watch is indeed a minor marvel. But people cannot marvel at what they cannot see. So what’s what better than a watch with an open heart? A watch with a skeletonized dial. In other words, don’t just show them them balance wheel. Give ’em the gears. Continue reading Off the Cuff: Mido Multifort Skeleton Vertigo
Enter Formex. The brand takes its name from the French term “forme extreme,” meaning “extreme shape.” They have been independently producing watches in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland since 1999, and I would argue that they have also been contributing to a new aesthetic that is both original, and just familiar enough to fire the imagination of the everyday watch wearer. Unlike the brands mentioned earlier, they are also producing watches within reach—watches like the REEF 2.0. Continue reading Off the Cuff: Formex REEF 300m Dive Watch
