RADO – R5.5
What started out as a ‘refurbishment’ exercise for the Ceramica Chronograph in 2007 has now spawned into an entirely new casual collection by design maverick Jasper Morrison for Rado. Known for his ascetically elegant style and pared-down aesthete in his product designs, Morrison’s slicked up limited edition Ceramica with hands, counters and crown in gold had both the watch and design purists swooned.
Evidently, his ‘less is more’ ethos melds with Rado’s watch-making philosophy like pesto and pasta, and the partnership that has blossomed into a fully-fledged collection just seems inevitable.
Essentialist abounds on the new R5.5 chronograph, an emphatic display of Morrison’s deft touches. Helmed by fluid and harmonious edges and lines, its modest 38mm square case in matte black ceramic with integrated ceramic bracelet is subtle and sensual.
Exemplifying minimalist chic is the sleek dial with lithe markers and hands as well as two utilitarian chronograph sub- dials that complete this sports timekeeper. Powered by a quartz movement, the R5.5 is also available in an elementary two-hand version.
OMEGA – Constellation
Omega is ’sharpening’ its claws this year. By this, we’re referring to the signature bezel “griffes” on the best-selling Constellation line, that’s undergone a glitzy facelift.
And echoing the immortal words of ex-brand ambassador and supermodel, Cindy Crawford, lasses the world over will be declaring ‘My Choice’ after setting eyes on the refreshed collection.
For starters, the “griffes” are softer and more refined. While it retains the inimitable constellation star at ‘6′, its feminine appeal is enlivened by striking dials in silver, champagne, black, brown and white mother-of-pearl that boasts a wave pattern radiating from the star. Elsewhere, it’s re-designed ‘mono rang’ bracelet with linear links is sporty and elegant all at once.
The collection comes in many different flavors – five case sizes and different combination of case metals with diamond studded options. But we’re sure of particular interest would be the 31, 35 and 38mm variants, which brandish the Marque’s famed Co-Axial manufactured calibers.
Launched a decade ago in 1999, the Co-Axial’s escapement calling card is its configuration that helps reduce friction among key components while ensuring accuracy and longevity. Fitted in the 31mm size is the Calibre 2500 with 48-hour power reserve.
The larger 35 and 38mm counterparts are anchored by the 8520 and 8500 calibres with 50-hour power reserve respectively. All models available in 18K red or yellow gold, bi-color (stainless steel with either 18K red or yellow gold), or stainless steel, with matching bracelets.
