This Week in Watches — March 7, 2020
Another week has gone by. It turns out not even James Bond is immune to the Coronavirus. But in happier news, a raft of new watches hit the market. With many new models, Grand Seiko’s 60th-anniversary celebration really took off this week. We’re keeping you in the loop on that with our various articles on the subject. But we haven’t forgotten the other novelties and news as well. Enjoy some of it grouped here in This Week In Watches.
CWC T20 Quartz
In 1980, the British Ministry Of Defence released a tender specification for the first quartz watch issued to all branches of the British forces. While the tonneau-shape case — employed by the 70s mechanical models — was specified, the early Swiss quartz movements couldn’t fit this case. As a solution, the so-called G10 “Fat Boy” was born. Forces in the 80s Falklands war adopted this larger case shape, bolstering its reputation as a military stalwart.
…the Lost Boy
Now, by use of a modern Swiss Ronda 715 quartz movement, CWC ultimately brings us the “Lost Boy”. The watch that should have been made but never was. The original Defence Standard for the “Watch, Wrist, Electronic, General Service,” was dated the 29th of February 1980. Forty years to the day, it’s now making its debut. The T20 designation refers to the Tonneau case released in 2020. The T20 measures 38 mm (Including the crown) by 11mm and 42 mm lug-to-lug. In line with the MOD standards, it has fixed 18.5 mm lug bars. It’s pressure-resistant to 5 ATM and sports a Hesalite acrylic crystal. The price for the T20 is £249 and it can be ordered through cwcwatch.com
Zenith Romeo y Julietta
Last week Zenith and Habanos — in Havanna, Cuba — celebrated their partnership. In cooperation with one of Habanos’ exquisite cigar brands, Zenith launched the Romeo y Julietta set of watches. To commemorate the 145th anniversary of the cigar brand, Zenith decided to limit the production of the set to 145 pieces.
…an eternal chase
Both the blue-dialed 40.5 mm gents’ and red-dialed 36 mm ladies’ models are made in stainless steel, while the ladies’ version is set with 75 brilliant-cut diamonds. They both contain a Zenith Elite 692 caliber with a double moon phase indication. The moon phase display, with meticulously laser-engraved Romeo y Julietta faces, depicts the two lovers in an eternal chase across the night sky. More information is at www.zenith-watches.com
Watch Thing Speedy and Icons
Watch Thing, the only dedicated apparel shop for vintage watch collectors, has released its second and third T-shirt designs. After “Tritium”, its first design, now there are “Speedy” and “Icons” as well. “Speedy” is a grey-on-black short-sleeve shirt celebrating the iconic chronograph and many of its famous features. The base? A soft and breathable black tri-blend T-shirt.
…Paul, Ed, Steve, and Nina
The “icons” T-shirt celebrates a quartet of stainless steel sport watches made famous by iconic mid-century personalities. Paul Newman, Ed White, Steve McQueen, and Nina Rindt. The “Icons” design is printed in yellow-gold ink on a soft and breathable navy tri-blend shirt. Watch Thing T-shirts are available at $28 each, and if you want to show that you’re a real watch aficionado as well, head over to www.watchthing.co and dress up!
Anonimo Nautilo Nendaz Freeride
From 13 to 25th of March, 2020, we’ll see the 14th edition of the Nendaz Freeride. For Anonimo, the main sponsor of the event since last year, it’s a reason to present the Nautilo 42 mm Special Edition. The 42 mm watch features the Nendaz Freeride logo engraved on the case’s side at 9 o’clock, and on the open case-back. Additionally, the dial has a satin-finished blue sunray finish.
…a freeride-friendly way
Its crown, positioned at 4 o’clock, improves wearing comfort in a freeride-friendly way. A screw-down crown and case-back, guaranteeing water-resistance to 200 meters protect the Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1. Of course, the watch sports a sapphire crystal. All this can be yours for CHF 2,290 and it can be ordered here.
Raymond Weil David Bowie Tribute
In collaboration with the David Bowie Estate, Raymond Weil paid homage to the legendary musician David Bowie. For this homage, Raymond Weil chose their most free-spirited model — the Freelancer. The special-edition David Bowie Freelancer is a tribute to the life and musical career of one of the most influential artists of all time. Furthermore, the watch features a sleek 42mm diameter case in stainless steel, and a dial resembling a vinyl record with the iconic pop art bolt-logo created by Andy Warhol.
…last call to secure one
3,000 pieces were created in 2017 to celebrate what would have been Bowie’s 70th birthday. Still, a few of these timepieces are remaining today, and you might want to contact a Raymond Weil dealer to secure one. More information can be found on a dedicated webpage.
Timex Marlin Snoopy Flying Ace
Last but not least is a little tip. You probably remember the Timex Marlin Automatic x Peanuts featuring Snoopy as the Flying Ace. And most probably you were not able to get one because they flew off the shelves. Guess what? There are a limited number of the Timex Marlin Snoopy Flying Ace back in stock. In Europe they’re €249 at timex.eu, and in de US they’re selling at $249 at timex.com. I hope they’re still there by the time you read this.
