First Impression: Baselworld Press Day Releases

Press day here at Baselworld 2015 was all it was cracked up to be for these two noobs, and our heads have stopped spinning long enough to put an article together with some new releases. We’re sure you’ve seen just about all that was shown today, so we’ll whittle our commentary down to our first impressions of some of our favorite exhibits.

Shane’s Picks

Favorite: Omega Speedmaster “First Omega in Space” in Rose Gold

Omega Speedmaster “FOIS” Rose Gold with Panda Dial

I liked a lot of what Omega has released so far (with the obvious exception of the mind-boggling “White Side of the Moon”), but this ran away as my early winner. When Omega announced the “First Omega in Space” Speedmaster two years ago, I thought it was a well done tribute to the increasingly popular vintage straight-lug Speedmasters. Now, this alternate version has taken the FOIS to a completely different level. The rose gold case plays perfectly with the cream dial accented with chocolate subdials and outer dial track. It’s absolutely stunning in person, and I can’t wait to actually get my hands on it. At 39.7mm in diameter, it’s a perfect size, and has already worked it’s way to the top of my modern “want list”.

Biggest Disappointment: Patek Philippe Calatrava Pilot Travel Time 5524G

Patek Philippe Calatrava Pilot Travel Time 5524G

This gets the old, “I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed”. There were plenty of boring, ugly, and generally avoidable watches from many brands. However, in terms of the Patek’s overall position in the market, and how they’re viewed by collectors, enthusiasts, and the average buyer, I don’t think it feels right up against the other Calatravas, and it reeks of desperation after the price decrease controversy. It seems to fall between trying to be a pilot watch, and trying to maintain “Patek aesthetics”. Unfortunately, landing in that middle ground leaves the overall message a bit confusing. It’s by all means a fine watch, but I think Patek is trying too hard to do something new. After celebrating 175 years of fine, traditional watchmaking, I guess I was expecting something else. But before I reach any further with my judgements, I’ll wait until I get a closer look.

Neil’s Picks

Favorite #1: Omega Speedmaster ’57 Vintage

Omega Speedmaster ’57 Vintage

Baselworld 2015 was filled with countless beautiful watches and several surprises — some good and some bad. A big winner for me was the new steel Omega Speedmaster 57 with a revised dial and broad arrow hands. I really wanted to like the Speedmaster 57’s when they were released a couple years ago, but couldn’t pull the trigger on one. There were different features and color choices I liked from the different variants, but not one specific reference entirely. That changed this year. Omega released a version with broad arrow hands and sunken hour markers. The recessed subdials were completely redesigned as well. Eliminated from the previous Speedy 57’s are the crosshairs on the seconds subdial, and the broad arrow chronograph hour hand, which has been replaced by an alpha hand. As you can see, this is quite a bit more than just a new color scheme. On top of the new features, the matte vintage dial pairs flawlessly with the all-steel construction. It of course has the Calibre 9300 movement, as before, displayed through the sapphire case back. This is what the Speedmaster 57 should be. It’s a true homage to the original Speedy, without being a direct copy. I also came to the realization that there is a slight resemblance to the Panerai Mare Nostrum, which I have no problem with at all. It’s a classic look. This might be the watch to get me back in the Speedmaster game.

Favorite #2: Longines Heritage Diver 1967

Longines Heritage Diver 1967

Speaking of surprises, this is a watch that was an unsuspecting hit for me. Once I saw it today, I couldn’t stop thinking about. I really appreciate what Longines has been doing with their Heritage collection. They have not been afraid to pay homage to some great and often underrated vintage watches. It’s with this piece, the Heritage Diver 1967, that Longines really won me over. The thing that immediately catches your eye is the striking Bordeaux diving bezel. What isn’t quite so obvious, but a fantastic touch to the bezel, is the subtle 12-hour track below the minutes, enabling you to easily track a second time zone. The black opaline dial and contrasting silver asymmetrical sub dials create a unique yet very legible dial. The date function is also subtle enough not to be distracting. If you look closely, you can see a faint red crosshair on the dial. What’s more, the 12 hour counter at 6 blends perfectly into the background until it’s needed. This was a wise move as a third silver sub dial would make the entire dial far too cluttered and unbalanced. Underneath is a Calibre L688.2 column wheel chronograph movement, based off of an ETA A08.231. The Heritage Diver 1967 features a 54 hour power reserve, 300m water resistance, and is available on a steel bracelet, alligator strap, or rubber strap. This is a unique, beautiful, and robust watch that will no doubt be a great bang for you buck like the rest of their Heritage line. Shut up and take my money, Longines!

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