Baselworld 2015 Salon Preview

If you are into timepieces like myself, Baselworld is probably on your radar. The event, huge in the watch world, is quickly approaching. This year's exhibit will be held March 19-26 in Basel, Switzerland to showcase the newest pieces and trends in Swiss timepieces for 2015. The location is picturesque and I love the modern architecture of the exhibition gallery.

I have been fortunate to get a sneak peek at some of the latest watches that will be debuting this year at Baselworld 2015. The amount of timepieces on display can be overwhelming, however, I have curated a selection of a few from the salon that have caught my eye.

Breitling Chronoliner

This new model from Breitling takes inspiration from a model dating back to the 1950s and 60s. The brand is known as the "official supplier to world aviation" during this era, and the new Chronoliner pays homage to the brand's aeronautical tradition. ts distinctive features include a broad scratch-resistant high-tech ceramic bezel with a star-shaped cut-out that facilitates handling as well as white ceramic numerals creating an optimal contrast. The second timezone is easily read off by means of a red-tipped hand together with a 24-hour graduated rotating bezel equipped with an ultra-accurate ratcheted system. The timepiece is done in a 48mm polished steel case with a mechanical automatic chronometer.

Burberry Britain Icon Limited Edition

I am loving this new limited edition (20 pieces) by Burberry. It has a modern, updated feel from some of the watches of the past and incorporates the heritage check in a subtle way. Additionally this model was designed by Burberry CEO Christopher Bailey. The timepiece is done in 45mm polished and brushed anthracite DLC-treated titanium case complete with black alligator strap. 

Chopard L.U.C Qualité Fleurier

Chopard presents a timepiece which has one of the most prestigious certifications in the world of horology, the Fleurier Quality. The brand is indeed the one that has had the most watches certified by the Fleurier Quality Foundation since the creation of the much-coveted label, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2014 Foundation. Done in 18K pink gold with a mechanical automatic movement, this watch will pair well with business attire to make a statement. 

Breguet Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde

Breguet’s latest creation, the Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde 7097 pays tribute to the “souscription” and “tact” watches made by Abraham-Louis Breguet in the late 18th century. Like them, its mechanism reveals the bridges, wheels, escapement, barrel and various other parts that are normally placed beneath the plate. The small offset dial at 12 o’clock – another characteristic of the great master’s legendary “à tact” watches – on the new Tradition 7097 model is overlapped by a retrograde seconds segment promoting optimal readability. I love the combination of the delicacy of the roman numerals and sub-dial mixed the the modernity of the skeleton dial. Available in 18K white or pink gold. 

This is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the hundreds of watches that will be debuted at Baselworld. I am enjoying the trends I am seeing, and I also love the homage to their heritage that a lot of brands are showing with their newest models. I look forward to the exhibit opening at the end of this month!