The September-October 2017 issue of WatchTime is on newsstands now (and also available in our online shop), highlighted by an in-depth look at the TAG Heuer brand and its plans for the future, tests of the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M and Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King, a special section on dive watches, and more. Read on for highlights from the issue…
• In the cover story, “Back to the Future,” editor-in-chief Roger Ruegger offers a look at TAG Heuer’s current strategy and offerings, from the brand’s mastery of large-scale movement production to its development of modular technology for its Connected Watch, to the launch of modern pieces based on vintage classics like the new Autavia and the Monaco Gulf Special Edition.
• While the Rolex Air-King hearkens back to the historical links between Rolex and aviation, the latest model makes a modern statement with a 40-mm case, boldly styled dial, and Rolex’s own “Superlative Chronometer” designation. Martina Richter reviews the new Air-King (with original photos by OK-Photography) in “King of the Sky.”
• Jens Koch tests a watch “For Divers With Wanderlust” — namely, the updated Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, a professional divers’ watch with 600-meter water resistance, a helium-release valve, and colors that match the hues of exotic destinations. Original photos are by OK-Photography.
• American watchmaker Roland G. Murphy of RGM faced long odds when he started a mechanical watch company in 1992. In “The Making of RGM,” Joe Thompson explores how RGM and its founder made it to their 25th anniversary.
• Take the plunge into the colorful world of watersports in “Splash!” a portfolio of professional diving instruments, curated by Alexander Krupp, with appealing technologies, prices, and styles. This celebration of dive watches is also rounded out by two short test features on popular models from TAG Heuer and Seiko.
• In the wake of Baselworld and SIHH, the editors of WatchTime showcase the year’s most prominent watch-world trends — from all-black looks to bronze cases, from retro-style divers to a plethora of blue dials.
Plus: a comparison test of affordable models from Seiko and Swatch; a history of the Hublot Big Bang; a close-up of the thinness-record-setting Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic; a profile of inventive watchmaker Christophe Claret; and more. Download the digital edition now!
Always like to see the tests, but I prefer for free, budgetwise