Icon Status Gained Through Strong Design Language  When it comes to jewelry making, it may seem obvious that artistry and design are at the core. Alternatively, in the world of watchmaking, form often follows function with an emphasis on the mechanics of the movement, and any additional artistry is the cherry on top. However, in today’s world,...

20 Years of the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean  Twenty years ago, Omega debuted a diver’s watch that cemented its reputation as a maker of tech-heavy, function-forward watches for professionals. The Seamaster Planet Ocean, introduced in both 42mm and 44.5mm sizes, had an increased water resistance rating of 600m and used the caliber 2500, an ETA 2892-A2 upgraded with Omega’s Co-Axial escapement, designed by...

The Florentine-founded brand breaks beyond its tool watch roots into distinctly complicated territory. One could be forgiven for characterizing Panerai as a simple tool watch manufacturer. After all, given the firm’s roots in crafting timepieces and other equipment for the Italian Royal Navy, this description dovetails well with its history. From the brand’s early experiments with luminous...

How IWC developed high-end materials to craft the tool watches of the future. Stainless steel is an excellent material from which to build a hard-wearing timepiece — robust, corrosion-resistant, and durable, it has been widely used in watchmaking since the early 20th century. However, this common substance does have its drawbacks: Somewhat heavy, it scratches relatively easily and can cause allergic reactions...