Watch Pulse

Audemars Piguet does it again. It introduced the added the Gstaad Classic 2009 Limited Edition to its prestigious Royal Oak Offshore line of high-quality watches. The new chronograph creation was designed to celebrate the company’s 2009 sponsorship of the Gstaad Classic Rally. With this commemoration in mind, you can expect a host of technological innovation integrated within the timepiece.

AP Royal Oak Gstaad Classic 2009 LTD Edition

The case itself already provides a glimpse of what is in store for the enthusiast. It is crafted from titanium and measures 42mm in diameter. Sharing certain similarities with its cousins, the Gstaad Classic also has octagonal bezel, hexagonal screws, and is 100m water resistant. But certain aspects distinguish the Royal Oak Offshore Gstaad Classic 2009 Limited Edition from other Offshore models as well.

There are many unique details that can be found on exclusively on the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Gstaad Classic 2009 Limited Edition. The chronograph push-piece created from red rubber automatically gains attention. Meanwhile, the perforated leather strap provides evidence of the designer’s attention to detail with its red stitching. Of course, it was named a commemorative watch for the Gstaad Classic rally for nothing. There case-back is engraved with “Gstaad Classic 2009” so it will inevitably be a sought-after item for avid collectors.

Rolex Exlorer II

If you’re the type of person whose taste relies heavily on the preferences of your celebrity idol, then you’re most likely a fan of the Rolex Explorer II. Eric Clapton, John Mayer, and Orlando Bloom were all seen sporting this Rolex timepiece. For these celebrity connoisseurs, the Rolex Explorer II is the best of the best. Orlando Bloom, in particular, has very good taste. His favorite vintage model turns out to be one of the coolest vintage devices: the Ref. 1655 Explorer II. This is also known as the “Steve McQueen Explorer II” or the “Freccione”.

Every year, the Rolex Ref. 1655 becomes even more coveted because it has the right credentions with its 24-hour hand that is unique from other Oyster watches and a quirky dial. Because of the huge demand among collectors, the price of this particular piece has skyrocketed. It is apparent that most watch collectors will not let their Rolex Explorer II watches go just like that.

It comes as no surprise then that when the NYC Antiquorum held an auction last June 2009 to support UNICEF’s initiative, valuable timepieces were hoarded. This is because a group of actors, including Bloom, had put their precious watches on the block. Orlando Bloom might inevitably experience a seller’s remorse over the sale. But it is certain that the watch addiction will caught up with him once again and that the Rolex Explorer II won’t be the last watch he falls in love with.

The mythical East has always been an inspiration for many luxury houses in the United States and Europe. With its Pride of China Watch, Audemars Piguet again proved that their creativity is limitless. The design is inspired by the majesty of the Great Wall and it comes fitted with 18k pink gold, the brand’s design sophistication, and technological innovation.

Measuring 39mm in diameter, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Pride of China Watch has an octagonal bezel that is characteristic of the Royal Oak collection. There is also a winding crown found on the bezel and rows of vertical links. The dial of the watch is likewise noteworthy. Carefully protected using sapphire crystal, the theme of this creation can be seen prominently in the center. Meanwhile, the upper portion of the dial shows the moon phases and the power reserve gauge.

The watch comes with 3123 calibre to ensure precision. It is also water resistant to up to 50-meters and has a 60-hour power reserve. All these features are impressive but the standout factor in this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak timepiece is its case back. It displays a stylish depiction of the Great Wall together with an inscription that says “Audemars Piguet Pride of China Limited Edition”.