Event News

As it approaches its twentieth anniversary, the J12 has been given something of a makeover. Considered the twenty-first century’s first iconic watch, its “metamorphosis” takes the form of subtle, almost imperceptible differences. The one major change is the Calibre 12.1 inside, Chanel’s first base movement, made by Kenissi.

After the minute repeater, the tourbillon and the automatic watch, it’s the chronograph’s turn to show off its svelte figure at Bulgari, setting the fifth record in as many years for the Italian brand, which this year pays tribute to Gérald Genta.

These previews of what brands will be serving up in Basel, or in Swatch Group’s case, Zurich, make for tasty viewing. Mechanisms are laid bare or clad in unusual materials. Let’s get this party started!

The World Watch and Jewellery Show opens with 150 fewer exhibitors than last year. The fair’s organisers have made substantial efforts to make the event less costly and more attractive in the hope of wooing back disgruntled brands.

The only chemical reactors of their kind in the world, an ionic probe atomic microscope, a transmission electron microscope, an X-ray spectrometer… the TAG Heuer laboratory is a first in watchmaking. Still in the process of creation, it’s already produced the carbon hairspring that equips the latest Carrera Calibre Heuer 02T Tourbillon Nanograph. A couple of days before Baselworld, we met Guy Sémon, Managing Director of this research institute.

Having traipsed the aisles, scrutinized the year’s new releases and pored over the technical details, the staff at FHH Journal have made their choice. Presenting the 10 Baselworld watches that caught their eye.