In hibernation since the 1980s, three complete collections have resurfaced at IWC, Cartier and Girard-Perregaux, and all clearly have women in their sights. Some have been given a full revamp, others are almost exactly as we remember them. At last, these sleeping beauties shall go to the ball!

The entry-level segment has become a recurring theme among Fine Watch brands, and while efforts are clearly being made in this department, one unknown factor remains: the customer, preferably young and less inclined towards luxury.

As a useful complication, nothing beats the chronograph. A challenge to watchmakers in both construction and precision, it lends a distinctly sporty feel to the wrist, or is a fixture of complication watches. A look at the new releases at SIHH 2017.

Roger Dubuis begins 2017 at full throttle with the powerful Excalibur Spider Pirelli Double Flying Tourbillon. Almost all eight pieces in this limited edition were sold on the very first day of SIHH.

Living up to its reputation as a "laboratory of ideas", Panerai came to SIHH 2017 with BMG-TECH™, a metallic glass new to watchmaking, and the LAB-ID™ Luminor 1950 Carbotech™ 3 Days – 49mm which requires no lubrication and is guaranteed for 50 years. How do they compare to other innovations?

While a tough eighteen months may have left their mark on Fine Watch brands, watchmaking's elite have lost none of their ability to propose truly stunning creations. For proof, four timepieces and the confirmation of striking watches as a collector's grail.