FEATURES ARCHIVE

Modern wrist watches are among the most popular trends in today’s market. Sam Hines, Head of New York Watches, handpicked a few of his favorites from the June sale.

"When it comes to modern watches, the more complicated and the more technically innovative, the better. Embracing modern materials and manufacturing techniques, these examples truly set the standard for versatility, performance and prestige."

Vintage Modern
"From 1906 until the 1920s, Audemars Piguet manufactured approximately 35 minute-repeating wristwatches, including the cushionshaped minute repeating wristwatch made for John Wallace Shaeffer, Vice President of the Allied Chemical Corporation headquartered in Morristown, New Jersey. This particular example pays tribute to this classic design which has become an icon for the brand. The hour markers have a great Art-Deco feel to them, as do the vintage minute hands, and I love how they complement the ultra-modern design."

Wandering Wonder
"François-Paul Journe was an established and sought-after designer in Geneva before launching his own label, ‘F.P. Journe Invent et Fecit’ in 1999. Watch collectors are drawn to their unique design and innovative approach to haute horology. The Vagabondage series was manufactured in 2005 in a limited series of 69 pieces, all cased in platinum. They take their name from the French word for ‘wander’ which refers to the unique way in which time is displayed in a wandering manner."

Hands Free
"Since its founding in 1846, Ulysse Nardin has been at the forefront of cutting-edge watch-making, closely collaborating with scientists and engineers to create watches of the utmost scientific distinction. The firm introduced the ‘Freak’ at the Basel Watch Fair in 2001 to great fanfare. The ingenious and unusual design, by Dr. Ludwig Oechslin, allows the owner to wind the watch without a crown and read the time without traditional hands. The Freak is a 7-day tourbillon: the extra large mainspring provides a week-long power reserve."