A WONDROUS AFFAIR

The multitude of watch novelties from the recently concluded Watches & Wonders 2021 and a pair from the Swatch Group are handpicked and highlighted.

- Asaph Low

TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300

After more than 40 years since its introduction, the legacy of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer is reborn with a modernised version of the iconic tool watch. A combination of materials, styling and updates breathes life into the new collection and in particular the Aquaracer Professional 300 Tribute to Ref. 844. The timepiece draws inspiration from the fabled 1978 Ref. 844 divers’ watch with the double hour indexes and a black opaline dial. A grade 5 titanium case and ceramic bezel typify the new generation of TAG Heuer dive watches with its rough-and-tough demeanour. Keeping in line with the special homage piece, only 844 pieces of the Tribute to Ref. 844 are made.

OMEGA SEAMASTER 300 MASTER CHRONOMETER

Forged with a mature outlook with a youthful heart, Omega revitalises an archive classic with its brand new take on the Seamaster 300 Master Chronometer. While it was not too long ago when a similar iteration was released, the 2021 update is more accurate to the original 1957 edition and subsequent versions in terms of aesthetics and essence. A sandwiched dial with aged luminous hands and plots lends a touch of warmth, nostalgia and depth to the 2021 version. Superfluous texts on the dial were omitted in favour of a cleaner execution, allowing vintage elements of the broad arrow hour hand and lollipop seconds hand to shine. Within the 300m water-resistant case is Omega’s trusty METAS certified automatic Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8912.