As we eagerly await a new year, we often forget to credit the very instruments that aid us in our raucous countdowns. After all, the watches we adorn on our wrists throughout the year have served dutifully as trusty companions, and this warrants them some form of recognition. As 2018 comes to a close, we give a toast to some of the finest timepieces to grace the field of horology this year.
Best Technical Watch: Bulgari’s record-breaking Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic won our vote for the most technically profound watch of 2018, being the world’s thinnest tourbillon, period. With a case measuring in at a mere 3.95mm thick, fitting that complex of a mechanism within is utterly mind-blowing.
Best Outdoor Watch: If you are fond of traversing the world, then the Montblanc 1858 Geosphere will be your one-stop destination for all voyage-related timekeepers. The traveller’s timepiece comes equipped with a worldtimer functionality, as well as judicious features such as a compass bezel and a well-aged Bund strap.
Best Showoff Watch: The Bell & Ross BR01 Laughing Skull is our pick when we want our wrists to do the talking – literally. The peculiar timepiece fronts a skull which cackles menacingly when the crown is wound, and is complete with matching skeletonised hands coated with SuperLuminova.
Best New Look: In a collaboration with luxury customiser Bamford Watch Department, TAG Heuer birthed a contemporary new look using ultra-lightweight carbon in the Monaco Bamford. The trend proliferated with special Aquaracer and Carrera carbon collections, but the award must go to the OG.
Best Everyday Watch: When it comes to down-to-earth functionality, nothing beats the humble GMT – a modesty that is superbly reflected in the Tudor Black Bay GMT. Tossing superfluous design out of the window, the Black Bay GMT flaunts the iconic “Pepsi” colouration of the family for a marvellous blend of everyday function and classic watch design.
Best Unknown Watch: From the brand you’ve never heard of (ArkriviA) comes the “epitome of the classical round watch – reinvented for the 21st century.” The Chronometre Contemporain Rexhep Rexhepi’s novel case features harmonious contrasts with its interweaving of symmetrical and asymmetrical forms, as well as concave and convex details visible in the case sides and lugs. If you ares in need of a breath of fresh air away from the solemness of traditional watch brands, you’re welcome.
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