Bimetallic cases always run the risk of looking dated or unpleasantly incongruous. But when done right, they can deliver a timepiece that’s just a little more thrilling than the mono-metal counterparts.
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01: CARTIER PANTHERE
Since the men got the Drive de Cartier collection in 2016, the women are getting a collection of their own now: The relaunch of an ’80s icon, the Panthere de Cartier. These dainty bracelet watches are more jewellery piece than timepiece, with variations in material, size and number of diamonds. Pictured here is a bi-colour version in yellow gold and steel; it’s available in small or medium sizes.
02: BVLGARI OCTO ROMA
Bulgari has been putting the spotlight on its distinctive Octo family of late, and in 2017, it is beefing up the range with a brand new line: the Octo Roma. These effortlessly elegant, time-only watches have a 41mm rounded octagonal case and come in a variety of materials. Of course, the one we’re highlighting here is the two-tone pink gold and steel version with a silvered dial.
03: ROLEX SKY-DWELLER
When it was introduced in 2012, the Sky-Dweller was a technological powerhouse, incorporating an annual calendar, and dual time that could be set by the crown and switched between using the rotating bezel. It was previously available only in precious metals. But in 2017, Rolex has released Rolesor (steel and gold) versions, such as the Ref. 326933 pictured here with a steel case and yellow gold bezel, crown and centre bracelet links. Seconds function remains.
04: MONTBLANC 1858 AUTOMATIC DUAL TIME
The Minerva manufacture in Villeret is best known for making Montblanc’s most impressive watches, but it also has hidden gems in its archives. Its military watches from the 1930s served as the inspiration for this dual-time watch, featuring a brushed steel case with a bronze bezel and crown. Vintage-style hour markers, cathedral hands and beige lume add to the aged look.
05: TUDOR HERITAGE BLACK BAY S&G
Its name seems to indicate some hesitation at releasing a two-tone watch, but the Black Bay S&G (which stands for “steel and goldâ€) is a winner in style. Tudor’s popular vintage diving watch features the standard 41mm stainless steel case, but has gold-capped bracelet centre links and crown. Gold capping results in a thicker layer of gold compared to simple electroplating. The bezel and end links of the bracelet, however, are in solid gold. A leather strap option (pictured) is also available.
ART DIRECTION DENISE REI LOW
