Hautlence HL2 Watch Prototype
I can already tell that the Hautlence HL2 (HL2.0) watch is going to be one of my favorites of 2011. I learned about the piece sometime ago, and now we have images of an actual prototype. The thing works. Fellow watch lover and watch forum moderator Francois-Xavier Overstake had a wonderful opportunity to view (and play with) a prototype of the upcoming watch from the boutique Swiss brand. The hands-on pictures in this post are his, a link to his article is below.What is this thing? Only the latest and greatest machine that tells the time. Pardon the watch's unfinished stated. Though all the promise is there. This is a new step for Hautlence - who finally get their own movement. Interestingly enough if you compare the watch to their earlier models -the way of telling the time is 'thematically' the same. Meaning a retrograde minute hand (that is unique) as well as quasi-digital hour indicator. The HL2 is also the brand's first automatic movement, it also contains a power reserve indicato

Introducing the Hublot Classic Fusion Aeromoon, Hublot's First Moon Phase
Hublot is no stranger to complication, but its lineup was missing a moon phase until this January, during which it released the Fusion Aeromoon. This new model combines familiar but also distinct elements from past Hublot models. The case is still wide, but now also quite slim. Above all, we have exotic design on the moon phase itself that is sure to enamor Hublot fans.The Fusion Aeromoon starts out with Hublot's conventional porthole case in 45 mm. Big like most Hublots, but seemingly slim as well (yes, Hublot is capable producing of slim watches) most likely aiding wearability for something of its size. The bezel employs eight titanium screws (which are functional in addition to being unaligned). The bezel is vertically brushed with a polished perimeter to match the polished lugs. Four integrated correctors sit on the sides of the case each to correct the calendar and moon settings. 2 OF 3 The dial is sapphire crystal and faceted applied indexes as well as matching

Qwik Pix - Omega Speedmaster 311.30.44.50.01.002
This thing just touched down (hah, get it?). More pics to come. It's 44mm but wears just like the 42mm Explorer II. Best Speedmaster to date.

New Speedmaster Legend
Well, I was torn between the 16610lv/deep sea, and my 1 year+ desire to get a Speedmaster Legend. I think I was ready to pull the trigger on the 16610lv, but I wanted to look at the Speedmaster one last time.Well, I walked into the AD and they had the Speedmaster Legend. I tried it on, and it felt great but didn't have the weight and heft of the Deep Sea. I liked the quality, but the movement was really what was the most impressive. Seeing the stop watch going at the same time as the second hand reminded me off seeing the Tach and Speedometer in my 993. It was a done deal. As an added bonus, being a backyard racer, I liked the roots of this watch.The price they gave me on this watch which I have coveted for over a year was WAY too good to pass up. I pulled the trigger.This should hold me over.......until I convince the wife that my fledgling collection is a little light and incomplete without a deep sea.

A walk-about with the 5270 (pic heavy)
It's 75 and sunny in LA, so a nice day for a stroll. I snapped a bunch of photos of the 5270 along the way. None are great, but I thought I'd share just for fun..