Inside Nivarox - The Heart Of The Swiss Watch Industry
Nivarox is probably the most important company in the entire world of Swiss watch making. Now owned by the Swatch Group, Nivarox makes the vast majority of the parts that make mechanical watch movements function. Today the company's official name is "Nivarox FAR" and I finally now what that means. The term allows you to understand the industrial nature of the group's goal. Comprised of about four plant locations around Switzerland, "Nivarox" is a contraction of "ni variable, ni oxydable." In other words "neither variable nor oxidable." I'll explain what that all means in a moment. "FAR" roughly translates into an acronym for "Affiliated Assortments Manufacturers."So what is not supposed to be variable or oxidize? Balance springs of course (also called hair springs). These little necessary parts are at the heart of what Nivarox has historically produced, and the primary component they are known for today. Though in reality the Nivarox FAR of today produces so much more.For those who are

Introducing the Squale Master
Squale came to Basel this year ready to impress. If you're not familiar with the brand, I recommend you check out our review of their Ref 2002 watch. If the look alone of that watch doesn't tell you this brand is different than others, then their rich history will. Squale is one of those brands that everyone ought to know, as they were pioneers in dive watch case manufacturing in the 50's, 60's and 70's, and now continue to make beautiful, original Swiss-made divers, at very accessible prices.The first thing they showed us is a new family of watches, based on a line from the 60's called the Master. These 600m divers have 44mm cases, power reserves, 12 o'clock dates and a cool vintage style. The bezels have to be seen in person to be truly appreciated, but they are made in an anachronistic fashion for a gorgeous outcome. They are essentially bakelite bezels with dimensional steel inlays on top. This is then all sealed in with acrylic (presumably) to create a flat top surface. As with th

Aqua Terra - Co-Axial or Master Co-Axial Movement?
I am looking at picking up an Aqua Terra and there appear to be two models floating around in the boutique / ADs. What are everyone's thoughts on whether or not the Master Co-Axial movement is worth $500 more then the Co-Axial. The only other difference I am aware of is that in the MCA there is no metal border around the date number and in the Co-Axial there is. Anything else I am missing?

Speedy Legend Schumacher LE LE 3559.32
Right so this is my second post in the Omega section today and i do apologise for asking so many questions but if it's any consolation, I am incredibly excited by some of the Omega models that i've seen online today that I never even knew existed Having looked online, this particular Speedy has really caught my eye. It is the Speedy Legend Schumacher LE, one of them anyway.Not my picture so credit to the original photographer!Can anyone give me any info on this model? Is it one of those ones that looks great in photos but doesn't quite live up to it in person? Any info would be much appreciated as i am an Omega novice, having never really spent much time looking into Omega! Thanks in advance!

5712 SS sizes?
I'm seriously considering trading my DD2 for a 5712. I just don't look great in YG, as attractive as it is, and I love the 5712.I'm a little confused though. Is there a jumbo and a regular size 5712? Any dial options other than grey and blue? Anything else I should know?Thanks for any info/advice.