Watch Insider: Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858 ExoTourbillon Rattrapante
Recently I had the opportunity to see the latest masterpiece from Montblanc’s Villeret collection, the 1858 ExoTourbillon Rattrapante, presented by new Montblanc CEO J��r?me Lambert. In this article, originally run on my blog, Watch Insider, I explore the watch and provide original photos and a short HD video.The Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858 ExoTourbillon Rattrapante was one of the most spectacularly complicated timepieces at the Hong Kong “Watches and Wonders” watch fair, where it made its debut. It was developed by the chronograph specialists at the former Minerva, now a part of Montblanc, and offers a challenging new take on the rattrapante, the most complicated type of chronograph to produce.Unlike a conventional tourbillon, Montblanc's ExoTourbillon frees the large screw balance from the burden of the rotating cage. Rather than offering a mere chronograph, the new model contains a split-second chronograph with two column wheels and a classical double clamp.

Stowa Wants You To Design Their Next Watch
I'm sure we've all at one point dreamt of designing and manufacturing our very own watch. I know I have a few scribbles and sketches stashed away somewhere in my apartment. But for most of us, the thought of having to deal with suppliers and manufacturers is often enough to keep us just dreaming.Now Stowa, one of our favorite German watchmakers, is about to simplify the entire process with a design contest open to the public, with the winning submission to be realized by the brand. The contest, in collaboration with Watchtime, launched on July 17th and will be open for submissions until the 30th. By mid August, the 10 most popular designs will be put up for a vote on Watchtime.net, with the winning design to be sold through Watchtime.net's online shop. The winner will receive the watch for free, valued at around EUR 1,000. Runner-ups will get vouchers from the brand.If you'd like to participate, you can download the case template from Stowa's contest site. Fret not if you don't have an

A Private Night with AP
It might be long overdue, but how can I not share my experience of a wonderful night with AP which opened my eyes to some of the most exquisite complications from my favorite watch house?On 19 Nov 2014, AP Singapore hosted a private dinner at Morton's, one of the best steakhouses, and showcased an array of complicated watches from the antique to the most avant-garde. Sebastian Vivas, the Museum Director from Le Brassus, was flew in specially to share his knowledge on some of AP's most important timepieces as well as the latest high complications.?Antonio introducing SebastianAs usual, key members from the AP family: Oliviero, Antonio, Bindy, Stefanie and Jeremie were ever so hospitable as they chatted heartily with the invited guests and AP enthusiasts amidst the delicious food and wines. In between courses, Sebastian would 'pop up' for a few minutes of presentations, then followed by trays of beautiful watches being dished out for admiration. The up-close experience with these highly

Speedy Pro "Tintin" has arrived...
Hey all,Well, despite the lack of love for the Speedy Pro Racing dial known as the Tintin, I've been hooked on it since it was announced. I first saw it in London about a year ago but held off due to other recent buys. Well, the fire was stoked again recently...even more so when I found it was already out of production. When I started to re-research it, I found very little info likely due to the ugly reviews...including some on here. Well, the dial sung to me and I had a real hunch that it would play well on a NATO. I really dislike the Speedy Pro bracelet and feel it draws one's eyes away from this pretty, painted dial. I've had her on my wrist for 4 days straight since arrival!Look for her on fratellowatches this coming week as my new piece will be featured. Enjoy some pics...maybe they'll change your mind a little. :)MikeSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Help With S/N and Date of Manufacture
I have never been an expert. Let me just say that I bought a Brand New 16713 GMT Master II at a Miami AD in May 1997. Now looking at the charts on the internet the S/N starts with an N, it says that is was manufactured in 1991. I find it hard to believe that this renowned Jewlery store shelved that watch for 6 years before selling it to me. I have all the original box and papers and invoice. Any observations ?