Certina DS 1 Chrono Automatique Watch
Last year Basel saw the Certina DS 1 release to a lot of happy watch lovers. It was a entry level priced handsome watch with the build quality and parts that the Swatch Group is able to provide (usually pretty good). Quality is a bit up from Hamilton, another Swatch Group brand. The standard DS 1 watch has an ETA 2824-2 movement, while this new chronograph version will have a Valjoux 7750. This might be one of the best priced watches to be available with the highly desirable work-horse automatic chronograph movement.Still with the Tag Heuer Carrera look, the Certina DS 1 Chrono Automatique (Automatic if you aren't in Europe!) takes everything I love about the Valjoux 7750 movement and emphasizes on its sober tool-like demeanor. That isn't to say the watch is without beautiful good looks, but it is more handsome than flashy. You'll notice that Certina chose to include two different types of pushers for the chronograph. The start and stop pusher being a bit larger and easier to use. The

Designer Xemex XE 5000 'Sun' Chronograph Watch Available
Xemex is a great brand built on the expertise and designs of industrial designer Ruedi Kulling. He has done a great job of mixing geometric design, minimalism, and ergonomics. What was once a small watch design operation is blossoming as people are appreciating the look of these watches. I recall my first Xemex watch which was an Offroad model. I recall being so pleased at how each element of the watch fit together so nicely in both construction and aesthetic form. I feel this way about most every Xemex watch.This particular model is simply called the Xemex XE 5000, nick named "Sun" due to the charming yellow hue of the dial. The color, is almost a cream yellow, and suits the watch well. Chronograph subdials are done in a soft chalky gray. The combination is far more calming that one might presume. Hands are black and stenciled nicely in white, and the red seconds hand for the chronograph suggests a utilitarian component to this otherwise very pleasant looking watch.The case is particu

Sapphire case back = blasphemy?
Is it possible to install a clear case back on an ap that doesn't come with one from the factory? I'd like to see the movement, love the finishing. Clearly I would keep the original back just in case. Or.... Would I be crucified before I could get it installed?

Patek 5035 or 6000 ?
I am contemplating my first patek and have narrowed it down to the 5035 & 6000. What would you choose based on movement 315 vs, 240, which is better? The 5035 is a discontinued model and the Calatrava 6000 is current.Do you thing the 6000 dial is too busy with all the numbers ? I wear mostly 40mm watches and feel patek's smaller size of 37 & 38mm may be a little small, my wrist size is a 7. I plan to wear this mostly with casual wear & jeans, I think they both can be dressed up or down but feel free to chime in. Thoughts ?

Pam 441 and other ceramic models. How do they hold up?
The 441 has all of the checks marked for me. I'm leaning towards this one being my next watch as I need/want a gmt. I LOVE black watches BUT have been reluctant to buy one being afraid of what will happen to the black. I know they are ceramic but I'm curious how they hold up to normal wear and tear. That is my only concern about a black watch.