The spectacular Cartier Time Art exhibition in Singapore

Three days ago Cartier Time Art opened in Singapore. An amazing collection of 159 watches and clocks are on display at the lotus-shaped Art Science Museum in Marina Bay Sands until Feb 12, 2012.

Conceived by award-winning designer Tokujin Yoshioka, Cartier Time Art spans the company’s history as a watchmaker and includes the earliest known Cartier timepiece, a chatelaine watch dating from 1874.

The Art Science Museum at Marina Bay Sands

An incredible selection of timepieces is on display, demonstrating Cartier’s history as a watch and clock maker.

Cartier chatelaine watch c. 1874
Egyptian Temple Gate striking clock

Egg shaped clock in guilloche enamel
Portico Mystery Clock
The Billiken figure that sits on the Portico clock
Screen Mystery Clock
The classic Model A Mystery Clock
Jump hour pocket watch with rock crystal case



Tortue minute repeater



Tank Cintree



Crash

I managed to see the exhibition on the morning before the press conference, meaning I was fortunate to be amongst the first people in the world to see this fantastic show. My comprehensive photo report on the exhibition, with over 200 photos, is on the Cartier forum I moderate.  

– SJX

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A comparison of the new and old Rolex Explorer II

I’ve compared both the white and black versions of the new Rolex Explorer II ref. 216570, so here’s a look at the new and old – the white dial Explorer II ref. 16570 and the current, 42 mm black dial Explorer II.

Between the two I prefer the old version by a small margin. The new Explorer II has the current generation spring-loaded clasp bracelet which is a superb piece of engineering. That stands in stark contrast to the rinky dink stamped metal bracelet of the old Explorer. But bracelet aside, in most other respects I prefer the old version.

One key reason the 16570 appeals more is the case which has a more detailed finish, most obviously in the bevels of the case and bezel. The new Explorer II, as well as all the current Rolex models, have simpler case finishing for easier refinishing; that’s most obvious in the Daytona case which is entirely polished. In contrast, the classic 20th century Rolex case had pronounced bevels, especially on the lines of the lugs – I find that exceptionally attractive.

Notice the polished bevels on the 16570

And in terms of aesthetics the previous generation Explorer looks better proportioned. The new Explorer is not a bad looking timepiece for sure, but the increased size just looks a tiny bit exaggerated.

The new Explorer is almost certainly a better watch – it is sturdier and will likely keep better time thanks to the new movement. But the discontinued Explorer II has more charm.

– SJX

  

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