Watch News in Brief: Czapek, Bruno Söhnle, and Formex
Three new releases bring together very different design concepts: Czapek draws inspiration from literature, music, and a water lily for a limited-edition Promenade collection. Bruno Söhnle refines a familiar chronograph with new finishes and improved readability. Formex applies the structural foundation of its Field collection to a lightweight pilot’s watch made of hardened titanium.
In this issue: Czapek, Bruno Söhnle, Formex
Czapek Promenade L’Écume des Jours: A Water Lily on Enamel and Jade
Czapek drew inspiration for the “L’Écume des Jours” collection from Boris Vian’s novel of the same name. The dial combines blue enamel, mother-of-pearl, and jade. Above it, a titanium water lily serves as the small seconds hand—a motif that symbolizes beauty, love, and transience in the novel.
The 38-millimeter stainless steel case frames the asymmetrical design. Inside, the automatic in-house caliber SXH5.1 with a micro-rotor and a 60-hour power reserve keeps the watch running. This edition is limited to 18 pieces.
Bruno Söhnle Turin Chronograph: Familiar Design, More Subdued Dial
Bruno Söhnle has redesigned the Turin Chronograph without making any fundamental changes to the case or its proportions. The 39.5-millimeter model now features a matte-textured dial instead of the previous sunburst finish. Newly designed hands and luminous hour markers improve readability.
The three models differ primarily in their stop-seconds hands, which come in silver, orange, or yellow. The chronographs are water-resistant up to 10 bar, are manufactured in Glashütte, and start at 950 euros, depending on the model.
Formex AirField: Pilot’s watch made of hardened titanium
Formex has developed a modern pilot’s watch based on the Field model. The hardened titanium case measures 40 millimeters and weighs 54 grams without the strap. Wide sword-shaped hands, recessed Arabic numerals with Super-LumiNova BGW9, and a pilot’s triangle at 12 o’clock ensure a clear, instrument-style display. Color options include Desert Sand, Horizon Blue, Jet Black, and Tarmac Grey.
Inside, it is powered by the automatic Sellita SW200-2 Power+ movement with a 65-hour power reserve. The AirField is water-resistant to 150 meters and is available with a nylon strap or a leather strap featuring a finely adjustable carbon folding clasp. Prices start at 830 Swiss francs.
