Skeleton watches are all the rage at the moment – apparently!
I say this because I have mixed feelings regarding this style of watch.
What is a skeleton watch?
With a skeleton watch, the mechanical movements have been stripped down to the bare bones and some or all of the moving parts are visible. This may be via the front or back of the watch, or through a small window within the dial.
Designed for the curious rather than the stylish in my opinion, as many if them do not look particularly attractive.
There are exceptions, however. So, let’s take a look at some of these.
Hublot Classic
And where better to start than at the top? Maybe not the most expensive, but certainly out of the reach of most people, is the Hublot Classic Fusion Aerofusion Moonphase men’s watch at £13,300.
With a transparent sapphire dial, the Aerofusion Moonphase features a full calendar displaying the moon phases, as well as simple date and day and month indications.
There are three versions available: King Gold, Hublot’s famous red gold or titanium and the last one in black ceramic.
Expensive, for sure, but if money is no object and you especially want a skeleton watch, then look no further!
Raymond Weil Freelancer
In the mid-range, we have the rather splendid Raymond Weil Freelancer Skeleton.
This is a very black piece, with a 42.5mm steel case, a black dial with a large opening for a view of the mechanics, and a very nice matching black calfskin leather strap.
The rose-gold hands and hour markers contrast beautifully with the darkness surrounding them!
Internally, it has automatic movement in the form of Raymond Weil’s Caliber RW4215.
The screw-down case back features a sapphire window and the strap has a PVD-coated steel clasp, with a double-push-button security system.
The price for all this – just £2,395.
Rotary Mecanique
For a more affordable option, the Rotary Mecanique would definitely be my choice. I like the look of this watch and, at just £239, it is an absolute bargain.
The Mecanique has a stainless steel case with a silver skeleton dial, automatic Mivota movement and a 3-link stainless steel bracelet.
This watch has a quality look and feel that you would normally find on much more expensive timepieces.
So, if you at looking for your first rung on the skeleton ladder, this is ideal.
Hi, I’m sorry to disagree with you but — that Tissot right on top is – beeoo-tiful!
All £13,000 of him!
And I learnt something – thanks – these watches have a name : “Skeleton!”
Didn’t know that before.
PS. Also like the Raynomd Weil- but not as much.
Nice. Thanx!
Actually, if you really like the Tissot, you will be pleased to know it is £1,300 not £13,000 here: http://tidd.ly/9ac033a0
Thanks for your comments.
I have never seen these types of watches before but I think they look amazing. Being able to see the “skeleton” it pretty cool in my opinion. However, they seem a bit out of my price range, maybe one day!
Thanks for the comments, Jeremy. There are skeleton watches in most price ranges – take a look here: http://tinyurl.com/z576rwc