HANDS-ON: Longines' 180th Anniversary Column-Wheel Single Push-Piece Chronograph

I stopped by Manfredi Jewels today to take a look at a classic, cool, and amazingly well-priced column-wheel chronograph by Longines. This wristwatch isn't exactly brand new, as it was released last year, though it is a great representation of Longines' ability to produce superb chronographs....

Introducing the Chopard L.U.C XPS Poinçon de Genève Limited Edition

Back in August, I had the pleasure of visiting Chopard's Madison Avenue boutique. I explored the collection, conversed with brand representatives, and learned the history of this 155 year-old watch manufacture. Following my visit, I posted a write-up about two incredible dress watches which blew me away. On one piece, the chamfering on the case was superb, the circular graining on the movement was also an elegant touch, and the dial (porcelain, by the way) was pretty cool. The other wristwatch was a ladies' timepiece....

Watching Watches: A Visit With Chopard NYC [With Live Photos]

Today, I met with Chopard at the company's lavish boutique on Madison Avenue. Aside from their million-dollar jewels, Chopard has a lengthy history of producing many of Switzerland's finest mechanical timepieces. Being one of Switzerland's last independently owned manufacturers, carrying on old-world craftsmanship in their watchmaking is a cornerstone of their business. What I focus on here are two watches that I believe are of paramount quality, aesthetically simple yet striking, and deliver superior accuracy and precision.