Watchmakers are now experimenting with a multitude of organic and synthetic materials. Recently many brands have created Steampunk inspired timepieces. These watches are very large, bold and won’t appeal to everyone. Normally they are constructed entirely from Bronze or contain elements in the design. I love this substance because it develops a unique patina over time. It is also less susceptible to salt corrosion and a better conductor of heat than most steels. Here are five superb timepieces that have used this alloy metal to great effect.
Angular Momentum Luna Submergit
Angular Momentum is a small watchmaker established by the multi talented Martin Pauli. All of the timepieces (including the case) are meticulously handmade and assembled in his own workshop. The Luna Submergit was a private commission designed to the client’s exact specifications. Dimensionally the watch has a diameter of 46mm that in todays market is slightly larger than average. What makes this timepiece so unique is the floral engraved luminous dial, which is visible through two sapphire crystal windows. Other striking features include the bespoke solid bronze case, crown and central lug. Beneath the robust exterior lies a vintage Fontainemelon, caliber FHF 96. This hand winding movement comprises 17 jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour.
Thomas Prescher Nemo Sailor
Thomas Prescer is renowned in the world of horology for producing exquisite custom made timepieces. Approximately a year ago I wrote an in depth article featuring his magnificent Nemo Captain. In contrast the design of the Nemo Sailor is a lot more simplistic but just as impressive. Measuring 44mm x 12mm this timepiece should also appeal to a wide variety of buyers. What makes this watch so appealing is the use of quality materials. The case is constructed from solid bronze and the dial is fabricated from rhodium-plated steel. Other distinctive details include the intricate blue hour/minute hands and engraved copper nameplates. The watch is equipped with a modified self winding Caliber ETA 2824-2. This movement comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
Steinhart Triton Military Bronze
The name Steinhart is synonymous with well-made and affordable watches. In 2002, renowned architect and engineer Günter Steinhart has managed the company. Even though their headquarters are located in Germany they manufacture all their timepieces in Switzerland. The Triton Military Bronze is one their most effective designs and is exceptionally well priced at €690 (approximately $949). What makes this watch so special is the high level of finishing. I love the olive green dial with contrasting numerals and DLC (diamond like carbon) treated rotating bezel. At the heart of the timepiece is a mechanical self-winding movement. The Caliber Soprod A10 comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
Berkbinder & Brown T46 V2 (variant 2) Bronze Tool Watch
Berkbinder & Brown is a small American independent watchmaker established in 2010 by Ted Brown. Within the last four years the brand has produced a range of affordable timepieces including the wonderful T46 V2 (variant 2) Bronze Tool Watch. Dimensionally the timepiece measures an imposing 46.3mm x 13mm, which should appeal to masculine tastes. What makes this watch so appealing is the durable two part solid bronze case with 12 steel screws. Other interesting features include a stylish black dial with contrasting white luminous Arabic numerals and an oversized offset crown positioned at 4 o’clock. The company has equipped the timepiece with a Swiss made, self-winding ETA 2824-2 caliber. This movement comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
ArtyA Son of a Gun “Quiet Riot 1”
Yvan Arpa is widely known in the world of horology for creating the incredible DNA series of timepieces for RJ Romain Jerome. Subsequently he established his own small boutique brand specializing in the production of eclectic and striking watches. The “Quiet Riot 1” is part of the popular Son of a Gun collection and the only one constructed from solid bronze. With a diameter measuring 47mm, the watch is designed to make a bold statement. What makes this timepiece so distinctive is the open worked dial with six empty bullets. Other idiosyncratic characteristics include a central disk composed of gunpowder and gold leaf. Beneath the stylish façade lies a modified self-winding ETA caliber 2761. This movement comprise 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
