Posted on July 11 2017
Exclusivity often plays a significant role when selecting a new wristwatch. While to some this may seem silly, it is certainly understandable given the importance that a great watch purchase can hold, and the sense of individuality that a fine watch can reflect.
One of the easiest ways to achieve this is through the acquisition of a limited edition timepiece, produced in scarce quantities to ensure lifelong desirability.
With all of this in mind, let’s now take a closer look at a striking selection of three limited edition timepieces that have been catching our attention, as of late.
Corum Bubble Pirate
When Corum first introduced their iconic Bubble collection back in 2000, collectors responded with enthusiasm, and began passionately hunting down all the different and whimsical dial variants. This is why so many were joyed to hear of the Bubble’s return in 2015, which came true to form with the watch’s signature domed sapphire crystal. Just like the earlier run, the new collection too contains a handful of lighthearted limited edition pieces, that mimic the playful aesthetic of the original Bubble timepieces.
Upon first glance, it’s easy to see that the Bubble “Pirate” is surely no exception, as indicated by the bold skull and crossbones motif found at the dial’s center. Its red accents are highlighted nicely by the addition of a red rubber strap, and hands featuring red luminous compound, making this a great choice for any watch aficionado with a love of all things red. With only 188 pieces having been produced, this is the second-most limited piece in the current Bubble range.
Bell & Ross BR-X1 Carbone Forge Chronograph
First up, we’ve got the X1 Carbone Forge® from Bell & Ross - a new skeletonized piece from the brand best known for their purpose-built, instrument-inspired offerings. This chronograph builds upon the brand’s signature square-cased design language, but represents a significant step forward aesthetically, thanks to the incorporation of a number of tastefully finished, complex details. These include the X-shaped bridge - which can be seen easily through the dial - and the skeletonized date wheel, allowing for maximum visibility of the timepiece’s automatic Calibre BR-CAL.313 movement.
What sets this limited edition variant apart from the rest is its case, which as you’ll notice has been crafted from genuine forged carbon - a cutting edge material used primarily in automotive racing applications. This gives the watch not only a sporty appearance, but a surprisingly lightweight feeling on the wrist. Additionally, this is a watch you surely won’t see on the wrists of many, in that just 250 pieces have been produced worldwide.
Baume & Mercier Clifton Club Shelby Cobra 1964
Over the years, Baume & Mercier has certainly developed a reputation for producing some of the world’s finest wristwatches. This is why it was only logical for the brand to partner with Shelby to pay homage to one of the finest American sports cars of all time - the Daytona Coupe. Built to take on Ferrari’s 250 GTO on the race track, the Daytona brought Shelby great successes at Le Mans, Sebring, Monza, and the famed Nürburgring, cementing its place in history as a truly legendary automobile, with an even more legendary drag coefficient.
To commemorate the iconic car, Baume & Mercier have given their Clifton Club chronograph the Shelby treatment, through the addition of a “Daytona blue” dial, a race-inspired carbon-like strap, and a wheel-shaped rotor that can be seen through the sapphire crystal display caseback. With only 1964 pieces having been produced, collectors are advised to act quickly if wishing to add this scarce piece to their reserves.