It is fair to say that the world of horology only really interests a small demographic of people. Originally when I established Total Watch Reviews I realised it would be targeted at a niche market. Most male friends I speak to appreciate a well-designed timepiece but do not share my passion. Their interests ultimately follow different paths like architecture, sports and cars.
Over the last few years’ watchmakers have designed a lot of automobile inspired watches. In fact I would say this genre has grown exponentially in popularity. Marketing wise it is a touch of genius as it combines two luxury goods items together. For example if you are the fortunate owner of a Ferrari, Bugatti or Porsche it also makes sense to display the badge on your watch. About a month ago I reviewed the phenomenal Chronoswiss Wristmaster, which is a scaled down replica of a dashboard used in vintage cars. Some brands like Meccaniche Veloci have even gone further by incorporating materials from cars into their designs.
I am a huge admirer of Giuliano Mazouli’s work and was intrigued by a press release unveiling his new Carrara wristwatch. This timepiece is handmade by Italian craftsmen and is constructed from solid marble. Unfortunately I haven’t managed to get my hands on this exquisite watch yet but hope to do so in the near future. However I did get the opportunity to test his wonderful Transmissione Meccanica. Although I love all of the company’s models, this is one of my personal favourites. Dimensionally it has a smaller (316L stainless steel) case size than the popular Manometro models and has a diameter of 43mm. Generally I found the watch sat comfortably on my wrist and I didn’t experience any digging from the lugs or crown. For that reason I would be personally happy to wear this timepiece on a daily basis.
Like most of Giuliano Mazouli’s creations, the façade of the Transmissione Meccanica is inspired by an element from a car. In this particular instance the partially skeletonised dial is based on an automobile clutch and the distinctive case on the gears. These characteristics make this design really unique and in my opinion very accomplished. Other features include stylish red open worked hour/minute hands, anti-reflective sapphire crystal lens and an oversized crown (positioned at 2 o’clock). Overall the multi-layered composition is effective and the finishing first rate. Certainly I feel for a watch of this calibre, (designed in Italy and manufactured in Switzerland) you are getting a lot of bang for your buck.
At the heart of the watch is a Swiss made ETA 2824-2 self-winding movement. This caliber comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). Functionally the Transmissione Meccanica features hours, minutes and seconds. The timepiece also has a power reserve of 40-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 50 metres.
The superb Transmissione Meccanica has a black calfskin leather strap with matching steel buckle. This watch is available to purchase at the Krasnaya Watch Art Gallery, Singapore (http://redarmywatches.com) Priced at: $4,900
For more information about Giuliano Mazouli visit the company’s website: http://www.giulianomazzuoli.it
