One of the hardest tasks for a watch writer is collating the relevant technical information and images required. Literally in some cases I have to send brands about four emails before I get a reply. In some instances I never even receive a response. All this makes my job more complicated and frustrating than it needs to be. One of the worst offenders over recent years has been Meccaniche Veloci. Until very recently they were owned by a fashion inspired jeweller called Cielo Venezia 1270. This perhaps explains why they were not that proactive in their marketing strategy. Fortunately this has all changed now because they have a new guardian (Executive Chairman) called Cesare Cerrito.
When I visited Baselworld I got the chance to meet with Cesare Cerrito and was very impressed with his dynamic approach. He seems very passionate about Meccaniche Veloci and doesn’t want to fall into the same trap as the previous owners. As a brand they have produced some very exciting watches and ultimately that is why they have survived in a highly competitive industry. In fact celebrities like Dynamo the Magician and Cristiano Ronaldo actually went out and bought their timepieces.
One of their timepieces that caught my eye at Baselworld was the wonderful La Cocca Quattro Valvole 48 Four Strokes. Essentially this limited edition watch (250 pieces) has been designed in association with helmet manufacturer Suomy. Mecchaniche Veloci is renowned for strategic partnerships with companies affiliated with the motor industry. Their collaboration with Brembo (in my opinion) was an absolute touch of genius. Who would of thought a few years ago that you could actually construct the case of watch from a Brembo carbon ceramic brake!
As well as being exceptionally comfortable to wear this watch also has a striking appearance. Back in May 2013 I reviewed another watch from the Quattro Valvole range with a solid black façade. This version is much more distinctive because it replicates the illustrative artwork of Suomy Helmets on a miniature scale. The La Cocca helmet is a montage of various iconic design elements originating the 1940’s. Details like voluptuous scantily dressed pin up girls really add a playful touch to the overall composition. These seductive figures were believed to have brought pilots good luck in World War II. Even though the four dials are maybe not as legible as other (Quattro Valvole) models it doesn’t actually matter because the watch is such good fun.
Beneath the 48mm grade 5 titanium case are four individual ETA 2671 movements. These mechanisms comprise 25-jewels and oscillate at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). Functionally the La Cocca Quattro Valvole 48 Four Strokes has four separate time zones, date facility and a power reserve of around 40-hours
The La Cocca Quattro Valvole 48 Four Strokes has a black rubber strap with matching titanium buckle. Within the range there are two other exciting models called the Skull and Gamble. Priced competitively at: CHF 4,180 (approximately $4,424).
For more information about Meccaniche Veloci visit their website: http://www.meccanicheveloci.com
