Watchmaking is an art form as much as it is a skill. With advancements in technology and battery-powered watches taking over the market, production of mechanical movements has unfortunately taken a backseat. The artistry of assembling watch movements, however, has not been lost or forgotten. To be able to work on such a small scale with highly delicate pieces requires almost a religious amount of dedication and talent. As intricate as timepiece movements can get they deserve to be showcased just like any other artwork.
Skeleton watches, or as they’re also known exhibition watches, do just that. Through either a transparent back or a skeleton dial you can marvel at the intricate inner workings of the mechanism. Skeleton watches are perfect for collectors and anyone who wishes to add a bit of subtle intrigue to their daily style. If you are uncertain where to start looking for the perfect timepiece to suit you, below are some of our favourite automatic exhibition pieces.
Skeleton Watch Recommendations 2020
Certina | DS-1 Powermatic 80 | Silver Mesh Bracelet | Silver Dial |
This self-winding model from Certina is understated and classic. The round stainless steel case and Milanese bracelet highlight the timeless silhouette of the design, the bracelet bringing a vintage air to the watch. Still far from old-fashioned, the design is elevated and modernised by a silver sun ray dial with pointed blue steeled hands. The touch of colour in the hands hints that the timepiece is far more unique than it may seem. The transparent case back beautifully displays the movement and allows a glimpse into the secrets of watchmaking.
Ingersoll | The Hollywood Automatic | Brown Leather Strap |Silver Dial
An elegant watch with a lot of character and interest, the Ingersoll Hollywood Automatic will surely catch any eye. The model sports a stainless steel case with rose gold detailing on the bezel and crown. The rose gold element is carried onto the dial, tying the design together with rose gold indices and hands. A brown leather bracelet guarantees comfort and its simple style serves to highlight the intriguing design of the face. The dial itself has two windows to offer a look into the movement. The model also has an exhibition case back. This timepiece does not sacrifice function for form, as it sports a moon phase and date display.
Rado True Automatic Open Heart Plasma High-tech Ceramic Watch
The unique design of this watch does not stop at the skeleton dial and display case back. The True Open Heart watch is an engineering feat. For those who value innovation, this model by Rado is a dream come true. The monobloc round case and bracelet are made of the brand’s signature plasma high-tech ceramic. This material makes the watch lightweight and gentle to the skin as it does not contain any metals, making it hypoallergenic. The monochrome black colour serves to accentuate the dial.
Baume & Mercier Classima | Complete Calendar | Automatic | Chronograph
If you are looking for a practical design, for a more everyday look we suggest the Baume & Mercier Classima watch. This model gives you all the features you need while still allowing you to appreciate the mechanism of the watch through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. The large stainless steel case and black alligator leather strap make the model luxurious, yet ideal for daily use. The blue coloured dial adds a touch of interest to the design. The functions of this model include a chronograph, central-hand date, month and weekday displays as well as a moon phase display and a 24-hour sub-dial.
Certina | DS Podium | Lady Automatic | Mother Of Pearl Diamond |
Certina’s bold and elegant DS Podium model is ideal as a present for someone special or as a personal treat. The warm hue of the rose gold case complements the red leather strap to create a sophisticated daring piece. Diamonds replace the indices as hour markers on the white mother-of-pearl dial. The look is completed by a set of leaf-shaped rose gold hands. A design that embodies luxury, this timepiece makes a statement.
Longines | Record | Women’s | Swiss Automatic
To achieve a delicate and understated everyday look, we suggest this model from the Longines Record collection. Painted Roman numeral hour-markers adorn the matt white dial. A set of distinctive blued steel hands add a touch of interest to the model. The watch’s design is kept simple and elegant, with no embellishments on the stainless steel case and bracelet ensuring you are the centre of attention.
Do you agree with our skeleton watch recommendations 2020? Let us know in the comments down below.
