This season, two-tone designs, or so-called combined-material models, have unexpectedly become a big part of the watch scene. Designs that combine two or more materials for the case, components, and bracelet have a key point in that they can be aesthetically pleasing or unsophisticated, depending on how they are distributed. While this design requires expert taste and experience, many well-known brands released these two-tone models at both Baselworld and SIHH in 2019, creating quite a stir. This article will highlight six particularly well-received models and examine their craftsmanship from various angles.
Text by WatchTime
Omega Seamaster Chronograph 300M
Following on from the most recent redesign of the Seamaster 300M in 2018, Omega has released the Seamaster 300M Chronograph. One of the new models is a two-tone model with a 44mm diameter stainless steel case and a diving scale in Sedna gold and black ceramic. This eye-catching model features a curved exterior, and the crown and helium valve are also made of Sedna gold. The screw-down mechanism of the ceramic chronograph pushers is also gold, accenting the two-tone look. The black ceramic dial features a laser-engraved wave pattern, a signature of the series, subtly enhancing the maritime image. The dial features rectangular hour markers at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, two large bars at 12 o'clock, and round rose gold applied hour markers elsewhere. There is a small date window at the 6 o'clock position at the bottom of the dial, and the skeletonized hour and minute hands pass above it for easy reading, while the Omega Seamaster's signature lollipop-shaped round seconds hand ticks away. A notable detail is the movement visible through the sapphire crystal case back. Omega's Master Chronometer Caliber 9900 boasts high accuracy, magnetic resistance, and a 60-hour power reserve. Price: $9,300.
Rolex Sea-Dweller
Rolex has been highly praised for its recent expansion. At Baselworld 2019, the brand made waves with the addition of a new version of the Sea-Dweller: a two-tone model featuring Rolex's Rorsaw Gold (a combination of 18K yellow gold and Rolex's Oystersteel) on the Cerachrom bezel, screw-down crown, hands, indexes, and center links of the Oyster bracelet. Other details, including a water resistance of 1200m, are nearly identical to the Sea-Dweller revamped in 2017. It's rare to see such a successful introduction of precious metals in a professional-grade diver's watch. When it comes to James Bond's favorite watch, many people will immediately think of the Submariner. However, this new model, boasting water resistance to 4000 feet and accented with gold, exudes a more 007-esque essence. Price: $16,050
Tudor "Black Bay Chronograph"
Reminiscent of the iconic Rolex Daytona "John Player Special," the Tudor Black Bay Chronograph is a compelling new addition, crafted in two-tone stainless steel and gold. Its 41-caliber case is very similar to the original 2017 model, but is more than one caliber slimmer. The dial features a two-tone layout with champagne gold counters. Red accents on the dial, including a red-tipped chronograph seconds hand and a red water resistance indicator, are reminiscent of Tudor designs from the 1950s. The caliber MT5813, the result of a long-standing collaboration with Breitling, is powered by a silicon balance spring, further enhancing the movement's unique character. Prices start at $5,600 for the leather strap version, while the steel and gold three-link bracelet version is $6,800. Price: $5,600-$6,800
Bell & Ross BR V2-94 Bellytanker Bronze
Bell & Ross' Belly Tanker, released as a limited edition of 999 pieces, is the latest model, updating the popular design with a sophisticated two-tone black and gold look. However, without relying on precious metals, it achieves the sleek and trendy look that is characteristic of Bell & Ross. The new model features a bronze color that exudes an organic warmth. The BR V2-94 Belly Tanker Bronze shares the same 41-diameter case as the Belly Tanker Chronograph released in 2017. However, apart from the bronze case and bezel and the black dial with champagne gold accents, most aspects of the watch remain the same as the 2017 model. Inside the case is the caliber BR-CAL.301, based on the ETA 2894-2. Price: $4,990.
Bvlgari "Octo Originale Chronograph"
The Bvlgari Octo Original Collection shares the distinctive case design of the Octo Finissimo Ultra Thin. However, its more accessible price point and overall thicker style are key differences. Rome-based Bvlgari introduced the Octo Originale Chronograph earlier this year. Its eye-catching two-tone black DLC and gold exterior is a distinctive feature. The case is crafted from sandblasted steel with a black DLC finish, while the gold crown and octagonal plate surrounding the dial complete the look. While the chronograph version is best known for its titanium model released in 2018, this new model takes a more refined and luxurious approach by removing the tachymeter scale. The movement is the BLV328 Velocissimo, an automatic caliber based on Zenith's El Primero. Price: $11,800.
Oris "65 Divers"
The Oris Sixty-Five Divers has a strong following, and for good reason. In today's watch scene, a model with such a perfect balance between aesthetic perfection and price is extremely rare. At Baselworld 2019, Oris, based in Holstein, northern Germany, unveiled a new, neo-classical version featuring a stainless steel bracelet and a bronze bezel. While the brand debuted a two-tone model with a bronze bezel last year, it didn't achieve the same level of perfection as this latest release. The Sixty-Five Divers "BiCo," with its deep blue dial evoking the depths of the ocean, is the perfect complement to Oris's diver watch collection. The movement inside is the Oris 733, based on the Sellita SW200-1. The two-tone bracelet with some bronze links is priced at $2,350, while the leather strap version is priced at $2,100. Price: $2,100-$2.350
