Five New Hand-Wound Watches That Watch Lovers Should Have

The number of hand-wound models has been increasing since last year, and this year, they have increased even more.

What's even more noteworthy is the increase in new manual-winding movements. Yes, newly developed. All five models listed here are equipped with newly developed manual-winding movements.

Needless to say, hand-wound watches are not mainstream. They only make up a small percentage of all mechanical watches. Even in Japan, where there are many hand-wound watch enthusiasts, it is said to be around 5%. But given this, why are hand-wound models on the rise? And why are new models even being developed? Unfortunately, the real reason is unknown.

However, it is true that hand-wound watches are the foundation of watches, so we should be happy to see their popularity increase. Furthermore, the increase in hand-wound watches, which are not mainstream, means that the range of watches has become wider, which is also something to be happy about.

And above all, it's a joy for watch lovers that such prestigious brands as these five are making such hand-wound watches. The feeling you get through your fingertips when winding it by hand. Winding it at the same time every day. These are the kinds of relationships you have with a watch that are the joy that only a hand-wound watch can offer. We hope you'll experience them for yourself.

Breitling Premier B15 Duograph 42

The Premier Heritage is a new collection based on the Premier model, which was born in the 1940s. Its distinctive feature is its adherence to the elegant design of the original. This model is one such example, recreating the Duograph split-seconds chronograph, also born in the 1940s. The in-house split-seconds chronograph movement, B03, released in 2017, has been modified to be manually wound, the date display has been removed, and the subdials have been reduced from three to two, ensuring a watch that is just like the original. Another great advantage is that this split-seconds chronograph is available at this price.

Hamilton "Intra-Matic Chronograph H"

These new models are reproductions of the brand's first chronographs, the "Chronograph A" and "Chronograph B," which were released in 1968. "Chronograph A" features a "panda dial" with a white dial and black subdials, while "Chronograph B" features a "reverse panda dial" with a black dial and white subdials. The highlight of these new models is the newly developed manual-winding chronograph movement, just like the original. What's more, it has no date display, which enthusiasts will love. On the other hand, it also has the advantage of a modern power reserve of approximately 60 hours. The case diameter has also been increased from the original 36mm to a more modern 40mm.

Montblanc Heritage Pythagor Small Second Limited Edition 148

Minerva, a prestigious manufacturer of chronographs, produced the "Caliber 48" manual-winding three-hand movement in the 1940s, featuring linear bridges designed using the golden section. The model equipped with this movement was named "Pythagore." This model was inspired by the "Caliber 48" and features a newly developed manual-winding movement, also using the golden section. Its classic design, featuring a 10mm balance with a regulating screw and a low five-beat beat, is irresistibly appealing. And yet, it boasts a long power reserve of approximately 80 hours.

Omega De Ville Tresor Small Seconds

The Trésor, first introduced in 1949, was named after the renowned 30mm caliber, which means "treasure" inside. It is now part of the De Ville collection. This latest model features a new manual-winding small seconds movement, the first in decades. Another plus is that it does not feature a date display, just like the original. The movement is a Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber, certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) to the industry's highest standards of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance.

Patek Philippe "Calatrava Clous de Paris" 6119

As the reference indicates, this new model is the successor to the "5119." Fans will be delighted to see the return of the hobnail pattern bezel, or Clous de Paris bezel, which has not been produced for some time. The big draw is the newly developed manual winding movement. It has a larger diameter than the previous core movement, the "Cal. 215," and its outstanding advantages include a long power reserve and high torque thanks to twin barrels. Another notable feature is that it is as thin as the "Cal. 215." It will likely serve as the basis for future Patek Philippe manual winding movements.