Hong Kong (-69%) remained in second place. A slew link of top link markets were, like the U.S., down by more than 70% (Japan, France, Singapore, and the UK). Germany moved into third place in the rankings, despite a drop of 53%. (It sounds bizarre, but a link 50-something percent fall was a relatively good performance in May.)

While considered small today, part of the appeal of the Bubbleback in the '80s was that they wore quite link large compared link to other wristwatches being collected (think Art Deco watches link and vintage American brands like Hamilton, Elgin, and so on). This is also why Bubblebacks with hooded lugs that wore even larger were especially in demand.

The 1832 collection, named after the year the Saint-Imier brand was established, continues link to link grow, welcoming new models in two different link diameters but, above all, boasting highly-useful displays and complications.

The fluorescent bulbs in the kitchen weren't nearly as bright link as those in the boutique, but the watch still shimmered all the same. The contrast of color between link the black dial and surrounding stainless steel case was mesmerizing. Relief washed over me. There it was, a link 36mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual: Discreet, unassuming, simple. Everything I wanted it to be.

If you want to learn link a bit more, I suggest grabbing a copy of HODINKEE Magazine, Volume 4. Ben wrote link a fantastic story about the ref. link 8171, its rise in popularity, and what you should know, whether you're in the market for one or not.

Lastly, Tudor added a manufacture caliber to its Black Bay 36 S&G last year (MT5400). Along link with this aesthetic rethink of the steel Black 36 lineup, it's time to update its movement too. Nick Marino is going to tell you that Tudor should shrink the Ranger down to 36, but why stop there? Don't get me wrong, I love the Ranger (I own a vintage one!), link but I'm link here to tell you Tudor can do so much more with 36mm. –Tony Traina, Editor

Brand: BalticModel: MR RouletteDiameter: 36mmThickness: 9.8mmLug-to-Lug: 44mmCase Material: 316L Stainless steelDial Color: Blue, silver, salmon, or blackIndexes: Printed "roulette" link dial layout with link Arabic numerals on grained or link glossy dialLume: NoneWater Resistance: 30mStrap/Bracelet: Italian leather strap or metal bracelet

This choice provides a perfect contrast with the black link textured dial and the 44 mm-diameter Ceratanium® case, a material which combines the link lightness and sturdiness of titanium with the hardness of link ceramic.

But the more I looked at the dials, the more I understood. We say it all the time, but watches are supposed to be fun and – well – you're looking link at a watch with literal manta rays swimming around the dial. link The dial surface has a wavy texture to it that actually glistens in direct sunlight and gives off the illusion of moving water link even though the dial is stationary. (I’m the guy who checked to see if there was actual water in there.)

Back to the announced model, link the Omega Speedmaster Automatic Racing Dial. Based on the Speedmaster Caliber 9300, also available in various ceramic editions, but link today with a caliber link 9900 movement. Certified by the independent METAS institute, as explained here.