2022 has been a crazy year for us watch fanatics! After feeling stuck in a never-ending cycle of vintage copies and uninspired corporate releases, the industry has finally given us some exciting shake-ups. The highly publicized MoonSwatch brought horology to the forefront of mainstream attention and Seiko's affordable automatic GMT watch has completely changed the game. Even the usually conservative Rolex has gotten in on the fun with the release of a left-handed GMT and their first titanium watch. This willingness to take risks and embrace creativity shows a confident industry that has thrived during the pandemic and is full of surprises.
As the interest in watch collecting grows, 2022 has been marked by an unprecedented level of diversity in the industry. Not only are more people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds discovering the joys of watches, but the industry is responding with a wide range of creations – from high-tech complications using specialized materials to collectible limited-edition collaborations with pop culture to reissues of classic models. In other words, no matter what you're into, there's probably a new watch out there for you. And with the Geneva Watch Days coming up and more year-end releases on the horizon, it looks like the rest of the year is shaping up to be just as exciting for watch enthusiasts.
Omega × Swatch Speedmaster MoonSwatch
There's no denying it - the Omega × Swatch Speedmaster MoonSwatch is one of the top releases of the year. The collaboration between these two legendary brands has resulted in a series of amazing watches, all inspired by the iconic Moonwatch. It's a partnership that's truly out of this world! It's like James Bond in wrist form! Whether you're tackling a mountain, piloting a spaceship, or just trying to survive an intense business meeting, the Speedmaster has got your back. And let's not forget about its impressive specs – it's water resistant, shock resistant, and even radiation resistant. Plus, it's known for its precise timekeeping, so you'll never have to worry about showing up late. And with its iconic, timeless design, you can count on the Speedmaster to always look good, no matter the occasion.
Tudor Black Bay Pro
The new Tudor Black Bay Pro is causing quite a stir in the watch world! Some say it looks a little too much like the Rolex Explorer II, but we say, who cares?! This baby is packing some serious heat with its true GMT capabilities, all housed in a dainty 39mm case (smaller than the Black Bay GMT, can you believe it?). It may be a little chunky at 15mm, but with its good looks, intuitive features, and reasonable price, it's no wonder this watch is winning hearts left and right. And let's not forget about that killer bracelet – it's a real show-stopper.
Patek Philippe 5326G-001
Patek Philippe 5326G-001 is the ultimate watch for the modern, jet-setting individual. This watch combines the convenience of a "travel time" feature with an annual calendar, making it perfect for keeping track of your schedule no matter where you are in the world. The 41mm white gold Calatrava case boasts elegant "hobnail" detailing and houses an automatic in-house Patek movement with a micro-rotor. The highly functional dial displays not only the time in two time zones, but also the day, date, phase of the moon, and even home and local day/night indicators. And with the added bonus of only needing manual adjustment once a year when kept wound, this watch truly has it all.
Rolex GMT Master II 126720VTNR
The Rolex GMT Master II 126720VTNR is a left-handed watch that's sure to turn heads. While it may not have all the latest tech, it more than makes up for it with its unique design and versatility. It's available in a new colorway and can be worn on either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. This is a watch that both lefties and righties can appreciate. All that's left to do is come up with a fitting nickname for this stylish timepiece.
CONCLUSION
2022 was a wild ride for watch lovers, with new releases causing riots and records being broken left and right. Omega dropped a half-million-dollar minute repeater, while Richard Mille made the thinnest watch in the world. Patek's Calatrava got a rough and tough makeover, and Cartier's elusive Pebble made a comeback. But the real surprises came from indie brands - one with no hands and another with no dial! And let's not forget about the three fan favorites of the year: a tiny Tudor, a futuristic red-gold contraption from H. Moser, a borderline novelty watch that had people wanting to drain their savings. Who knows what crazy timepieces we'll see in 2023!
