Hermes - The H-our Large Size
Designed in 1996 by Philippe Mouquet, the H-shaped case of the H-our timepiece has always been symbolic of the French fashion house. Now it frames a revised dial with numerals on the two sides facing the gadrooned centre instead of being upright, and features a heftier 32mm dial. There are quartz models in this collection designed for women, but unlike this mechanical self-winding model, they don't house a second hand and a date aperture at six o'clock. Priced at HK$23,400, this timepiece is fitted with a natural Barenia calf strap and safety folding clasp.
Bulgari - Octo Quadri-Retro Chronograph
In Chinese culture, eight is an auspicious number, but, according to Bulgari, when it comes to watchmaking, it also stands for strength and sophistication. Crafted in steel and ceramic, this timepiece's octagonal-shaped case echoes the award-winning Octo Bi-Retro model launched last year. The movement on this new chronograph features a jumping hour display through a window at 12 o'clock and four retrograde displays - the hands leap back to their starting point once they reach the last indication - of the minutes, date and chronograph functions. The two chronograph buttons flanking the crown, which is also octagonal-shaped and set with an onyx cabochon, complete the design. Sporty and functional, it costs HK$185,500.
MB&F - HM4 Only Watch
This Swiss watch brand founded by Maximilian Buesser earned its name making unique three-dimensional timepieces. This latest creation made in collaboration with Chinese artist Huang Hankang is yet another demonstration that a timepiece does not have to be round and flat. Created for the Only Watch 2011 charity auction - a biennial event to benefit research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy - the timepiece features a miniature flying panda riding on the aviation-inspired streamlined jet-turbine-styled pods. The amount of fuel in the tanks - or the power reserve - is indicated on the left pod, while the hours and minutes are displayed on the right pod. On the case back, the signature of the artist adorns the sapphire glass display panel. The Only Watch 2011 charity auction will be held in Monaco on September 22.