This firm shows sense of humour by keeping irreverence strictly in play
Tom Bolt has just designed his third watch collection for Dunhill. He believes that even when creating serious watches, a sense of play is still essential. This is clearly evident in the 2006 range unveiled at SIHH, which included some pieces notable not only for their striking design but also for their intriguing movements. All the models continue to feature the humorous Dunhill Motorities Bulldog feature on the
case-back, with a different design for each one.
The latest pieces, which build on the entirely new collection launched two years ago, are inspired by times past, present and future. The most popular line in the existing collection is the Citytamer, and this year a smaller ladies' version has been added - although Dunhill is quick to point out that many women covet their favourite man's favourite watch.
The Citytamer Small incorporates all the features of the original, such as Dunhill's unique split case, visible gasket construction, top-loading screws and faceted sapphire crystal. It contains a Swiss-made quartz movement, and will keep perfect time even when not being worn. The top half of the case is in 18 carat pink gold; white gold is used for the lower part of the case and for the top-loading screws holding the two halves together. The white gold case-back is embellished with a black, lacquer-filled engraving of the bulldog.
Citytamer Small is available on a brown alligator strap with a two-colour, gold deployant clasp in a limited series of 300 pieces. For women in search of a jewellery watch, the Citytamer is also available on a decadent pink gold, brick-link bracelet interspersed with white gold links. Only 200 will be made.
The most daring new piece, the Parody Stone, draws inspiration from the knights of English folklore.