Naturally, there were plenty of watch splendors introduced at SIHH 2016. However, we selected the ones that really stood out above the dozens of other new products. We expected a calmer year in terms of innovation and breathtaking pieces and we were quite right. Consequently, the models that we selected may be less spectacular than those of last year and the year before.

As usual, we picked those that seemed the most innovative, special, interesting, and appealing. And the winners are…

MB&F with its HM6 SV because of the technical challenge of manufacturing the front and the back of this case entirely in sapphire crystal. The result is impressive as its whole exotic movement becomes visible.

We also got hooked also by the Greubel Forsey Double Balancier à Différentiel Constant. The two inclined balance wheels are connected by a so-called improved spherical differential. In addition to connecting the two regulators, it has the ability to also make an average of the torque coming from each of them. It works then like a second step in making the energy going to the movement as regular as possible.

We also picked the Overseas Ultra-Thin Perpetual Calendar by Vacheron Constantin. We found it very chic to mix the sporty new look of the Overseas line with an ultra-thin perpetual calendar movement. This seems like a paradox that gives an chic twist to the model.

Naturally, we wouldn’t be professionals without focusing on the Royal Oak Concept Supersonnerie launched by Audemars Piguet. This minute repeater watch was presented last year as a prototype, and it was already noticed by connoisseurs as a serious breakthrough in striking watches. It creates a super loud, clear, and harmonious sound that will surely make its competitors envious. The trick is created using two technical elements: first, the case is made out of a super-light titanium, which helps to make a maximum of volume inside the watch in addition to the superior rigidity it offers, two key factors in amplifying sound. The second element is the real discovery: a soundboard made out of a copper alloy. The gongs are fixed to it, and this configuration helps to elevate the sound to a much grander scale.

Finally, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Gyrotourbillon had to be included in the list. The Gyrotourbillon is a technical highlight of this manufacture, and for the first time its volume – and consequently its morphology and motion – was reduced to fit into a slimmer Reverso case. Thus, it becomes less demonstrative than the previous version but gains in authenticity, elegance, and wearability thanks to this self-imposed space constraint.