M
MECHANICALS
RAYMOND WEIL
Freelancer
Working in partnership with movement manufacturer Sellita, It took 18
months for the R&D team at RAYMOND WEIL to develop and manufacture
the first in-house movement propsed by Raymond Weil, the Caibre RW 1212.
Knowing the balance was going to be a visible design element from the dial
side, the components surrounding the balance assembly were redesigned
and pared down while also being effectively inverted and brought closer to
the plane of the dial. Surrounded by a 42.5 mm stainless steel case rated
to a respectable 10atm, the beating heart of this simple classic takes
center stage on the dial. Also visible through the sapphire back, the nicely
decorated Calibre RW 1212 (the 1212 refers to the postal code for RW’s
HQ in Switzerland) is and automatic winder beating at 28,800 with a power
reserve of 38 hours.
This Freelancer comes in several versions, featuring a silver-toned or
black dial teamed with a steel case and bracelet, or with a leather strap, as
well as in two-tone variations featuring matching bracelets or leather straps.
Prices start at $1,850 for this Swiss Made mechanical.
RAYMOND WEIL
Freelancer Chrono
Another new entry to the Freelance collection is the new chronograph range.
Recognizing the trend for more moderated sizes, the 42.5 mm case is
comfortable to wear and exceptionally well finished for such an affordable
watch. Landing just under the AboutTime limit of $2,500 with a retail price of
$2,495, chronograph enthusiasts have another Swiss Made option that falls
into the AboutTime realm. Although not necessarily designed for swimming
or diving, the Freelancer chronograph is still rated to 10atm. In this case its
more of a sign of quality of manufacturing than it is a need or expectation of
underwater use. Powered by an automatic winding mechanical movement
with a 46-hour power reserve, this Freelancer is available in several style
variations featuring a silver-toned or black dial teamed with a steel case and
bracelet or a leather strap. Each variation features a machined bezel that
adds a sporty sophistication to the look.
12 | AboutTime Magazine