New York is many wonderful things, but it's rarely considered a horological hotspot. That's because Europe largely hogs the spotlight: we've prestige maisons in France (Cartier), a resurgence in the UK (Bremont) and, of course, Switzerland itself (every other notable watch brand ever).
But the East Coast has inspired some great watches: including a new release from Omega. With just a small production run of 399 pieces, the Seamaster Exclusive Boutique New York Limited Edition boasts an engraving of New York's most famous landmarks to the calibre's inner ring, including the Rockefeller Centre, the Manhattan Bridge, the Empire State and Lady Liberty herself. You simply take a look at the open caseback for a full view of the Manhattan skyline.
Rather than embody the tired old 'bright lights, big city' tropes of Midtown however, Omega's Seamaster goes for a subtler aesthetic: a lacquered, domed grey dial as a nod to the hybrid of beaux arts and desconstructivist architecture, with quiet glints of white gold indices, hands and branding. Because let's be honest: Manhattan luxury is a far more tasteful affair than that of LA.
The watch itself is part of a larger City Editions, in which Omega pays homage to Singapore, Switzerland, London, Paris and New York. But as the thinking goes: there's nowhere quite like the Big Apple. That sentiment may well extend to Omega's finely-tuned tribute.
Available exclusively in Omega's New York boutiques, priced approx. £5,760. Head online for more details.
