Carl F. Bucherer’s Patravi TravelTec
Every time I get on a plane, which happens to be more and more frequently these days, I make it a point to look at everyone else’s wrist. I particularly pay special attention to those sitting in first class, since those who travel frequently are in special need of multi-time zone wristwatches. For those travel-minded individuals who have to manage more than their home time zone, it’s worth taking a close look at the Carl F. Bucherer Patravi TravelTec line, and the new Patravi TravelTec II — created for the 10th anniversary of this collection.
What Makes It Special?
Its claim to fame can be told in a few parts, yet, it begins with the highly sophisticated in-house automatic calibre CFB 1901.1. This complicated movement displays an impressive three time zones in addition to a chronograph function. There is also a unique side-mounted sapphire glass window that allows you to peer into this special complication. Along with the monopusher, which allows the quickness and ease to switch between East and West travel directions, the date can move both forward and backwards. Finally, to highlight how this watch is made with the world traveler in mind, the back case features an engraved time-zone sun, which indicates the hour differences of 24 cities around the globe.
The side-mounted sapphire glass window allows you to look into the automatic calibre CFB 1901.1
What Did CFB Do Right?
Carl F. Bucherer does a great job in organizing the dial to read each of the three time zones with ergonomic ease. The nine traditional hour indices rest on the inner ring of the dial. The 24 indicators on the outer ring of the dial correspond with the second time zone, while the numbers on the bezel display the third time zone. Additionally the chronograph sub-dials fit nicely into a very active dial. Each of these displays fit within the 47.4mm stainless steel casing, which could feel a bit bulky depending on your personal preference.
The time-zone sun on the back case which indicates the hour differences of 24 cities around the globe.
Additional Features
Case: Stainless steel screw-down crown, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on two sides, water resistant to 100 m (10 atm), diameter 47.4 mm, depth 15.9 mm
Bracelet: Rubber strap, folding clasp with stainless steel comfort extension
Variations: stainless steel bracelet, stainless steel folding clasp
Price: On a strap, $12,900, on a bracelet, $13,400
Patravi TravelTech II
