An interview with industry insider Antonio Cecere, Principal of Cecere Monaco and Founder of Monaco Diamond Exchange, about his time at the world’s leading watch and jewellery trade show, Baselworld 2017

ML: How was Baselworld this year and what are the highlights?
AC: Return to heritage was a key phrase amongst watchmakers. Rolex revisited their Sky-Dweller in white Rolesor – a combination of steel and white gold, with a bright blue sunray dial. Patek Philippe developed a new version of their annual calendar (Ref 5960), but Aquanaut stole the scene celebrating the 20th anniversary with a new 42mm “Jumbo” size (Ref 5168G). Ferrari is also celebrating a birthday, their 70th, and commissioned Hublot to create a timepiece to commemorate it. The result: the Hublot Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph in three versions – King Gold, PEEK Carbon, and Titanium – each of which is produced in 70 limited editions.

ML: Would you say your time at Baselworld was insightful?
AC: I was invited to attend the launch of the new Autavia, the iconic chronograph created by Jack Heuer in 1962, which was worn by legendary drivers including F1 champion Mario Andretti and Steve McQueen. Actor Patrick Dempsey, Brand Ambassador of Tag Heuer, who directed a short film to illustrate the features of the watch, presented the contemporary version in Basel. The choice of revisiting a vintage model and turning it into a modern version was the result of an interactive campaign with TAG Heuer fans who voted for the Autavia 2446 Mark 3 as their favourite among historic models during the Autavia Cup in spring 2016.

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