Founded in 1947, Michel Herbelin started crafting watches right at the center of watchmaking history in France in Charquement, not far from the Swiss border. Hailing from the ‘Watch Valley’—from where many other acclaimed names rose—Herbelin set out to keep the tradition of fine watchmaking alive.
Founded in 1947, Michel Herbelin started crafting watches right at the center of watchmaking history in France in Charquement, not far from the Swiss border. Hailing from the ‘Watch Valley’—from where many other acclaimed names rose—Herbelin set out to keep the tradition of fine watchmaking alive.
By 1965, the name Michel Herbelin was widely known and till today maintains their “Swiss Heart, French Soul” promise with their watches all having the precision of Swiss movements while intricate watches such as the extra slim wire bangle watches that the Herbelin name became known for.
The Michel Herbelin collection can be classified into three categories: sport, classic, and boutique. Within each, there are distinct families. Its flagship for over 25 years and the brand’s bestseller, the Newport line draws its name from the America’s Cup race to Newport, Rhode Island. First created in 1988, the Newport is inspired by the water and it stands for the freedom and adventure of being out at sea. With sailing in its soul and elegance in its design, it bears the sleek design of trans-Atlantic yachts and combines a tough shell without compromising style or performance. And of course, all Newport models are water resistant to at least 5 ATM and are fitted with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The Newport line has even gone so far as to add an analogue watch with smart functions—the Newport Connect—to its portfolio of sports timepieces.
Last year, Michel Herbelin also celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the iconic timepiece, and a limited-edition Newport Automatic Chronograph was released in Baselworld 2018 with only 300 numbered pieces made. The 30th Anniversary Newport is a new-generation chronograph but still features several of the original Newport’s design.
The classic Men’s Newport Chronograph is paired with a blue FKM rubber strap, making it a real stand out piece. The deep blue of the strap lets the unique watch face shine. Characterized by its flowing lines and clean-cut style, the robust stainless steel case sports a glimmering bezel engraved with the Newport name with steel bolts at 12, 2, 4, 8, and 11 o’clock reminiscent of a ship’s wheel. It maintains an air of elegance with its subtle dial gradiation that goes from deep black to a fiery blue at the center, matching the three counters of the chronograph. Its indexes are also tapered to match a ships hull. Meanwhile, the date window slips in between 4 and 5 o’clock. At the back, it bears the signature ship’s wheel.
The 43 mm Newport Chrono has a Swiss-made quartz movement and is water resistant for up to 100 meters (100 ATM)
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