Daily Digest

Milano Watch Week 2026 brought together 57 brands alongside collectors and prominent watch-industry figures, underscoring Milan’s growing profile as an international gathering place for the watch community.

A new generation of independent watch brands is embracing expressive design, with creative typography and a maximalist approach to fonts serving as forms of expression.

The Maltese cross mechanism serves several purposes in mechanical watch movements. Originally developed to restrict a mainspring’s working range, it is also used in perpetual calendars and unconventional jumping-hour complications, extending its application beyond its original role.

The Bell & Ross BR-03 Space Mission uses a moon and a spaceplane in place of conventional hands to indicate the time. A black aventurine dial provides a sparkling backdrop, surrounded by a matte-black ceramic case.

H. Moser & Cie. has unveiled the Pioneer Cylindrical Tourbillon Skeleton Aventurine Saquon Barkley. The limited-edition watch marks the brand’s first collaboration with the NFL star.

Brew has unveiled the Metric Chrono Taxi, a New York taxi-inspired version of its Metric Chrono. The watch combines taxi-yellow accents with a checkerboard dial and is limited to 1,000 pieces, priced at US$495 each.

Australian microbrand EXOFI has launched its debut dive watch, the Wolf Rock 42. Inspired by Queensland’s coast, the model marks the brand’s entry into Australia’s microbrand watch scene.

TAG Heuer has reportedly stopped producing its Connected smartwatch line, raising the possibility of an exit from the decade-old business. Reports cited include La Lettre and several technology outlets, but neither TAG Heuer nor parent company LVMH has officially confirmed permanent discontinuation.

Why it matters (interpretation): If confirmed as a permanent exit, this would mark a significant retreat from smartwatches by a major Swiss luxury watchmaker.