Like any watch from the Star collection, the Star Twin Moonphase emanates quiet sophistication with a 42mm polished steel round case, faultless finishing and refined decorations. While it is easy to dismiss this as just another handsome addition to the family, seasoned watch lovers will readily point out that this is no conventional moon phase watch.

Zoom in on the moon phase display, and you will notice that on top of the usual shaped window that emulates the geometry of the moon when viewed from the Northern hemisphere, there is also a pointer showing the moon’s age in days. More importantly, the opposite end of the pointer points to how the moon will appear to those of us in the Southern hemisphere. Briefly, the waxing moon’s crescent shape curves towards the right when observed from the Northern Hemisphere, but curves to the left when seen from the Southern Hemisphere. This extraordinary display is enabled by an exclusive additional module on the moon phase complication of the watch.

As if eager to assert its unconventionality, the Twin Star Moonphase flaunts a somewhat whimsical aesthetic. Sure, it adheres to the revered design elements of Montblanc by proudly bearing its emblem as a guilloche décor on its dial, a counterweight on its blued steel second hand, as well as an inlay on its fluted crown. However, it throws us on a loop with its off-centre date counter and brand cartouche that give the watch an intriguing asymmetry that is uncharacteristic of a moon phase timepiece. Powered by the automatic Calibre MB 4810/913 with 42-hour power reserve, it is perfect for discerning collectors who eschew run-of-the-mill fare.

Tough Love: Montblanc TimeWalker Extreme Chronograph DLC

Representing the other end of the spectrum, the TimeWalker is fast becoming a modern horological icon with an unapologetically contemporary outlook favoured by weekend warriors and corporate mavens. Come 2014, it will celebrate its 10^th anniversary, and a facelift is in order. To be exact, the TimeWalker Extreme Chronograph DLC will sport a diamond-like coating (DLC) that augments the robustness of its 43mm steel case. Unlike other types of DLC finishing, which commonly appear to have grey undertones, the colour of the tough coating here is named ‘Black 4’, which is as black as it gets. And as everyone knows, everything goes with black, so there won’t be any second-guessing what getup will match this watch. 

Driven by the automatic Calibre 4810/507 movement with a 42-hour power reserve, the TimeWalker Extreme Chronograph DLC leaves nothing to chance by adopting a technical material for its strap inlay: Black ‘Vulcarboné’ cautchouc. Essentially a composite material derived from natural rubber, it imbues the strap with exceptional strength and flexibility. To match the resilience of this inlay, the leather strap lining has undergone a painstaking treatment process that enhances its structural strength, making it extremely resistant to abrasion, water and even fire. In short, this is one tough cookie that can take a beating without skipping a beat.