I became interested in watches at an early age. Movies, tv shows, social media and magazines all contributed to my obsession with timepieces. However, as I began learning more about watches and horology, my tastes changed, my focus shifted and my appreciation for fine craftsmanship grew even stronger. As a result, I grew deeply affectionate over German watchmaking. The more brands I discovered, the more I started to appreciate the defining style of this mastery. Today, I decided to give my review on one specific German watch brand – Tufina Watches.
Tufina Pionier Miami | GM-506-3 | Gold – full calendar automatic watch for men.
Overview
Tufina Watches owns the Theorema and Pionier brands, both luxury German watches that specialize in the production of mechanical timepieces. Owned by a family of watchmakers, this company has been a rightful actor in the German luxury market since 2004 with the release of two representative collections – Theorema and Pionier.
As with all German brands, Tufina’s watchmaking practices are deeply rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. The brand’s history goes way back to the 1800s, when the earliest record of the Tufina name is dedicated to Ismail Tufina, the watchmaker and jeweler who installed the mechanism of the Grand Tower Clock in Tirana.
Since then, the craft has been passed down in generations. Today, Tufina operates as a fully independent watch brand. Its laboratories are located in Oberhaching, Germany near Munich, while their target audience are watch collectors and enthusiasts from all over the globe. With official online shops and retail stores Tufina has made the excellence of German timekeeping accessible to everyone.
Collections
The brand has released two iconic collections, both showcasing their own defining qualities. Theorema is dedicated to sophisticated gentlemen who prefer elegant and extravagant timepieces. Theorema watches often feature skeleton dials, either fully skeletonized, openwork or open-heart compositions. Dress watches, fancy tourbillons or luxurious diamond pieces designed for special occasions and elegant attires.
On the other hand, Pionier delivers a wide range of modern and chic timepieces. Chronographs, tachymeters and full calendar watches are available in trendy and attractive designs. A careful blend of trendy and timeless elements, Pionier provides ideal business watches, urban-style accessories and fashionable statement pieces.
Materials
Tufina watches are made using high-quality materials, highly regarded in the watchmaking industry. German manufacturing calls for durability and robustness. As such, Tufina has prioritized the use of strong and resilient components that guarantee a long-lasting watch. Cases are made using high-grade stainless steel 316L. They are often gold-plated with 22 karat gold for additional shine and luster.
The bands are made of leather, often Italian, while bracelets are made of stainless steel as well. Scratch-proof sapphire coated lenses are used in every model, with a complete sapphire crystal lens available for some more expensive options. Rubies and other gemstones are used in the movements, ensuring minimal friction between the parts. Some models also feature diamond decorations.
Movements
Tufina adheres to German manufacturing standards, therefore, they assemble all the watch parts in-house and by hand, including the movements. The choice for this “old-school” approach is understood when considering the high level of precision and attention to detail which can be achieved only through hand-assembly. Tufina’s watchmakers set up every piece throughout a long and laborious process, explaining the limited production. Ultimately, they deliver high-end quality certified mechanical and automatic timepieces. They also offer a few quartz models, however, the brand’s focus remains on mechanical watches.
Complications
Tufina watches offer a variety of timepieces equipped with different features. Here is a summarized list of the complications available:
- GMT/Dual-Time.
- Tourbillon.
- Co-axial tourbillon
- Calendars: triple calendar.
- Chronographs.
- Tachymeters.
- GMT/Dual-Time.
- World timer.
- Sun and moon phase indicator.
- Power reserve indicator.
- Date complications: date window, large date.
Finish
Tufina watches are made with high-grade materials and they showcase a diverse range of finishes. From 22 GOLD PLATED IPG in 5 MICRON LAYERS to luxury stainless steel 316L Whether you appreciate the azurage sub dials of the Tirona Chronograph or the tapisserie dial of Havana, Tufina’s watchmakers execute different techniques masterfully! In their collections you’ll find superb examples of brushing, enameling, engraving, guilloche, bluing and mirror polishing. No uneven spots, awkward angles or bumps. Just a simple show of pure mastery and skill.
Price range
Tufina dedicates its work to making high-end timepieces accessible to a wider audience. They offer a wide range of models available at different price points. From mechanical watches priced at only a couple hundred dollars to $3000 tourbillons, every single Tufina watch guarantees amazing value for money. I mean, it’s rare to find this kind of quality combined with such reasonable prices. Considering all the work that is put into making these watches, I’d say every purchase is a great deal.
Best Tufina Watches – Our Top Picks
Kingston Theorema | GM-117-10 | Gold
Kingston GM-117-10, the newest addition to the Theorema line, is sure to please if you’re searching for a classy timepiece with a unique flair. This watch is built with an in-house, 35-ruby automatic movement that ensures top-notch performance. The majority of watch fans are drawn to the composition of the open heart and back. The fine mechanisms are a wonder to look at. The multi-tone blue dial of this limited edition sun and moon phase design is striking. This piece also has a date and day calendar compilation. The gold and blue bracelet complements the dial, creating a playful and trendy look. A perfect watch for the stylish man.
Barcelona Pionier | GM-516-4 | Gold
This Pionier model is sure to appeal to those who prefer statement-making gold timepieces. Barcelona GM-516-4 is meant for the extravagant gentleman. Bold Roman and Arabic numerals complement the colorful casing. This elegant watch is also incredibly dependable because it has a date calendar compilation. To further enhance the watch’s unique appearance, the top ring has a bullet screw design. With its 20 ruby internal automatic movement, Barcelona is very accurate. This watch has a real leather band made of brown leather. The use of black, brown, and gold in the color scheme produces a unique visual appeal. A perfect watch for people who expect a high-end appearance.
