Some color combinations naturally suit certain watch styles.
For example, blue and red 'Pepsi' for GMT, classic black and white for Flieger, or the pairing of blue hands on a porcelain-white dial for traditional wristwatches. There are many such examples. Some are dictated by practicality, others by color theory and emotional perception.
The combination of gold and deep burgundy in the new Farer World Timer Thorne Gold evokes a luxurious lifestyle. This model perfectly fits the concept of world time watches. In 2026, digital technology better ensures global synchronization, but mechanical watches offer a unique feeling. Setting the time with the crown allows you to feel the passage of time worldwide.
History and Features of the Thorne Gold Model
Two years ago, I reviewed the updated Farer World Timer collection, which included models Foxe (green), Roché (blue), and predominantly white Markham. At that time, Foxe seemed the most restrained option. The dial color has been retained in the new versions that have been added to the collection. The deep green Foxe now sits alongside the burgundy Thorne, available in a stainless steel case or with a gold PVD coating. Both versions look more attractive thanks to the warm color scheme.
The Thorne model is named after Robert Thorne, one of the first English explorers of North America, who had trade ties with Portugal. Apart from the color, Farer did not make drastic changes to the dial design. The guilloché pattern is moderately expressed, and the outlines of continents on the rotating central disc are in a light tone, not distracting from functionality.
Dial Design and Legibility
Large Lumicast markers rise above the restrained background of the Thorne dial. Alternating Arabic numerals and baton indices are made of ceramic with X1 Super-LumiNova coating. They provide excellent readability both day and night, giving the model a modern accent in a classic style. The gold hour, minute, and second hands (multi-hour functionality is implemented via a disc, not an additional hand) harmonize with the warm golden tones of the case.
Impact of Gold PVD Coating on Appearance
How significantly does the gold PVD coating change the perception of the World Timer? In my opinion, considerably. Farer has always offered an elegant take on a functional, complicated model. Although PVD coating, especially gold, is not always to my taste, in this case, it elevates the watch beyond the sum of its parts. The case does not try to imitate solid gold - it resembles bronze more than yellow or rose gold. Such coating retains its appearance longer than bronze resists patina or gold remains flawless.
If the dial is a successful blend of tradition and modernity, the case continues this theme. A diameter of 39 mm (excluding crowns) and a length of 45 mm from lug to lug suit most wrists. The case has clear lines throughout the profile with recesses on the sides. The upper and lower edges of the case play with light, while the inner parts appear matte. These design solutions are not new, but in a darker case, they are more noticeable.
Movement and Functionality
Inside the Thorne Gold is a modified automatic caliber Sellita SW331-2 - an updated version of the SW330-2 GMT with an increased power reserve of 56 hours. Farer uses the Elaboré grade caliber, but the finishing corresponds to the Top Grade level, visible through the individually decorated rotor.
Unlike standard GMT mechanisms, where 24-hour time is displayed by an additional hand, the World Timer uses this mechanism to rotate the central disc with timezone markings. Setting is done via the crown at the “3 o'clock” position. The second crown at “10 o'clock” rotates the outer city ring, allowing quick determination of time in 24 world cities. Each of the 24 positions of the ring is fixed with a characteristic click.
Wearing Comfort and Strap
As mentioned earlier, the watch dimensions are comfortable for my 17.75 cm (7 inches) wrist. The model is 11 mm thick, which does not seem bulky for automatic world time watches - a thinner profile requires a specialized movement. Visually, the sculptural walls of the case reduce the perception of thickness. The watch sits comfortably on the wrist, largely thanks to the thick burgundy leather strap. A thinner strap would make the model heavy on the wrist, whereas the supplied strap perfectly matches in color and size.
Other straps with a quick-release system are available when ordering, but none fit the Thorne Gold as well. Farer also offers free engraving on the case back in the large empty space beneath the see-through movement window.
Final Impressions
Since getting acquainted with previous versions of the World Timer in 2024, little has changed. Nevertheless, the combination of a burgundy dial and gold case gives the watch a mature and cohesive look. The model seems more restrained while retaining the brand's distinctive features.
The cost of the Farer World Timer Thorne Gold is €1800 / £1575 / $1790, which is competitively priced. For purchase and additional information, visit the official Farer website.
Your Opinion on the Farer World Timer Thorne Gold
What do you think of the new model? Share your thoughts in the comments!