Commemorating its 10th anniversary this year, Greubel Forsey presented just a few novelties at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie SIHH 2015 in Geneva. One of those novelties that received a lot of attention —in addition to his project in collaboration with Philippe Dufour called ‘Naissance d’une Montre’— at the SIHH 2015 was the new Greubel Forsey Tourbillon 24 Secondes Vision. The rationale behind the creation of this new replica watch was to present their third invention in a case that is as slender as possible and yet able to accommodate the inclined tourbillon cage. It was the lateral projections of their asymmetrical models that gave them the idea for an original solution. By incorporating a dome —with a slightly flattened top for ergonomics and wearing comfort— into the sapphire crystal on the back of the timepiece, they created enough extra volume to allow the tourbillon cage to overlap the reference surface of the rear bridges. The dome is a new and intriguing element that directs attention to the lower bridge of the tourbillon. The tourbillon cage composed of 86 parts and with a mere cage weight of 0.38 grams is inclined at a 25 degree angle and performs a full rotation every 24 seconds.
This bridge is more than just a supporting element, it is a triumph of technology and craftsmanship. Its geometry is similar to a Roman vault and its surface is gently polished by hand. Obtaining a perfectly straight reflection over the whole piece requires such expertise and experience that each bridge finished in this way is signed by the craftsman-decorator who executed it.
Apart from the exceptional standard of decoration that naturally applies to all 288 parts in the movement, the play of colors and finishes creates a spectacular visual dynamic, with pride of place given to the sectorial 72-hour power-reserve indicator. This new creation is also distinguished by its elegant, neoclassical simplicity. The overall aesthetic is extremely refined, paying homage to the standard of creation and the finesse of each component.
Particular care has been given to the design of the hands that indicate the time immediately and precisely. They have been lightened to the maximum degree and their form, in the shape of a lance, leads the eye straight to the indications that are first engraved and then “oven-firing” enamelled into the solid gold of the dial. The fast-rotating Tourbillon 24 Secondes Vision is also an integral part of the graphic composition of the entire piece. Set inside a light well, it creates an animated scene that is an irresistible invitation to explore the back of the timepiece.
Fitted with a 18K white gold case measuring 43.50 mm in diameter and 16.025 mm of thickness —including the protruding sapphire crystal dome—, Greubel Forsey wanted to present a replica watch that was more classic in appearance and at the same time easier to wear. Water-resistant to 30 meters, the replica watch features a crown in white gold with GF black lacquered logo. The superb looking dial pays homage to the classic dials made of gold and silvered with enamel hour markers and applied GF logo at 12 o’clock.
To round out the classic and elegant look of this new Greubel Forsey Tourbillon 24 Secondes Vision powered by the Greubel Forsey calibre GF01r with a 72 hour power reserve and 41 jewels, the replica watch comes on a hand-sewn black alligator strap with 18K white gold pin buckle. On the wrist, the replica watch wears slightly funky because of the domed crystal on the back but with ultimate wrist presence. This new replica watch is available in a unique edition of only 22 pieces.
Sticker Price $300,000-350,000 USD approximately. For more info on Greubel Forsey click here.
