In a move that has sent ripples through the watchmaking world, Greubel Forsey has made a bold statement by introducing its first-ever carbon creations in smaller sizes for the Geneva Watch Days (August 29 – September 2). These carbon marvels have become an integral part of the Atelier’s prestigious collections, ushering in enhanced lightness and durability for the all-new Balancier Convexe S² and the Double Balancier Convexe, now in slimmer case diameters. This exclusive release is slated to run between 2023 and 2026, offering collectors a limited window to own these exceptional timepieces.
The Balancier Convexe S², now reimagined with a more compact carbon case, takes center stage with its striking design. Greubel Forsey presents this masterpiece in two highly exclusive series, each comprising only 22 pieces. The focus here is on the technical prowess of carbon as well as the meticulous finishing that the Atelier is renowned for. With an unprecedented diameter of 41.5mm, the watch is a departure from convention, exuding a tighter and more contemporary aura. The dark tones of carbon contribute to the compact aesthetic while maintaining transparency to showcase the intricate movement, complications, and finishes within.
The journey of incorporating carbon into their creations is one that Greubel Forsey has embarked on over several years. Shaping this material into complex, architectural forms while maintaining impeccable watchmaking standards demands patience and technical mastery. The stars have aligned for this endeavor, culminating in the birth of the Balancier Convexe S² – an icon within the Atelier’s portfolio.
The transformation in design has been driven by the specific requirements of carbon. The 41.5mm diameter, purpose-built for carbon, marks a radical departure that instantly catches the eye on the wrist. The watch appears more dynamic and contemporary, attributed to this change. The carbon’s deep, dark hue accentuates the compactness of the piece, without compromising the visibility of the movement, complications, and finishes.
From a technical standpoint, the challenges were immense. Achieving a complex geometry in carbon akin to the Balancier Convexe S²’s convex case is an industry first, demanding meticulous control over temperature and pressure. Heat renders carbon more malleable for shaping, while pressure imparts its distinctive form. While a traditional case might require 2 tonnes of pressure per square centimeter, Greubel Forsey’s convex case mandates an astounding 16 tonnes – an eightfold increase in pressure.
By layering carbon sheets, each measuring between 1 and 5 microns, Greubel Forsey has attained a more densely structured carbon case, a testament to their commitment to fusing technique and aesthetics. The meticulous arrangement of carbon fibers for each case ensures a flawless profile, with emphasis on aligning the fibers with the curvature of the convex case, accentuated through hand finishing.
The distinctive convex shape graces both the case back and display side, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. The convergence of lines at 12 and 6 o’clock creates a three-dimensional geometry of unmatched complexity. This unique design choice opens up a spacious vista beneath the sapphire crystal at 6 o’clock, where the redesigned 30° Inclined Balance Wheel finds its home, ingeniously adjusted to the new proportions of the carbon case.
In true Greubel Forsey fashion, the finishing touches are where true artistry unfolds. The carbon version of the Balancier Convexe S² adheres to traditional finishes for the case, lugs, and crown. The interplay between matte and grained finishes on the bezel and lugs exudes a sophisticated yet bold demeanor, while the crown boasts a daring matte finish. Notably, the relief engraving maintains its presence on the convex case, even with carbon – precision that extends to the “GF” initials seamlessly integrated into the crown’s center.
A striking feature between 3 and 4 o’clock is the double openworked “arched” bridge. Its suspended appearance, hovering as if in thin air, is a Greubel Forsey signature. This unique element, patented in 2019, encapsulates the brand’s innovative spirit and high-level finish on titanium components, renowned for their challenging polishing demands.
The heart of this timepiece is a meticulously crafted 303-part movement, offering an impressive 72-hour chronometric power reserve. The architecture boasts three generously sized, hand-decorated bridges on the movement side, harmoniously blending with the carbon case. The twin barrels’ cover now echoes the case’s aesthetics with a black treatment, culminating in a harmonious fusion.
Greubel Forsey’s pioneering spirit and design prowess shine in the Double Balancier Convexe, now with a reduced diameter of 42.5mm. This unexpected iteration masterfully combines structural complexity with technical material, a testament to the Atelier’s bold approach. The smaller case maintains the brand’s contemporary and modern direction, catering to collectors’ preferences.
Greubel Forsey’s foray into carbon timepieces introduces a new era. The incorporation of carbon as a foundational material within the Atelier’s collections promises heightened lightness and durability, a true delight for discerning collectors. The distinct convex case benefits immensely from this transformation, embracing the wrist’s natural curve and creating a three-dimensional canvas for the movement. The nature of carbon ensures that each piece remains unique, celebrating the exclusivity of these timepieces.
Crafting the convex carbon case posed a remarkable challenge. Greubel Forsey’s innovative technique demands pressure eight times that of conventional standards – an astounding 16 tonnes applied to a convex case, far exceeding the typical 2 tonnes. This mechanical feat results in a denser carbon structure with a near-identical weight, offering collectors a tactile experience like no other. The specific technique also enables hand-executed fine watchmaking finishes, a testament to the Atelier’s identity and reputation.
The exquisite finishes, from satin to matte and relief engraving on the Double Balancier Convexe, complement the inherent beauty of carbon fibers, carefully aligned with the converging lines on the convex case. This mastery of carbon material, ranging from flexible to solid, with fiber thickness between 1 and 5 microns, showcases Greubel Forsey’s commitment to excellence. The watch’s modern vibe, perfectly aligned with the brand’s DNA, finds harmony in the 42.5mm diameter of the Double Balancier Convexe.
Greubel Forsey proudly presents these carbon timepieces in two captivating versions, each exuding distinctive character. The first flaunts an iridescent green finish, with rich blue hues adorning the main bridge, power reserve display, mainplate, and hour ring. The rubber strap complements this palette, creating a refreshing aura and reinforcing the brand’s contemporary ethos.
The second iteration embraces an elegant simplicity, accentuating the black tones of carbon. The carbon fiber weave creates a harmonious and undeniably contemporary aesthetic. Notably, the meticulously hand-finished movement takes center stage, characterized by mirror polishing, sharp angles, and luminescent-tipped hands. In both versions, the Double Balancier’s caliber emanates technical brilliance and precision.
The Double Balancier Convexe stands as a unique embodiment of the sixth Fundamental Invention, an evolution of a concept that has continually evolved. The initial patent for its prototype mechanism was secured in 2007, marking the beginning of a journey. Subsequent versions refined the invention, culminating in the current arrangement – two balance wheels set side by side at a 30° incline, connected by a constant spherical differential. This design, visible between 6 and 7 o’clock, reduces error margins and aligns with Greubel Forsey’s commitment to precision and reliability.
In an unprecedented stride, Greubel Forsey presents the Double Balancier Convexe in a compact 42.5mm diameter, available in limited editions of 22 pieces each. The first release is set for August 2023, offering connoisseurs a unique opportunity to embrace this groundbreaking amalgamation of innovation, design, and technical excellence.
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