Master Craftsmen Create "Simple Yet High-Performance" Masterpieces

SIHH 2016 was a vibrant event, with many independent watch brands participating, each specializing in complex, high-end mechanisms. Among these, Greubel Forsey can be considered a pioneer of the independent artisan brand. The company established its position as a luxury maison with unique mechanisms like the bi-axial tourbillon and the high-speed rotating tourbillon, which are difficult for other brands to replicate.

What's particularly interesting at Greubel Forsey this year is that, in addition to the high-speed tourbillon that completes a rotation in 24 seconds, they have released two models that could be described as "beyond tourbillon." One is the "Signature 1," which pursues ultimate simplicity with a three-hand display. The other is the "Double Balancier," featuring two balance wheels and a constant-force mechanism.

Both can be considered timepieces that establish a new frontier for Greubel Forsey.

The "Signature 1": Aiming for Even Higher Quality

The most surprising new release this year is the "Signature 1." Greubel Forsey is typically associated with complex mechanisms, but the direction of this new model is the complete opposite. It is a simple three-hand watch, lacking special mechanisms or complex structures for maintaining accuracy.

Their endeavor this time was not to pursue "complexity," but rather "simplicity" combined with delicate, top-level quality. The development and assembly of this new model were handled by the highly skilled watchmaker Didier Cretin. He has been with Greubel Forsey since its inception and is highly regarded by the two founders for his expertise, not only in assembly and adjustment but also in the design of complex mechanisms.

The concept of this model is "the best performance with a simple mechanism." This concept is brilliantly realized through the skill of the watchmaker who created it.

The case material is planned to be available in three types: 18K white gold, 18K red gold, and platinum (11 pieces each, for a total of 33 pieces). It is also planned to produce 33 pieces in a stainless steel case. We look forward to that as well.

Page02.Dual Balance Wheels and Constant Force in Harmony

Dual Balance Wheels and Constant Force in Harmony

The "tourbillon" is a mechanism developed to counteract the negative effects of gravity on accuracy. However, there are other methods besides the "tourbillon" to maintain precision. One such method is to equip the watch with multiple balance wheels and balance springs, not just one. If a watch has mechanisms to regulate the regular movement, which is the key to accuracy, gravity's influence can be dispersed, reducing its negative impact on precision.

This "Double Balancier" is equipped with two sets of balance wheels and balance springs, which are the core mechanisms. Normally, there is only one set, but in the "Double Balancier," power is transmitted to the heart of the watch from two directions. Furthermore, these balance wheels and balance springs are mounted at a 30-degree inclination. Years of research have shown that mounting them at an angle, rather than horizontally, further disperses the effects of gravity. The movement itself is also housed at an angle within the case, aiming for a similar effect.

This watch features another mechanism for maintaining accuracy: the structure located between the two balance wheels. This component is responsible for regulating the motion of the escapement in a consistent manner. Simultaneously, it supplies power to the two balance wheels and balance springs. If it merely transmitted power, the kinetic energy of the mechanism would decrease as the mainspring weakens, negatively impacting accuracy. Therefore, a differential gear and an additional mainspring are incorporated here to temporarily store energy before transmitting it to the balance wheels and balance springs. This temporary energy storage ensures a constant force is delivered to the escapement, resulting in stable accuracy.

Thus, this groundbreaking movement, which combines two mechanisms through new technological development, further elevates the quality of Greubel Forsey.

Double Balancier
Case | 18K white gold case
Diameter | 43mm
Thickness | 11.38mm
Movement | Manual winding (Cal.GF04)
Functions | Dual balance wheels and balance springs, constant differential mechanism to maintain mainspring torque, power reserve indicator
Strap | Alligator
Water Resistance | 3 bar
Limited Edition | 33 pieces
Release Date | May 2016
Estimated Price | 350,000 Swiss Francs (excluding tax)

Page03.The High-Speed Rotating Tourbillon Impresses Again This Year

The High-Speed Rotating Tourbillon Impresses Again This Year

While we have introduced mechanisms other than the tourbillon, the tourbillon itself is, of course, still present. The new release for 2016, following last year's presentation, is the "Tourbillon 24 Secondes Vision."

A conventional tourbillon completes one rotation of the carriage housing the escapement in one minute. However, this tourbillon performs an ultra-high-speed rotation, completing one revolution in just 24 seconds.

From the perspective of accuracy, the enemy of a wristwatch's precision is gravity. A watch maintains its accuracy thanks to the regular movement of its mainspring. However, this is compromised as the watch tilts in various positions. The tourbillon and the bi-axial tourbillon were devised to overcome this issue.

In this 24-second tourbillon, the carriage is positioned at the 3 o'clock position, and the watch is see-through on both the front and back. The movement of the carriage can be fully appreciated from either side.

This year, a new variation has been added to this collection: a red gold case with a black dial. This is a very sharp and luxurious combination, enriching the collection's lineup.