A new red gold case for the Balancier Contemporain

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In 2019, #greubelforsey opened a new chapter in its history by presenting the particularly compact #balanciercontemporain, the first #greubelforsey timepiece with a diameter of 39.6mm. Embodying all the codes of #greubelforsey, exploring all three dimensions in detail without ever compromising on chronometric performance, the #balanciercontemporain is a real tour de force. Following the initial white gold version, it is now offered in a new 5N red gold case with a rich, multi-level contrasting dial.

Composed of 255 parts, all created and hand finished in the #greubelforsey spirit of fine craftsmanship, the #balanciercontemporain represents a true architectural accomplishment. The movement has been created especially to fit the specified dimensions, the challenge being not only to house the large balance wheel within a small space, but also more importantly to achieve a harmonious creation
with optimal proportions, crafted with precise attention to detail. The 5N red gold version of the #balanciercontemporain plays on the differences in levels, materials, volumes and finishes, while perfectly illustrating the world of #greubelforsey.

A #greubelforsey balance wheel for enhanced stability and performance

At 6 o’clock, the large balance wheel – developed and
built entirely within the #greubelforsey Atelier – catches the eye. Its impressive 12.6mm diameter gives it optimal performance. It is reflected against the backdrop of a black-polished gold plate, reinforcing the sense of depth to the movement. The regulating organ is equipped with a balance wheel stop function that can be activated by pulling the crown. The six gold adjustable screws have been
placed inside the felloe to allow for a very precise adjustment, thereby limiting air friction and any resulting disturbance, ultimately providing improved results, better chronometric performance and easier adjustment.

The entire world of #greubelforsey in 39.6mm

With a diameter of only 39.6 mm and a height of 12.21mm, the proportions of the #balanciercontemporain make it particularly unique, especially as #greubelforsey timepieces usually have a larger diameter. The red gold case is enhanced by threedimensional variable geometry-shaped lugs that create subtle and elegant curves. These unique proportions are accentuated by contrasting finishes:
a fully polished bezel and lugs, with a satin-brushed caseband and caseback. Above the bezel, the high-domed sapphire crystal adds further depth to the movement.

An architectural voyage

The #balanciercontemporain takes us on an architectural voyage several stories high. The journey begins with a black polished gold plate where the balance wheel takes pride of place at 6 o’clock.
Higher up, a frosted and bevelled bridge reveals the barrel drum with #greubelforsey engraving. At 8:30, the small seconds hand moves on a slightly higher level. Higher up still, a delicate hand-frosted bridge displays the 72-hour power reserve, which is brought to life by a slender blued steel hand. Further east, at 2 o’clock, the contrasting colours accentuate the temporal indications, and the off-centre position of the hour/minute dial is accentuated by the anthracite finish of the minute circle. Positioned on a raised tripod bridge, the hours and minutes are displayed by two blued steel hands with a hand-polished flat surface and countersinks. The voyage ends with an opening in the dial that allows a glimpse of the large balance wheel, with its bevelled and black-polished bridge.

A work of art hidden from view

The caseback of this timepiece reveals a true work of art created with all the mastery of traditional artisanal hand finishing of #greubelforsey timepieces. A circular engraved red gold disc is displayed in the centre, surrounded by a white gold bridge, which features the Atelier’s key values written in engraved and black-polished letters, along with the characteristic olive-domed jewels set in gold chatons.
The #balanciercontemporain in 5N red gold takes us on a fascinating architectural journey, where threedimensionality is explored on every level. The unique architecture is showcased through the greatest attention to detail and expert hand finishing. With its unique proportions, the #balanciercontemporain is a culmination of expertise encapsulating the whole #greubelforsey universe.