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As any watch enthusiast will only too willingly inform you, the movement of a high-end timepiece represents the very pinnacle of precision engineering, with each one painstakingly crafted from hundreds of disparate pieces to produce something that is far greater than the sum of its many parts. For much of horological history, however, these mechanical wonders have been secreted away, stashed beneath the dazzling dials designed to ensure that the true engine room is seldom glimpsed by the eyes of the uninitiated.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-47589" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches.jpg" alt="Rise of skeleton dial watches" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rise-of-skeleton-dial-watches-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Thankfully, the last few decades have gone some way towards remedying this, largely on account of the rise of the temptingly transparent skeleton dial. Here, the emphasis is on leaving the watch’s fascia wholly unadorned and see-through on one or both sides, allowing the inner workings of these high-end chronograms to be easily – and continually – observed. While many of the manifestations of this particular trend are undeniably marvellous, seven of the current crop are particularly memorable…
<figure id="attachment_47590" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47590" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47590" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Breguet's Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Squelette 5395" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Breguets-Classique-Tourbillon-Extra-Plat-Squelette-5395-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47590" class="wp-caption-text">Breguet&#8217;s Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Squelette 5395</figcaption></figure>
First up is Breguet, the innovative Swiss marque credited with creating the world’s first tourbillon, which recently unveiled the Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Squelette 5395. Here, the open-worked fascia acts to emphasise the super-slim 3mm-thick Calibre 581 movement powering its new self-winding tourbillon, one that is said to be 50 percent lighter than any of its predecessors. Housed in a fluted rose gold case, this wonderfully slim watch’s carriage weighs in at just 0.29g.
<figure id="attachment_47594" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47594" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47594" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Piaget's Emperador Coussin 1270S" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Piagets-Emperador-Coussin-1270S-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47594" class="wp-caption-text">Piaget&#8217;s Emperador Coussin 1270S</figcaption></figure>
Elegant super-slim design is also the stock in trade of Piaget, as exemplified by the wafer-thin skeletonised lines of its tourbillon-incorporating Emperador Coussin 1270S. Measuring just 5.05mm, its Calibre 1270S movement was custom-built to fit its cushion-shaped white gold case. Here, the skeleton dial reveals the inner workings of its motor and tourbillon, as well as an off-centre four o’clock hour-and-minute subdial.
<figure id="attachment_47593" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47593" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47593" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Skelet-One Red Gold" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Jaquet-Droz’s-Grande-Seconde-Skelet-One-Red-Gold-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47593" class="wp-caption-text">Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Skelet-One Red Gold</figcaption></figure>
A more minimalist translucent offering comes courtesy of Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Skelet-One Red Gold, which once again sports the brand’s classic black-on-rose-gold motif. Pride of place on its fascia goes to a smaller hour-and-minute subdial at 12 o’clock and a larger small seconds subdial at six o’clock, both of which overlap to form the brand’s iconic figure-eight emblem. Its transparent caseback, meanwhile, facilitates a fascinating view of the double barrels that house its 68-hour power reserve.
<figure id="attachment_47592" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47592" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47592" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Hublot's Spirit of Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon Blue" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Hublots-Spirit-of-Big-Bang-Tourbillon-Carbon-Blue-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47592" class="wp-caption-text">Hublot&#8217;s Spirit of Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon Blue</figcaption></figure>
Eschewing classic contours for a more athletic approach is Hublot, with this affectation made manifest in its recently-unveiled Spirit of Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon Blue. Released in a limited edition of just 100, this aggressively-styled chronogram is the marque’s first barrel-shaped model to incorporate blue occlusioned carbon fibre. With its spacious appearance belying its intricate construction, its knowing design provides an unhindered view of its debutante HUB6020 movement. The tourbillon proper, all the while, takes place of pride at six o’clock, while a five-day power reserve indicator can be found at eight o’clock.
<figure id="attachment_47595" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47595" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47595" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Skeleton X Magma by Ulysse Nardin" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Skeleton-X-Magma-by-Ulysse-Nardin-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47595" class="wp-caption-text">Skeleton X Magma by Ulysse Nardin</figcaption></figure>
Another bold carbon fibre creation is on offer from Ulysse Nardin in the unmistakable form of the Skeleton X Magma. Burnished in an eye-catching lava red, the process of combining carbon fibre with red, marbled epoxy resin is said to make each case quite unique. The skeleton dial here comes punctuated with a rectangle motif – anchored on the left and right by Roman numeral hour markers – through which its UN-371 movement is immediately discernible.
<figure id="attachment_47596" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47596" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47596" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Zenith’s Defy Inventor" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Zenith’s-Defy-Inventor-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47596" class="wp-caption-text">Zenith’s Defy Inventor</figcaption></figure>
Those of an avant-garde disposition, meanwhile, should ensure they get to properly appraise Zenith’s Defy Inventor. Housed in a titanium case that incorporates a bezel fashioned from meteorite-derived Aeronith, the world’s lightest titanium-composite, the pièce de résistance of its open-work design is undoubtedly the Zenith Oscillato. A groundbreaking single silicon component, this comprises an all-in-one balance wheel, balance spring and lever, which is said to grant the movement unprecedented precision and stability. Regrettably, just 10 pieces of this cutting-edge chronogram are destined to ever see the light of day.
<figure id="attachment_47591" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-47591" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-47591" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom.jpg" alt="Skeleton dial watches - Dual Time Resonance Sapphire by Armin Strom" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Skeleton-dial-watches-Dual-Time-Resonance-Sapphire-by-Armin-Strom-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-47591" class="wp-caption-text">Dual Time Resonance Sapphire by Armin Strom</figcaption></figure>
Arguably, superiority in the skeleton dial stakes this time around, though, must be accorded to Armin Strom, the independent Swiss maison credited with creating the world’s first-ever such watch. Intriguingly, its latest offering – the Dual Time Resonance Sapphire – features not one but two separate movements, each tethered to a different time zone, as well as the brand’s revolutionary Resonance Clutch Spring, which connects and synchronises the two mechanisms, ensuring chronographic precision is never compromised. Complete with a 24-hour indicator at six o’clock, its outsized all-sapphire-crystal case facilitates 360-degree observation of the outré movement within – a fitting evolution of the skeleton-dial wristwatch the marque pioneered more than 40 years ago.
Text: Tenzing Thondup

Bare-faced Chic: Tracking the rise of the irresistible skeleton dial

Unique luxury timepieces were displayed in Hong Kong before heading to the Only Watch Charity Auction. Elizabeth Doerr, co-founder of <a href="http://www.quillandpad.com/">Quill &amp; Pad</a>, dissects eight of the best ones.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28767 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-04-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Only Watch has become a much anticipated fixture of the high watchmaking scene. Taking place every two years, 2017 plays host to the seventh edition since Luc Pettavino called this auction to life in support of the Monegasque Association against Muscular Dystrophy (AMM), which battles the rare Duchenne strain of the disease. Pettavino’s son, Paul, who died from the condition last year at the age of 21, inspired the former to take up the charitable cause.
Collectors will find rarities here that can be had nowhere else and, better yet, all proceeds go toward research for this neuromuscular disease. Over the course of six auctions in 12 years, Pettavino has raised more than HK$235 million for the cause. For brands big and small alike, the publicity that comes along with the world tour preceding the auction makes it worth every cent to donate a specially-made, one-off watch.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28771 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-05-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Immediately following the world tour exhibiting the pieces, which hits Hong Kong 23-24 October, the auction will take place on 11 November in Geneva under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco. Here are eight highlights from the auction suiting a cross-section of tastes – each watch unique in its own right.
Patek Philippe’s Reference 5208T-010 is an obvious investor’s choice. With its chronograph, instantaneous perpetual calendar and minute repeater, it’s an extremely collectable watch that’s likely to increase in value over the years – especially as it has a titanium case, a metal rarely used at Patek Philippe.
With a high estimate of more than HK$8 million, this is the auction’s top lot, and it comes with a complimentary visit to the workshops plus a private lunch with Patek Philippe president Thierry Stern.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28772 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-06-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
If you’re looking for artistic merit, the titanium-encased Armin Strom Manual Hunt Slonem Edition for Only Watch is a perfect fusion of art and mechanical excellence. New York artist Hunt Slonem – best known for his Neo-Expressionist practice – has decorated the watch front with references to his critically-acclaimed series of rabbit paintings using a transfer process.
In addition to this watch, the winning bidder will receive a hand-signed original artwork from the artist entitled Rex – a 46cm by 31cm oil painting created using metal pigmented paint. High estimates surpass HK$150,600.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28774 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-07.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-07.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-07-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-07-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-07-120x180.jpg 120w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />
The minimalist, however, would be drawn to H. Moser &amp; Cie’s Venturer Concept Only Watch – the ideal acquisition for lovers of simple yet striking pieces (high estimate: HK$240,200).
The finely finished, manually wound movement features a funky red balance bridge and an unusual red fumé dial – subtle references to the flag of Monaco, the birthplace of this auction and the home of AMM.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28775 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-08-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Offering a taste of the rare and unique is Fabergé’s Visionnaire Chronograph, presented in a sporty black and yellow outfit called “If life gives you lemons” (DLC-treated titanium).
Expected to sell for up to HK$383,000, this is a chronograph like no other. It’s able to provide both time and chronograph measurements using only hands that extend from the centre of the dial thanks to an innovative automatic movement by Agenhor.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28777 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-09-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Sure to put a smile on your face, the Slim d’Hermès L’Heure Impatiente Only Watch Edition (high estimate: HK$448,200) incorporates the whimsy of a novel complication in the “impatient” countdown hour, but does so in masculine grey titanium. The latter aspect is surprising, considering that the French powerhouse rarely utilises the high-tech metal to house its timepieces.
The Laurent Ferrier x Urwerk Arpal One LF-UR1 (high estimate: HK$570,450) offers an opportunity to own a unique watch borne out of a collaboration between two brands with styles on opposite ends of the spectrum. This timepiece doubles the fun with its wandering hours, sand-blasted satellites and exclusive polished alloy called ARPAL+ (specifically developed for this unique watch), making it a visceral feast for the senses.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28778 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-10-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
For lovers of rare semi-precious stones, Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Off-Centered Cuprite could be just the ticket with its minimalist dial crafted in ultra-rare cuprite, an oxide mineral with a vibrant red hue that gives away its origin as a minor ore of copper.
It is combined with red gold hands and subdial outlines matching the precious metal case for an overall graceful and unique appearance. In contrast, the watch’s high-tech mechanical movement with silicon balance spring can be viewed from the back. Its high estimate comes in at HK$330,600.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28781 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-11.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-11.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-11-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-11-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0811-img-11-120x180.jpg 120w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />
Our last timepiece is a treat for fashionistas everywhere: the Chanel J12-XS (high estimate: HK$366,700). Crafted in white gold, black ceramic and onyx with baguette-cut diamonds and embroidered calfskin, it is effortlessly chic. As the cherry on top, the winning bidder will be granted passage to Chanel’s ready-to-wear fashion show in March 2018.
Haven’t found your dream watch yet? Discover all 50 timepieces at <a href="www.onlywatch.com">www.onlywatch.com</a>. Each and every piece was either specifically made for this auction, or is a one-off version of an iconic model.
Text: Elizabeth Doerr, co-founder of <a href="http://www.quillandpad.com">Quill &amp; Pad</a>
The Only Watch Charity Auction will be held on Saturday, 11 November at 2:30pm (Geneva time).&nbsp;

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