Greubel Forsey unveils its Double Balancier Convexe in a new diameter of just 42.5 mm. This new creation, in titanium, will be made as a limited edition of only 88 pieces and offers an unprecedentedly modern and architectural perspective of its Double Balancier movement and constant spherical differential.
The inaugural Double Balancier Convexe was presented in 2022 and was not then designed for a diameter of 42.5 mm. Underlining the disruptive nature of this creation, this reduction in diameter is particularly significant, taking note that the tolerances of a Greubel Forsey timepiece are adjusted to the micron. Averted collectors will fully appreciate this fact.
The smaller volume of the new 42.5 mm-diameter case houses the Double Balancier, the sixth Fundamental Invention from Greubel Forsey. Its prototype, patented in 2007, has continued to evolve ever since. It was first offered as an EWT (Experimental Watch Technology) prototype, in which the two regulating organs were superimposed and inclined at 20°. A second evolution of six pieces followed close behind, with the two regulating organs positioned on three-dimensional and inclined planes, this time at 35°. In 2016, Greubel Forsey presented the Double Balancier movement in its current form: the two balance wheels, both inclined at 30°, optimise performance, especially in stabilised positions, while the Constant Spherical Differential generates greater amplitude stability.
Preserving lines and comfort
Its new 42.5 mm diameter makes it possible to approach the Convexe case with a new configuration. Mathematically, with a smaller diameter, its curves should have been steeper. But the Greubel Forsey teams have reworked the convex profile, which is unique in the world, adapting its precise angles and proportions, rather than simple homothety. The new case has been completely redesigned to provide optimum comfort on the wrist and maintaining Greubel Forsey’s own expectations for ergonomics and excellence.
The result is an extremely comfortable timepiece with a more discreet silhouette that is resolutely harmonious. It’s an original design, eagerly awaited by collectors, and one that the Atelier took enormous care to refine to its renowned level of perfection.
New profile, new finishes
This new Double Balancier Convexe slips more easily under a fitted sleeve or can be worn casually on a bare wrist. Depending on their preference, collectors can hide or reveal the mechanics of the movement, without appearing ostentatious.
The finishing of this timepiece has been designed with this in mind. The case is made of natural titanium in a silky, luminous grey. The polished bezel features subtle satin finishes, contrasting shine and elegance through the plays of light so characteristic of the Convexe line. The lettering on the barrel cover blends seamlessly into the redesigned case while its new design creates an exclusive dynamic that evokes it rotating and simultaneously delivering 72 hours of chronometric power reserve.
The mainplate, also in titanium, is frosted – again, discerning collectors will note the ambition of this finish, titanium being a tenacious natural material and therefore by definition the most difficult on which to apply frosting. The same high standards apply to the bridge of each balance wheel, whose bevelling is also polished by hand – a particularly meticulous exercise requiring exceptional expertise, especially when the bridge in question is openworked and flat black-polished.
The inclined balance wheels are linked by the Constant Spherical Differential, visible between 6 and 7 o’clock. In 4-minute sequences, it delivers the best running average to meet the performance, precision, and reliability requirements that Greubel Forsey imposes on all its timepieces.
Available from June 2023, the 42.5 mm Double Balancier Convexe will be offered with a grey rubber strap or an integrated Greubel Forsey titanium bracelet.