Super Machines & Horological Machines - Independents Part 5

Simple classical watches are difficult to make. But if you put deft touches to the watch and finish it to a level that only grand masters can, you have a winner! That to me is the story of the Galet Classic Micro Rotor from Mr. Laurent Ferrier.

I really like the creations of Laurent just like I adore the Simplicity by Dufour as simple watches are the most difficult to make. Take a look at this masterpiece.

The white enamel dial is immaculately crafted and the level of finishing on the hands are incredible.

While we marvel at the dial side, also enjoy the movement. As with all Grand Masters, the level of finishing is unbelievable.

Also on display is the Galet Traveller which is a two time zone watch. The window at the Nine O'Clock position indicates the home time and the two buttons on the left side of the case allows the user to adjust time forwards or backwards.

And I was fortunate enough to be able to photograph this piece - the Galet Secret with a dragon motif on a Meissen porcelain dial.

Originally, the dial is looks like a dark grey sunburst guilloché dial but when the button is depressed, the "dial" fans out to reveal the intricately painted porcelain dial. But what is even more incredible is the watch is set to "fan" out to reveal the porcelain dial every day at a pre-determined time. For one hour, the owner will watch the "curtain" fan out revealing the dial. The time at which the fan reveals is done in the factory prior to delivery. This is an incredible invention that only a creative master can think of.

And you thought that this is the only complication, the back reveals a tourbillon. A well finished masterpiece.

And this is the man himself…

I am lucky that I was able to handle such a wide range of Mr. Ferrier's masterpieces. Just wish I could own one some day.

Super Machines & Horological Machines - Independents Part 1

Hurry down to Paragon Shopping and view the Super Machines and Horological Heroes exhibition. What is on display is definitely worth a trip.

The exhibition started on 18th Sept and is slated to close on 30th Sept. So hurry down for this once in a lifetime chance to view all the iconic pieces on display.

On top of the brands, what really attracted me was the Independent booth - a collection of Grand Masters works of art - Philippe Dufour, Kari Voutilainen, Vianny Halter, Roger Smith and Laurent Ferrier. Each showcasing their prized pieces - you probably won't be able to get all the watches together in the same place any time soon.

The day started with the grand masters meeting in More Passion for press sessions.

And while they were at it, we got a chance to photograph some of the watches. On hand from Mr. Philippe Dufour are the Simplicity, Duality and the Grande Sonnerie. Featured here is one of his pride and joy - the Grande Sonnerie. Beautifully made and finished and great presence.

A great work of art in itself. Although I have not had the pleasure of hearing the Grande Sonnerie, those who have tells me it sounds acoustically grand.

And the back of the watch showcasing the movement and the hand finished movement. All bridges are hand finished to the highest standards. Philippe said that all parts of the bridges are hand finished regardless whether they can be seen or not. So much for attention to details.

And the Simplicity. No need to say more...

And the movement. Only 200 will be made and they have all been accounted for - the last only being delivered this year (I think). Marvel at the rounded finishing of the movement - can only be done by hand.

And this is the man himself…

And the next day, we went to Rangoon Road for Bak Kut Teh. The man knows what he wants! Stay tuned for more report on the other Grand Masters! Many thanks to the Hour Glass for a wonderful experience and for the arrangements.