de Grisogono turns New Retro into Skeleton Tourbillon
Introduced in 2015 after 7 years of research and development, the New Retro by de Grisogono met with rave reviews from the press and customers. Constructed with a rectangular case worn horizontally on the wrist, the angles were softened with two curved sapphire crystals on the front and back, united by a thin gold band in the middle. Vintage green, black or creamy off-white lacquer dials complemented the “new retro” look. First presented for men, the New Retro was dressed up just a few months later with colourful precious stones and galuchat straps, to the delight of ladies looking for a mechanical self-winding watch with great looks and feminine curves.
In 2017, de Grisogono adds to the collection with the New Retro Skeleton Tourbillon, doing away with the dial and introducing an exclusive tourbillon movement. Maintaining the original New Retro case structure with curved sapphire crystal glass front and case back, and a case middle in polished 18K gold with crown at 12 o’clock, the imposing dimensions of 44 x 51 x 12.3 mm seem to disappear as we focus on the open, panoramic vision that they frame.
The movement, with a horizontal alignment of its components, appears suspended inside the case held by curved bridges that evoke the grilles of vintage cars. The black rhodium-plated and gold decorated upper and lower bridges of the tourbillon carriage feature alternating sandblasted and horizontal satin finishing and hand-polished chamfers. The tourbillon at 3 o’clock bears the de Grisogono signature. Glimpses of the spring are offered through the open-worked barrel with volute patterns. Central hour and minute hands indicate the time.
Operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, the movement: Caliber DG 31-88 has a power reserve of 72 hours. Water-resistant to 30 meters, the New Retro Skeleton Tourbillon is worn with ease and comfort, enhanced with a black alligator strap featuring large square scales and a saddle finish.
The Geneva-based fine jewellery and watchmaking House will produce a total of 25 pieces only, in versions of either 18K pink or white gold, according to demand.
Each movement will be numbered. Priced at CHF115,000 for either version, first deliveries will be made from July 2017.
