Cazalea offers a unique "Recliner Review" of his 1980s Gerald Genta Gefica Safari Chronograph, a bronze-cased watch reportedly designed for African safaris. He provides a candid, hands-on assessment of its design, functionality, and movement, sharing personal insights from his eight years of ownership. This review offers a rare glimpse into an obscure yet historically significant piece from a legendary designer.
Welcome to another Recliner Review, where I expose and explain an obscure watch from the comfort of my recliner chair. Today's subject is a 1980's Gerald Genta Gefica Safari, a bronze-cased watch that he reportedly designed for use on safari in Africa.
The material choice was supposed to reduce glare and reflections that might startle big game. Hmm. I think we shall leave it to Dr. Kol and other real hunters who might have an opinion, to discuss the importance of a bronze watch case to the success of a Safari. However, from my recliner "hunting blind" I can attest that the big cat in my house was not awakened by reflections from my watch.
The greatest drawback of this watch is the tiny main crown, buried in between the pushers. It's very hard to wind and set.
Once set, it self-winds admirably, and runs well enough that I've never had to adjust the time on my 2-3 day wearing stints.
You can see the characteristic Genta knobbly design in the case. A newer generation Gefica Safari (ti & bronze 46mm) also adopted these features.
Not too much patina but I've been kind to my watch since buying it about 8 years ago.
I had to replace the original strap. This isn't exactly right (I had to cut it up) but I like the color match. The original strap has tiny brass bushings in the case ends.
The butterfly style deployant buckle allows NO adjustment for mistakes (so buy two straps).
This review is taking some time so my wife kindly brought me breakfast.
Shall we look at the screw-on, stainless steel back?
It looks like a Rolex-type removal tool might fit, but I just use a rubber friction pad. Knowing I was going to do this review, I loosened the case back before heading to the recliner.
It's a Valjoux 7750 workhorse with a slightly custom rotor.
Nothing special to write about here, but nothing to cause problems on Safari either. Notice the lack of spacer ring - this case and movement were made for each other.
Ok, I cinched up the case finger-tight (no diving!!) and we can proceed to the front.
Minutes at 12, hours at 6, running seconds at 9 and day/date at 3. Textured, non-glare dial, with faint gold-paint labeling. The very very fine hairline hands are almost invisible but for the white paint (on the tip only of the chrono second hand). Royal Oak fans will recognize the hour and minute hand shape.
Overall this is a stealthy and entertaining watch that I greatly enjoy wearing - and sharing. Thanks for reading my recliner review.
Cazalea
