Greubel Forsey Double Balancier 35° Hands-On

Mark in Paris · 2013-12-12T06:27:27Z

Explore the Greubel Forsey Double Balancier 35° with Mark in Paris. Discover its unique angled balance wheels, exceptional finishing, and the brand's innovative approach to haute horlogerie.

Mark in Paris

WPS member · Independents forum

11 replies2691 views12 photos

Mark in Paris shares his hands-on experience with the Greubel Forsey Double Balancier 35°, a limited edition timepiece that challenges conventional notions of haute horlogerie. His initial skepticism about multiple tourbillons gives way to profound appreciation for the brand's technical innovation and unparalleled finishing. This post offers a collector's deep dive into what makes Greubel Forsey stand out in the ultra-luxury segment.

Hi everyone,

With the Parisian salon that stood at the end of November, I could see most of their beauties but especially try the new 6 pieces LE, Double Balancier 35°.

It's a stunning piece. One of their watch that suits best to my wrist.

First, let me say that their watches maybe the best of all, from my own tastes of course: it has a wonderful finish and the technical performance too.

When I first heard about the brand a few years ago, I thought double or quadruple tourbillons were too much. I thought, even if it was a performance, that it was an arm race. Putting more tourbillon just to say "our watch have more". What was the point?

But, as I learned about their products and especially the technical research and developement they made, the intent was really something else: try to make a different interpretation of the tourbillon we are used to seeing in many brands nowadays.

I think they achieved this goal in a very powerful way.

As for the finish, when we compare 2 watches, the difference is never that important. When we think a watch is better finished than another, it is not from 5 to 10, but usually from a 5 to a 6 or a 7 or maybe, at most, an 8.

Here, when you have one of their watches in your hand you really see there is a world between for instance an ALS or a Patek and a GF.

Maybe the type of decoration (more polished surfaces, more room in the watch) is different and make this finishing look better than it is.

Anyway, these are, from far, the best in their field imho (I imagine this can explain a part of the price they ask).

My only concern would be, if I decide to purchase a GF, wouldn't I want to have at least the 24seconds tourbillon for the same price? I guess I would.

Here are the pics:

It is not so big on the wrist (the watch is more than 2mm thinner than the others)

The 2 angled balance wheels

THe sand blast finish is fantastic

- I could also see the 2 balance wheels "Binome".

They work together with a different angle but under the same bridge (not yet used in a watch, except prototypes) :

Here is a little video and a picture of the movement+prototype watch:

Cheers, Mark This message has been edited by Mark in Paris on 2013-12-12 06:38:22

Key Points from the Discussion

Initial skepticism about multiple tourbillons as an 'arms race' was overcome by understanding Greubel Forsey's true intent: to offer a different interpretation of the tourbillon through extensive technical research and development.
Greubel Forsey's finishing is perceived as significantly superior to other high-end brands like A. Lange & Söhne or Patek Philippe, possibly due to a different style of decoration with more polished surfaces and open space.
Experiencing Greubel Forsey pieces firsthand, especially with a personal introduction from Stephen Forsey, deeply impresses collectors with the watches and the philosophy behind the brand.
The high price point of Greubel Forsey watches, while justified by their craftsmanship, makes ownership a distant dream for many collectors due to other hobbies and financial considerations.
The current watch market, with its emphasis on marketing and frequent novelties, can diminish the 'magic' for seasoned collectors, making it harder to find truly satisfying pieces.
Learning more about watches and the industry makes collectors more discerning and demanding, which is part of the journey and enjoyment of the hobby.

The Discussion

small-luxury-world

Dec 12, 2013

Mark, I had the same thoughts like you - double ... quadruple tourbillon ... . But then I was asked to handle some pieces, to examine them with a good loupe, to try them on my wrist and on top I got a personal introduction by Stephen Forsey - lot´s of background information. I was seriously impressed and not only by the watches I saw, also by the people behind and their approach. Maybe one day ... with lot´s of luck ... I guess you know what I have in mind :-) Thanks for sharing! Oliver

Mark in Paris

Dec 13, 2013

Hey Oliver, The only one who comes and visit my AHCI posts :p I didn't have the chance to talk with him but viewed some YouTube videos from him and it seems to be a very clear and patient man. Holding some of their timepieces is trully a great moment and I'm glad we had the same feeling there. As you said, maybe one day ! Thanks for the thoughts ;) Cheers, Mark

dedestexhes

Dec 13, 2013

to thank you for this post! I've seen the watches but never had them on my wrist. Well what to say, I think they are wonderfull. I'm with you concerning your analysis. But realistically, I never will own one due to the pricepoint (and other hobbies ;-)) Thx again for sharing. Best regards, Dirk

bernard cheong

Dec 13, 2013

It is very beautiful. I can only say...look at the vertical winch tourbillon from Cabestan as well. Or..buy both. These are GIANTS of watch making to me.

Mark in Paris

Dec 14, 2013

Yes we are some to be amazed by what they do. Even ifcan't afford them! (boats are quite a budget ;) ) Thanks for chiming in ;) Cheers, Mark

small-luxury-world

Dec 14, 2013

and "Bond style" cars ... :-)

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