Grönefeld Principia Automatic Salmon Dial Review

amanico · 2019-08-11T13:45:39Z

Amanico reviews the Grönefeld Principia Automatic in steel with a salmon dial, showcasing its unique movement and comfortable proportions. Discover why this independent watch stands out.

amanico

WPS member · Independents forum

55 replies8657 views4 photos

Amanico shares his detailed thoughts and captivating photographs of the Grönefeld Principia Automatic in steel with a salmon/copper dial, expressing his admiration for this particular configuration. He highlights its comfort, proportions, and the exceptional finishing of its automatic movement, which he considers a rare exception to his preference for manual winding calibers.

55 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Among all the Gronefeld Principia Automatic, this is the one, in steel, with this salmon / copper dial which is my favorite.

I am not a fan of automatic movements, as I find them, most often, less well decorated than a manual winding movement, but there are some exceptions, and this Gronefeld and the Laurent Ferrier, are some worthy exceptions.

The watch is not only uber cool, it is also top comfortable to wear, due to its proportions: 39, 5 mm big, 10, 5 mm high. The lugs are a bit macho, more than elegant, but this works very well with the rest of the watch, in my opinion.

Another detail I like, the dimension of the " small seconds ". Not too big, nor too small. They partially eat the 5 and 7 indices, but it is not shocking, to me.

And here a picture of the movement...

A last word on the strap, very well chosen, I find.

Bravo, the Gronefeld Brothers... This is one I would like to add in my collection, one day.

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'eight seconds' complication, often seen as a unique innovation rather than a gimmick, and the 'hole' in the dial are central to the watch's concept and story, particularly its connection to the Grönefeld brothers' family history with church clocks.
While the Principia is highly regarded, some believe a micro-rotor would enhance the view of the movement, as the large rotor currently obstructs some of the gorgeous finishing.
The 39.5mm case size and 10.5mm height are praised for their comfortable proportions, making the watch very wearable.
The salmon/copper dial is particularly attractive and considered a standout feature, making this specific Principia variant a favorite among collectors.
The Grönefeld Principia Automatic is considered one of the best watches available at its price point within the independent watchmaking sector.
A question was raised regarding the extent of in-house manufacturing versus outsourced components, which is a key aspect of appeal for many independent watch enthusiasts.

The Discussion

Watchonthewrist

Aug 11, 2019

Def a great watch from two amazing brothers .

This version is for sure my fav from the Principia collection although i love there other dials too . I think this watch would looks even better with a micro rotor because the big rotor takes away a bit of the view from there gorgeous movement . Still its a amazing and gorgeous watch and its def one of the best watches you can get at that price point imo

amanico

Aug 11, 2019

Yes, it would be better with a micro rotor. Agreed. Still a super pleasant watch. I am thinking hard about my first Independent watch, but this one could well be my second. [nt]

Watchonthewrist

Aug 11, 2019

Now you're making me curious about your first choice 😳 (LF???)

Please share with us 🙏🏻🤗

amanico

Aug 11, 2019

He he he... I will tell you more in a few weeks. [nt]

batholith

Aug 11, 2019

My favorite

and the one I've got on order. Can't wait! As others have said, certainly would have been interesting with a micro rotor, as well. Big fan of Laurent Ferrier, as well. Can't go wrong either way, really.

amanico

Aug 11, 2019

Thanks for your feedback and congratulations in advance. When do you get it? [nt]