Laurent Ferrier Galet Secret

Le Galet Secret,

True Art Is All About Concealing The Artistry

After Grand Feu enamelling, it is now time for precious stones… Heralded as the “custom-made” watch, the Galet Secret lends itself ideally to all kinds of decorative art. In this case, the baguette-cut diamonds are mysteriously arranged in arches, like a brilliantly sparkling theatre stage. Thanks to the FBN 916.02 movement equipped with a double balance-spring tourbillon movement, the overall effect represents an harmonious alliance between Haute Joaillerie and Haute Horlogerie.

The art of invisible setting

This one-of-a-kind edition of the Galet Secret offers a splendid demonstration of the skill of Laurent Ferrier, always extremely sensitive to artistic craftsmanship. At its heart beats the reliable and efficient double balance-spring tourbillon calibre, chronometer-certified by Besançon Observatory and housed within a solid white gold case. A first opaque black dial opens onto a second secret dial entirely paved with 4.06 cts of diamonds. Its gem-setting is highly complex, with mysteriously fixed diamonds that appear to hold in place as if by magic. Only their deep, intense radiance is clearly visible.

Highly demanding diamond selection, extreme precision in cutting, adjusting and individually setting each of the stones concentrically so as to entirely carpet the precious metal beneath: this stunning achievement calls for a wealth of meticulous and patient gestures. The graphic appeal is further enhanced by the 25 facets of the 154 baguette-cut diamonds. Above and beyond this geometric effect, the unique sparkle of this shimmering paving adds that little extra touch of soul that enables precious stones to compose a truly exceptional creation. 

Concealing so as to heighten admiration

As in its previous versions, the Galet Secret is equipped with its now famous dial opening and closing device. This jewellery watch is capable of remaining discreet and concealing its assets; the diamonds are unveiled only at the wearer’s wish. A clever device pivots the black dial to reveal the invisible setting. The 240° dial opening, for which a patent is pending, may be activated on demand by pressing the push-button place on the crown. Two opaque sapphire crystals instantly pivot like the unfurling of a fan to reveal the full beauty of the invisible-set secret dial. The window also opens in passing, meaning automatically. In addition, the mechanism is activated daily at a predefined time that is set during the movement assembly. Like a sunrise, it takes about 60 minutes for the shining décor to be fully revealed in all its splendour.

The Galet Secret is equipped with the famous Double Balance-Spring Tourbillon calibre entirely designed, developed and crafted within the Laurent Ferrier workshops. The double balance-spring, along with the tourbillon mechanism that compensates for the effects of gravity, ensures extremely accurate rating. Complemented by the opening mechanism, this calibre defies the laws of horological construction. Making it calls for meticulous dexterity and stringent checks. While the conception of such a high-precision mechanism is inspired by the finest examples of classical horology, its modern and efficient construction guarantees it a degree of robustness and precision worthy of the finest chronometers.

The omnipresent concern for detail

Once the décor and the “engine” are in place, comes the all important finishing. The sapphire crystal case-back reveals the refined beauty of the workmanship, thereby confirming a determination to adopt a resolutely subtle approach as evidenced through bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, interior angles, polished screw heads, etc. The finishing is performed in keeping with the finest horological traditions.

The mechanism, which may be admired through the case-back, is thus protected from daylight that tends to deteriorate the lubricants and thus the rating precision. It also ensures a certain discretion regarding the treasure harboured within this gem of a complication. The movement is hand-wound and guarantees an over 80-hour power reserve corresponding to over three days.

The solid white gold case adopts the pebble (hence its French name galet) shape of the sophisticated and understated generously sized models characteristic of 19^th century horological history, and notably pocket watches from that era. Witness its ball-shaped crown as well as the absence of the winding-stem pull-out piece spring, replaced by a lever. The model is fitted with a black alligator leather strap that perfectly moulds the curve of the wrist.

Galet Secret invisible set with baguette-cut diamonds

FBN Calibre 916.02

Technical details

Case 


·          210 Pd 18K non rhodium-plated white gold 


·          Total diameter: 42.00 mm


·          Thickness: 15.20 mm


·          Water resistance: 30 m


·          210 Pd 18K white gold crown 



·          Glareproofed sapphire crystals 


Dial and hands

·          Dial opening “on demand” and “in passing”

·          18K white gold entirely invisible-set with 154 baguette-cut diamonds (4.60 cts, of TW-IF to VVS quality)

·          “Assegai-shaped” 18K gold hour and minute hands

·          Functions and displays: central hours and minutes

·          Roman numerals painted on the sapphire crystal

Strap and buckle 


·          Black alligator leather strap with Alcantara lining

·          18K white gold folding clasp or pin buckle

Movement identity

·          Mechanical hand-wound

·          Tourbillon with double balance-spring

·          Swiss lever escapement

·          Diameter: 31.60 mm (14’’’) 


·          Thickness: 7.02 mm


·          Number of jewels: 23


·          Frequency: 28,800 vph (3 Hz)


·          Power reserve: 80 hours

·          Bridges adorned with “Côtes de Genève” 

·          Chronometer-certified by Besançon Observatory

Press Release