Signature 1 Watch Reference Guide

Fastwong · 2024-07-27T03:40:55Z

Explore the Greubel Forsey Signature 1 (S1) with Fastwong's expert insights. Uncover production secrets, unique customizations, and the finishing artistry that defines this independent horological masterpiece. A must-read for collectors.

Fastwong

WPS member · Independents forum

20 replies3959 views6 photos

Fastwong, a respected voice in the WatchProSite community, offers an exclusive deep dive into the Greubel Forsey Signature 1 (S1). His meticulous research uncovers 'off the beaten path' details, providing invaluable context for both seasoned collectors and those new to this independent horological masterpiece. Fastwong's insights illuminate the S1's unique production nuances and customization possibilities, enriching our understanding beyond standard reviews.

Super exciting to see Mrds' S1 join the WPS community! For anyone not familiar with the watch, there's plenty to be googled but I wanted to share some random details off the beaten path I found in my research when I was thinking about the watch.

Quill and Pad has an really good article with really poor SEO here which is a great read on the origin story of the watch

Apparently Ben Clymer was a previous owner of a steel S1 with a black dial and he compared it favorably with the Simplicity on a Hodinkee episode

Didier Cretin was given credit for cutting most (all?) the gears on the S1 watches and doing the stripes in a random interview with Stephen Forsey. It was important that he not only play a big role in the design but the production as well in the theme of preserving the traditional arts. The S1 is the only example of geneva stripes appearing on a Greubel so it's fitting that with Didier and his connection to Dufour these were done in the Dufour style and execution - pic of the striped bridge plans at Dufour's workshop courtesy of BjoernM21:

While all the reviews show specific colorways, we don't actually know the full range of watches that were made since a number of customizations were requested and delivered by GF including:

And Garyglick's:

Finally, even though only 66 were said to be produced across the different metals and all the customized pieced above seem part of their specific runs, at least one piece unique exists and I assume there are probably a few more out there to be found:

This message has been edited by patrick_y on 2024-07-27 04:22:29

Key Points from the Discussion

The finishing philosophies of watches like the S1 versus more contemporary pieces like the Rexhep Rexhepi Chronomètre Contemporain II (RRCCII) represent different approaches to horological artistry. The S1's execution involves minute, esoteric details appreciated by a 'total nerd,' while the RRCCII's large bevels and extensive polish offer more immediate, accessible enjoyment, potentially signaling a shift in watchmaking appreciation.
While acknowledging the high level of finishing across various independent brands, some collectors find the case designs of certain contemporary makers, like Akrivia/Rexhep Rexhepi, to be 'too fat.' Greubel Forsey, in contrast, offers a broader design range, from the classic and accessible S1 to newer sports watches, though the latter are often considered overpriced at retail.
The revelation that Didier Cretin was instrumental in cutting gears and applying the Côtes de Genève finishing on the S1, in the distinct Dufour style, adds a significant layer to the watch's provenance and craftsmanship. This detail highlights the deep connection to traditional watchmaking arts and the collaborative spirit behind independent horology.
The existence of numerous customized and 'piece unique' Greubel Forsey Signature 1 watches, beyond the stated production of 66 pieces, underscores the brand's willingness to cater to individual collector preferences and the unique nature of each S1 created.
The sapphire-cased Signature 1 is particularly stunning, though personal preference often leans towards the original design elements, such as the hands, even when appreciating unique customizations.
The Greubel Forsey Signature 1 (S1) is often considered a more 'classic' and 'accessible' entry point into the brand's offerings compared to their more complex or newer sports watches, which are sometimes perceived as overpriced.

The Discussion

Cozmopak

Jul 27, 2024

I love how Greubel does sapphire watches

mrds

Jul 27, 2024

I didn’t know about Didier actually executing the gears and Côtes de Genève finishing. And the special pieces are super cool. While the sapphire one is a real stunner, I‘d be happiest with pic 1, although I‘d prefer the original hands.

Jul 27, 2024

I really liked reading your handful of deep posts on GF over the last few years. Hoping to pick one up one day.

gary_g

Jul 27, 2024

I’ve never seen so many GFs in one collection.

Fastwong

Jul 27, 2024

He was talking about the S1, Simplicity, Simon Brette, and his new RRCCII and I think he made a great point which is that the level of finishing on all these kinds of watches are super high but still very different. For something like the S1 the execution is done in such minute and esoteric ways that it's hard to appreciate without being a total nerd vs the RRCCII with its huge bevels and miles of polish which is more obvious, accessible for anyone / everyone to enjoy... and maybe the RR way is

Jul 27, 2024

I don’t like RR/akrivia cases personally, they look too fat. Not huge on his non skeletonized work either. IMO Gruebel has a nice range of designs. S1 for more classic/accessible. Then the newer sports watches are very beautiful too but kinda overpriced. Maybe once those hit used they’ll be more compelling. Personally still torn between an s1 and a logical1 as my next watch.

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