Simon Brette Chronomètre Artisan Independent Watch

Key Points from the Discussion

• The Chronomètre Artisan offers exceptional value at 50,000 CHF, especially when compared to a gold Patek Calatrava, which can cost nearly 30,000 CHF for a time-only, manual-wind, no-date model. The intricate movement, large balance wheel, slow beat rate, and mixed-media dial contribute to its perceived value.
• While the overall package, including finishing, colors, and fonts, is highly praised, some contributors expressed a desire for more legible hands. The dial's intricate pattern, though artistic, could benefit from a material like tantalum to tone down its 'drama' for some tastes.
• The dial's 'mannered' or 'busy' aesthetic is a point of contention; some collectors, like sham1 and MiguelFlash, prefer simpler, more legible dials and found the etched brass design to be a potential drawback, impacting legibility.
• The initial allure of the Simon Brette piece was strong enough for some to consider ordering, but prolonged viewing led to a decrease in its appeal, highlighting the subjective and evolving nature of aesthetic appreciation in high horology.
• The movement's design, particularly the concave wheels and polished titanium bridge, received significant admiration for its artistry and interesting details.
• A question was raised regarding a button on the left side of the case, indicating curiosity about its function and design integration.