Independents
small-luxury-world provides an exclusive look at Stepan Sarpaneva's creations from Baselworld 2013, highlighting the independent watchmaker's distinctive style and early limited editions. This post offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of Sarpaneva's unique aesthetic, which continues to captivate collectors with its unconventional charm. Readers gain insight into the brand's foundational pieces and the artistic vision that defines Sarpaneva's niche in haute horlogerie.
“The Oddball World of …”
Is there a better way to introduce that gentleman? The
picture above shows the first page and a quote from his latest “brochure”. So
far, nothing to add 
Before we come to the watches on display at Basel 2013, I would like to show you something else.
Some early examples from Stepan Sarpaneva and at least the first two have been new to me. First one is the SALPA from 2000 (LE of 25), second one is the OIVA from 2003 (LE of 35), third and fourth watches are the LOISTE from 2003 as well (LE of 40). The latter (far right) showed the moon twice on the dial, for the first time on a Sarpaneva watch.
Each time I see a new watch from him it is far from being boring. Maybe they are not for everybody, but that is probably part of his success in the industry. He is a star in his own niche and therefore we love him and his watches, don´t we?
Woodoo
A piece unique based on the KORONA MOONSHINE, but with additional glamour.
Conclusion: Uncommon for sure, but I am not sure if I ever met the right person for that watch before ;-)
KORONA K3 NORTHERN STARS
Introduced in 2011 (LE of 10 pieces of each dial and case combination), but still nice to look at – from the front and the back.
The only thing simple is the buckle …
… and I like it for that.
Conclusion : An outstanding watch with lots of spice.
K1 VARIO
With a diameter of 42mm and a height of 9.8mm it (almost) looks thin. The blue dial version (there is another one with black dial and case) shown above shows a (surprise, surprise) deep blue dial and that is probably the essential part of that watch. I am not a big fan of the “new” flat bezel and if I want something “slim” Sarpaneva wouldn´t be my first choice. But that´s probably only me (and my odd taste), because Stepan got very good reactions on that watch. The movement comes again from Soprod and of course there is a moon on the back. No picture, sorry.
KORONA KO (from 2012)
Once more a good sense of humor (engraving on the back) and a simple but nice buckle.
The watch? Don´t tell me you haven´t seen it so far.
A very cool watch and even better on the wrist. It shows lots of nice details and functionalities for a sports watch, e.g. 300m water-resistant.
Conclusion : If I would be in the market for a
(additional) sports/diver watch, this would probably be my first choice.
Nothing more to add
Stop, stop there is more … the special edition KORONA KO WUOKSI:
As you can see it features a moon phase, peering menacingly through the skeletonized dial.
To be honest, I was not convinced about the moon phase in such a watch. Even Stepan´s comprehensible explanation about it didn´t help. Until I tried the watch on my wrist, I didn´t get it:
The dark case together with the blue (let´s call it) details are just beautiful on the wrist and the moon phase is just the additional spice.
Conclusion : If you look for something sporty with additional spice, something reliable, something really special, something you don´t see everywhere you definitely should have a look on this one. Once more, put it on your wrist before you judge!
“The
Oddball World of …” - When you ever met Stepan in person, odd is probably
not the word which comes to your mind. He is a great guy and one with lots of
passion for the topic of watches in general and his own projects in specific.
Looking forward to our next meeting
Oliver
De Bethune DB25 Reference DB25
The DB25 represents De Bethune's entry in the 44.5mm manual-wind category, distinguished by its silver dial configuration within the DB25 series. This reference launched in 2006 and continues the brand's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie complications.
The 44.5mm case is crafted from 18k white gold with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. Water resistance extends to 30 meters. The manual-winding caliber DB2105 movement provides a substantial 120-hour power reserve. The watch features a leather strap attachment.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking De Bethune's technical approach to timekeeping in a precious metal case. The extended power reserve and manual-wind operation position it for enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on interaction with their timepieces. The 44.5mm sizing places it in contemporary proportions within the independent watchmaking segment.
but it is not. The entire case is made from two blocks of ESR steel and has a uniquely contoured back that is ideal for a smaller wrist. It is so extraordinary well finished that one could easily mistake this metal for platinum. Yes, one of these is mine - thanks to Stepan! amerix
Was not what came to my mind. Bold, promising ... comes closer :-) Lucky you! Oliver
Oliver, Thanks for the report. Seeing the grey mouse watch - Salpa, I searched back to past interviews and articles as a comparison: Sarpaneva – An introduction to the Man and his Watches amp;fi=17&ti=485576&s=0 Sarpaneva: Finland, Family and Design Sarpaneva – the Man – Update v2 amp;fi=17&pi=2924401&ti=487211&msid=&s= Regards, MTF Loiste
I have one and it is the King of my Collection. amerix
Amerix, Thanks for confirming that someone has that watch. Until now, I thought it a mythical piece..... Regards, MTF
beside Stepan's and the one that I can now call my own. Let's hope that all the others have survived! Each piece is unique. amerix This message has been edited by amerix on 2013-08-17 11:18:13 This message has been edited by amerix on 2013-08-17 11:29:55 This message has been edited by amerix on 2013-08-17 11:33:10
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