Independents

This watch represents everything I value in watchmaking and in human relations.It all began when I decided to move away from the mass produced and meaningless to something with actual human value. The overwhelming majority of watches sold today come with a heavy dose of hype and story telling that is, to put it mildly, exaggerated.

It is hard to find a watchmaker today that is as transparent as they are creative in their creations. A brand that doesn't replicate but reinvents and refines for the advancement of the art of timekeeping all the while respecting tradition and adhering to the most noble forms of finishing.

I first saw the Micro-Rotor in person in 2018, it blew me away with the sheer beauty and depth encapsulated within.When the opportunity to obtain one from the man himself presented itself I didn’t hesitate for a second, but the question was how to make it personal enough to reflect my identity and preferences. 

Knowing my love for enamel and traditional crafts, Romain suggested we enamel the baseplate -a labour intensive process executed by his most talented wife, Ana. 

As this is something that has never been done before at the Manufacture, it was an exciting opportunity and a learning curve. Nailing the exact shade and tone of blue is not exactly easy but I am grateful to see what I had in mind materializing into a piece of craft that encapsulates the soul of its creator and my own personal taste. After the enamel was “cooked” and black polished, it was hand frosted to give it this unique matte and dusty look. As for the dial, I initially went with the traditional white enamel but later switched to a hand frosted 18k white gold which imo complements the hand frosted movement and overall aesthetics.

The choice of Eastern Arabic numerals is a cultural one. I know at times it’s a popular choice for some but to me it represents the connection I have with my roots and a source of pride.

This level of close and personal experience is something I have always desired and I feel extremely grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to do.