The new Galet Micro Rotor “Montre Ecole” from master watchmaker Laurent Ferrier is inspired to the first timepiece that he created in his watchmaking school years, a pocket watch characterised by lines and finish typical of the 19th century tradition.
The result is a new 40 mm three-piece bassiné case whose curved shape is emphasised by contrasting satin-brushed and polished surfaces. The appeal to tradition is evident in the straight, thin lugs as well as in the “pastille” end-piece decoration mirrored by the winding crown.
The Galet Micro Rotor “Montre Ecole” is available in red gold, white gold and stainless steel, all equipped with the 3Hz (21,600 vph) Calibre 229.01, an automatic manufacture movement equipped with micro-rotor winding system fixed between the main plate and the micro-rotor bridge, a silicon escapement with double direct impulse on the balance, and a silent block shock protection system for the micro-rotor.
The Galet Micro Rotor “Montre Ecole” in steel features a minimalist dial with a vertical satin-brushed finish in a dark silver hue where the Assegai-shaped white gold hands point to anthracite painted indexes. The small seconds dial displays a snailed finish in the centre and a sandblasted outer section.
Another nod to classicism is the finish of the main bridge, reminiscent of the “frosted” style of the great English watchmakers of the 18th century. Laurent Ferrier also chose a rougher decoration for its micro rotor movement, recalling the original materials uses in prototyping, such as brass, which offers a contrast with steel.
Further hand-finishing techniques used to decorate the movement include shot-blasting, known as microbillé, and mirror polishing for the parts in steel, including the balance cock.
It is fitted with a dark brown alligator leather strap with Alcantara lining, secured by a pin buckle or a double blade folding clasp in steel. Price is Euro 33,000 / US$ 38,000.
The gold models are fitted with Assegai hands matching the case metals and, like the steel version, features a vertical satin brushed finish in a silver hue.
On the back, the flawless decoration is the same used for the other models with a Micro Rotor movement: Côtes de Genève pattern on the bridges, circular graining on the mainplate, hand-drawn flanks, bevelled wheel spokes, polished screw heads, hand-crafted interior angles, hand polished micro-rotor bridge.
