Monthly Archives: February 2026

Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition: 101 Watches Celebrating Tennis History

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Three surfaces and a trilogy of watches to game, set and match

At LVMH Watch Week, Hublot was excited to unveil the Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition, a watch trilogy celebrating the peerless career achievements of Hublot Ambassador Novak Djokovic, the greatest tennis player of all time.

Novak sealed his 101st professional tournament victory in November last year, adding yet more glory to a stellar career that has seen him claim almost every record in the sport.  Among his career statistics are a record 24 Grand Slams, 1 gold medal at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 and a record 428 weeks as the world number one tennis player. He has also ended the year as world number one a record of eight times. No one else comes close.

There are three expressions of the Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition, each of which fuses material innovation, technical mastery and Hublot’s unique watchmaking approach to tell the story of Novak’s incomparable professional tennis career.

The watch comes in three colors aligned to the familiar colors of tennis’s three playing surfaces, and each variant is offered in a numbered sequence to follow Novak’s wins on each surface. Accordingly, there will be 72 pieces in blue, symbolising Novak’s hard court wins; 21 in orange for his clay court wins; and, making it the most exclusive, eight in green for his wins on grass. The 101 watches are numbered but not limited. On the occasion of any future win, Hublot will add a further watch, colored according to the tournament surface.

The colors appear most prominently in the watch’s 44mm case, which is made of a special Hublot-developed composite made from Lacoste polos and Head tennis racquets.

This high-tech, lightweight, rigid, marbled material is exclusive to Hublot and was also used in the Big Bang Unico Novak Djokovic of 2024. For this series, 12 blue polos, 4 in orange and 2 in green were needed to achieve the required volume of material, as well as 12 racquets. The result is a magical material infused with Novak’s spirit that will tell his story for eternity.

Alongside this is the case’s middle section, or container, which is formed from another advanced material called Titaplast®, the world’s strongest polymer. It has high-performance mechanical properties that are similar to titanium, can be machined to very fine tolerances, delivers an exceptional strength to weight ratio, and has a soft matte finish. It can also be colored using an anodisation process.

No strings attached

Novak’s incredible story continues in the Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition’s movement, the highly conceptual MHUB6035 Automatic Tourbillon. In place of a traditional, solid mainplate to hold the movement components in place, Hublot’s engineers conceived an eye-catching three-dimensional lattice that takes the shape of tennis racquet strings. Each “string” is just 0.55mm thick and appears to be secured into the mainplate edge by attachment points that echo those found around the inner rim of a tennis racquet. The gaps between the strings are intentionally irregular, as they would be on a tennis racquet mid- match.

But while it may appear the mainplate is a series of individually twisted and weaved strings held in place by those attachment points, it is in fact a single piece, cleverly machined in a high-tech laser-engraving process. Once it’s laser-engraved, the mainplate is then finished with a black PVD coating with a thickness of just a few microns, before Novak’s famous swooping personal “ND1” logo is printed over it in contrasting white. It’s visually mesmerising and a glorious metaphor for Novak’s uncompromising, winning mentality and his many career achievements.

That’s not where the story ends. The barrel containing the movement’s mainspring that delivers 72 hours of power reserve is topped by a steel rochet decorated to look like a tennis ball that can be seen through the underside of the latticed mainplate. To achieve this effect, Hublot’s engineers innovated another process. First, a rhodium polish is applied to two S-shaped curves that run across the wheel’s surface. Then, the surfacearound these is precision laser-engraved to create a textured look resembling that of a tennis ball. Finally, thatsurface is finished with a yellow-green lacquer to complete the tennis ball look.

Further elegant touches include the mouvement’s aluminium tourbillon cage, which has been anodized in either blue, orange or green to match the case color. At 12 o’clock, the watch’s rhodium-plated, 22-carat red gold micro-rotor is machined and laser-engraved to reveal the Hublot logo. The movement comprises a total of 293 components.

Over its latticed “string” mainplate, the watch has a thin layer of transparent sapphire crystal that serves as a palette for six applied hour markers. Like the skeletonised hour and minute hands, these are satin-finished and then coated in a three-dimensional layer of green luminescent Super-LumiNova® to ensure low-light legibility.

Next on court

Beyond these primary components, the watch continues to point to Novak’s illustrious career in tennis. The strap is made of a white leather with white stitching that is embossed so that it appears padded and patterned like the grip tape on tennis racquets. On the underside, the strap is lined with blue, orange or greenleather to match the case. This is fastened by a Velcro® loop that folds through a color-matched anodized aluminium buckle.

The six titanium screws that hold the composite bezel in place are shaped like tennis balls. This might sound like a simple aesthetic twist, but as well as creating a bespoke programme for machining these unique screws, Hublot’s engineers had to design a special S-shaped screwdriver head that could tighten the screws, a process reminiscent of one developed previously for the Big Bang’s famous H-shaped screw heads. The dial ring, crown, remaining case screws and Hublot “One-Click” quick-strap change system pushers are all in anodized aluminium. To underline the steeliness and strength Novak is famed for, the crystal used both on the front and back of the watch is chemically strengthened Gorilla Glass, a highly durable, scratch-resistant material.The watch is supplied with a second strap in white rubber with a titanium deployant clasp for use during exercise.

To complete the story, the case back is held in place by a colored aluminium ring carrying the edition number, which initially will be 1 to 72 in blue, 1 to 21 in orange and 1 to 8 in green. Further numbered pieces will be added when Novak adds another title to his career total. The case back also carries the words “Greatest of All Time”. These details are all engraved and finished in white lacquer.

Together, these elements result in a watch weighing only 56 grammes, and that has been designed to withstand the forces a watch experience when worn during play. It’s a highly inventive, memorable tribute to Hublot Ambassador Novak Djokovic, the GOAT.

“For this highly anticipated second edition with Novak, we immersed ourselves deeper into his unparalleled universe, meticulously crafting a timepiece that celebrates his historic victories and embodies the very essence of his journey. The Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition is truly more than a watch; it stands as a powerful symbol of his relentless will to win, his extraordinary brilliance, and his unmatched greatness. This special series commemorates his unbelievable record in tennis, reflecting how, like Novak himself, this creation is designed to stand the test of time. We look forward to celebrating many more victories together” stated Julien Tornare, Hublot CEO.

“Thank you to my friends at Hublot for honouring me with this symbolic watch trilogy. As a boy, I dreamed about winning grand slams; I never imagined winning 24 Grand Slams and more than 100 pro tournaments. Reaching records beyond my dreams was possible with the support of my family, my team, my fans, and everyone who has cheered for me and believed in me throughout my career. Every day is an opportunity to reach new heights, and who knows, maybe add more watches to this collection.” responded Novak Djokovic

The Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Novak Djokovic GOAT Edition is available at selected Hublot points of sale.

REFERENCE
Blue: 429.QKB.0120.NR.DJO26
Orange: 429.QKO.0120.NR.DJO26
Green: 429.QKG.0120.NR.DJO26

WEIGHT
56g

CASE
Matte blue, orange or green composite with polos and rackets
“One-Click” system
Diameter: 44 mm
Thickness: 14.4 mm
Water resistance: 3 ATM / 30 M

CASE-BACK
Polished blue, orange or green anodized aluminium and Gorilla tempered glass with anti-reflective treatment

BEZEL
Matte blue, orange or green composite with polos and rackets

DIAL
Sapphire Crystal

MOVEMENT
HUB6035 Manufacture automatic tourbillon movement
Bridges: Transparent sapphire and black-plated
Skeleton: Tennis racket string pattern
Back Bridges with N. Djokovic’s white printed logo
Plate Anthracite ruthenium-plated
Micro Rotor 22K Red Gold
Skeleton “HUBLOT” Logo Satin-finished and Microblasted Top
Finish with Polished Bevel
Escapement: Tourbillon
Escapement

Frequency (Hz): 3 (21’600 A/h)
Power Reserve: Approx. 72 Hours
Number of components: 293
Jewels: 26

STRAP AND CLASP
White calfskin with grip tape Pattern leather with blue, orange or green Velcro, straps
Additional white rubber strap
Polished blue, orange or green aluminum sport buckle

Frederique Constant Carrée Moonphase Automatic

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Frederique Constant expands its elegant Classics collection with the debut of the Classics Carrée Moonphase Automatic, marking the first time the iconic rectangular model features a standalone Moonphase complication.

A tribute to the refined aesthetics of the 1920s and 1930s, this new reference blends Art Deco geometry with classical Swiss watchmaking tradition. The Moonphase complication is positioned at six o’clock, offering visual symmetry with the “Frederique Constant Genève” signature at twelve.

Art Deco Design Meets Astronomical Heritage

The rectangular steel case measures 42.3mm in height and 30mm in width, maintaining a slim and graceful wrist presence. Its two-tiered polished profile subtly balances straight lines and gentle curves — a hallmark of vintage-inspired design.

Square and rectangular cases were once a technical challenge in watchmaking, often requiring round movements to be adapted within angular constructions. Frederique Constant continues that heritage while refining proportions for contemporary elegance.

Chevron Guilloché Dial in Silver or Blue

Collectors can choose between two sophisticated dial executions:

  • A silvered chevron guilloché dial with monochromatic refinement

  • A navy blue dial combining midnight blue and lunar grey tones

Both feature:

  • Twelve faceted applied hour markers

  • Dauphine hour and minute hands

  • Central seconds hand

  • Railway-style minute track

  • Crescent-shaped Moonphase aperture at six o’clock

The Moonphase display tracks the lunar cycle of 27 days, 7 hours, 43 minutes and 12 seconds, echoing horology’s deep connection to astronomy.

The subtle daily transition between lunar phases creates a poetic dialogue between the steady motion of the central hands and the almost imperceptible shift of the Moon.

FC-333 Automatic Calibre

Visible through a sapphire caseback, the watch is powered by the FC-333 automatic movement, a reliable calibre long used by the manufacture.

Specifications:

  • Automatic winding

  • 38-hour power reserve

  • Central hours, minutes, seconds

  • Moonphase complication

The movement reinforces Frederique Constant’s reputation for accessible luxury with traditional mechanical integrity.

Strap & Wearability

Each model is fitted with a calfskin strap featuring tone-on-tone stitching, enhancing its vintage elegance while maintaining modern comfort.

The rectangular dimensions ensure strong wrist presence without overwhelming proportions, making it suitable for both formal attire and refined daily wear.

Franck Muller Curvex CX Grand Central Tourbillon Baguette

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The Curvex CX Grand Central Tourbillon is a spectacular collection, where the Tourbillon is in the spotlight, placed at the center of the timepiece. A marvel of modern horology, it reflects Franck Muller’s dedication to reimagining tradition through quiet innovation and refined design.

At its core lies a vision to bring the tourbillon out of the background and into the spotlight. Traditionally placed at six o’clock, it now commands the center of the dial with a striking presence. To achieve this transformation, Franck Muller’s engineers restructured the entire movement, developing a mechanism where the hour and minute hands orbit the tourbillon cage in a mesmerizing display of motion and symmetry.

This exceptional timepiece is enclosed in a Rose Gold case, measuring 36 mm in width and 58.1 mm in length, and adorned with hand-selected diamonds that flow effortlessly across its surface. The invisible setting across the dial and case enhances the sense of purity and refinement, revealing subtle brilliance only as light moves across it.

Inside beats the in-house MVT FM CX 36T-CTR movement, a self-winding mechanical caliber powered by an eccentric micro rotor. Rarely used in Franck Muller tourbillons, this refined engine offers a four-day power reserve and embodies the brand’s relentless pursuit of technical excellence.

The Curvex CX Grand Central Tourbillon is more than a timekeeper. It is an exploration of form, light, and movement, crafted with precision and elevated by subtle artistry.

With every glance, it offers something new to discover. Every detail is carefully considered, quietly luxurious, and deeply expressive of a timeless sophistication.

Integrated Strap

Instead of the traditional spring-bar technique, this strap is seamlessly integrated into the case using two unseen screws, creating a smooth transition between the strap and the case. The strap is further enhanced by meticulous stitching along its edges, contributing to both its durability and refined appearance. This thoughtful combination of finishes and craftsmanship ensures it is as comfortable to wear as it is captivating to behold.

Curvex CX Case

The Curvex CX is Franck Muller’s iconic tonneau shape, known for its flowing, harmonious curves that create a bold and elegant silhouette. This distinctive design represents the brand’s identity, defined by fluid contours that deliver a seamless visual appeal. The Curvex CX also features an inner bezel and an edge-to-edge sapphire crystal, adding a unique and refined touch to its contemporary aesthetic.

Baguette Invisible Setting

This stunning timepiece is entirely set with baguette-cut diamonds on the case and dial. Each gemstone is finely hand-set with the iconic invisible setting, this meticulous technique allows the diamonds to sparkle without interruption, hiding the prongs and creating an uninterrupted surface of light. This timepiece is a masterpiece of pure elegance, every aspect of its making is a testament to meticulous hand-setting and years of dedication to exceptional artistry.

Awake Son Mai Frosted Leaf Royal Red: Vietnamese Lacquer Art Meets Swiss Watchmaking

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AWAKE enriches its Frosted Leaf collection with a new limited edition of 100 pieces: Royal Red. A singular creation, born from the dialogue between two universal colors – red and gold – whose union has transcended civilizations, the arts, and time.

Inspired by Asian ritual objects and crafted through the ancestral gestures of Vietnamese Sơn Mài lacquerware, Royal Red unveils a new expression of the Frosted Leaf technique. Red – a timeless symbol of life, energy, and passion – encounters the delicate glow of silver leaf infused with copper-toned pigments, evoking wisdom, transmission, and the mastery of time.

More than a mere aesthetic variation, Royal Red embodies AWAKE’s vision to preserve, modernize, and pass on exceptional craftsmanship, embedding it within contemporary, thoughtful, and conscious watchmaking.

 KEY FEATURES OF ROYAL RED

 A new iteration of the FROSTED LEAF technique: Royal Red unveils a significant technical, aesthetic, and stylistic evolution of the Frosted Leaf process developed by AWAKE. For the first time, pure silver leaf tinted with copper pigments forms the final layer of the dial. This technical choice reverses the traditional process, allowing light to interact directly with the material and reveal organic, deep, and vibrant textures. Each dial is entirely handcrafted in AWAKE’s Hanoi workshop, through a meticulous “mille-feuille” of lacquer, natural pigments, and silver leaf, making every piece absolutely unique.

A luminous signature that stages the artistry of lacquer: Royal Red features AWAKE’s exclusive “coiffe” luminous signature, conceived as a subtle illumination of the artisan’s gesture. Inspired by the Japanese aesthetic of chiaroscuro, it is not designed to dominate the dial, but rather to delicately reveal the craftsmanship of the lacquer. Discreet by day, the luminescence emerges in depth in the dark, creating a refined backlit effect that highlights the reliefs, reflections, and living vibration of the material.

An unparalleled value and emotional proposition: Handcrafted dials, exclusive ancestral techniques reinterpreted through a modern and creative approach, an innovative luminous signature, a renowned Swiss movement, cases and buckles in recycled stainless steel, straps handmade for AWAKE. All offered at an unprecedented price: €2,200 excluding taxes.

THE STARTING POINT: PRESERVE, MODERNIZE, TRANSMIT

 At AWAKE, the vision of the Arts & Crafts extends far beyond the watch itself. Each creation is conceived as a space for cultural expression, an opportunity to highlight ancestral craftsmanship – in this case, Vietnamese – while situating it within a contemporary perspective. Within the tiny canvas of a dial, the brand seeks to transcend boundaries, celebrate cultural identities, and promote a different relationship with time: slower, more conscious, and more respectful of gesture and material. Since the launch of Sơn Mài in 2024, every project has followed this commitment to the living transmission and preservation of exceptional craftsmanship.

ROYAL RED: AN ODE TO THE SLOW ALCHEMY OF TIME…

The dials of the Royal Red limited edition draw their inspiration from ritual objects from the far reaches of Asia, passed down through generations, weathered by time, and steeped in ancient stories. On their vibrant surfaces, red and gold intertwine to reveal deep textures and complex nuances that seem to suspend time itself. Red evokes life, passion, vital energy, and the courage to create. Gold embodies wisdom, transmission, and mastery of light. Together, they form a powerful harmony, reflecting a balance between energy and clarity, emotion and consciousness. Each dial thus becomes the backdrop for a timeless and universal dialogue, making Royal Red a true vessel of culture.

 “ ’Royal’ does not refer to power, but to a form of inner nobility… The quiet strength of those who create, transmit, and elevate, transforming every gesture into an act of artistry and every second into a living presence.”

 Lilian Thibault – Founder of AWAKE

RED AND GOLD:  A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE

Some colors carry within them the memory of civilizations. For millennia, red and gold have held a sacred place, shaping the history of art and time. The dials of this Royal Red edition, with their luminous surfaces and complex hues, bear profound symbolic significance. They tell intertwined stories of artistic and cultural traditions, of ancestral craftsmanship, safeguarding the memory of civilizations, their heritage, their spirit, and their light.

Across cultures, red and gold are never in opposition: they complement each other, they converse. One symbolizes the warmth of life, the other clarity and wisdom. Together, they embody the balance between energy and light, emotion and consciousness.

“ART IS NOT ABOUT COPYING NATURE…”

 “…But about learning to work like it!”. This quote, attributed to P. Picasso, perfectly captures the profound influence of nature and its inexhaustible inspiration for our lacquer artisans. The creation of the Royal Red dials relies on Sơn Mài lacquer, derived from the rare sap of the Rhus verniciflua tree, harvested in Vietnam according to an unchanging ritual. Layering, resting periods, delicate finger sanding, final polishing: each step, carried out by hand, follows the slow rhythm of the material.

This technical and aesthetic evolution of the Frosted Leaf method, applied to Royal Red, takes the complexity of the craft and creative process even further, suspending silver leaf and copper pigments within the lacquer to create depth, relief, and vibrancy. Each dial requires nearly fifteen hours of meticulous work. None are identical. Each bears the trace of a gesture, a breath, and a skill passed down through generations.

MINIATURE WORKS OF ART

 The entire process, demanding patience, dexterity, and extreme focus, transforms each dial of the Royal Red edition into a unique, living piece, where light and time seem to pause in order to resonate more vividly.

Born from a fully artisanal process, each dial carries the breath of a craftsman, the ancient gestures of an expert hand linking centuries of know-how to the modern world. Each dial embodies our desire to preserve and transmit these values, and the magic of these stories, to future generations.

 REVEAL WITHOUT DOMINATING

 AWAKE’s “coiffe” luminous signature departs from traditional constructions. The hands and indices, crafted from a Super-LumiNova® BGW9 base and coated with polished steel, offer subtle legibility by day and a deep backlit effect in the dark. Here, luminescence becomes a narrative tool, revealing the material without ever overshadowing it, allowing the complexity of the lacquer to be appreciated through its nocturnal reflections.

 LA JOUX-PERRET FOR AWAKE: MECHANICAL RELIABILITY AND EXCELLENCE

 Royal Red is powered by the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, renowned for its reliability, precision, and 68-hour power reserve. Our movement is elevated by an exclusive tungsten rotor, specially designed for AWAKE, featuring contrasts of polished, brushed, and micro-beaded surfaces. The whole is encircled by a ring engraved with the edition’s specifications and the brand’s motto: Artisanship, Awakened.

HANDMADE STRAPS IN FRANCE

 To elegantly extend the colors and subtleties of each dial, Royal Red is paired with red suede calfskin straps. Handcrafted by the master saddlers at Maison Bouveret in Franche-Comté, their creation involves over 60 meticulous steps following a strict specification, prioritizing comfort and longevity. Each strap is tone-on-tone stitched and lined with rubberized calfskin, ensuring greater suppleness as well as enhanced resistance to moisture and wear.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Reference : Sơn Mài – Frosted Leaf « Royal Red »: limited edition of 100 pieces.

Case: 316L recycled stainless steel

Diameter: 39 mm

Lug-to-lug: 45.6 mm

Lug width: 20 mm

Thickness: 11.80 mm including crystal / 10.90 mm without crystal

Arts & Crafts Dial: Entirely handcrafted using the exclusive “Frosted” technique, combining polished lacquer and pure silver leaf gilding with natural pigments in an unprecedented way

Indices and Hands: Super-LumiNova® BGW9, AWAKE “coiffe” luminous signature

Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50M)

Crystal: Sapphire glass with anti-reflective treatment

Caseback: Screw-down, sapphire crystal

Movement: La Joux-Perret G101 automatic, 68-hour power reserve

Decoration: Custom tungsten rotor with recessed and raised surfaces, brushed, micro-beaded, and polished finishes; micro-beaded encircling ring engraved by laser

Strap (20-16 mm): Red suede calfskin, rubberized calf lining, tone-on-tone stitching, mounted on a pin buckle

Warranty: 3-year international

Price: €2,200 excl. taxes

Delivery: Batch 1 – 50 pieces in January 2026 / Batch 2 in April 2026

Distribution : https://awakewatches.com

Retailers : https://awakewatches.com/pages/points-of-sale

Federico Ziviani on Reinventing Gerald Charles | EyesOnTime

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In this exclusive EyesOnTime conversation, Federico Ziviani reflects on innovation, heritage, and how Gerald Charles is shaping the future of modern independent watchmaking.

Introduction: Federico Ziviani – Ceo Gerald Charles

Born and raised in Milan, Federico Ziviani has grown up surrounded by fine watchmaking. His father, Franco Ziviani, was a long-standing distributor for Audemars Piguet, introducing Federico early to the discipline, culture, and craftsmanship of haute horlogerie.

After earning a degree in Business Administration and Management from Bayes Business School, Federico completed a Master of Science in Computer Science at University College London, specialising in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and blockchain networks. This rare combination of heritage, business insight, and advanced technology now defines his leadership approach.

In 2019, he became General Manager of Gerald Charles, a Maison founded in 2000 by Gérald Charles Genta in close collaboration with the Ziviani family. In 2023, he was appointed CEO.

EyesOnTime met Federico Ziviani at Dubai Watch Week to discuss innovation, heritage, and the future of Gerald Charles.

Breaking Rules the Right Way: Reinventing Watchmaking Finishing

EyesOnTime: Gerald Genta was known for breaking rules. What rule in watchmaking you feel most tempted to break next as Gerald Charles?

Federico Ziviani:
We are very focused on reinventing modern watchmaking finishing. A strong example of this is Meta-Guilloché, a new type of dial finishing that evolves from traditional guilloché.

Classical guilloché is executed using historic machines. Meta-Guilloché, instead, is created through a contemporary process we developed together with engineers coming from biotechnology. Using this method, we engrave more than 200,000 micro-lines on a single dial, creating a light reflection that is up to ten times brighter than traditional guilloché.

We introduced this finishing on our anniversary Jumping Hour watch. It represents our broader philosophy: respecting legacy while bringing it forward through modern engineering. And there will be many more innovations like this in the future.

Which Watch Would Surprise Gérald Charles Genta Today?

EyesOnTime: If you could bring Genta into the atelier today and show him one recent Gerald Charles watch, which one do you think he would be most surprised by and why?

Federico Ziviani:
I believe he would be very happy to see the Masterlink.

This was the last integrated bracelet he designed, originally created as a unique piece in 2007 — fully gem-set and made with around 40 carats of gold. What we have done is reinterpret that vision into a steel version that is simpler to wear and perfectly suited to everyday life.

It remains true to his original idea while expressing it in a contemporary way.

Beyond Design: Correcting a Common Misconception

EyesOnTime: Gerald Charles operates in an interesting space, niche yet globally recognized. What is a misconception people still have about the brand that you wish you could correct once and for all?

Federico Ziviani:
Many people are immediately attracted by our design, which is very distinctive. What I would love them to appreciate even more is the depth of engineering and watchmaking behind our creations.

For us, engineering comes first. Design follows the technical architecture. A good example is the Masterlink: achieving a slim 2.7mm profile, a micro-rotor movement, 100 metres of water resistance, and excellent wearability requires advanced watchmaking expertise.

This savoir-faire is at the heart of Gerald Charles.

Form and Freedom: The Art of Wearing Time

EyesOnTime: As the brand scales up, how do you avoid creating too much demand culture where scarcity becomes the story instead of the watch?

Federico Ziviani:
As Gerald Charles grows, its approach remains deliberately grounded. The Maison has never pursued scarcity as a narrative device, nor demand as an end in itself. The focus is singular: creating the best watch possible.

And today, the definition of the best watch has evolved. Luxury is no longer weight or fragility — it is comfort, freedom, and confidence in motion. A Gerald Charles is designed to remain on the wrist whether one is swimming, travelling, playing sport, or attending a formal evening. It is a watch that adapts instinctively to life, rather than asking life to adapt to it.

Scarcity, therefore, is not engineered — it is inherent. The asymmetric architecture of the case and bracelet, the complexity of the finishing, and the hundreds of components within each movement require a level of hand craftsmanship that cannot be industrialised without compromise. Production is naturally limited by the standards the Maison refuses to dilute.

Growth at Gerald Charles is not about producing more watches. It is about preserving the soul of watchmaking where engineering, ergonomics, and design coexist — uncompromised.

 

Inside the Genta Archive: Building for the Next Century

EyesOnTime: You have access to a deep archive of Genta sketches. What’s the most unexpected idea that you’ve discovered in that archive, that the world hasn’t seen yet?

Federico Ziviani:
The archive is incredibly rich, with many ideas that have not yet been seen by the world. Visitors can already get a glimpse of this universe at our museum in Dubai, where they can discover different shapes beyond the Maestro that Gérald created.

In the sketches, there are fascinating complications, beautifully skeletonised bridges, and designs that remain highly relevant today. This patrimony gives us the foundation to build Gerald Charles for the next 100 years.

Evolving an Icon: The Maestro Case and Modern Complications

EyesOnTime: The Maestro case is already an icon. What design challenge keeps you up at night when trying to evolve something that collectors consider untouchable?

Federico Ziviani:
The product is always at the centre of our thinking. We constantly want to make our watches more interesting and more expressive from a watchmaking perspective.

We have a clear plan to introduce one new complication every year, and each of these will be a modern reinterpretation rather than a traditional execution. Our goal is that the next best Gerald Charles watch is always the one still to come.

The Geneva Atelier: More Than a Manufacture

EyesOnTime: You recently opened the Geneva Atelier with a museum-style space. Beyond watches, what emotion or idea do you want visitors to walk away with?

Federico Ziviani:
I want visitors to leave with a strong sense of family. The Atelier is designed like our home.

Our family created Gerald Charles together with Gérald Charles Genta in 2000, and my father had been close friends with him since the 1980s. Gerald created this brand out of pure passion, and passion is what we want people to feel when they visit us.

We put our soul into every watch — the soul of our watchmakers, of my father, of myself, and of our entire team. When visitors come to Geneva, they experience Swiss-Italian hospitality, great food, great conversations, and direct interaction with our watchmakers, who take the time to explain their craft in an open and authentic way.

Looking Ahead: What Must Never Change

EyesOnTime: When you imagine Gerald Charles 20 years from now, what is the one element you hope remains exactly the same and the one element you hope is radically different?

Federico Ziviani:
What will remain the same — not just for 20 years, but for the next 100 years — is our ambition to create the best possible watches and to keep innovating.

Innovation is how we continue to create value and meaning. We are very happy with what we are building today. Being at Dubai Watch Week with a standalone independent booth, a museum, a workshop, and spaces to educate collectors reflects what we believe in.

What we have at Gerald Charles is a treasure of immense historical and creative value, and our responsibility is to cultivate it for generations to come.

Closing Perspective

Through engineering-led innovation, deep respect for heritage, and a clear long-term vision, Gerald Charles continues to evolve as a modern independent Maison. Under Federico Ziviani’s leadership, the spirit of Gérald Charles Genta remains expressive, contemporary, and firmly focused on the future.