Bovet
Introduced in 2010, Bovet’s Amadeo convertible case system allows the timepiece to be
transformed into a reversible (twin dials) wristwatch, table clock, pocket or even a pendant
watch – without the use of any tools. Like the
entire Virtuoso collection’s, the IV and VII pictured here each present two distinct faces and
display disparate details on both.
The Amadeo Fleurier Tourbillon Virtuoso IV is
characterized by a pair of three-dimensional
sculptures that have been produced entirely
by Bovet’s own artisans. Placed on either side
of the dial, these petite ponies mirror each
other while appearing to support the dial. Four
different symbolic themes are available, giving collectors the choice between elephants,
horses, angels or doves. With enough energy
stored in the extra-long mainspring to run the
tourbillon escapement autonomously for five
days, the Amadeo IV displays an instantaneous
jumping hour display on one dial, while the
reverse elicits the time in the traditional hour
and minute hand format where it is joined by a
power reserve indicator. Created in very limited
releases, each version of the Amadeo IV will
call for a substantial $288,800 investment.
Using the same Amadeo convertible platform,
Bovet’s VirtusosoVII incorporates a new format
for a perpetual calendar with the hours and
minutes on a central dial ringed by a retrograde date ring slightly submerged below the
plane of the dial. On the periphery, the day of
the week, month, and leap-year indicators are
cleverly printed in white or black (depending
on the color of the dial) directly on to sapphire
discs allowing a better view of the mechanism
underneath while seeming to disappear. The
reverse dial gives prominence to the impeccably decorated movement and highlights
the seconds hand which is on the same axis
(but counter rotates) on both sides of the
movement. Finally, a power reserve indicator displays the state of the mainspring that
provides a maximum of five days autonomy.
Available in red or white gold, with either a
white or black lacquer dial. Prices range from
$72,500-$122,900.
2016 | Wristwatch
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