Grönefeld

The Grönefeld brand from the Netherlands, founded by the brothers Bart and Tim Grönefeld, is one of the most impressive micro-brands in the field of haute horlogerie. The small production volume, which currently amounts to around 70 pieces per year, the unusual exclusive complications, the unique style of the movements, some of which are fitted with stainless steel bridges, the unique style of movement finishing and the recognizable design attract the attention of connoisseurs and collectors. A very positive response in the press and in publications by specialist media and bloggers, several awards at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), the most prestigious competition in modern industry, have undoubtedly fueled public interest in the brand’s watches. It has come to the point where Grönefeld has repeatedly announced that it will no longer accept orders from 2021 because the delivery times of more than three years are becoming too long. This applies in particular to the Remontoire 1941 watch, which is equipped with a constant-force escapement. Launched in 2016 and awarded the prestigious prize as the best men’s watch at the GPHG 2016, the limited edition of 188 pieces was sold out in 2020 and is now only available on the secondary market. The dial is made of 925 sterling silver. Its multi-level structure is emphasized by the use of textured, sandblasted and brushed surfaces with polished bevels. The faceted hour-markers and blued steel ‘alpha’ hands stand out against this background. The case of the watch, which is made of stainless steel, deserves special attention. The diameter of 39.5 mm and the thickness of 10.5 mm result in a ratio that makes the watch very comfortable to wear on the wrist. The highly polished, concave bezel is complemented by the same finish on the case band. The composite construction of the case, where the lugs are attached from the inside with titanium screws, contributes to a flawless polish, as these components are carefully polished before final assembly. The lugs have a characteristic hollow, concave shape that creates an unusual and attractive appearance.

This Grönefeld Remontoire 1941 in stainless steel from a limited edition of 188 pieces offers the collector a good chance to acquire a rare watch from a Dutch creative micro-brand known for its unusual, exclusive complications, the characteristic execution of movements with stainless-steel bridges, its own style of finishing and its recognizably consistent design. What keeps this watch running is its own version of an 8-second constant force escapement, developed and manufactured in collaboration with independent watchmaker Andreas Strehler. What makes the design unique is the inertial shock absorber that animates the dial once every eight seconds. This means that this watch can compete not only visually with the tourbillon, but also in terms of optimum precision.