Esteemed watch manufacturer, Jaquet Droz, has been in the news lately after they gave the world a sneak peek at one of their upcoming releases, which will be fully showcased at Baselworld 2014 that is set to start in March. This isn’t a completely new model but it does have some aesthetic differences from previous models. The Grande Seconde was first released in 2008, and was immediately a success with its easily recognizable dial. The figure 8 dial layout indelibly places the Grande Seconde watch in the realm of the timeless and iconic.
The slate grey dial on this watch is enhanced by a totally eye-catching vertical Cotes de Genève pattern. The hours and minutes dial is located on the upper hemisphere of the dial distinguished by its smaller size and Roman numeral hour markers, with the exceptions at the 5, 6, and 7 positions which are displayed using Arabic numerals. The hands used on that dial are skeletonized used to highlight the beautiful dial design.
The Grande Seconde, as the name suggests, features an oversized seconds dial on the lower half of the dial. Apart from this watch, I can’t think of any other brand that has focused on the seconds dial. In fact, most brands put a continuous seconds or small seconds subdial in very inconspicuous positions. It is quite refreshing to see a brand try to reinterpret contemporary horology and go against the grain.
The case remains in polished stainless steel, and most likely will also retain the case dimensions. Jaquet Droz replaces the rubber and stainless steel bracelet with a black alligator leather strap, which complements the dial. This strap change also serves to create a more luxurious aesthetic to the watch. The bezel is fixed and features notches and stylish steel outcroppings on the case at 9 and 3. The steel protrusion at 3 also works as a crown guard, protecting the ridged main crown. Powering this timepiece is a self-winding movement fitted with a stunning skeletonized oscillating weight. This is just one of many other versions of the Grande Seconde SW that will be showcased at Baselworld 2014.
