Romain Gauthier C Edition Two, Titanium

Launched in 2005, Romain Gauthier has distinguished itself as an independent brand that is rooted in tradition, yet is unafraid to explore new frontiers, especially with asymmetrical displays. With complicated masterpieces such as the Logical One and unusual pieces like the Prestige HMS and Insight Micro-Rotor, Gauthier's ambition and design are decidedly different from other independent watchmakers.
 
The name of this example, "Continuum", suggests an evolution in Gauthier's work, continually moving forward. It was part of the Edition Two release, of which only 38 examples were made. Unlike the first release, the watch wears more visually striking cues in the form of red luminous material – placed on the numerals and hands. This is further matched on the rubber ring around the crown and printed indices for each five seconds in matching shades.

The faceted titanium case features bevelled angles, and when the light catches both brushed and polished surfaces, it produces an especially striking effect. The case is made from Grade 5 titanium and coated with black ADLC. The dial is also completely constructed from titanium and is slightly off-centre. To complete this asymmetry, the hour indices and the small seconds' intervals are also marked by red lines of varying length. A hacking seconds mechanism allows for more accurate time-setting. White-gold hands are filled with SuperLumiNova in red, for enhanced legibility.

The watch is powered by an in-house developed calibre, which is horizontally constructed, and continues the theme of modern creation, with rhodium-plated titanium bridges that complement the watch. In terms of finishing, a mixture of sandblasted bridges and hand-hammered surfaces can be seen, alongside more traditional straight grained techniques. The finger-style bridges are a historical tribute to the style typically found in the Vallee de Joux, flowing delicately over the gears and balance wheel below.

This Romain Gauthier C Edition Two is accompanied by its original box and all the requisite papers. It is also accompanied by an array of straps, including examples in a matching red as well as black and white options.

Closer look

Condition

This Romain Gauthier C Edition Two is in excellent overall condition. The case shows virtually no signs of wear. The watch comes with three rubber straps in red, black and white, which are also practically unworn.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.