VOUTILAINEN

Voutilainen’s approachability marks him apart in the world of independent high horology. The maker deals directly with clients, offering a staggering array of customisations to his signature aesthetic, marked by teardrop-shaped lugs, Observatoire hands and innovative patterns of guilloché. As a result, almost no two watches are the same.

On the inside, the movements, whether they are based on the in-house Calibre 28 or an upgraded vintage calibre, are all finished immaculately.

Among his peers, the watchmaker is known for readily sharing his knowledge as well as his manufacturing capabilities. His success as an entrepreneur has proven to the new generation of independents makers that they can dare to be innovative and also profitable.

Owing to his collaborative approach, Voutilainen’s watches offer incredible aesthetic variety. The maker is not just open to input regarding the inventive patterns of guilloché on the dial and bold use of colour, but on request also works with skilled external artisans to bring clients’ unique visions to fruition. Similar thought is put into the calibres that are designed not just with serviceability and longevity in mind, but so they can host the wide range of complications the brand offers.

It is this level of design thought and customisation, together with the watchmaker’s mastery of finishing, be it on the dial or movement side, that satisfies the appreciation for traditional craft and contemporary aesthetics that collectors of independents desire.

Having handled a number of Voutilainen pieces over the years, it is plain to see that the watches all possess a distinct quality to them. This is as evident in the first ever Observatoire from 2006 – from an era before the now recognisable Voutilainen aesthetic became established – as it is in the five-piece Monopoussoir from 2010 – which showcases Voutilainen’s masterful restoration and decoration of a vintage Valjoux calibre.

The diversity of examples made over the years make the brand a rich one for study and exploration.