An intriguing example that speaks to Roth’s inventive spirit, the Retrograde was rumoured to have been inspired by the One Minute Tourbillon Pocket Watch made by the late George Daniels. First introduced at Baselworld in 1991, production began in 1993. This example is likely among the earliest Retrograde watches produced, deduced from the Roman numerals on the dial. Indeed, these pieces can feature both Roman and Arabic numerals, though it is widely accepted that the Roman numerals are a feature of the earlier pieces, with Arabic numerals being introduced later on. George Daniels' pocket watch featured Roman numerals for the retrograde hours.
 
This Retrograde piece features an unconventional, fan-shaped layout, with the hour hand swinging back to its farthest left position when it hits six o’clock, ensuring that it never touches the seconds subdial. The complication used for this watch, the retrograde, is very much a product of its time. Indeed, during the last decade of 20th century, many independent watchmakers and established brands were experimenting with unconventional ways of displaying the time, with the Audemars Piguet Star Wheel, Cartier Tank à Guichets and Vacheron Constantin Saltarello being a few other noteworthy examples. Of course, we also find Roth’s distinctive double-ellipse case. Neither round or rectangular, it balances the two different shapes, complemented by a stepped bezel and sharp, straight lugs.
 
If you turn the watch around, you’ll find a manually wound Lemania 27LN, which has been modified and refinished to a particularly high standard, as you would expect from Roth. While most examples feature a closed caseback, this Retrograde proudly showcases the movement through a sapphire caseback.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Daniel Roth Retrograde 2127 will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Daniel Roth Retrograde 2127 is in excellent overall condition. The case shows minimal superficial marks throughout, consistent with light wear. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfection. The hallmarks on the reverse of the top two lugs are crisp and well defined, as are those on the original buckle. The watch comes with an early Daniel Roth exotic strap, showing very light signs of wear, a testament to how little use the watch likely has had over time. 

Warranty

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