Rooted in tradition, this line personifies our origins and embodies our first aesthetic preferences.
Double-stepped case, Roman numerals and an understated aesthetic are what characterise the Villeret models. Their pure lines, clear dials and fine cases express the essential with timeless elegance.
Far from breaking with tradition, the new models accentuate and amplify the spirit of this collection. The introduction of dials in grand feu enamel reaffirms Blancpain’s attachment to authentic watchmaking values. This unalterable material which keeps its shine indefinitely is particularly well suited to adorning high end watches and clocks intended to be handed down from one generation to the next.
Grand feu enamel dials are obtained by a succession of several layers of enamel, with a firing at temperatures higher than 1000°C between each one. They are then set off with numerals or hour markers in real enamel, some of them requiring over 12 firings in the kiln.
After each operation, the dials are meticulously inspected and retouched by hand. The finishing of the dials, the shaping and the openings, are equally delicate operations which also demand great skill and know-how. That is the very reason that Swiss Blancpain is the only watch Manufacture to offer domed enamel dials.
The serpentine hand in blued steel to indicate the date also embodies a return to the sources of watchmaking tradition. The shape may be new to the Villeret collection, but it has been used since the 18th century by watchmakers to indicate secondary information given by the watch. Its characteristic hue is obtained naturally by the colouring of the iron in the steel when exposed to heat in the presence of oxygen.
The new Villeret range is expansive, encompassing twelve new models and everything from a pocket watch to the star of the collection, a complete calendar moon phase with 8-day power reserve. Controlled by an automatic caliber 6639 movement (with three mainspring barrels and free-sprung titanium balance) the watch offers an extraordinarily long power reserve considering the complexity of its complication.
Additionally, unlike other complete calendar moon phase models in the industry, it allows the owner to set any of the indications at any time without fear of damaging the mechanism. Essentially, all other timepieces which offer the same complication cannot be altered during certain times of the day – but Blancpain’s can be changed whenever the user wishes.
In a final touch which adds design appeal as well as practical benefit, the marque has incorporated its patented under-lug correctors. They ensure the side profile is perfectly clean (free from adjustment dimples) which allows the owner to set indications with the push of a finger rather than an adjustment tool. This glorious watch is available in platinum or red gold with a grand feu enamel dial.
