In 2025, the debut of the Bianchet UltraFino Tonneau marked a significant milestone for the emerging independent watchmaker. This model, distinguished from its circular counterpart, the Ultrafino Rotondo, was notable for being the brand's inaugural ultra-thin design, its first self-winding movement, and its initial offering with an integrated bracelet. Since its original release in grade 5 titanium, Bianchet has explored various premium materials, including sapphire and carbon fiber, even extending carbon to the bracelet. A distinctive Maserati edition also captured attention with its unique dial aesthetics. Now, the UltraFino Tonneau series welcomes ceramic, a material renowned in the integrated sports watch category, with striking blue and white variations.
The fundamental engineering of the UltraFino Tonneau remains consistent, retaining its elegant case dimensions. Measuring a comfortable 40mm in width and 47.5mm in length, its most impressive feature is its mere 8.9mm thickness. Following previous iterations in titanium, sapphire, and carbon, Bianchet now presents ceramic cases in two bold shades: a pristine white with contrasting dark blue gaskets, and a profound deep blue with black gaskets. Despite the shift in material, these timepieces uphold the meticulous finishing standards of their metal predecessors, showcasing vertical brushing accented by polished bevels. The watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters and are equipped with sapphire crystals on both the front and back.
While the movement's technical specifications largely remain unchanged, aesthetic refinements have been implemented. True to earlier versions, the watch eschews a traditional dial, offering a full view of the movement from both sides. The Deep Blue variant features a more conventional look with black PVD treatment on all bridges and plates. In contrast, the white edition presents a more dynamic visual with its cobalt blue PVD-treated movement. Identical treatments are applied to the flying tourbillon regulators, which are prominently displayed at the 6 o'clock position. The UT01 automatic calibre, visible through the intricate open-worked dial and case back, boasts a flying tourbillon and is powered by a gold rotor designed according to the Golden Ratio. This movement, just 3.85mm thick and weighing only 8 grams, stands as one of the lightest automatic tourbillons available. Crafted entirely from titanium, it includes a suspended mainspring barrel and a one-minute tourbillon with a 2.66mm cage. It operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a substantial 60-hour power reserve. Despite its lightweight and open construction, the movement is engineered to endure shocks up to 5,000 G.
The ceramic theme extends to the integrated bracelet, which matches the case material and features a blend of satin-brushed and polished finishes. These bracelets are designed with quick-release mechanisms, and each watch also comes with an additional rubber strap—black for the Deep Blue Ceramic and cobalt blue for the White Ceramic—packaged in its presentation box. These two ceramic editions of the Bianchet UltraFino Tonneau are now part of the brand's permanent collection, priced at CHF 72,500 (excluding taxes). This release reaffirms Bianchet's commitment to pushing the boundaries of material innovation and design in high-end watchmaking, offering discerning collectors timepieces that are both visually captivating and technically robust.