Bianchet, a distinguished independent Swiss watchmaker, has unveiled a new addition to its Rotondo UltraFino series: a sophisticated variant crafted in rose gold. This launch signifies a further evolution for the brand, moving beyond its signature tonneau-shaped timepieces. The latest model maintains the collection's hallmark characteristics of a slender profile, an integrated bracelet, and an intricate flying tourbillon mechanism, now imbued with a more opulent and warm aesthetic. It represents a versatile yet technically proficient offering, building upon the foundation established by its titanium and carbon fiber counterparts.
The Rotondo UltraFino in rose gold boasts a refined diameter of 39.5mm and an impressive slimness of merely 8.9mm. This makes it an exceptionally svelte option for an automatic flying tourbillon sports watch. The case exhibits a meticulous combination of satin-brushed finishes and polished bevels, showcasing Bianchet's dedication to detail. Despite its precious material, the timepiece retains remarkable resilience, offering water resistance up to 100 meters and shock resistance of 5,000G, aligning with the robust specifications of its titanium predecessors. The design adheres to Bianchet's guiding principle of 'Form Above All,' where each geometric element contributes to the overall visual harmony. A notable feature is the black rubber gasket beneath the bezel, which provides a striking visual contrast, accentuating the interplay between the rich rose gold and functional dark accents.
The skeletonized dial, a consistent design element from the initial Rotondo models, remains a central focus. The movement itself serves as the display, with the mainspring barrel prominently positioned at 12 o'clock, mirroring the one-minute flying tourbillon at 6 o'clock. Applied hour markers and carefully faceted hands ensure clear legibility without detracting from the intricate open-worked construction of the dial.
Powering this exquisite timepiece is Bianchet's proprietary calibre UR01, specifically engineered for the Rotondo collection. While now encased in a precious metal, the movement's technical prowess is undiminished, benefiting from extensive artisanal finishing. It operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides a substantial power reserve of 60 hours. The titanium bridges within the movement are treated with a black PVD coating, establishing a monochromatic backdrop that elegantly highlights the oscillating weight crafted from rose gold, underscoring the watch's blend of technicality and luxury.
Customers have the option of pairing their timepiece with an integrated rose gold bracelet, which comes with an additional black rubber strap for versatility, or selecting a dual-rubber strap configuration available in either black or white. The quick-release system facilitates effortless strap changes in mere seconds. The pricing for this exceptional watch is CHF 85,500 (excluding taxes) when fitted with a rubber strap, and CHF 119,500 (excluding taxes) for the version featuring the gold bracelet.
This latest offering from Bianchet, the Rotondo UltraFino in rose gold, exemplifies the brand's commitment to merging sophisticated design with cutting-edge horological technology. It provides a luxurious yet practical option for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive timepiece that combines elegant aesthetics with robust performance. This expansion solidifies Bianchet's position as an innovator in independent watchmaking, appealing to those who appreciate both refined materials and complex mechanical artistry.