Greubel Forsey closes new chapter with Final Balancier Contemporain
Greubel Forsey brings the iconic movement to a close with the Final Edition of the Balancier Contemporain.
Paying homage to one of its most iconic movements, Greubel Forsey today unveils the Final Edition of the Balancier Contemporain.
Crafted in stainless steel, the least used material in the brand’s collections, this Final Edition marks the final end of the model’s extraordinary legacy, paying homage to the past while heralding a bold new chapter for Atelier.
It celebrates the technical sophistication and artistic excellence that embodies the Balancier Contemporain, while being a fitting farewell to a timepiece that has had a lasting impact on the world of haute horlogerie.
A rare and meaningful farewell More than a Final Edition, this stainless steel Balancier Contemporain is a powerful and thoughtful statement from Greubel Forsey.
In the world of fine watchmaking, stainless steel is often seen as a utilitarian material. Yet, in Greubel Forsey’s creations, precious metals and rare alloys tend to dominate, while stainless steel is extremely rare. In fact, stainless steel has only been used twice in the entire history of the Greubel Forsey workshop.
This makes its presence in this edition particularly significant. It is not for practicality, but for intention: stainless steel was chosen for its clarity, sincerity, purity – an ideal material to take this pioneering movement to the pinnacle.
This watch not only closes a technical chapter, but also embodies the core philosophy of the brand. The steel case contains a restrained and considered aesthetic concept, which highlights Greubel Forsey’s dedication to exquisite design and uncompromising craftsmanship. It is a tribute to the movement, the artisans who create it and the collectors who follow its journey.
More than a final piece, the Balancier Contemporain in stainless steel is a tribute to the brand’s values of excellence, discretion and lasting mechanical integrity. It is a reminder that even in its farewell, Greubel Forsey continues to express purpose, vision and restraint.
Exquisite proportions, uncompromising presence When it was launched, the Balancier Contemporain subverted expectations of what a watch could be, presenting the full Greubel Forsey experience in an ultra-compact 39.6mm case. This final edition continues that groundbreaking achievement.
Beneath a high-domed sapphire crystal, the watch’s gold dial reveals a rich tapestry of textures, refined finishes and architectural depth. The sunburst blue hour and contrasting minute track enhance legibility and elegance, while the exposed 12.6mm balance wheel becomes a visual and mechanical focal point.
The movement itself consists of 256 individual components, all hand-finished to the brand’s exacting standards, with nickel silver bridges that are brushed, embellished and chamfered. Meanwhile, the flat black-polished steel balance bridge – one of the most demanding finishing techniques in haute horlogerie – is a technical and visual display of exquisite craftsmanship.
Even hidden elements, such as the black-polished gold plaque engraved with the Maison’s values, are equally fascinating details, reinforcing Greubel Forsey’s belief that excellence must extend to every component, visible or invisible.
Final chapter, new perspective Released in a limited edition, this limited edition not only represents the final chapter of the Balancier Contemporain movement, but also marks the beginning of a new creative journey for Greubel Forsey. Today, the Maison is focused on exploring the art of small-diameter watches, ushering in a new era of proportion, mechanical elegance and uncompromising innovation.
The stainless steel Balancier Contemporain is therefore not only a farewell, but also a forward-looking statement.