The Swiss watch industry has largely survived due to its emphasis and commitment to the “old world” ways of watchmaking. Few brands have committed to this old world like Bovet. Traditional in style, but impressively forward-thinking, both technically and academically, Bovet is a brand that garners wide respect even if the watches don’t quite fit into the mainstream aesthetic. After the positive reception of the most recent member of the Bovet Virtuoso V collection, which we were lucky to get our hands on back in October, Bovet has treated us to a new dial color (a gorgeous red lacquer on a superb guilloché dial) and teamed it with a rose gold case.
Specifications
Brand: Bovet
Model: Virtuoso V
Dimensions: 43.5mm in diameter, 15.7mm-thick
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Case Material: 18k red or white gold
Crystal/Lens: Sapphire
Movement: In-house caliber 13BM11AIHSMR
Frequency: 21,600 bph
Power Reserve: 5 days
Strap/Bracelet: Black alligator leather
Price & Availability: TBA, but likely around $73,500
Analysis
The last time we reviewed the Virtuoso V collection, we came away impressed by its interesting case design, as well as its technical prowess. From just looking at the case design of the Virtuoso V, you can see that it is inspired by a pocket watch. In fact, this model is designed to be worn/used in three different ways: as a wristwatch, as a pocket watch, and as a table clock, all depending on what you prefer or what the situation calls for. (If you’ve got an occasion that calls for a pocket watch, I envy your lifestyle.)
Furthermore, this watch is designed with two watch faces to enjoy, one on each side of the case. On one side, you have the deep red dial with the jumping hours and retrograde minutes — on the other, an open-work view of the movement. What is particularly pleasing about this layout is that the legibility (and show-stopping red dial) remain, thanks to the hour and minute hands being mounted on a floating dial at 12 o’clock. Not only is this combination of the jump hour and retrograde minutes quite unique, but there also aren’t too many other watches that you can flip around and wear backward and still have a usable timepiece.
Summary
While the style of the Virtuoso V is certainly not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, it is a compelling piece in an academic sense, given the interesting technical aspects of this watch and the beautiful finishing of the dial. Given that its price point could also get you a brand new Tesla, the Bovet Virtuoso V is, without a doubt, for the upper echelon.
The Bovet Virtuoso V is far from your average watch. It would definitely stand out on someone’s wrist from across the room (however unlikely you might be to see one of these in the wild). The combination of Bovet’s history and prowess and the new deep-red guilloché dial makes this new release a compelling option. Pricing and availability have yet to be announced for this red color, specifically, but pricing is expected to be close to that of its blue dialed sibling at $73,500, and it will likely be a limited release, as well. Learn more at bovet.com.
