Swiss watchmaker Carl F. Bucherer marked its 135th anniversary this year with the grand introduction of the Capsule Collection, which it said signified the dawn of a new era for them. These unique editions not only sought to celebrate the remarkable milestone but also represented a shift from the brand’s traditional product launches. The collection unveils the Manero Peripheral BigDate Black, accompanied by four other reimagined classics, with an aim to underscore CFB’s dedication to innovation and engagement with a modern audience.

The Capsule Collection consists of five watches, three limited and two serially produced as part of the Manero line. The limited Manero Peripheral BigDate Black is joined by the Manero Tourbillon Double Peripheral Black and the Manero Peripheral Perpetual Calendar Black, and all three are crafted from forged carbon fiber and feature a titanium core. In contrast, the serial production Manero Flyback Black and the Heritage BiCompax Annual Black are DLC-coated stainless steel.

For me, the Manero Peripheral BigDate Black stood out. This limited edition boasts very enjoyable dimensions — 41.6mm in diameter and 12.82mm in thickness. It offered not only a striking presence on my wrist but also exceptional comfort, thanks to its size, lightweight forged carbon, and hybrid rubber strap. If you have not worn a forged carbon watch, they are significantly lighter and feel almost warmer, as stainless steel can have a cool feeling to it. Did you also notice the “brushed” strap? To me, this strap gives it more play on materials used and gives the strap an almost metal look.

The deep black matte dial of the Manero Peripheral BigDate Black showcases a power reserve indicator, big date, day, and small seconds layout, accentuated by rhodium-plated wedge index markers and hands. The watch’s label-free power reserve enhances the dial’s simplicity, allowing its deep black matte beauty to truly shine. The interplay of light on the dial and case added to its allure while on the wrist; I found myself watching the light bounce off, exploring new angles.

Flipping the watch over, you’ll discover the automatic CFB A2011 manufacture caliber, with its blacked-out movement and signature peripheral rotor. The CFB A2011 caliber clocks in with a 55-hour power reserve at 28,800 vph. While Carl F. Brusherer did not invent the peripheral rotor, its name has become synonymous with the mechanism. The captivating contrast of colors, featuring gold and silver gears and 33 pink jewels, makes the Manero Peripheral BigDate Black truly unique. I wish more manufacturers would take note of this color palate. It’s extremely pleasant. 

The limited Manero Peripheral BigDate Black shines with its comfortable and sleek design thanks to its reasonable diameter and lightweight forged carbon case paired with a “brushed” hybrid rubber strap. I found the way the watch’s minimalist approach allowed the black matte dial to take center stage captivating with its interplay of light from various angles, and for me, it made the watch that much more compelling. The Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral BigDate Black (ref. 00.10926.16.33.01) is priced at $22,900 USD and is limited to 188 pieces. For more information, please visit the brand’s website.