By Jovan Krstevski
I’ve always liked the elaborate timepieces exhibited in the Only Watch charity however I couldn’t overlook the fact that there are better timepieces that chose discretion as the main selling point. What I love about these watches is that they’re not only inconspicuous but subtly bold mechanical machines worthy of every look. This is very true with the impressive Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral watch with its unique special dial and nice details on the back exclusively for Only Watch 2017.
The 40.6 mm white gold case is rather a dressy one for me but this is the ultimate urban style these days anyways. Although I like how it flushes extra details cleanly with enough discretion and elegance to boot, in short the modern elements are impressive. The case design is lucid – the combination of polished bezel and brushed flat surfaces and casebands is just superb. The polished bevel on the side of the lugs looks enhances its liquid like surface. Note that this watch differs from its standard units by being presented in a 18k white gold case and the blue accents exclusive for the auction.
On the watch face, I like the lighter display with hints of blue and black lines. The eleven of the date actually appears in blue to reflect the auction happening on November 11. The seconds sub-dial at 6 looks extremely clean flush with the same blue hand. The tip of the diamond shaped hours point towards the center achieving something worthwhile like it enhances precision reading. The case back is a visible sapphire-crystal showcasing the impressive movement inside. The labeling “ONLY WATCH 2017 – Pièce unique – Fabriquée en Suisse” is transferred inside keeping it protected from the daily grind.
Powering the Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral is the in-house caliber CFB A2050 with automatic winding. Note that CFB is the first to use peripheral rotor in its production line allowing the brand to really showcase the impressive mechanical parts of their movements. The peripheral rotor works as a winding mass rotating around the movement using small ball bearings. In the Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral watch, the peripheral rotor also appears in royal blue enhancing its powerful aesthetics. The CFB A2050 provides the watch with 55 hours of power reserve which is quite impressive.
A blue alligator leather strap with pin buckle fits the Carl F. Bucherer Manero Peripheral in one’s wrists. The royal blue accents of the watch are perhaps what makes it very restrained. It’s almost tempting to think that there’s nothing making it more interesting but there is such as the impressive case back showcasing the watch’s perfect heart inside.
Being a special watch designed for a particular auction, its future owner will be treated to fantastic surprises which can also be attended by another person he/she chooses. They will be invited to visit the brand’s hometown, Lucerne, in the very heart of Switzerland for a two-night stay at the prestigious Chateau Gütsch hotel. It’s impressive that such watch can give you access to the most picturesque hotel locations in the world.
