Greubel Forsey's Last Balancier Convexe S²: A Limited Ceramic Edition

Experience the Pinnacle of Sporty High-Horology: The Final Balancier Convexe S² Editions.

The Genesis of Innovation and Strategic Evolution

Greubel Forsey is currently navigating a pivotal phase of brand transformation. Following the discontinuation of the cherished Balancier Contemporain and the departure of co-founder Stephen Forsey from the board, the brand, under CEO Michel Nydegger, is steering back towards its roots of highly exclusive, high-priced models. This shift, emphasizing wearability and intricate craftsmanship, culminates in the farewell of the Balancier Convexe S², first introduced in 2021. This series concludes with two ultra-limited editions, each comprising 11 pieces, available in either pristine white ceramic or a striking black ceramic complemented by a rose gold bezel and caseback flange.

Masterful Design and Ergonomic Excellence

The Balancier Convexe S² stands out with its distinctive curved, variable-geometry case and crystal, engineered for an exceptional fit on the wrist. Measuring 41.5mm at the caseband and 44mm at the bezel, with a thickness of 13.25mm (extending to 14.8mm with the synthetic sapphire crystal), its design prioritizes both aesthetics and wearer comfort. A notable feature is the prominent display of the gearing on the dial side, including hours and minutes showcased on a suspended arch bridge, alongside Greubel Forsey's signature 30° inclined balance wheel system. Despite its athletic appearance, the watch maintains a 30m water resistance, underscoring its delicate and complex horological nature.

Unparalleled Craftsmanship: A Symphony of Detail

True to Greubel Forsey's reputation, the finishing of the Balancier Convexe S² is nothing short of extraordinary. The movement's dial side reveals a multi-level, openworked suspended-arch bridge, meticulously straight-grained and polished, with impeccably polished bevelling and countersinks. Gold chatons housing olived-domed jewels adorn the movement, a testament to the brand's dedication to aesthetic perfection. The caseback, while more understated, features a gold plate with an engraved limitation number, circular graining, polished bevelling, and straight-grained flanks. The movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, powered by two coaxial, series-coupled, fast-rotating barrels, offering an impressive 72-hour power reserve.

Beyond the Aesthetics: A Deep Dive into Horological Artistry

This timepiece transcends mere visual appeal, offering a profound appreciation for its complex mechanics. The intricate arrangement of components, visible through the openworked dial, allows enthusiasts to admire the meticulous hand-finishing and precise engineering. Every curve and angle of the movement components is designed not just for function but also for artistic expression, reflecting hundreds of hours of artisanal labor. The balance wheel's unique inclination is a technical marvel, enhancing accuracy by minimizing the effects of gravity in various positions.

Comparative Excellence and Value Proposition

The Balancier Convexe S² models, priced at CHF 295,000, are a testament to sporty high-horology. Comparing its intricate finishing and advanced material technology, such as ceramic, to similarly positioned luxury sports watches like certain Richard Mille models, highlights Greubel Forsey's exceptional value. While some Richard Mille tourbillons launched in carbon might have retailed at a higher price point, the Balancier Convexe S² offers comparable, if not superior, quality and technical sophistication, establishing itself as a formidable contender in the ultra-luxury segment.

Specifications: A Glimpse into Perfection

Brand: Greubel Forsey
Model: Balancier Convexe S²
Diameter: 41.5mm (caseband); 44mm bezel width
Thickness: 13.25mm (case); 14.8mm (height on synthetic sapphire crystals)
Case Material: Options include white ceramic with a curved synthetic sapphire crystal, or black ceramic and 18k 5N red gold with a curved synthetic sapphire crystal.
Dial Color: Titanium bridges and mainplate with a finish matching the case (black or white)
Indexes: Applied, variable geometry hour indexes with Super-Luminova for enhanced readability
Water Resistance: 30m
Strap/Bracelet: Features a hand-sewn textured rubber strap or a rubber strap with text in relief, secured by a titanium folding clasp bearing the engraved GF logo.

The Heart of the Matter: Caliber Details

Caliber: Balancier Convexe S2
Functions: Displays hours, minutes, small seconds, and a power reserve indicator, all powered by the innovative 30° inclined Greubel Forsey balance wheel system.
Diameter: 37mm
Thickness: 10.05mm
Power Reserve: A robust 72 hours
Winding: Manual
Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour
Jewels: Adorned with 43 olived-domed jewels set in gold chatons.
Chronometer Certified: No, despite its high precision.
Additional Details: The movement boasts a frosted, polished bevelling and countersinks with black treatment. It also features a multi-level, openworked suspended-arch bridge with black treatment, straight-grained and polished finishes, along with polished bevelling and countersinks.

Pricing and Acquisition

Price: CHF 295,000
Availability: Available now through authorized retailers.
Limited Edition: Each material variant is limited to just 11 exclusive pieces.