When one mentions Gucci, one thinks first and foremost of haute couture, leather goods, and even perfume. Much less so of watches. However, just like Dior or Chanel for example, the Italian brand is a major player in the high-end watchmaking industry. In 1972, it was even one of the first fashion brands to launch in this sector.
In the wake of the Watches & Wonders fair, Gucci unveiled new timepieces that have little to envy from some models from more prestigious houses…
Minute repeater and tourbillon for Gucci 25H
No, Gucci is not advocating for a twenty-fifth hour in each day! The number that gave its name to this collection was simply the fetish of Alessandro Michele, former creative director of the Italian house.
This 25H collection was launched in 2021 on the occasion of Gucci’s 100th anniversary, including an ultra-thin gold watch that eerily resembles Piaget’s Polo 79. Since then, the family has grown and bears witness to the watchmaking skills of the House (whose movements are produced by the Kering manufacturer in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland).
This year marks a new significant step, since the 25H welcomes a minute repetition, considered one of the most prestigious complications. Equipped with three harmonious hammers, this 25H Minute Repeater strikes the hours, quarters, and minutes, producing a rich and complex sound, similar to that of a musical instrument. Its openworked dial is adorned with a complex pattern created by cymatics, a technique that uses sound waves to generate shapes.
With a diameter of 40 mm, this watch is available in white gold or rose gold and comes with a black alligator strap. Its ultra-thin triple-layered case of 9.9 mm thickness and its hidden octagonal crown at 3 o’clock add to its elegant and urban look.
In addition to the minute repeater, Gucci is banking on another very trendy complication in high-end watchmaking: the tourbillon. Three new interpretations of the 25H Skeleton Tourbillon will indeed join the collection in 2024, offering a 360-degree view of its skeleton movement thanks to its transparent sapphire glass.
Again, we find the ultra-thin 40mm diameter case (only 8.2mm thick) as well as a multitude of details on the dial, such as the GG logo at 12 o’clock and the flying tourbillon.
Interlocking, a simply fascinating watch
It’s not just the 25H that deserves your attention at Gucci! The Interlocking collection introduces a new, stunning watch that combines the flying tourbillon and jumping hours in a cushion-shaped box.
The multi-level dial is rich in movement and depth, and you will undoubtedly have to look at it several times before you have seen all the details! The jumping hour display is done via a hand-lacquered disc, with Roman numerals inspired by the GG pattern, revealed with each hour change.
Aside from this, the Interlocking watch stands out with its semi-transparent smoked sapphire glass, available in black or blue, subtly concealing the other indices. A layer of iridescent aventurine glass covers the minutes disk, adding a sparkling touch to the design.
Housed in a 41 mm rose gold or white gold box, this watch expresses Gucci’s horological expertise and aesthetic refinement.
A precious rainbow for the G-Timeless Planetarium
Finally, the G-Timeless Planetarium stands out for the brilliance of its 12 precious stones forming a rainbow around the central whirlpool. Each stone, from opal to garnet, through tanzanite and amethyst, rotates on itself in 9 seconds and around the dial in 90 seconds, creating a unique chromatic explosion. The textured guilloché background beautifully reflects the light of the gems, enhancing their beauty.
This watch also features a central tourbillon adorned with a diamond-set flower motif, visible through the back of the case. With a diameter of 40 mm, the G-Timeless Planetarium is available in white or rose gold, with contrasting blue or gold accents.
All of these high-end Gucci watches can be seen in the store at Place Vendôme, in Paris.
