101
AUFFRET PARIS
Giverny "Prototype" Blue Train
A unique, superbly crafted and incredibly attractive stainless steel prototype wristwatch with parts of proceeds going to charity
Estimate
CHF60,000–120,000
€65,900–132,000
$76,100–152,000
Live 9 May, 2 PM Switzerland Time
Manufacturer
AUFFRET PARIS
Year
2025
Movement No
25
Case No
Caseback engraved Prototype
Model Name
Giverny "Prototype" Blue Train
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, inhouse Cal. 13""
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Auffret pin buckle
Dimensions
36mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial and movement signed
Full-Cataloguing
Good To Know:
- A unique prototype in stainless steel (production models will be in precious metal)
- Very first Giverny model to be available
- Part of the proceeds going to charity
Paris-based Theo Auffret has quickly become one of the most compelling young voices in contemporary watchmaking. A graduate of the Edgar Faure watchmaking school, he worked alongside Denis Corpechot in restoration and with the legendary Jean-Baptiste Viot, where he mastered traditional hand-finishing techniques. He later refined his skills in Switzerland with Luca Soprana, developing strong expertise in prototyping.
In 2018, at just 22 years old, Auffret was one of the winners of the F.P. Journe Young Talent Competition with his Tourbillon à Paris, produced in a limited run of 14 pieces. The watch established his reputation for combining classical inspiration with a distinctly personal style.
In 2025, Auffret introduced the Giverny, a 36mm time-only wristwatch that reflects his architectural approach to design and his commitment to French independent watchmaking. Beneath its restrained exterior lies a newly developed in-house calibre, the result of two years of work. The movement draws inspiration from mid-20th century chronometer calibres, particularly the Peseux 260. This influence is evident in the generous 13mm balance and the leisurely frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour.
Crafted from German silver, the movement showcases what has become Auffret’s signature: charbonnage finishing. This rare and labor-intensive technique involves applying charcoal by hand to create a softly brushed, matte surface across the plates, giving the calibre a distinctive depth and warmth. The attention to detail is pushed to the limits with even the lugs featuring interior angles done by hand!
Production of the Giverny will remain highly limited, with five examples scheduled for delivery in 2026 and ten in 2027.
The present watch is one of only five prototype examples cased in steel and the only one fitted with blued indexes, earning it the nickname “Blue Train.” Its combination of prototype status and unique dial configuration makes it a particularly appealing example of Auffret’s early work.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this watch will benefit the Bertrand Scheck Foundation, dedicated to preserving horological know-how in France, as well as SOS Préma, a French NGO which supports families of prematurely born babies.
- A unique prototype in stainless steel (production models will be in precious metal)
- Very first Giverny model to be available
- Part of the proceeds going to charity
Paris-based Theo Auffret has quickly become one of the most compelling young voices in contemporary watchmaking. A graduate of the Edgar Faure watchmaking school, he worked alongside Denis Corpechot in restoration and with the legendary Jean-Baptiste Viot, where he mastered traditional hand-finishing techniques. He later refined his skills in Switzerland with Luca Soprana, developing strong expertise in prototyping.
In 2018, at just 22 years old, Auffret was one of the winners of the F.P. Journe Young Talent Competition with his Tourbillon à Paris, produced in a limited run of 14 pieces. The watch established his reputation for combining classical inspiration with a distinctly personal style.
In 2025, Auffret introduced the Giverny, a 36mm time-only wristwatch that reflects his architectural approach to design and his commitment to French independent watchmaking. Beneath its restrained exterior lies a newly developed in-house calibre, the result of two years of work. The movement draws inspiration from mid-20th century chronometer calibres, particularly the Peseux 260. This influence is evident in the generous 13mm balance and the leisurely frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour.
Crafted from German silver, the movement showcases what has become Auffret’s signature: charbonnage finishing. This rare and labor-intensive technique involves applying charcoal by hand to create a softly brushed, matte surface across the plates, giving the calibre a distinctive depth and warmth. The attention to detail is pushed to the limits with even the lugs featuring interior angles done by hand!
Production of the Giverny will remain highly limited, with five examples scheduled for delivery in 2026 and ten in 2027.
The present watch is one of only five prototype examples cased in steel and the only one fitted with blued indexes, earning it the nickname “Blue Train.” Its combination of prototype status and unique dial configuration makes it a particularly appealing example of Auffret’s early work.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this watch will benefit the Bertrand Scheck Foundation, dedicated to preserving horological know-how in France, as well as SOS Préma, a French NGO which supports families of prematurely born babies.