After years of working on some of the finest watches from the last three centuries, Kari Voutilainen embarked on his own journey as an independent watchmaker in 2002. His work has been extremely well received among collectors and his peers in wake of his unique approach to traditional watchmaking with contemporary designs. Every element in his creations, from the smallest screws to the dial, involves meticulous craftsmanship, from polishing, angling to adjusting tolerances.

Recognised for his mastery in collection-grade timekeepers, Voutilainen has been granted over half a dozen awards by the most prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genéve. Building upon his time-only Vingt-8, the 217QRS model features an additional retrograde date indicator, tastefully integrated into the watch by its maker. Executed to the highest degree in both form and function, the collection is split into platinum, pink gold and white gold variants. Exceedingly rare, only 10 pieces in each case metal will ever be made.

Boasting a solid-silver dial in dark blue, the present 217QRS is hand-finished with three distinct guilloche patterns that plays with the light differently, adding depth to the canvas by portraying a combination of tones. Layered on top, the Breguet-styled hands and applied Arabic numerals standout from the background, which creates a sublime contrast to the arched retrograde date in the centre, with white numerals. This feature is seamlessly connected to the sub-seconds below, creating an organic sensation that harmonises the dial.

Encased in pink gold, the present case is finished with sculpted lugs and closed with a sapphire case back that invites the wearer to admire its in-house cal. 28. The range of patterns in its movement reveals both the watchmaker’s meticulous attention to detail and superlative craftsmanship.

The present example is quintessentially a Voutilainen through and through. Beautifully executed with divine proportions, this 217QRS is offered in excellent overall condition, accompanied by its original accessories. The chance to acquire the rare bird at hand is most certainly, not one to be missed.