Manufacturer: Voutilainen Year: Circa 2009 Movement No: C260’107 Case No: C260’107 Model Name: Observatoire Material: 18K white gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 260, jeweled Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: 18K white gold Voutilainen deployant clasp Dimensions: 38mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed Accessories: Further accompanied by Voutilainen certificate dated 16th December 2009, service booklet, product literature, two extra crocodile straps, outer packaging and large wooden fitted presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
Regarded as a legend and a master watchmaker, Kari Voutilainen has earned a cult following over the years. The most important elements of a wristwatch are predominantly made in-house, such as the elegant case with tear drop lugs, the immensely detailed guilloché dial and precisely the movement.
Often compared with greats such as Philippe Dufour, Voutilainen wristwatches are executed to the best possible quality in movement accuracy, finishing and architecture. The Observatoire was introduced in 2007 with only 50 examples believed to be made making it extremely rare and highly sought after. Featured on the grey guilloché dial, are three differing techniques used to execute the highly detailed and elegant texture with each pattern reflecting differently under light. Furthermore, powered by the cal. 260 from Pesseux, an observatory grade caliber from the mid-20th century. With only an estimated 3,300 examples of the caliber ever produced, the calibers were not available for public purchase. With heavy modification of the caliber by Voutilainen, the result is a breathtakingly beautiful and accurate movement with extreme attention to detail perceived. With all elements combined, the watch won the Best Men’s watch prize and the 2007 GPHG.
The present example is offered in excellent overall condition and is complete with the full set of accessories.