There are a few special things about Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Off-Centered. First, the words “off-centered” are important because it means that this is a handmade movement with a unique seconds hand positioning. Imagine if a handmade sweater had the left arm hold a little off for artistic effect and you kind of get the idea. Second, it has a big fat eight on the front thanks to the hours and the seconds hand. This makes it aimed directly at the Asian market who love them some eights. Just two little points that help you understand the high-end watch industry.
Further, I love me some Jaquet Droz. “Founded” by an automaton maker back in the days of Breguet, the company has consistently made some of the trippiest, steampunkiest pieces in the world. There aren’t many complications here but the “opaline” dial and starry sky face are both quite beautiful and I definitely wouldn’t kick this piece out of bed for eating crackers.
From the release:
Dynamic and modern, with the delicacy characteristic of Jaquet Droz, the Grande Seconde offers an unrivaled sophistication highlighted by its new format. Its case with a diameter of 39 mm means that it is now as much at home on women’s wrists as on men’s. It offers everyone the elegant mystery of two mineral dials, handmade by the craftsmen of Jaquet Droz. A choice between the deep monochrome black of onyx or a starry sky in aventurine bordered by a diamond-set bezel. The indexes cut directly into the circles of the dials create a clean, stripped-down appearance reminiscent of the style of contemporary art. These two versions are joined by a model with a silvery opaline dial, whose flawless purity is enhanced by blued steel hands, as well as a model in Grand Feu enamel, the historic signature of the brand with the unique texture and coloring of ivory.
