Picture this. In the bustling city of Barcelona, amid the echoes of centuries-old churches and the hustle of vibrant streets, a small group of horological artisans crafts the epitome of timeless beauty. Their dedication is palpable, their work, unparalleled. It’s within these surroundings that Atelier de Chronométrie has unveiled their latest masterpiece for Only Watch 2023 – the AdC30 Only Watch.
The charitable heart of the Only Watch biennial auction beats with purpose. An event committed to funding research for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, it has seen many esteemed watch brands offering their unique creations for a noble cause. But what makes this year’s contribution from Atelier de Chronométrie particularly intriguing?
This isn’t just another watch. The AdC30 Only Watch stands apart. It’s not merely a part of a collection. It’s a masterpiece birthed specifically for this auction. Santiago Martínez and his passionate team have transcended their usual craft, forging a watch that will surely be etched in the annals of horological history.
At first glance, the 18k grey gold round case captivates with stepped lugs, a concave bezel, and case back. It houses a breathtaking sandwich dial adorned with 18k rose gold and blued steel leaf hands – a delicate touch that elevates the entire piece. However, delve a bit deeper, and the genius behind this piece becomes even more evident.
With the new in-house calibre M284, Atelier de Chronométrie showcases its evolution. But this isn’t the same M284 we might recognize from their other works. Here, it boasts a special handmade frosting decoration, setting it apart from its siblings. This movement, reminiscent of 1940’s calibres, amalgamates high-end traditional finishes. From handmade frosting, anglage, and perlage to polished countersinks, étirage des flancs, and beveled screws, it’s a symphony of artistry and precision.
“Making unique timepieces is one of the main axes of the vision of Atelier de Chronométrie,” they mention, and with the AdC30, they’ve showcased this ethos with vigor. Their participation in the Only Watch charity auction is not just about offering a masterpiece. It’s about sharing their heart, soul, and vision with the world.
However, the Atelier de Chronométrie narrative doesn’t end with the AdC30. Its inception in 2014 was a reverberation of the artisanal watchmaking art of the past, with a special penchant for designs inspired by the 1930’s-1940’s. This nostalgic journey, spearheaded by Santiago Martínez, seeks to offer every watch collector a one-of-a-kind timepiece that’s more than just an accessory. It’s an experience.
In today’s era of mass production, the idea of handcrafting each component might seem anachronistic. But that’s the essence of Atelier de Chronométrie. From hand-engraved bridges with signatures to the handmade 18k grey gold buckle, each touchpoint is unique. Their promise? To make every collector a part of their watch’s creation journey.
The AdC30 Only Watch isn’t merely a contribution to Only Watch 2023. It’s a statement. A testament to Atelier de Chronométrie‘s dedication to handcrafted excellence and the limitless potentials of artisanal work. It’s an embodiment of a passion that burns brightly in the heart of Barcelona, where every tick of a watch is not just about time but about the timeless journey of artistry.
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