The independent watch brand Bianchet, founded by Rodolfo and Emmanuelle Festa Bianchet in the canton of Neuchâtel, has built an identity around skeletonized tourbillon watches and a design language that combines technology with modern aesthetics. Until now, the brand has only expressed its vision through tonneau-shaped cases. Shortly before Watches and Wonders 2026, where the brand will exhibit its watches for the first time, Bianchet relies on a round case while maintaining the bold character that defines its creations.
The Bianchet Ultrafino Rotondo is essentially a natural development. While it retains the modern and architectural tourbillon aesthetic that has become synonymous with the brand, it reinterprets it in a perfectly circular shape. With a diameter of 39.5mm, the Rotondo has more versatile proportions and was designed with a clear focus on portability, lightness and everyday comfort.
The new model's integrated design seamlessly connects the case and bracelet, creating a cohesive and ergonomic whole. The visual identity retains some Bianchet DNA: a geometric foundation where sharp lines and structured angles interact with flowing curves inspired by the golden ratio. The round bezel forms a striking contrast to the more angular, dynamic architecture of the case and bracelet, reinforcing the tension of the design. A characteristic element of the brand, the rubber seal under the bezel, remains intact.
The Rotondo was designed with performance and comfort in mind. Its water resistance up to 100 meters and shock resistance tested up to 5000 G underline its robust, sporty character. Despite its technical nature, the watch achieves a slimness of just 8.9mm (hence the name Ultrafino), allowing it to fit under your cuff. Lightness and portability also play a central role. There are two high-tech material versions to choose from: a titanium model with 75 grams and an ultra-light carbon version with just 48 grams, each including a bracelet.
At the heart of the Rotondo is a newly developed, proprietary movement, derived from Bianchet's previous caliber but reworked for a round case. The automatic caliber UR01 preserves the brand's architectural and geometric aesthetics through an openwork construction. It uses a vertical axis of symmetry, with the barrel at 12 o'clock – held by a curved bridge – acting as a visual anchor for the flying tourbillon at 6 o'clock. On the left, the design utilizes a trompe l'oeil effect: while the gear train appears to be supported by a series of individual bridges, they are actually segments of a single skeletal railway bridge. The automatic caliber UR01 features a one-minute flying tourbillon that operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. It offers a power reserve of 60 hours and is equipped with a solid rotor on the caseback that allows the mainspring to be wound automatically. The workmanship of the movement meets a standard that reflects Bianchet's commitment to fine watchmaking.
The Bianchet Ultrafino Rotondo Flying Tourbillon features an integrated bracelet that matches the material of the case. A replacement rubber band is included. A release system on the back allows you to switch between bracelet and strap in seconds (Editor's note: the exchange system in our pictures is not the one used for production, which will be more complex). The bracelet combines H-links with faceted center links and tapers to a narrower width at the folding clasp. The price is CHF 62,500 (excl. taxes) for the titanium version and CHF 67,500 (excl. taxes) for the carbon version.
For more information, visit www.bianchet.com.
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