Greubel Forsey has always been synonymous with highly complex, extremely accomplished movements presented as three-dimensional mechanical sculptures. In recent years, the brand has taken a more “understated” but still modern approach with models such as the Balancier S and the Balancier 3, launched in 2023. The contemporary Balancer 3 retained the brand's signature depth and finish while focusing on structural clarity. This new edition does not change the concept; it changes the presentation, and that changes the watch.
Staying true to the Convexe design introduced with the brand's sportier pieces, the case features molded lugs and an engraved case ring. Crafted from titanium, the case has a width of 41.5mm, a wider bezel of 43.6mm and a height of 13.35mm (13.55mm including the domed crystals). Both the sapphire crystals and the case profile follow the wrist and thus reduce the perceived size despite the dimensions. The variable geometry bezel alternates between polished and straight surfaces. The polished and straight-grained titanium crown is decorated with the GF logo. The water resistance is 50 m.
On the dial side, the Balancier 3 remains an exercise in openness and legibility through structure. The luminous hour and minute hands are positioned on a floating central bridge that extends in an arc over the movement. On the flange there is a wide blue hour ring with engraved, lacquered minute track and three-dimensional hour indices treated with Super-LumiNova. The large balance continues to dominate the composition, while the small seconds is indicated by a rotating disc with a fixed red triangular marking.
While the balance and barrel bridges retain their polished titanium surfaces, the large center bridge features a new hand-applied matte finish using a steel brush to create a distinct matte texture for contrast. Combined with multiple shades of blue throughout the movement, this new version of the Balancer 3 offers a more graphic, high-contrast composition. It's a subtle change in concept, but a significant change in execution.
The mechanics remain unchanged. The hand-wound movement is equipped with a large 12.6 mm variable-inertia balance wheel and six gold screws and beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour. It is powered by two rapidly rotating barrels that provide a chronometric power reserve of 72 hours. The architecture is deliberately kept open, with 282 components and 43 jewels, including gold chatons. The power reserve indicator is displayed on the side of the movement and is visible through the caseback alongside frosted bridges and a gold plate engraved with the individual limitation number.
The watch is worn on a textured rubber strap with a titanium folding clasp; A three-row titanium bracelet with fine adjustment is available as an option. This new edition of the Balancier 3 is limited to 22 pieces. Prices continue to reflect the positioning of the collection and are expected to do so around CHF 170,000 (to be confirmed).
For more information, visit greubelforsey.com.
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