After more than a year overshadowed by widespread gloom, there has never been a greater need for a little escape. With this in mind, Laurent Ferrier has revisited his École Annual Calendar, venturing into the field of color. Resplendent in blue and orange, this new creation is offered in a limited edition of only ten pieces, each of them numbered and engraved as "Série Atelier II". This most recent creation is housed in the 18K white gold École-shaped 40 mm case. The name derives from the case made by Laurent during his studies at watchmaking school, which inspired him to create a new version, many years later.
The galvanic blue two-zone blue dial of this new reference features a contrasting vertical satin-brushed center and a circular satin-brushed hour ring. Blue, often associated with dreams and peace of mind, but also a symbol of the sky and sea is ultimately a color widely used in both traditional and contemporary watchmaking. Here, it is the product of a galvanic metal treatment process. One of Laurent's favorites, most of his collection showcases this color. As always with Laurent Ferrier timepieces, the intensity of the color varies with the light. Shades are at times dark and captivating, while at others, clear and refreshing, while further enhanced by intense reflections.
In the wake of its big brother, the Grand Sport Tourbillon, the Laurent Ferrier École Annual Calendar Navy offers a more contemporary and sporting appearance compared to earlier versions. Quintessentially associated with aviation or the navy, vibrant orange here adorns the 18K white gold hands, providing the timepiece with optimal legibility and a compelling look.
The École Annual Calendar Navy boasts a long list of features that together make it a unique timepiece. The time is indicated with LF iconic hands stamped in “Assegais” shape. A snailed small seconds dial placed at 6 o'clock gives character to the composition, while two beveled apertures, positioned at 12 o'clock, display the day and the month. Finally, the date is indicated by a hand coated in white accompanied by vintage-inspired numerals, on the edge of the dial. The whole offers the full array of information required for daily life while remaining uncluttered and with no unnecessary adornment.
As the name suggests, this watch is equipped with an annual calendar. This complication recognizes months with 30 and 31 days, progressing automatically to the 1st of the month as appropriate. Manual adjustment is required only once a year, on the 1st of March. The day display is easily set through a pusher on the left side of the case, at 10 o’clock. All the other settings are easily controlled by a pull of the ball-shaped crown —emblematic signature of the brand— and rotating it accordingly, with no need for any tools.
Powering the new Laurent Ferrier École Annual Calendar Navy is the Laurent Ferrier calibre 126.01. This hand-wound movement incorporates a Swiss lever escapement and offers a power reserve of up to 80 hours. The power reserve indicator is placed on the movement and visible on the case back. Much appreciated by purists, the long-blade ratchet, characteristic of Laurent Ferrier manual movements, here boasts a polished bassiné finish, handcrafted in the brand's own workshops. The sapphire crystal on the back of the École Annual Calendar Navy reveals both the mechanism and the finesse of its state-of-the-art manual finishes, carried out according to the most demanding criteria of traditional fine watchmaking. Each bridge is adorned with spotless Côtes de Genève decoration and ruthenium plating. The plate is embellished with beading while the edges and inner edges are chamfered and then polished by hand, just like the screw heads. The art of watchmaking in its purest form.
The École Annual Calendar Navy is presented on a hand-sewn bracelet in orange or navy Nubuck leather with a navy Alcantara lining. Designed to be worn on any occasion, the "Série Atelier II" limited edition of only ten pieces will be available exclusively from Atelier Laurent Ferrier on their website.
Sticker Price CHF 50,000 Swiss Francs —approximately $54,000 USD. For more info on Laurent Ferrier click here.
