I can’t find a better way to celebrate Swiss National Day today August 1, 2022, than with one of the best watchmakers of our time and an independent watchmaker. The legend Philippe Dufour is a modern watchmaker that has been adhering to the most traditional and classic watchmaking codes since he founded his brand. A creator of some of the most coveted timepieces today, his watches feature clean, classic lines powered by the highest-end in-house movements with superb finishing and incredible hand polishing.
Philippe Dufour worked for names like Jaeger-LeCoultre, Audemars Piguet, and Gerald Genta. In 1978, he opened his own workshop creating all his own parts. By keeping his production numbers limited, Dufour maintains absolute control over quality. And let me tell you, it is not until you’ve held one of his watches in the metal, that you realize why this man is a legend and one of the most incredible watchmakers of our time. The watches are exquisitely finished and drool-worthy.
The Philippe Dufour Simplicity was first released in the year 2000 and produced entirely in a traditional manner without the use of modern industrial tools over a 12-year period. Philippe Dufour himself created approximately 200 examples of this model. Also highly sought-after is the Philippe Dufour Duality of which only 9 examples were ever made. All his watches are hand-finished and assembled by Monsieur Dufour himself.
Last year, while I was in Geneva as a juror for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève 2021, I was lucky to be able to peruse the Simplicity I am showing you here at the Phillips Geneva Watch Auction XIV. This example with case number 57, was sold for CHF 756,000 Swiss Francs —approximately $800,000 USD. Cased in platinum with an exquisite 37 mm case unlike the first watches in the Simplicity line that featured a 34 mm case —somewhat too small for our time—, this watch features a hand-guilloché dial that is to die for. If you think Breguet makes incredible guilloché dials wait until you see one of Dufour’s watches in the metal.
In 2020, Dufour announced the last run of 20 Simplicity models in celebration of the model’s 20th anniversary. These anniversary pieces feature a hinged case back and a different dial than the non- anniversary models. This Simplicity in platinum numbered 57 from 2004, is part of the earlier pieces created by Dufour. Then, once you turn the watch over the in-house movement is a real treat for the eyes. A movement that has been exquisitely decorated and that you can’t compare to other watches out there. From its architecture to its finishes, this movement exudes watchmaking passion from top to bottom.
Very few Simplicity models have surfaced publicly, and the combination of a 37mm case in platinum with the hand guilloché dial, most similar to the prototype version Philippe Dufour himself wears, is arguably one of the most desired variants. I feel honored I was able to capture these images for you guys and that I was able to play with the watch and wear it for a little bit. Honestly, no better way to celebrate Swiss National Day and my passion for watches and horology than with this amazing piece.
