Speake Marin, the renowned independent Swiss watchmaker, contributes an extraordinary one-of-a-kind timepiece to the “Time for Art” charity auction, hosted by Phillips Auctioneers in collaboration with the Swiss Institute of New York. On December 7, 2024, the event will feature the Promenade à New York, an exclusive watch from Speake Marin’s “Art Series,” reflecting a harmonious blend of artistic inspiration and advanced horological engineering.
The Art of Time: Promenade à New York
The Promenade à New York draws inspiration from Christelle Rosnoblet, President and CEO of Speake Marin, and her fond memories of New York City. This singular piece features a micro-painted mother-of-pearl dial, capturing the tranquil beauty of Central Park’s iconic Gapstow Bridge during autumn. The hand-painted scene, created through 100 hours of meticulous work, showcases the brand’s commitment to high artistry.
Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design
The Promenade à New York is housed in Speake Marin’s signature 42mm Piccadilly case, crafted from grade 5 titanium. Known for its lightweight and durable properties, titanium provides a modern touch to the classic design, while the polished and satin-brushed finishes enhance its elegant appeal. The domed sapphire crystal, treated with anti-reflective coating, protects the dial while ensuring optimal visibility.
The case back is engraved with “Time for Art 1/1” and features a sapphire crystal exhibition window, offering a glimpse into the in-house SMA03 calibre movement. The watch is water-resistant to 3 ATM, ensuring its functionality alongside its aesthetic allure.
Inside the Watch: The SMA03 Calibre
Powered by the SMA03 calibre, this self-winding movement is produced by Le Cercle des Horlogers in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Composed of 147 individual components, the movement features an integrated micro-rotor, offering a 52-hour power reserve. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the SMA03 calibre exemplifies Speake Marin’s dedication to precision and innovation in mechanical watchmaking.
The exquisite craftsmanship of the movement is further emphasized through polished bevels and Côtes de Genève decoration, visible through the transparent case back.
A Unique Auction Piece
The Promenade à New York is presented on a taupe leather strap with orange lining and secured with a titanium pin buckle engraved with the Speake Marin logo. Estimated to fetch between CHF 40,000 and CHF 80,000 at auction, the proceeds will support contemporary art initiatives. The watch also comes with special “Time for Art” packaging, underscoring its exclusivity.
Specifications:
- Reference: 914219550
- Case: 42mm Piccadilly design, grade 5 titanium with polished and satin-brushed finishes
- Movement: In-house calibre SMA03, self-winding with integrated micro-rotor
- Power Reserve: 52 hours
- Dial: Micro-painted mother-of-pearl with a depiction of Central Park’s Gapstow Bridge
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds at 1:30
- Crystal: Domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Strap: Taupe leather with orange lining, titanium pin buckle
- Water Resistance: 3 ATM
Conclusion
The Promenade à New York is a testament to Speake Marin’s unique fusion of art and horology. As a one-off creation for the Time for Art charity auction, it offers collectors a rare opportunity to acquire a piece that is as much an artistic statement as it is a technical marvel.
For more information and to explore the auction, visit Speake Marin.
