EsperLuxe, a leading curator and retailer in independent watchmaking, celebrates its fifth anniversary with a unique collaboration. Partnering with renowned Sainte-Croix-based watchmaker Sylvain Pinaud, they have created a limited edition timepiece—the Sylvain Pinaud Origine “Ste Croix.” This exclusive watch, limited to just 12 pieces, embodies the craftsmanship and innovation central to independent watchmaking.
Design and Craftsmanship
The Sylvain Pinaud Origine is known for its neoclassical simplicity. However, beneath its elegant exterior lies a world of technical sophistication. Collectors recognize the Origine for its distinctive design, featuring an asymmetric dial and movement architecture that set it apart from other timepieces. At its core is a custom in-house gear train and Swiss-lever escapement, both designed specifically for this model. The balance, measuring 13.2mm in diameter, is prominently displayed on the dial, highlighting the importance of precision in mechanical timekeeping.
The watch face showcases various textures and layers. The elevated dial, frosted gold base plate, large mirror-polished bridge, and blued screws create a visually dynamic experience. Each element is meticulously crafted to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the timepiece.
Mechanical Excellence
The movement, visible from the back, demonstrates the artistry of watchmaking. It features a range of finishing techniques, such as frosting, anglage, cerclage, mirror polishing, snailing, and polished sinks. These techniques come together to create a visually cohesive movement. The baseplate is engraved with “Fait à Ste-Croix,” honoring the location of Pinaud’s workshop. The hand-wound movement offers a 55-hour power reserve and is housed within a 40mm stainless steel case that combines robustness with refinement.
Technical Specifications
- Case: Stainless steel 316L, 40mm in diameter, 11mm thick (including glass), with sapphire crystal glass featuring anti-reflective and anti-UV properties.
- Movement: Hand-wound mechanical movement, 21,600 vibrations per hour, 22 jewels, 55-hour power reserve. It features an in-house Swiss-lever escapement and a balance wheel with variable inertia.
- Dial and Hands: Circle-polished and sablage middle, with flame-blued steel hands for hours, minutes, and seconds. The main plate is gold-frosted.
- Strap and Buckle: Calf leather strap with a stainless steel deployant buckle.
This timepiece, limited to just 12 pieces, is a special collaboration that any serious collector would covet.
