Sapphire is a hard material to work with, and I don’t just mean because it’s second only to diamond. In case you didn’t know, it grows in sheets and getting a piece big enough to do more than a substantial crystal takes more than a little skill. Think then, about just how impressive Bovet’s Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter One actually is.

The ‘writing slope’ case – in imitation of slanted antique writing desks – is almost entirely made from transparent sapphire. Everything but the screws holding it together and the lugs is see-through, allowing a 360-degree view of the movement inside.

Now, this certainly isn’t the first full sapphire case ever made; the most recent that springs to mind is Bell & Ross’s awesome example. At 45mm of flawless curved crystal though, the Bovet is far more impressive. That goes for what’s happening inside that sapphire too.

Boasting Bovet’s double face flying tourbillon, the movement is a spectacle. A three-dimensional aventurine-laden double moon phase at 12 o’clock, and a mass of mechanics around the circumference indicating the date and power reserve all appear to float in space together.

From the side they look even more impressive, layered one atop the other in a unique construction with the golds and blues of the various embellishments in stark contrast to one another. Perhaps more impressively, the entire arrangement has a power reserve of an impressive 10 days.

Thanks to that signature ‘writing slope’ shape, the various indications are easier to read than ever before, requiring just a slight twist of the wrist to appreciate. It’s asymmetry with a reason and works phenomenally from both a stylistic and ergonomic perspective. Essentially, it looks great and reads fantastically.

Bovet can’t seem to help but impress year on year with ever more elaborate pieces geared directly at serious collectors. They did it in 2017 with the Astérium and in 2018 with the Grand Récital; now they’ve done it again with the Brainstorm, a watch that makes Bovet’s haute horology credentials… crystal clear.

Price & Specs:

Model Name: Bovet Recital 26 Brainstorm Chapter One

Ref: R260001 – P2019 Case: 48mm diameter x 15.50mm height, sapphire case, grade 5 titanium bezel and lugs

Dial: Aluminum (in one of several color options) Movement: Manual-winding mechanical

Frequency: 18000 Alt/h

Functions: Date, hours, minutes, moonphase, power reserve, seconds, tourbillon Power Reserve: 240h

Water Resistance: 30m Price : CHF 295,000 (not including taxes)



For more information visit Bovet’s website.