Gรฉrald Genta, famous Swiss watch designer, drew his inspiration from nature to create some of his most iconic watches, such as the Royal Oak from Audemars Piguet or the Bulgari Bulgari. In 1994, during a family vacation in Corsica, he imagined a new model inspired by a sea urchin: the Genta Oursin. Thirty years later, this bold and unique watch is reborn under the name Gentissima Oursin, the brand's first creation since its acquisition by Louis Vuitton in 2022.
A design faithful to the original
The new Gentissima Oursin takes up the aesthetic codes of the watch designed by Gรฉrald Genta in 1994. We find in particular the bezel decorated with spikes reminiscent of the shell of a sea urchin, as well as the round case measuring 36.5 mm in diameter. This unisex size will allow the watch to appeal to both men and women, although its avant-garde style will probably appeal more to the latter.
Three versions are offered, all with a grade 5 titanium case:
Careful details and a touch of modernity
The Gentissima Oursin is distinguished by its faceted sapphire crystal, which reflects an octagonal shape on the dial, a recurring motif in Gรฉrald Genta's creations. The slightly curved glass perfectly matches the curves of the convex case, for a harmonious profile.
The rounded hands are reminiscent of those of the original 1994 model, while the crowns are decorated with pearls or picots matching the bezel, depending on the version. The dials of the white gold and rose gold models feature a refined guillochรฉ pattern, contrasting with the matte black dial of the DLC titanium version.
An exclusive mechanical movement
To power the Gentissima Oursin, the Gentissima design laboratory chose an automatic mechanical movement based on the Zenith Elite caliber, called GG-005. This 27-jewel movement beats at a frequency of 4 Hz and offers a power reserve of 50 hours. It features a personalized octagonal oscillating weight and an embossed decoration reminiscent of the pearls on the bezel.
A daring watch reserved for those in the know
Gรฉrald Genta fully embraces the atypical character of the Gentissima Oursin, which will not please everyone. This watch is aimed at collectors with an assertive personality, who appreciate the originality and audacity of Gรฉrald Genta's creations.
Production of the Gentissima Oursin will be deliberately limited, in order to leave room for other models. The brand nevertheless promises to offer this fascinating trio in new versions in the future. The recommended retail prices are 22,000 CHF for the model in titanium and white gold, 32,000 CHF for the model in titanium and rose gold set with diamonds, and 25,000 CHF for the model in black DLC titanium and yellow gold.
With the Gentissima Oursin, Gรฉrald Genta pays vibrant homage to one of the favorite creations of its eponymous founder and his wife. This exclusive and avant-garde watch perfectly embodies the creative spirit and daring that have made the brand famous. A must-have for lovers of original watch design and unique pieces.
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