28SC, Titanium

This 28SC is one of just 10 titanium examples produced in a limited edition but the only in this configuration. The 28SC was the first central seconds variant of the Vingt-8, its caliber adding an additional central seconds gear train and bridge to Voutilainen’s first in-house movement, the calibre 28. While the 28SC was produced in a numbered limited edition, Voutilainen maintained distinct differences in aesthetics across examples through varying dial configurations and finishes. This example features two distinct guilloché patterns between dial center and chapter ring, along with a unique combination of matte grey and blue, pairing beautifully with the deep grey tone of its titanium case.

The Observatoire, Voutilainen’s start in 2007, won the men's watch prize at that year's GPHG. Observatoires utilized Peseux 260 ébauches—an observatory chronometer calibre made in small numbers for the Neuchâtel and Geneva competitions that was never sold commercially. Voutilainen did not simply restore them: balance, hairspring and escapement of his own, shock protection a competition movement never needed, timing screws in platinum. The Vingt-8 succeeded the Observatoire in 2008 with its calibre 28, Voutilainen’s first in-house serial movement. The architecture is 260-influenced, but the escapement is distinct: direct impulse through two escape wheels, approximately 30 percent more efficient than a Swiss lever, driving a 13.6mm free-sprung balance at 18,000 VPH with a Phillips overcoil and interior Grossmann curve. It features German silver bridges and generates 65 hours from one barrel. 

In 2020, Voutilainen released the 28SC, the first central seconds variant of the Vingt-8. The feat required the addition of a new gear train and long central seconds bridge, mounted directly atop the 1/2 plate, which can be observed through the open caseback. Kari has stated that no two watches he produces are exactly the same, and though this is a limited edition of 10 in each steel and titanium it is no exception to this philosophy. While the range shares movement architecture and case design, a range of dial colors, indices, guilloché patterns, and movement plate and bridge coatings can be found across examples lending unique aesthetics to each. All 28SC feature a 39mm case, the typical teardrop lugs made more contemporary through a flat and angular lug side. 

This titanium example features two distinct guilloché patterns on its silver dial. At its center a deep sun pattern in a matte grey ties into the tone of the case while a radial barleycorn pattern in a blue adorns the chapter ring. It features unique frosted silver 5-sided and tapered markers, aligning sharply with Voutilainen’s typical bi-metal observatory hands. Each three piece hand made of white gold and blued steel takes a full day’s work to manufacture, here the white gold shaft and cone have a frosted silver coating to match the indices. The German silver movement plate and bridges have been adorned with a gold-colored frosting, bringing both warmth and texture. The hand finished calibre features precise anglage throughout, with the central seconds bridge creating further depth to the already visually stunning calibre 28. 

The 28SC offers a uniquely sporting feel with its central seconds and updated lug geometry. The removal of the small seconds subregister emphasizes the masterful guilloché performed by Comblémine, Voutilainen’s dial manufacturing facility. While moving the seconds hand required additions to the calibre 28 at its heart, the seamlessness with which the added components mesh with the existing architecture is testament to the masterful design and craftsmanship of Voutilainen. 

This 28SC presents in excellent overall condition. The case features minimal wear with even light hairlines hard to find during close inspection. Its dial and hands are equally well preserved with no patina or wear. The calibre 28 is running well within spec on our timing equipment. The watch comes with its full set to include inner and outer presentation boxes, leather watch pouch, papers dated to 2020, Voutilainen cleaning cloth, and original strap. The watch also comes with an additional dial ordered from Voutilainen, with red guilloché.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.