Double Balancier Convexe, Titanium

The Double Balancier Convexe is the highest end of independent watchmaking optimized for two things: true thoroughbred performance and sports wearing. There has never before been a dual balance sports watch of any kind. Introduced in 2016, the Double Balancier Convexe united the brand’s two greatest accomplishments in their dual balance calibre and Convexe case. The 2023 update of the Double Balancier Convexe brought the case size and thinness down, while optimizing wearbility with a titanium case. In the words of Hodinkee, it is ‘peak Grebuel’. This is one of 66 titanium examples of the most perfectly finished, highly technical sports watch made today. 

Greubel Forsey aim to preserve handcraft and finishing, improve mechanical timekeeping through audacious calibres, and evoke emotion in their watchmaking. The distinction between Greubel Forsey and many others is that Greubel Forsey deliver on these core tenets. As a side effect of pursuing that philosophy unflinchingly, Greubel Forsey's hand finishing standard is unrivaled. Where many independent watchmakers tend to focus on technical prowess or finishing, Greubel Forsey refuses to compromise on either. They take as long as they take to make perfect objects with clear purpose.

The Double Balance calibre’s overall architecture stems from a 2013 Double Balance movement, a result of fundamental research into inclined oscillators derived from competition. However, it’s been thoroughly reworked in the years following. All bridges and the main plate are made of titanium. Both fixed, free-sprung balances here are inclined at 30 degrees in opposite positions with respect to the case. The aim of this is cancel positional errors entirely. The two heartbeats are then processed through a 4-minute rotating spherical differential which also doubles as a remontoire d'egalité nestled between the balances and black polished to match the bridges. The entire inner 'rehaut' area has been mirror polished to show off the reflection of the running balances while wearing. The mainspring barrel is engraved, there are beautiful chamfers everywhere, the bridges are frosted, the screw countersinks are polished, and the balance bridges are full black polish. The balance bridges are particularly excellent for their openworked anglage that blends seamslessly into the top black polish. This is a symphony in traditional finishing technique, applied to a highly contemporary architecture. 

The Convexe case is immensely complex with a curved top and bottom sapphire, matching the contour of a wrist. The curved case is hand finished with polishing and engraved relief elements. The bezel contrasts a mirror bevel with brushed satin top surface, complimenting and exaggerating the arc. The strap is a treated, textured rubber with titanium deployant clasp. Where the prior generation was 43.5mm this generation has come down to 42.5 with a mm of height subtracted. Still unashamedly about the watchmaking first, this case is a large difference in practice. There is nothing else like this on wrist, imposing and deeply mechanically refined. 

The Double Balancier Convexe is a sports watch and competition chronometer taken to the extreme in both respects. The chronometry aim is based in tested research, executed without restriction, and finished to an unrivaled standard. Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey don't call their clients collectors, they call them custodians. This is a watch for a custodian who lives actively, doesn’t accept anything less than the ultimate, and appreciates fine skill in all respects. 

This Double Balancier Convexe is in excellent, superbly preserved condition. It appears to have hardly been worn, the case sports only the most minimal possible signs of wear only under loupe. The calibre is perfect. It was produced in 2024 and comes with its entire, complete set of factory accessories.

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