Continuum, 'Lever de Soleil' Dial, Titanium

Initially called the Continuum, Romain Gauthier’s integrated sports watch debuted in 2021. The approach was as independent from existing models in philosophy. Continuum has a dual meaning as both pushing the brand to move forward and simultaneously literally represents the case design continuing through the integrated bracelet. The collection has since been named ‘C by Romain Gauthier’. This C features the first bracelet by the Romain Gauthier, executed in full titanium.

In fact, it is not just the case and bracelet but entire dial and calibre that are all grade 5 titanium. The total weight of the package is 85 grams. Combined with a remarkable 9.95mm thinness, this is a watch that disappears the moment it is clasped. This luminous ‘Lever de Soleil’ salmon dial was introduced in 2023, highlighting the wonderful asymmetry with contrasting blue elements. The tone is described by the brand as, ‘of the cool winter mornings of the Vallée de Joux, between the white of the snow and the orange of the sun, the slightly pink colour of the sky’. In that, it certainly succeeds. This watch is made in the details, such as the crown end which perfectly mirrors the complex bezel shape. The bezel is machined round, then cut into a six-sided form with each facet polished. The same is then done with the crown. The dial features blocks and numerals of Super-Luminova, with an asymmetrical petite seconds. 

The calibre is entirely in-house manufactured in an un-traditional yet still Vallée de Joux style, with finger-bridges made of titanium. The hacking seconds incorporates an unusual small snail cam. When the seconds are re-engaged, that snail gives an impulse to the balance wheel that means it cleverly gets to full amplitude immediately. It is an echo of the snail torque system in the Logical One, with different application. Bridges and plates are hand frosted by an engraving technique with sandblasted straight beveled edges. This is a very modern and well-executed finishing style. Classical touches remain, with occasional use of black polish and internal bevels on gear arm inner circles. 

The C by Romain Gauthier is contemporary Vallée de Joux independent watchmaking for daily wearing. The entire watch has been designed carte blanche with a cohesive aim, something rarely seen from the larger Swiss brands. Every detail is considered, down to the S-shaped screws that ensure greater torque can be delivered to the screw head. It is a subtle dose of high watchmaking that will remain under the radar of most, independent to the core, and undeniably beautiful. It is the most adaptable and easily to live with Romain Gauthier yet made, no less beautiful much substantially more robust. 

This C by Romain Gauthier presents in exceptional condition. The watch arrived to us worn only a handful of times without any marks. It is running within 3 s/d with healthy amplitude. It comes with its complete set including all factory accessories and a full bracelet.

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