Just like Jacob & Co. the style associated with Greubel Forsey is often a love or hate relationship and just like Jacob & Co., Greubel Forsey also makes some of the more extreme timepieces in both their designs and functionality. The Balancier S2 takes more sleek and cleaner approach than their previous Balancier S which I think a lot of people would appreciate compared to their previous line up of watches.
Greubel Forsey is attempting a remake of their identity, which was started when Antonio Calce joined the board as a CEO. The watches that have been created underneath him have taken a brand-new look compared to their previous line up and thus the Balancier S2 was created. The Balancier S2 takes a very refined approach and comes in either a matte anthracite grey or a lighter concrete grey dial. The biggest draw to this watch would be the 30-degree angled part of the dial which is cut across from the 9 o’clock to the 5 o’clock hour markers. On this plane is where the balance wheel is attached, this is not only for design as it serves the purpose of countering the miniscule effects of gravity on a stationery watch for even greater accuracy.
Unlike the previous model, the hands of the watch have now changed to a more monochromatic colour scheme rather than the vibrant red used previously. The power reserve indicator is indicated by a new fuel gauge style. There is also a small seconds sub dial right next to the balance wheel at the bottom of the dial. The movement itself has a power reserve of 72 hours and can be seen through the sapphire case back of the watch. The case is made out of titanium and comes in at a 46.5mm diameter and is also water resistant to 100m. This watch is paired either with a titanium bracelet or a rubber strap with a titanium folding buckle depending on which one you would prefer to have.
There will only be 88 pieces made with a charcoal grey dial to be released over four years starting in 2022. The light grey dial will only have 64 pieces made and will also be released over four years starting in 2022. To purchase with their rubber strap it comes at a price of CHF205,000 or if you pair it with a titanium bracelet the price will be CHF245,000. I love the new approach that Greubel Forsey is taking with their watches and hope this new trend continues with their upcoming watches.
The Watchlist 