Greubel Forsey recently ‘upgraded’ their GMT functionality via the new GMT Balancier Convexe, which uses a new manually-wound GMT movement that will supersede all previous GMT movements. It also joins the broader Balancier Convexe collection family.

Unlike, say, the GMT Sport of 2021 or indeed prior GMTs, the new GMT Balancier Convexe is simple for a Greubel Forsey. There is no tourbillon (or indeed multiple tourbillons), but there is an inclined balance wheel.

This new watch is in a 46.5mm sized titanium case (thickness of 17.40mm) with a water resistance of 100m. The sapphire crystal and satin-finished bezel follow the same curvature. Beneath the convex shaped sapphire crystal the dial is dominated by the instantly recognisable Greubel Forsey globe, made from titanium with relief-engraved co continents, which moves in a 24-hour rotation. It is framed by concave rings which indicate the hours and minutes of the local time, and the Universal Time (UT). The UTC indicator is in titanium, with markings engraved and lacquered. The GMT indicator is in gold, as is the small seconds indicator.

The 24 time zones displaying universal time indicate night time via a black background, and day time courtesy of a white background. Local time is indicated on the two outer rings – the hours on a gray satin-finished ring, and minutes on a thin black outer ring. Each time indication has its own hand, with a lumed red triangular tip. These hands are attached to two additional rings (engraved with various familiar words) to display GMT (which is operated via a pusher on the side of the case). An off-centred display at 10 o’clock indicates a second time zone and features a blued gold hand.

The new calibre beats at 21,600 VPH and has a power reserve of 72 hours. The 30° inclined balance wheel is accompanied by a flat black-polished and barrel polished steel bridge mounted on polished steel pillars. The titanium bridges that support the whole balance are hand-finished with a steel brush for a frosted texture.

On the case back side, the familiar disc that displays the 24 reference cities, including La Chaux-de-Fonds. There are two strap options – rubber with a titanium folding clasp, or a titanium bracelet with folding clasp.

Greubel Forsey will only make 66 GMT Balancier Convexe timepieces in total over a three year period commencing 2022 and ending in 2024, with twenty-two to be made per annum.

[Photo credit: Greubel Forsey]

Categories: GMT/ dual/ worldtimer, Greubel Forsey, Limited Editions, Watch Profile, watches