The Villeret Grande Decoration Watch, made by Blancpain for the Only Watch 2011 charity auction, is a beautiful watch that features a classical design. It sports a subdued charm that is set in a classy package. However, the Villeret Grande Decoration timepiece is by no means ordinary or simple, because it also includes a seldom-used thin Blancpain Caliber 15B movement. In addition, the movement includes an intricate and striking engraving that displays the iconic Rock of Monaco.
At the beginning of the review, we should concentrate on the most visible characteristics of the Villeret Grande Decoration. It has a spacious round case (with the diameter of 45 mm and the thickness of 8 mm), constructed of red gold. The crown of the watch is ornamented with the engraved logo of the brand.
The dial of Villeret Grande Decoration Watch features pure lines and classical design, in accordance to the imperatives of the traditional watch-making, and reminiscent to those found on the classic pocket watches. The dial is cambered grand feu enamel without unnecessary details. The immaculate whiteness is complemented only with painted hollow Roman numerals (which is extremely difficult to execute on the enamel dials) and the company’s logo on the top. The classic-style dial also includes hollowed hour and minute hands, in the shape of a sage, made of red gold to match the case.
A Rare Movement with an Intricate Decoration
The simplicity of the dial stands in contrast with the ornate movement, displayed through the transparent case back. It is a hand-wound mechanical Blancpain Calibre 15B, which is exceptionally wide and thin (36.1 mm wide and 2.2 mm thick). The 20 jewels movement is constructed of 117 parts. It has a low frequency and a power reserve of 40 hours.
Furthermore, the movement includes a beautiful engraving that depicts the Rock of Monaco and its surroundings. The intricate engraving was completely performed by the hand of a Blancpain’s Master Engraver, Marie-Laure Tarbouriech, the recent winner of the prestigious award for the best craftsman in France. This feature certainly adds to the uniqueness and the exclusivity of the timepiece.
It is also worth noting that the Blancpain Villeret Grande Decoration wristwatch possesses a tough sapphire crystal as a protection of its fabulous dial. Besides, the watch includes a fine brown alligator strap, as well as water resistance of 30 meters.
The Blancpain Villeret grande Decoration marks the seventh consecutive collaboration of the brand with the Only Watch auction.
