Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XIX

9 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I C apturing dynamism from a static timepiece isn’t a simple task. It requires a careful craftsman and also a soupcon of daring. The envelope cannot be pushed too far, however, as there is a fine line between gorgeous and gaudy. Thankfully, the expert designers at Blancpain ride that line quite keenly. And there is perhaps no finer example of their exquisite expertise than the Calibre 2322V2, which encapsulates not only the timelessness of the brand but also its cutting-edge nature, as it once again reunites a tourbillon with a carrousel in an all-new form. The Calibre 2322V2 is encased in platinumwith a 47.40-milimetre diameter shaped in a broad but classic design complete with a frosted finish. Just inside that, though, the watch is distinguished by its bezel that boasts applied numerals together with asymmetric bridges and a baseplate coated in a dark finish. The forms of two cages, that of the tourbillon and that of the carrousel, have been subtly reimagined and reshaped for this limited-edition timepiece. These elements give the watch a unique look in the Blancpain collection as well as a healthy helping of depth and sportiness. Moreover, it is these dynamic design features that represent ‘firsts’ for the Blancpain brand. Aiding the exacting reliability for which the Blancpain brand is famous, the carrousel and the tourbillon are powered individually, each by its own barrel, allowing the two to share the same vertical placement within the movement. In fact, the complication takes a design originally invented in 1892 and adds a modern twist: a small gear, rather than the traditional rotation around a fixed wheel, powers the classic tourbillon. The true magnificence of the Calibre 2322V2’s facial graphics aren’t apparent at the straight- on view but rather best admired from an angle, which is how most onlookers will appreciate the piece. The design is an interpretation on the famous Art Deco style, modernised with asymmetry. It’s a dark design that speaks to the owner’s sense of style and elite technology. The initials of the marque have been laser-etched into the carrousel’s cage, representing another first for such delicate work on such a small size. Amazingly, the back is nearly as awe-inspiring as the front, with magenta accents and an architecture seemingly stolen from an MC Escher drawing. The fully visible side is a secret window into the movement and the watch’s intricate complication. The reverse is also engraved with the production number of the exclusive timepiece; only 50 examples will ever be produced. In the presence of the Calibre 2322V2, one feels a sense of subtle masculine power and visual vibrancy. Its shapes and accents give it a palpable gravity, not only in its literal heft when strapped to the wrist with its black alligator strap but also in its figurative authoritative feel. Not accidentally, the timepiece has the look of a perfectly tailored suit, with clean lines and effortless grandeur – complete with a few small, bright accent marks. Undeniably, it is the kind of watch that will have timeless appeal and inspire awe in those fortunate enough to not just see but wear it as well. Blancpain Calibre 2322V2: Static Dynamism