Hands-On With The New David Candaux DC12 MaveriK
Who likes to keep a secret? This guy doesn’t! However, when we visited David Candaux at Geneva Watch Days 2025, we had to promise to keep our collective mouths shut about an upcoming release. Almost four weeks later, I’m excited to talk about the new DC12 MaveriK. This was easily one of my favorite pieces from the show, so let’s explore why.
I had the opportunity to meet David Candaux briefly at an independent watchmakers’ event held by Phillips in London last year. He was friendly and approachable, two words that aren’t always associated with high-end independent watchmaking. His creations are unlike any other brand’s, with an intuitive push-button telescoping crown at the bottom of the case. Aside from the modern aesthetics, Candaux is a wizard with movements. Technically, he pushed boundaries, yet the mechanics have a strong tie to past and current masters in the field. With the new DC12 MaveriK, he has once again created a jaw-dropping movement and, happily, has placed it in a smaller case.
The David Candaux DC12 MaveriK
David Candaux’s new DC12 is instantly recognizable as a watch from the master’s hands. The profile and vertically extending crown are telltale signs. However, compared to a piece like the DC7 Blue Hawk, this model takes on a new guise. The MaveriK features a longitudinally brushed Grade 5 titanium case, showcasing an evolution of the brand’s signature case design. Its form is more compact, which results in a wearable 39.5mm diameter. The lug-to-lug measurement hasn’t been provided, but this is finally a watch from Candaux that works on a smaller wrist.
An arresting case design with precision construction
The multi-part case has a curved profile that hugs the wrist. Polished and brushed sections help highlight the complex curves on every surface. The inner lug design is particularly eye-catching, featuring a blend of sharp edges and softly curved lines. Then, the double-stepped bezel displays concave or convex curves, depending on the viewing angle. These follow the uniquely shaped sapphire crystal. Incidentally, this watch is a top-loader, and the screws on the case flanks are there to open the case. While the DC12 Maverik may resemble a delicate Haute Horlogerie novelty, it is designed for daily use. With a 50m water resistance rating and a rubber strap with Velcro closure, it’s meant for more than showing off to friends.
Naturally, the watch includes Candaux’s signature crown at 6 o’clock. It functions in the same manner as a traditional crown with multiple stops. The small company also realized two patents related to its construction. A secured winding system prevents energy from being transmitted to the movement in the wrong direction. Also, the crown has a new, compact, and precise winding and time-setting assembly.
Dial details
Like the case, the DC12 MaveriK dial is awash with details. That said, it’s probably my favorite overall composition from the brand. The shape follows the complex case curvature, where certain sides are higher than others. The grayish matte-finished base is made from nickel silver. Diamond-polished rings surround an hour disc crafted from white opal. Then, the baton-shaped indexes are made of gray gold. Finally, sapphire is used as a medium for the small seconds display at the top of the dial. It’s a pleasing design that straddles the line between classical and modern.
The C30 is an impressive movement
With David Candaux, the movements are just as exciting as the cosmetics. The DC12 MaveriK has a movement steeped in history, yet it’s incredibly uncommon. Candaux has created the C30, a caliber with a single gear train powering two balance wheels linked by a differential. In a resonance watch, the balance wheels function independently but align with each other, creating impressive accuracy. Normally, due to the energy requirements of each barrel, though, the differential is not mounted on the seconds’ gear train. This, however, results in a less accurate movement. Candaux worked to combat this by developing a flying satellite planetary differential mounted on a hairspring within the seconds’ gear train. This allows the two balances to reach equilibrium and adjusts for any deviations in real time. Practically, this is seen on the dial side and rotates every 60 seconds.
The result of his achievement is a hand-winding movement with 58 hours of power reserve and a frequency of 21,600vph. As expected for a watch in this class, a host of hand-finishing techniques are employed. These include extensive anglage, mirror polishing, straight graining, perlage, and blasted finishing.
The DC12 MaveriK wows on the wrist
I’ve learned to appreciate complex, progressively designed watches, but most are large and don’t fit very well. Frequently, they’re better conversation pieces than they are usable timepieces. The DC12 MaveriK is an exception. With moderate dimensions, including an 11.9mm thickness, it feels like a natural extension of the arm. It may look a bit too modern for some as an everyday piece, but it definitely is up to the task.
Final thoughts
The new David Candaux DC12 MaveriK is a special watch. Compared to previous releases, it is more focused, more compact, and, in some ways, more discreet. This includes the dial’s impressive materials and details. Regarding the movement, it’s a tour de force, with the inclusion of Candaux’s own innovative flying satellite planetary differential. As a small watchmaker, David Candaux produces a small number of watches annually. With this in mind, the DC12 is a limited offering and will be priced above the six-figure mark. Yes, this is expensive, but I don’t expect prospective buyers to balk.
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