The Bianchet Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold: A Stunning Take On Contrast
I will admit it: when Bianchet first launched quietly in 2017, the idea of another openworked tourbillon watch wasn’t overly intriguing. Then again, as a traditionalist, I tended to dismiss watches like this in the past. But, as they say, the past is the past. Now, I enjoy more theater in my timepieces. Painstaking finishing, innovative movements, and wearability now seem to be part and parcel for a new breed of haute horlogerie references. Increasingly, Bianchet now looks like a force to be reckoned with, and today’s new Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold is a fantastic example of this.
In the increasingly competitive marketplace for high-end watches, it’s challenging to create a unique style. Impressively, though, Bianchet has done this with its offerings. The latest Rotondo UltraFino could be viewed as a relatively simple material addition to the lineup. Yet, as we’ll see, the contrasting tones of Grade 5 titanium and rose gold make it an entirely different proposition. Hint: it’s one we like!
The Bianchet Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold
At its core, the idea behind the Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold is simple and beautifully executed. While the watch features 18K rose gold for the case, crown, and bracelet (if chosen), Bianchet juxtaposes this with cold black PVD-coated titanium for the movement. The aforementioned case has a 39.5mm diameter and a slim 8.9mm profile, satin-brushed surfaces, and mirror-polished bevels that shine differently depending on the light. This fine detail work is just part of what makes this watch stand out from its peers. Furthermore, while the Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold is elegantly designed, it is meant to be worn. The stat line is impressive, with a 100m depth rating and shock resistance up to 5,000 g!
A modern design with sharp features
The Rotondo UltraFino contains a black rubber gasket beneath the bezel, which matches the black lacquer filling in the crown. Depending on the buyer’s preference, the black theme may continue with a standard black rubber strap and titanium deployant buckle. The rubber option also comes with a white version. For those who desire an even more upscale look, a full-rose-gold bracelet is also available. This pricier option also includes the black rubber strap.
The stunning all-titanium UR01 flying tourbillon
Flip to the movement side, and the drama only intensifies. Bianchet’s in-house UR01 movement is crafted almost entirely from Grade 5 titanium, then treated with a black PVD coating that turns the open-worked bridges into a kind of shadow architecture. But this isn’t just a darkly hued powertrain. The artisans at Bianchet also spend more than 30 hours adding anglage to the litany of bridges. Visually, it’s the polar opposite of the gold case surrounding it. Breaking up all that darkness, a solid 18K rose gold rotor spins into view. The 60-second flying tourbillon has a 21,600vph (3Hz) frequency and a 60-hour power reserve. And, once again, let’s not forget the awesome shock resistance.
Wearable, durable, and attractive
I also appreciate that Bianchet has made more than just a nice watch. The quick-release system lets you run the integrated rose gold bracelet with a black rubber strap in reserve or go full rubber with a black-and-white pairing for something more casual. This allows the watch to dress up or down easily, which should prove attractive while on holiday and engaging in a variety of activities. Finally, the slim but bold design looks classy, but it isn’t so bulky that it won’t fit under a shirt sleeve.
The Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold: a worthy contender in a busy field
Undoubtedly, there are plenty of choices in the integrated-bracelet segment. Despite this, the Bianchet Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold looks fresh. Perhaps the advanced movement material helps differentiate it from the crowd. Plus, the tourbillon is a distinctive proposition. At CHF 85,500 with the rubber straps or CHF 119,500 with the bracelet, these watches are certainly not inexpensive. Still, if one is shopping for a luxurious integrated-bracelet piece made of a warm precious metal, the Bianchet Rotondo UltraFino Rose Gold deserves a long look.
