To celebrate the 10th years anniversary of the brand, Ateliers deMonaco introduces two new models in its Poinçon de Genève collection. This collection – already very prestigious as it carries the Geneva seal certification – becomes even more special thanks to a new grand-feu enamel dial. Ateliers deMonaco is now part of the very few watchmaking manufactures that offer Métiers d’Art timepieces.
The Geneva water jet is the city’s most famous emblem and has been chosen to be featured on these two new dials. To produce one dial by itself, it takes more than fifty hours of work. Indeed, the grand-feu enamel is the most delicate and difficult decoration technique. Each step requires time.
To create the Jet d’Eau de Genève dial, several enamel techniques are used. On a base plate made of 18 carats white gold, the first step is called cloisonné enamel. It is an ancient technique dating back to a time prior to the Middle-Ages. It involves the creation of compartments with small gold threads and then precise enamel filing.
The second technique used on this dial is called champlevé enamel. Introduced in the XII century, it has been created alternatively to the cloisonné one and gathers engravers and enamellers. The engraver produces the holes in which the enameller will fill different coloured enamels. The effect is then emphasised by the engraver and his chisel with which he will add a final touch to every 18 carats white gold partitions. This step is the most delicate one. If the engraver puts too much pressure, he can separate the enamel from the wall and ruin all the work achieved.
Finally, the last step is the sublime grand-feu enamel. It is a well-known technique which consists to melt a glass composite called silica at a temperature up to 500°C.
In the case of the Ateliers deMonaco Jet d’Eau de Genève dial, the temperature is raised up to 790°C. Several layers are necessary in order to get the colour gradient. Thanks to its complex artisanal process, every single dial is unique.
The Ateliers deMonaco Poinçon de Genève Jet d’Eau de Genève collection is available with an 18 carats white gold and an 18 carats rose gold models are available in a 40mm case diameter and a 9.2 mm case thickness. Limited to 18 pieces only for each model, these watches are equipped with the dMc-708 patented calibre, has a 38-hour power reserve and 18 rubies. To perfect the watch, a hand-stitched alligator leather strap which coming with an 18 carats gold pin buckle.
