Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph Black Onyx: Singapore Price And Review

Another twist to this Jaquet Droz chronograph.

When Jaquet Droz finally introduced a monopusher chronograph to the iconic Grande Seconde collection, the brand did so by rolling out two versions. The first featured the Grande Seconde’s trademark figure of ‘8’ layout: a smaller sub-dial at 12 o’clock for the time, and a larger one at the bottom displaying the retrograde date and 30-minute totaliser. The second version, while also boasting the same complication and configuration, came with a winsome twist. The entire movement, dial and crown were set at an angle, presenting an off-centred layout that altogether changed the watch’s dynamics. It was, as Jaquet Droz CEO Christian Lattmann described, “a young Grande Seconde.”

Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph 2019

This year, the ‘young’ Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph appears to have grown up quite a bit. Where the 2019 models in grey, blue or silver dials with hand-sandblasted and satin-finished decoration emanated a certain youthful sophistication, the 2020 version is big on black-tie poise.

As its name implies, the aesthetic focus of the Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph Black Onyx is the luscious and enigmatic gemstone, from which the dial is carved. Onyx’s intense raven sheen is legendary and the manner in which it’s used as both canvas and anchor for the Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph serves to accentuate the whimsical dial configuration. Those who follow Jaquet Droz that the brand is also known for crafting dials from mineral stones spanning aventurine to bronzite, and the Grande Seconde Off-Centered Chronograph Black Onyx is the latest to join a special cast of coveted Jaquet Droz timepieces set with mineral dials.

To ensure maximum contrast and legibility on the onyx dial, white gold applique and mirror polish finishing are lavished on the chapter ring of the time-telling sub-dial, and hour and minute hands, respectively. Elsewhere, hints of blood-red on the ‘31’ date numeral and tip of the date indicator complete the watch’s sleek and sexy disposition.

Like its other Off-Centered chronograph brethren, the onyx version comes in a 43mm stainless steel case. Inside, we have the Jaquet Droz 26M5R automatic monopusher chronograph movement with central chronograph hand, column wheel, vertical clutch and silicon balance spring. Armed with a single barrel, the movement promises 40 hours of power reserve on a full wind.

We imagine Jaquet Droz must have mused over a ‘standard’ or off-centred display for a new monopusher chronograph roll-up. While the former would have further cemented the collection’s signature look and old-world elegance, this off-centred variant nails it by amplifying the line’s beloved sophistication and new-found dynamism in equal measure.

Case	43mm stainless steel
Dial	Black onyx dial with 18K white gold applique
Movement	Automatic 26M5R monopusher chronograph movement with silicon balance spring and pallet horns, single barrel, column wheel, 18K red gold oscillating weight
Strap	Black alligator
Functions	Hours, minutes, chronograph, retrograde date
Power Reserve	40 hours
Water Resistance	30m
Price	S$34,000

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