It is amazing to note that high end Swiss watchmaker Antoine Martin was only established two years ago.
In February 2011 progressive thinking Martin Braun established the company in the picturesque location of Alpnach (near Lucerne) in the heart of Switzerland. His vision was to create a luxury brand that incorporated his own in house designed movement. To assist him in realising this dream, he employed the expertise of Bruno Jufer. His extensive experience was gained at Maurice Lacroix, Jaquet Droz, Zenith and Carl F. Bucherer.
The distinctive name of Antoine Martin is a fusion of both Martin Braun and co founder Antoine Meier. Fundamentally in the world of horology a strong brand identity is essential. In 2011 the company unveiled their first exciting and exclusive watches at the Baselworld Watch Fair in Switzerland. Fast-forward exactly two years to the release of the stylish and innovative new Slow Runner. Essentially the main concept of this beautiful watch is for the recipient to appreciate the passing of time.
With a diameter of only 42mm the Slow Runner is slightly smaller than a lot of watches currently available on the market. I feel these proportions will appeal to large demographic of buyers including the unisex market. A watch of this size should also be fairly comfortable to wear, even on a daily basis. Presently the timepiece is available with a choice of stainless steel or 18K 750 rose gold cases. On that basis it should feel reasonably lightweight on the wrist although ideally I would have liked to have seen it produced in titanium.
Aesthetically the Slow Runner has a bold and distinctive appearance. The silhouette has a stylish three-dimensional quality and is composed of multiple layers. I love the overlapping counters displaying the hours, minutes and seconds. There is also a cool retrograde power reserve indicator and large date window positioned at 3 o’clock. Other successful elements include the silver dial with contrasting numeral and indexes. Overall the design is cohesive and the finishing absolutely superlative.
What makes this watch so unique and special is the highly accomplished engine that powers it. Martin Braun has skillfully designed and developed a technically brilliant manual winding movement. The Caliber AM36.001 comprises 23 jewels and oscillates at an astonishing slow frequency of 7,200 vibrations per hour (1 Hz). This is all enabled by the invention of a staggeringly large balance wheel that measures an imposing 24mm. Each of the mechanisms 199 components have been painstakingly assembled and decorated by hand. It is also important to mention the Slow Runner is equipped with a Kif shock absorber and delivers a power reserve of 96 hours.
The magnificent Slow Runner has a black Louisiana alligator leather strap, with triple-folding clasp. Prices range from CHF 19,500- CHF 34,500 (approximately $21,678-$38,354).
You must be logged in to post a comment.