Laurent Ferrier Square Micro Rotor Ice Blue

Origin

Although 'Laurent Ferrier' signed watches have only come to fruition within the past 15 years, the man who carries the same name has a wealth of experience stretching back decades. After completing his apprenticeship and creating his school piece in 1968, Ferrier went on to join Patek Philippe. Working at such a prestigious watchmaker quickly emphasised the unshakable desirability of mechanical watches, regardless of the popular quartz watches at the time. During his influential 37 years at Patek Philippe, Ferrier experienced some crucial developments, most notably the production of the Nautilus in 1976. In fact, not only did Ferrier witness this, he actively played a role in its creations as it was one of his first projects. Eventually, he became the head of the product development department. After nearly four decades of working for Patek Philippe, Ferrier left to pursue creating his own watch brand along with his son Christian who was working at Roger Dubuis and his friend from endurance racing during the 1970s, François Servanin. And so, in 2009, Laurent Ferrier was born - a watch brand focused on developing handmade and hand-finished watches with timeless elegance and a custom aesthetic that feels classically considered yet totally refreshing simultaneously.

The Galet was the first case designed by Ferrier, a creation which, thanks to its soft and curvaceous lines, is known as the pebble. In 2015 however, this concept was re-imagined for the Square Micro-Rotor - a 41mm wide steel cushion case piece that once more stands as a great epitome of traditional and classic watchmaking while simultaneously delivering modernity. The model went on to win the prize for Best Horological Revelation in 2015 at the GPHG. Since then, many versions of the Square Micro-Rotor have come to realisation, including sector dials, precious metal examples, various dial texture and coloured pieces, limited edition runs for the likes of Phillips and Revolution.Watch / The Rake and even a piece unique example for OnlyWatch.

The Watch

This Square Mirco Rotor by Laurent Ferrier dates from 2019 and is best characterised by its fresh and bright ice blue dial. Externally the Square Mirco Rotor has a substantial presence yet maintains the right amount of coherence and refinement due to its steel cushion style case measuring 41mm in width. Despite being square by name and general shape, this cushion case is remarkably rounded, with each corner effortlessly flowing into the next. This curvaceous quality is emphasised further thanks to the softly stepped bezel sitting firmly within the case, continuing the pebble-like presence and creating infinite wearability. It is complete in a polished finish throughout, its thick lugs accentuate and aid its comfortable profile, and the signature ball-shaped ratcheted crown tastefully sits flush with its dressy externals.

Laurent Ferrier watches are defined by classically themed features achieved through contemporary execution, and this Square's dial epitomises precisely that. It's hard to miss its richly sunburst ice blue canvas, a dial that shifts in tones and visual depth depending on the light. Yet, although the watch's personality derives from its dial colour, don't be fooled into thinking its colour is the only talking point. Hugging the dial's perimeter is a subtle railroad track that takes a slight pause before what is best described as a sector design appears, which is used to represent each hour. However, the twelve, three, and nine are raised markers, produced in white gold, executed in an assagai shape. These extended and pointed markers, like the sector configuration, cleverly draw the eye into the dial and inject further coherence.

A sub-register at six tracks the running seconds complete with a stepped track and a white gold baton-shaped hand gracefully rotating within. Matching the applied markers are a set of white gold assagai shape hour and minute hands, extending the visual uniqueness of this refreshing piece.

In white to match all the dial printing is its simply signed dial reading just 'Laurent Ferrier Geneve'.

The Movement

Seen through the display caseback is the Laurent Ferrier 229.01 Caliber. This automatic movement is a spectacular sight, powered by a gold micro-rotor with 72 hours of power reserve. Adjusted to six positions, this calibre features Geneva striping, beautiful chamfering on its interior angles and bridges, black polishing, and a double direct-impulse escapement system, which contributes to its increased power reserve. With 35 jewels, 186 components, and 21,600 vph, it's a movement up there with other top watchmakers, both in performance and finishing. Once more, a brilliant blend of tradition and current watchmaking.

How It Wears

When fitted to the wrist, the Square Mirco Rotor is a wonderfully balanced, effortlessly charming watch. Its exterior is unique without being brash due to its subtle stepped design. The main contributing factor here is due to the piece sitting 'in' the wrist rather than some watches which sit 'on' - in turn, this allows the dimensions to suit a wide range of wrist sizes. Suitable for formal or casual occasions, this Square Mirco Rotor is a breath of fresh air. Its well-executed dial elegantly delivers a bold colour and merges traditional and contemporary design elements. As a result, the Square Mirco Rotor is dressy without feeling like history is repeating itself, modern without being brazen, and above all else, wonderfully finished.

Condition

This 2019 Laurent Ferrier Square Micro Rotor Ice Blue is presented in like-new condition and is sold as a complete full set. The watch is fitted to a Mr Watchley leather strap.

If you desire to take a closer look at this precious timepiece, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment. We are based in Ghent, Belgium.

No stock is kept on site.