Voutilainen 28SC SB

The Watch

Representing just one of twelve pieces built, the Voutilainen 28SC SB is simply a superlative watchmaking art piece. In 2020, the 28SC was the first Vingt-8 piece to feature a centralised seconds hand rather than the typical subsidiary register. This significant visual change allows more of the two-tone dial to be on show while providing a bolder visible sign of life. After winning the GPHG in 2020 for the men's watch prize, one year later in 2021, the -SB variant was announced, a limited production variation commanded by its verdant green and golden brown dial. The frame of this piece, including its idiosyncrasy teardrop lugs, is fashioned from AISI 316L grade 4441 stainless steel, a steel alloy that's 100% recycled and offers a distinctively uniform appearance. First debuted in 2021, the 28SC SB is packed with refinement, like many of their watches. Besides the aforementioned elegance of its lug design, the piece's exterior also features a concave bezel and carries an entirely polished finish. Furthermore, its flat crown is compactly set against the case, as the entire externals seemingly echo the individuality of the dial's particularity.

Whimsicality turns to mysticism when delving into the details, as its engine-turned two-tone appearance is crafted from silver and bears a myriad of bespoke nuances. Produced by Voutilainen's dial factory, Comblémine, the entire dial of this piece is engine turned by hand and fuses two styles of guilloché first expressed in green, followed by a centralised golden hue. Applied to the dial are hour markers with a double marker for twelve, all fashioned from gold. Similarly, the remarkably characterful hands of this piece are a mix of gold and thermally blued steel and carry a painstakingly polished finish. Bringing the quintessential Voutilainen shape and form, including their rounded and three-dimensional properties, their sharpness and clarity are exceptionally unmatched. Signed 'Voutilainen' on its brushed second track and 'HAND MADE' on the dial at six, this intricate and meticulously crafted timepiece is simply beyond compare.

The Movement

As is the case with watches by independent watchmakers, the calibre underneath the dial deserves just as much attention as the watch itself. Visible through the display caseback is the manufacture Vingt-8 calibre. Designed, fabricated, constructed, finished, and assembled under Voutilainen roofs, it is a sight commanded by the famous polishing and finishing techniques on which Voutilainen has built its reputation on. Frosted gold finish through the bridges and plates, with gracious anglage and a large balance (touching 14mm), with Breguet/Grossmann balance beating at 18,000 vibrations per hour with a power reserve of 65 hours. Whether it's the range of depth, sophisticated balance bridge or the fact this piece features two escapement wheels leading in less energy consumption and less wear and tear, this calibre is a celebration of classic craftsmanship while maintaining alertness to permanence and accuracy.

How It Wears

Watches by independent watchmakers often feel almost unexplainable on the wrist. With such consideration poured into every detail, they offer a wearing experience unlike any other. When it comes to the Voutilainen 28SC SB, that's precisely the case. Measuring 38.5mm in width, with its teardrop-esque lugs forming around the wrist and its dial remarkably sharp, the 28SC SB is a true masterpiece. Every element of its form and design feels interpersonally connected, providing an unparalleled level of cohesiveness, making every moment the piece is on the wrist a real occasion.

Condition

This Voutilainen 28SC SB is presented as a full set, in as new condition and is fitted to a Mr Watchley Smooth Boxed Light Cognac Calf leather strap with the original strap and buckle also being included.

Origin

Kari Voutilainen has always been one to break the mould. Finnish-born, with no prior lineage of watchmaking to his name, Voutilainen grew from his Lapland-based origins to become perhaps one of the most significant present-day independent watchmakers, not that his unassuming nature would suggest. Instead, he's a humble craftsman who's risen to the top of his game, becoming immensely well-respected by supporters of his brand and peers throughout the industry. After joining a watchmaking school in Espoo, Finland and discovering his fondness for calibres, Voutilainen headed to Neuchâtel, Switzerland, to further his training at WOSTEP under a complication program. However, this was an expensive course, and to enrol Voutilainen needed to raise capital. Therefore, he returned to Helsinki and established himself as a restorer. Twelve months later, in 1989, Voutilainen returned and completed the course, one which fellow alumni include the likes of Stephen Forsey, later of Groubel Forsey and Tim and Bart of Grönefeld. He worked at Parmigiani in a restoration workshop on pieces such as old Vacheron pocket watches before an introduction to Charles Meylan was made. A veteran watchmaker, Meylan taught Voutilainen techniques and processes only gained from years of experience. He played a pivotal role in encouraging Voutilainen to explore the notion of developing his own brand. Now deep into the 1990s, Voutilainen dedicates evenings and weekends to developing a one-minute twin barrel tourbillon, which goes on to catalyse his eventual venture. After a return to WOSTEP as a teacher this time, Philippe Dufour encouraged Voutilainen to commit to producing his own watches. And so in 2002, Voutilainen Watches was established. Since then, he has worked closely with the likes of MB&F, Zenith and Phillips, and Schwarz Etienne, subsequently forming an allure surrounding his name thanks to his mysteriously brilliant watchmaking mastery.

Working out of his atelier, Voutilainen produces between 50-100 watches annually, and although certain hallmarks permeate throughout the production, the idea of a clearly defined catalogue doesn't exactly exist. Instead, Voutilainen delivers models produced in extremely low numbers or piece unique creations. As a completely vertically integrated manufacturer, Voutilainen sits at the high end of watchmaking, delivering true artistry in technique and expertise with unparalleled bespoke proficiency. Rather poetically, the home of Voutilainen watches perches on the edge of a cliff overlooking Fleurier, Switzerland, high above the other watchmakers below, for many a reflection of their elevated artisanal craft. 

With such a low production output yearly, the scarcity and individuality of any Voutilainen watch is important, heightened only when one creation becomes available on the open market.

If you desire to take a closer look at this precious timepiece, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment. No stock is kept on site.

* Every watch is delivered in a Mr WATCHLEY Membrane Protection Box for a safe transportation in addition to its original set *