Jaquet Droz Unveils A Sexy Signature Chronograph

The monochrome design is a riff on the Swiss watchmaker’s signature Grande Seconde Off-Centered chronograph, which debuted during the Time to Move watch summit back in 2019. The timepiece has previously sported dials made of silvered opaline, ivory Grand Feu enamel, sapphire and black jade. Now, the Swatch-owned outfit is adding onyx to that list.

Similar to its asymmetric compadres, the timepiece features a stainless steel case that spans 43mm in diameter and 14.84mm in height. The display is tilted so that the crown sits at 4 o’clock, while the hour/minute dial sits at 1 o’clock and the 30-minute chronograph and date dial sits at 7 o’clock.

Of course, the onyx dial is the standout feature. The mineral gives the dial an unprecedented depth. This allows the white-gold accents and rhodium-plated hands to pop. This two-tone theme carries over to the handmade rolled-edge strap, which is black alligator and fitted with a folding stainless-steel clasp. The only pop of colour comes in in the form of a subtle red-tipped hand and crimson “31” on the date dial.

Like its predecessors, the black beauty features a movement that was specially developed to work with the unique off-centre choreography. Known as the Jaquet Droz 26M5R calibre, the automatic monopusher chronograph with column wheel is the driving force of the timepiece. It’s also viewable via the sapphire crystal case back, which gives the wearer a chance to appreciate an oscillating red-gold weight, as well the Cotes de Genève insignia that’s engraved on each bridge. Even better, the watch is water-resistant to 100 feet and has a power reserve of 68 hours.

The Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Off-Centered Onyx is offered in an unlimited run and is priced at approx. $30,360.