Initially, I was underwhelmed by the new piece from Laurent Ferrier, simply named “Bridge One.” After a few minutes away from the press kit, I returned to find my opinion had softened slightly to one of bemused respect. I’m used to seeing watches that are either incredibly complicated from a mechanical or aesthetic perspective, or watches that are doing whatever they can to make noise. Consequently, I am often desensitized to the charms of the quiet masters. The Laurent Ferrier Bridge One, is neither brash nor complex. Instead, what we have here is a charming and versatile watch that figures to have strong niche appeal.
Laurent Ferrier Bridge One Specifications
Brand: Laurent Ferrier
Model: Bridge One
Dimensions: 30mm x 44mm
Water Resistance: 30m
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal/Lens: Tinted sapphire
Movement: Manual winding caliber LF107.01
Frequency: 3Hz
Power Reserve: 80 hours
Strap/Bracelet: Honey alligator leather Alcantara lining or honey Timberland leather
Price & Availability: $37,000 USD for the grey dial and $42,000 for the enamel dial
Analysis
In my personal collection I have a Hamilton Ardmore. I’ve had it for years, and despite the fact it’s often regarded as a ladies watch, I still wear it from time to time, because it is timelessly elegant, unobtrusively dimensioned, and just sits well with formal wear. In many ways, the Laurent Ferrier Bridge One fits that same role stylistically. Its case is so incredibly deco that it could fool you into thinking it was a genuine artifact from across the room. Indeed, the only giveaway that it is in fact a modern piece is found in its manufacturing precision.
The dial’s appearance is altered by a smoked sapphire. The case itself, with its sweeping flared lugs, is based on a famous bridge in Geneva of which Laurent Ferrier had an excellent view as a child. And as emotional as the roots of this watch’s inspiration are, Ferrier has not neglected to install some serious technology inside the Bridge One.
A new movement – the LF10.701 – powers the watch, and boasts an 80-hour power reserve, which is all the more impressive given the watch’s slim stature (the case diameter is just 30mm). Also, the fact that the movement contains just 137 components suggests that this watch will be relatively reliable. It is somewhat baffling that the brand regularly releases new watches in which the movement is at least a major draw, but does not provide any images of it or the case back of the watch. Oh well, we may have a chance to see it hands-on at SIHH.
Conclusion
In summary, this is a classically styled watch with unusual panache. The dimensions and pastel colour scheme (accentuated by the honey leather strap), make this piece refreshingly unisex. The personalization factor is a big deal also. Firstly, there are two dial options. You can choose from either the pictured enameled grand feu white dial, or a grained slate gray dial with a raised white gold marker at 12 and a sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock. Secondly, you have two strap options – the choice between a honey alligator or honey Timberland leather. Finally you have the option of either and pin and tang buckle, or a double-blade folding clasp. This watch may not be a show stopper, but it is a smart and thoughtful piece that relies on simple forms to make a statement. Price for the Laurent Ferrier Bridge One will be $37,000 for the grey dial and <em>$42,000 for the enamel dial. Learn more at laurentferrier.ch
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