Independents
small-luxury-world provides an intimate look into the world of Grönefeld, sharing insights from their Baselworld 2013 presentation. This article highlights the independent watchmaker's dedication to traditional craftsmanship and the evolution of their signature One Hertz model, offering a valuable perspective on their journey since 2008.
This is part I, related to this: ahci.watchprosite.com /
Bart & Tim Groenefeld, I already had the pleasure to
visit their workshop back in 2008. At that time
they presented their first own
watch and it was great to see their background and spirit.
A great place for serious watchmaking and lots of fun, even
when it is somewhere in the Netherlands … 
But there
is lots of passion for watchmaking (and good things in life) and I don´t talk
about the two
brothers only. Still remember the patient lady watchmaker which instructed
my first steps in re-assembling
and assembling of a chronograph movement. (Believe
it or not, I managed to get acceptable results at the
Witschi afterwards )
Back to watches. The main watch(es) on display was still the One Hertz, already introduced in 2011,
but
in several versions. A watch already well-known by most of the PuristS here and
some lucky fellows
even own one. I like that they still feature the “same” model,
even when there are so many different
versions today. To be honest, I guess I
know quite a few of them but sometimes I feel I maybe lost the
track of the
different versions available. It seems like almost each customer (especially
retail, but
probably end customers as well) want´s something special/unique. To
me it is strength and weakness
for independents, at the same time.
One Hertz Classic, Ruthenium, Techniek, Nocturne Techniek, Dune, Platinum, Ice and Fire. Did I miss one?
Just decided to look at two pieces and will share pictures of those.
Techniek (2013)
It is an almost modern looking version, with its open dial
and special finish. The new design works
surprisingly well, but it would probably
not be my first choice for the One Hertz.
My favorite is still something more classic …
… the Platinum with its lovely blue
dial comes to my mind.
To me it looks best, but that is just a question of personal taste.
As already mentioned above, there is no (real) novelty in
2013. Bravo, I don´t think we need to see
one (or even more) each year. It is
more than enough to see “serious” novelties from time to time.
Do you agree?
and is the only one from the series where the power reserve position works for me - from a picture. No great secret that I have decided upon the Techniek Nocturne. Elegance is for the others. But the real truth is in the machine. amerix
I like that thought! Best, Oliver
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