Grönefeld Principia: A Collector's Perspective on Independent Horology

Hanke, a seasoned collector since the mid-1990s, shares his latest acquisition: a Grönefeld Principia. This article delves into why Hanke considers this timepiece to be on par with, and in some aspects superior to, other highly regarded watches in his extensive collecting journey. His post offers a personal perspective on what makes this independent watchmaker's creation truly stand out.

Since I started “collecting” watches in the mid 1990’s I have always admired watches with painted roman numeral dials and sub seconds registers with blued steel hands.

Some of my favorites include the following Roger Dubuis Condottieri, Lange & Sohne Pour Le Merite, Patek 5078 even without blued hands, Lange & Sohne Langematic Anniversary, Philippe Dufour Simplicity

For a number or reasons I have never owned any or the above but have owned several similar watches by Urban Jurgensen, Chronoswiss, and Lange. 

Today I feel I have purchased something comparable and, in some cases superior, to the above watches in beauty and finishing. For my taste and how I will wear the watch, this Gronefeld is the perfect watch. I like the 39.5mm case and the larger more bold (casual) roman numerals. I love automatic movements and this one is finished to the absolute highest standards. To my eye, the best finishing I have experienced. On par or better than the Ferrier, Lange, Patek, Urban Jurgensen, and Journe watches I have owned in the past.