Ludovic Ballouard, F.P. Journe, Grönefeld Complications

Hororgasm · 2017-07-26T00:30:00Z

Explore three unique independent watches: Ludovic Ballouard UpSide Down, F.P. Journe Octa Zodiaque, and Grönefeld Remontoire. Discover collector insights on complications and craftsmanship.

Hororgasm

WPS member · Independents forum

49 replies9959 views3 photos

Hororgasm's post offers a unique look into the world of independent watchmaking, showcasing three distinct complications from Ludovic Ballouard, F.P. Journe, and Grönefeld. This article highlights the personal connection collectors often forge with independent watchmakers, emphasizing the artistry and unique narratives behind these exceptional timepieces. It provides valuable insights into the 'Indie spectrum' of collecting, a niche celebrated for its innovation and direct engagement with creators.

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The Indie spectrum of watchcollecting taken as a whole, has as many complications, if not more, then most brands, even big brands.

Below, Ludovic Ballouard UpSide Down watch, modified from a vintage Peseuax 7001 movement. whimsical like its creator....Hours are upside down, till it is "required" it reads 9:28 on the dial. sad story of his Harry Winston Opus 13 saga....More in separate report.

FP Journe Octa Zodiaque, Journe is almost a "brand", or as brand like as it could be, with big boutiques and a sleek marketing department and worldwide distribution. If you have to buy a Indie, and you want brand like hospitality and service, Journe is the one to go for. Below, a totally useless, but interesting complication, basically on the pheripheral rings tells you the month and its accompanying zodiac sign. More in separate report.

my favourite from this year and GPHG winner, the Gronefeld Remontoire. the quest for contant force continues.....this version comes with a dial made by Kari Voutilalinen dial factory. The Gronefled Brothers, to me, represents the fun side of Indie collection, great guys with a huge sense of humour, non of the "take thyself" too seriously crap some of the Indie watchmakers are becoming. the watch itself is epitome of what the Purists in me seeks - single complication watch extremely well executed and carefully conceptualised. More in separate report.

Hope everyone enjoy this medley of wrist shots with brief comments. done with mid week blues. I am wearing the Gronefled today, the last picture, and its all shades of blues from periwinkle to baby blue to ultramarine!!!

Best, Horo

Key Points from the Discussion

Independent watchmakers offer unparalleled accessibility and friendliness, fostering a direct connection between collectors and the artists, which significantly enhances the ownership experience compared to larger brands.
Ludovic Ballouard and the Grönefeld Brothers represent a 'generation 1.5' of independent watchmakers, bridging the gap between established names like Halter/Dufour and newer talents such as Armin Strom/Akrivia.
The Ludovic Ballouard UpSide Down watch, with its novel way of telling time, offers a whimsical charm and a 'steampunk haute horology' aesthetic, proving that intuitive time-telling can still be secondary to artistic expression.
The Grönefeld Remontoire, particularly with a Kari Voutilainen dial, exemplifies single-complication watches executed with extreme precision and thoughtful conceptualization, embodying the 'fun side' of independent collecting.
The F.P. Journe Octa Zodiaque, while featuring a 'totally useless but interesting complication,' highlights Journe's position as a brand-like independent, offering extensive hospitality and worldwide distribution.

The Discussion

Alkiro1

Jul 26, 2017

And what about the Tim & Bart watch. So gorgeous both front and back. A Grail! Best wishes Alkiro

zabreg1 Mr White

Jul 26, 2017

What a wonderfully playful watch.

Geo

Jul 26, 2017

It is such a gorgeous watch. GEO

Mike H

Jul 26, 2017

I am a well known fan of the Indies and what I love most with them (apart from their watches and their gorgeous finishing) is the contact with the artist / creator / watchmaker. They are all so accessible and friendly it makes all the difference vs the usual "brands" we find on the market. Ludovic Ballouard is probably one of the nicest and most generous guys in the watch business (probably too nice and this is why he went in trouble with HW and Swatch Group, a very very sad story I hope strongl

TheMadDruid

Jul 26, 2017

I look forward to your reports, especially about the Ballouard saga.

willski

Jul 26, 2017

Three beauties, each with their own unique characteristics. Personally my preferences lie with the Up/Down (whimsical charm!) and the Gronefeld (steampunk HH). Very much looking forward to more pics and thoughts!

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Ludovic Ballouard, F.P. Journe, Grönefeld Complications

Key Points from the Discussion

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