Patrick_y introduces the Laurent Ferrier Classic Micro-Rotor 'Salon des Horlogers' Limited Edition, a timepiece he considers among the finest from the independent brand. His detailed photographic essay and technical breakdown highlight the watch's exquisite finishing and unique movement, inviting collectors to appreciate its blend of elegance and horological innovation. This article explores why this particular reference captivates even seasoned enthusiasts.
All Laurent Ferrier pieces are exquisite, but this one is exceptional! I find this to be one of the nicest Laurent Ferrier pieces I've ever seen! Introducing the LAURENT FERRIER Classic Micro-Rotor - Salon des Horlogers Limited Edition of 25 pieces.
Apparently it comes with two straps, a navy alligator strap and a sueded calfskin strap. It's cased in steel!
Laurent Ferrier timepieces are well finished and this one is no exception; featuring a Côtes de Genève pattern on the bridges and the circular graining on the mainplate, the flanks are hand-drawn, the wheel
spokes are bevelled, the screw heads are polished, and the one interior angle is hand-crafted. The mirror polishing done by hand on the pawl, the balance-cock, and the micro-rotor bridge.
The movement is a self-winding FBN 229.01 calibre, equipped with a unidirectional pawl-fitted micro-rotor and offering a three-day power reserve. The movement is equipped with a silicon escapement featuring a double direct impulse on the balance. This technology developed by Laurent Ferrier enables the balance to be impelled twice per oscillation, a principle that requires two escape-wheels and an appropriately shaped lever.
I'm captured by its timelessly elegant dial and case combination. The design is both elegant, yet casual. This is a watch that will work well on weekdays with the power suit at the office and also on weekends with the casual outfit while strolling through vineyards. The price, at 50,000 CHF, is no doubt steep - especially considering it's cased in steel and not gold - but that blue dial and that movement is definitely a great piece of art for the wrist! I just hope that the people who end up acquiring this watch enjoy it, and that it doesn't end up locked in a collection of a dozen watches and is rarely used.
Thank you for reading, and as always, I look forward to reading the comments.
Here is the technical data...
SALON DES HORLOGERS
Classic Micro-Rotor
Salon Des Horlogers Genève
REF: LCF004.AC.CW5
Limited edition of 25 units
TECHNICAL DATA
Movement
Self-winding FBN 229.01 calibre
Ruthenium finish
Natural escapement - Unidirectional pawl-fitted micro-rotor
Silicon escapement featuring a double direct impulse on the balance
Indications: Hours and minutes in the centre, small seconds at 6 o’clock
Diameter: Ø 31.60 mm (14’’’)
Thickness: 4.35 mm
Frequency: 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations/hour)
Power reserve: 72 hours
Number of components: 186
Number of jewels: 35
AESTHETIC DATA
Case
● Stainless steel
● Water resistant to 30 m
● ‘’Ball-shaped’’ crown in stainless steel
● Case diameter: 40 mm
● Case thickness: 11.10 mm
● Back bezel engraved “Salon des Horlogers” and “One of Twenty-Five”
Dial
● Blue grained centre and blue sunburst finish exterior,
● Matt white Arabic numerals hour circle, minutes track, seconds markers and logo decals
● Small seconds display blue opaline at 6 o ́clock
Hands
● Hours and minutes: “Assegai-Shaped” in matt white coated white gold
● Seconds: baton-shape in matt white coated white gold
Straps
● Blue suede leather with Alcantara lining
● Blue alligator with extra pin buckle in steel
● Quick release spring-bar
● Extra Pin buckle in stainless steel
Price
● CHF 50,000 (Exclusive of Swiss VAT)
