This Romain Gauthier black titanium insight micro-rotor encapsulates the brand’s essence. This particular edition is limited to just 10 examples and was originally introduced in 2020. Origins of the first ‘classical’ insight micro-rotor can be traced back to Basel World 2017, this reference builds upon that and adds a completely new dimension to an already impressive reference, through the unique frosted, oven-fired black enamel dial. The grade 5 titanium movement showcases Romain Gauthier’s meticulous hand bevelling and superlatively hand-finishing. 

Initially born into the heritage collection as a classic contemporary automatic time-only piece, the insight micro-rotor collection has evolved since. Roman Gauthier is known to experiment with his ‘freedom collection’ and unleash his creativity. This black titanium 39.5 mm features a hand-frosted, oven-filled black grand feu enamel dial. The black titanium case features alternative grooves throughout the case, when exposed to natural light, certain facets seem mirror-like. There is a sense of symmetry for the timekeeping requirements of the dial, from the regulator which features the classic Roman Gauthier balance wheel, the triangular pallet lever, and second, minutes, and hour hands. The textured dial is signed ‘R. Gauthier’ and ‘Swiss Made’, the rest of the dial, or rather lack of, features the base plate of the movement. As a result of this, the micro-rotor found at 9 o’clock is visible from either side. The movement decoration varies, due to the oddly shaped bridges, making the hand-polished bevels even harder to realise. The contrast between the frosted and black polish provides even more depth to the skeletonised dial and the addition of the hand-polished jewel countersinks is a testament to Gauthier’s vision of finishing. 

The movement is powered by dual barrels to provide a more stable flow of energy. The oscillating weight turns fluidly and noiselessly between two bridges, each one fitted with a friction-minimising, wear-resistant ruby bearing. The micro-rotor achieves bidirectional winding through the clear use of a reversing gear. The gear’ axis is visible from the sapphire case back, underneath the countersink that holds the rotor in place, a curved aperture cut within two steel arcs facilitates the gear’s lateral movement and rotation. When the micro-rotor changes direction, it drives the toothing of the reversing gear in the opposite direction, making the reversing gear slide this way too. Resulting bidirectionality means no matter what direction the micro-rotor is turning in, it is winding up the double mainspring barrel. Alternatively, the movement can be wound manually using the crown at 2 o’clock, the movement is protected from being overwound due to a clutch found on one of the mainspring barrels. 

This example is accompanied by its original paper and box. 

Brand: Romain Gauthier
Model: Micro-Rotor Insight  
Case Diameter: 39.5mm
Year: 2021
Box & Papers: Full Set

This Romain Gauthier black titanium insight micro-rotor encapsulates the brand’s essence. This particular edition is limited to just 10 examples and was originally introduced in 2020. Origins of the first ‘classical’ insight micro-rotor can be traced back to Basel World 2017, this reference builds upon that and adds a completely new dimension to an already impressive reference, through the unique frosted, oven-fired black enamel dial. The grade 5 titanium movement showcases Romain Gauthier’s meticulous hand bevelling and superlatively hand-finishing. 

The watch exhibits minimal signs of wear, with no notable scratches or concerns.