Greubel Forsey has introduced the final edition of the Balancier Convexe S², closing the collection with a stark black and white ceramic execution. Instead of adding complications or decorative elements, the watch focuses on form, contrast and architecture. The result feels less like a celebratory farewell and more like a deliberate closing gesture that creates space for what comes next.
The Balancier Convexe S² has always occupied a slightly different position within the Greubel Forsey portfolio. While the brand is known for deeply architectural and mechanically expressive timepieces, this model introduced a more contemporary and ergonomic direction. The curved case geometry and open mechanical layout placed the watch in a sportier context without abandoning the manufacture’s haute horlogerie identity.
This final edition refines that idea further. The use of black and white ceramic strips the design down to its essentials. Color disappears and structure becomes the primary language. Surfaces, shadows and mechanical depth take over the narrative, allowing the watch to express itself through architecture rather than ornament.
Greubel Forsey and Architectural Watchmaking
Greubel Forsey is widely regarded as one of the most technically ambitious independent haute horlogerie manufacturers. With extremely limited annual production, each model represents years of research, development and hand-finishing. This philosophy leads the brand to explore concepts deeply rather than expanding collections broadly.
The Balancier Convexe S² emerged from this mindset. It maintained the brand’s multi-layered architecture while introducing a more ergonomic case design. The watch was conceived as an exploration of how Greubel Forsey’s mechanical philosophy could evolve into a more wearable and contemporary format.
Ending the collection with a final edition therefore carries strategic meaning. In a watch industry often built around continuity, Greubel Forsey deliberately closes chapters. The Balancier Convexe S² Final Edition reflects this approach, marking the completion of a design experiment rather than extending it indefinitely.
The Language of Black and White Ceramic
Ceramic is the chosen material for this closing piece. Lightweight, highly scratch-resistant and visually matte, it absorbs light rather than reflecting it. This characteristic enhances the architectural structure of the watch, making depth and layering more pronounced.
The black and white palette removes visual distraction. Without color, the eye focuses on geometry, finishing and mechanical composition. The open layout, multi-level dial and suspended balance assembly become the central visual narrative.
This contrast also highlights Greubel Forsey’s traditional finishing techniques. Frosted surfaces, polished bevels and hand-finished bridges stand out against the technical character of the ceramic case. The result is a watch that balances futuristic materiality with classical watchmaking craft.
The 30 Degree Balance Architecture
The defining technical feature of the Balancier Convexe S² is its large balance wheel, inclined at 30 degrees. Greubel Forsey developed this architecture not as a purely visual element, but as a chronometric solution designed to reduce positional errors. By tilting the balance, the movement aims to maintain more consistent performance across different wrist positions.
The balance is not placed centrally but integrated into the overall architectural composition. Suspended above the movement and fully exposed, it transforms the watch into a kinetic sculpture. The slow, visible oscillation becomes the visual anchor of the dial.
The balance bridge itself reflects the brand’s finishing philosophy. Frosted surfaces, polished bevels and hand-executed detailing contrast with the modern ceramic case. This juxtaposition between traditional finishing and contemporary materials defines the visual identity of the final edition.
Curved Case Geometry and Ergonomics
The “Convexe” name refers to the curved case architecture designed to follow the natural shape of the wrist. Unlike traditional flat case construction, the Balancier Convexe S² introduces a subtle curvature that improves wearability despite its large dimensions.
This geometry redistributes weight more evenly across the wrist. Combined with the lightweight ceramic material, the watch achieves a more balanced presence. The ergonomic approach distinguishes the model from many large-format haute horlogerie timepieces that prioritize mechanical expression over comfort.
The multi-level dial construction reinforces this three-dimensional concept. Components are arranged at varying heights, creating visual depth that aligns with the curved case profile. This layered architecture has become one of Greubel Forsey’s defining design signatures.
A Strategic Final Edition
For Greubel Forsey, ending a collection is never incidental. With limited annual production, each model represents a significant commitment of time and resources. Retiring the Balancier Convexe S² suggests that the manufacture considers this exploration complete.
In contrast to brands that rely on long-running icons, Greubel Forsey frequently closes chapters to pursue new mechanical directions. The Balancier Convexe S² Final Edition therefore functions as a transition point. It signals not only the end of a model line, but also the beginning of a new phase in the brand’s architectural experimentation.
The minimalist black and white execution reinforces this idea. Rather than celebrating the past, the design feels intentionally restrained. The watch does not attempt to summarize the collection, but instead distills it to its structural essence.
Space for What Comes Next
Greubel Forsey has built its reputation on merging traditional hand-finishing with unconventional mechanical solutions. Closing the Balancier Convexe S² collection creates room for the manufacture to explore new architectural ideas. The final edition therefore reads less as a tribute and more as a deliberate pause.
The combination of black and white ceramic, open mechanical structure and inclined balance system summarizes the philosophy behind the model. At the same time, its restrained presentation suggests a brand looking forward rather than backward.
VOGGIA Perspective
The Balancier Convexe S² Final Edition feels less like the end of a collection and more like the refinement of an idea. The decision to use black and white ceramic removes distraction and emphasizes structure. This reduction suggests that Greubel Forsey is moving toward a more focused architectural language without abandoning mechanical complexity.
The Convexe line represented one of the brand’s attempts to explore ergonomics within haute horlogerie. By closing the collection, Greubel Forsey signals that this experiment has reached its conclusion. Rather than extending the concept, the manufacture appears ready to redefine it.
In an industry built around continuity, deliberately ending a successful model is unusual. This decision reinforces Greubel Forsey’s preference for innovation over repetition. The Balancier Convexe S² Final Edition therefore reads not as a farewell, but as a quiet indication that the brand is preparing its next architectural statement.
