Genus is a relatively new watch brand that officially launched in 2019. After less than a year in business the watchmaker has launched a new and novel timepiece that has cornered the market in novel appeal. Catherine Henry and Sebastien Billieres’ company is responsible for an innovative new approach to timekeeping. Here are 10 things about the Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium to bring you up to date on their latest release.
1. It features a “genera”
If you’re not familiar with the term “genera,” it’s the basis of the Genus system for telling time. It’s an arrangement of components that takes on the shape of a snake with diamond-shape parts orbiting two sub-dials every hour. The system tells time in Athens of minutes beyond the hour. A special pointer is placed at the left of the dial to indicate the hour.
2. The Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium takes the prize
It’s worth noting that the founders of the Genus company, and creators of the GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium have received acclaim nd recognition for their creation. It’s among the most innovative timekeeping methods in creation. Sebastien Billieres and his partner Catherine Henry were awarded a “Mechanical Exception” prize at GPHG for 2019. This was for their highly crafted technological complication.
3. The movement is large
The Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium is powered with a caliber 160W-1.2 that measures 38mm in width and 7.7 mm in depth. This is the same movement that was used in the creation of the original version of this watch line. It is a large movement that requires an even larger case, most suitable for those with larger hands and wrists for the sake of comfort.
4. The case is made of Damascene
Damascene is a very sturdy metal that is created through the process of welding multiple layers of titanium alloys together. This creates metals that take on a blue hue at different temperatures. Some damascening processes use similar alloys and some call for a combination of different alloys to create a unique appearance. The damascene case is 43 mm in width and 13.3 mm in depth which gives it a chunky aesthetic. Although certainly not the largest case size, it’s large. The name of the watch in part is taken from Titane Damasse for the TD. This material is three times stronger than steel but it is also 40% lighter which makes it a great deal more comfortable worn on the wrist.
5. Three genera variants are available
The Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium is available in three different variants as denoted by the variances in their genera. The watch will be offered in a vertical orientation as well as an inclined orientation, or in a jeweled version. Each version however features the amazing cornflower blue patterns in the layered titanium alloy with bright blue hues and stripes of silver. It’s one of the most interesting watches that has become available for the 2020 release year and making it available in 3 variations is even more exciting.
6. There is no dial
A feature that makes this such a unique timepiece is the fact that it’s a watch that is intended for telling accurate time, but it doesn’t ha e a dial, there are no true hands, and the time is not represented in a circular motion. All of these traditional characteristics that one would use to define a watch have been eliminated, yet it is used to tell time. The use of twelve satellites for the hours compensates as each of them orbit around the outside of the main focal point. These indices make their way to the pointer that takes the place of a traditional hand.
7. The minutes display is as captivating
You can tell accurate hours and minutes as well, but there is a learning curve to become proficient enough to tell the time at a glance. The mechanics of timekeeping also include “precise” minutes which are displayed on an index on a rotating disk at the 3 o’clock position.
8. The display development took a decade
Interestingly, the development of the unique display of the Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium took an incredible 10 years to complete. Seven years were spent in research and 3 years fo the hands on development of the display. It is no small wonder that it won an award for being an exceptional design in mechanics.
9. The movement is hand-wound
More must be said about the caliber 160W-1.2 movement. It is hand wound and was created distinctly for use in this watch model. The large movement is also extremely complex, which you can note when you gaze at the front of the dial. It’s proudly displayed through the sapphire crystal glass. There are a total of 418 components in the movement alone. Premium precious metals were used with 18k gold used to craft the bridges and the main plate. The movement runs at 18,000 VPH with a power reserve of 50 hours.
10. You can oversee the forging process of your new watch
If you decide that you want to own a Genus GNS1.2 TD in Damascene Titanium, but you don’t mind waiting for a short time, you will be invited to attend the crafting of the case of your example. Each will be different because variations in heat influence the coloring and you will have the option of choosing the color at the open flame shop, in addition to choosing from a surface finish which includes polished, satin, or matte. The manufacturer’s suggested retail selling price is set at $154,000 in USD. This is a very special edition watch that is made upon request and it is one of the few that the new owner can actually become a part of the watchmaking process. Of course, you’ll have to be willing to travel to Geneva, Switzerland.
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