FROM SEA TO STARS: INTRODUCING THE GÉRALD GENTA GENTISSIMA OURSIN 41 WITH METEORITE DIALS

The gérald genta Gentissima Oursin collection has expanded with two striking new models featuring 41 mm cases and distinctive blue and green meteorite dials, marking a bold evolution for the collection first introduced in 2024. Both of these new creations made its debut during Dubai Watch Week, more than a year after the Gentissima Oursin marked the return of the fabled brand.

Since its debut, the Gentissima Oursin range has showcased Earth's most spectacular materials. Aside from pink mother-of-pearl to smoky grey anthracite, other models include fire opal that was introduced earlier this year and black onyx, which reignited the return of gérald genta. These latest additions introduce cosmic elements whilst appealing to collectors seeking a larger, more assertive presence on the wrist.

The new 41 mm models join six existing 36.5 mm references, offering a more contemporary and masculine interpretation of the sea urchin-inspired design. Fitted with comfortable rubber straps and boasting 50 metres of water resistance, these watches balance artistic expression with practical everyday wearability.

"This is a sporty-chic watch," explains Matthieu Hegi, Artistic Director at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. "The sporty aspect is linked to the rubber and titanium, and the chic aspect is linked to the gold accents. It is for the elegant collector who loves design and beautiful things; someone who desires a watch that is different from what is found on the market and is highly identifiable."

At first glance, the Gentissima Oursin 41 presents a sumptuous round case in sandblasted Grade 5 titanium. However, closer inspection reveals a subtly octagonal inner profile, a testament to the design ingenuity that rewards a keen eye. The lightweight yet robust matte-finished case is precisely set with 234 individually hand-fitted white gold beads, creating a spectacular geometrical interplay reminiscent of a miniature wrist-worn sculpture.

For the first time in the Gentissima Oursin collection, the dial is carved from a fragment of the cosmos itself: a thin slice of blue or green meteorite. These deep colours break with the often-demure structures found within traditional high-end watchmaking, whilst the natural crystalline structure ensures that each watch is genuinely unique.

The dials feature luminous Super-LumiNova-filled five-minute markers and gold hands coated with a special Super-LumiNova in a subtle pink hue—a tribute to Mr Genta's favourite colour. A specially designed sapphire crystal, curved on the outside and faceted in the signature octagonal shape within, protects the dial whilst enhancing the overall design's dynamism.

The Oursin design has a charming origin story. In 1994, Gerald Genta—the visionary behind some of the 20th century's most iconic watches—was strolling along a beach in Corsica with his family when he stumbled upon a sea urchin. Inspired by the creature's delicate form yet surprising strength, embodied by its protective spikes, he sketched a round case with convex sides studded with tiny beads.

A favourite model of Genta's widow, Mrs Evelyne Genta, the Oursin received new life when the gérald genta brand was relaunched with the support of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton in 2023.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, the 9.84 mm case houses the robust Zenith Elite GG-005 movement, visible through a transparent sapphire caseback. Featuring an 18-carat yellow gold winding mass, a 50-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 4 Hz, this automatic calibre provides the mechanical foundation befitting the watch's highly considered design.

The white gold crown, topped with a polished cabochon, integrates seamlessly with the case whilst offering an elegant solution for time-setting.

Both the blue and green meteorite versions of the Gentissima Oursin 41 (Ref. EEEH01A1 and EEEH02A1 respectively) showcase the meticulous attention to detail that defines the collection. Each watch is designed and assembled in-house by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton at their Swiss manufacture in Meyrin.

With its nod to Mediterranean forms and incorporation of rare cosmic materials, the Gentissima Oursin 41 transcends traditional boundaries. It's a statement for the wearer who prizes ingenuity and values emotion; for the collector desirous of a unique and intimate watch; for the individual for whom art is not merely decoration, but rather an essential facet of everyday life.