The story behind this Gérald Genta Solo Retro
Gérald Genta is a tutelary figure in watch design. Under his own eponymous Maison, he gives free rein to his fascination with the kinetic display of time. The creation of the Gérald Genta Solo Retro reference RSO.M.20.236.CB.BA responds to his desire to desacralise classical timekeeping and make it playful and mechanical. It is directly inspired by the rev counters used in sports car instrumentation, where the hand rises in tension and then returns instantaneously to its starting point. This watch transforms the passage of time into a rhythmic spectacle thanks to its combination of retrograde minutes and jumping hour. The little click of the jumping hour synchronised with the whip of the minute hand has become the absolute mechanical signature of the master.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Solo Retro
The tonneau-shaped case measures 31 millimetres wide by 44 millimetres long from lugs to lugs with a thickness measured at 10 millimetres. Crafted in 18-carat yellow gold, it has a fully polished finish that subtly catches the light. A flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects a two-tone dial with silver hues and fine vertical brushing. Oversized Arabic numerals with polished contours flank the printed central minute track. A single sword-shaped gold hand with a red lacquered tip runs through a 180-degree arc. The solid gold caseback is secured by 4 screws and houses the GG 4503 calibre self-winding mechanical movement. This mechanism oscillates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and guarantees a power reserve of 42 hours. It has 27 jewels and benefits from haute horlogerie finishing concealed beneath the engraved caseback. The watch is mounted on a black alligator leather strap with large square scales and closes with a yellow gold pin buckle. Water resistance is guaranteed to 30 metres.
Why this Gérald Genta watch
Finding a piece from this era in this precious configuration becomes a real challenge for discerning collectors. This model embodies the very essence of its designer's creative genius, long before the brand became part of a major group. The current market particularly values these off-centred and original displays, which offer an excellent ratio between mechanical watchmaking interest and everyday visual pleasure. This solid gold version adds a warmth and preciousness that contrasts magnificently with the raw technicality of the digital and retrograde displays. The absence of such creations in contemporary catalogues reinforces its heritage appeal.
Delivered contents and condition
This exceptional example comes with its black cubic case with red padded interior and overbox. The set also includes the leather briefcase containing the user booklets, the certificate of origin dated 2000 and the rare miniature pen signed by the brand. This watch has already been worn and shows some signs of wear, such as the slight scratches inherent in the soft nature of yellow gold. It remains fully functional and has been rigorously tested by our partner watchmakers. At the customer's request, a complete polishing can be carried out by our workshops to restore it to its original shine.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the absolute authenticity of this mechanical timepiece. We apply a 24-month guarantee to this model. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As the leading second-hand retailer in Switzerland and with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for an on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Good condition - Watch already worn. Some signs of wear (micro scratches, wear marks...). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
