Collector's Notes
Some might consider moving from a Flying Tourbillon to a time-only watch to be a downgrade, but for me the move has been an upgrade on so many fronts. The skeletonized version of Blancpain’s Ultra Thin from the Six Masterpieces collection hits that sweet spot in terms of ease-of-wear and ease-of-use. No date complication or loud movement to deal with, just the beautifully engraved Frédéric Piguet 21 in a slim 5mm case. Can I also include lower service cost as a benefit?
Blancpain did a remarkable thing here, taking a movement that was already as thin as a coin (1.73mm) and hand-carving away the bridges and plates into an intricate, free-flowing pattern that’s nicely framed by an outer cream dial. I really appreciate how the hour markers are set against a contrasting background, as it makes the dial a touch more legible than your typical skeletonized watch. Because working with the Frédéric Piguet 21 in this way was so labor-intensive, it’s estimated that only a few hundred units were ever produced across all metals.
My preference for any watch in the Six Masterpieces collection has been, and continues to be, yellow gold. There’s something about the classical design language paired with a warm metal that just sings. I’ve been having fun pairing it down with the chestnut smooth calfskin from Molequin, but feel like it could also shine on a black or cream strap.
Specifications
Brand:
Blancpain
Model:
Villeret Ultra Thin Skeleton
Reference:
0021-1418-S-55
Year:
1990s
Case Material:
Yellow gold
Diameter:
34 mm
Lug Width:
19 mm
Thickness:
5.1 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
38.0 mm
Dial:
Cream
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
Blancpain 21
Bracelet/Strap:
Molequin chestnut smooth calfskin strap
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.1 in
