The New Gerald Charles Masterlink
At Watches & Wonders, the maison unveiled the first bracelet model, marking an important new step in the brand's growth
After months of preparation, during Watches & Wonders 2024 the Maisons finally unveiled their novelties. Some slightly tweaked their collections while others, like Gerald Charles, released a lot of very interesting novelties.
The innovation that most impressed us is the Masterlink, the new bracelet watch produced by Gerald Charles and which has received considerable interest within the watch community.
As Federico Ziviani, CEO of Gerald Charles, recounted when I had the chance to interview him, the biggest challenge today for the maison is to carry on the project initiated by Mr. Genta, reinterpreting his designs in a modern key, coming up with a watch that can be worn every day, but at the same time keeps the spirit of Monsieur Gérald Charles Genta alive. This intent can be clearly seen in the Masterlink, where the name indicates the desire to establish an ever-living connection with the Master, but pushing towards new horizons.
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The challenge was to create an integrated bracelet that preserved the Master's emblematic asymmetrical case - highlighting the "smile" at 6 o'clock - and to achieve a harmonious design that offered perfect comfort on the wrist.
Bracelet
The most unique thing about this watch lies in the bracelet itself, which is specially made asymmetrically, something rarely seen on a timepiece. In this way, however, the bracelet manages to fit perfectly with the iconic case, making the design as harmonious and simple as possible.
At 6 o'clock, the central links initially follow the curve of the "smile" of the case, then gradually straighten, while at 12 o'clock they extend the straight line of the case and bezel. The clasp is invisible, perfectly integrated into the end links of the bracelet. Even the pushers to open it are discreetly set inside, ensuring that the fluidity of the design extends smoothly over the unified case and bracelet.
Dial and Case
The dial features a cotes de Genève pattern that is also echoed in the brushing of the bracelet's central link so as to enhance the verticality of the design.
The Masterlink is available in two colors, with a blue dial and with a silver dial, as you see in the photo.
Compared to previous models, the Gerald Charles team has created completely new hour markers and hands with the aim of still maintaining the extreme subtlety of the case that has always distinguished this brand.
The crown, on the other hand, remains in continuity with what we have been used to seeing on the Maestro collection, with the Clou de Paris motif as decoration.
Movement
Through the visible case back, it is possible to admire the new microrotor movement made for this new entry, the GCA 5401.
The movement was developed by Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier and is only 2.67 mm thick, which contributes to an overall case thickness of only 7.99 mm.
As mentioned before the Masterlink is available in navy blue or silver at a price of €23,800 or $23,000.
Looks great to me!