Grönefeld 1941 Principia

We’re at the dawn of a new era in horology in which mechanical artisanship, mind-bending design detail and handcrafted works of art are the standard for Independently produced wristwatch masterpieces.  Grönefeld is an Independent manufacture that has made a name for themselves -and accumulated numerous industry awards- by setting the bar for mastery in multiple categories such as their tourbillon, dead-beat seconds and  remontoire complications. When the Dutch manufacture introduced the 1941 Principia - its simplest complication and the first automatic-winding timepiece ever offered by the brothers Grönefeld, it piqued the interest of the entire community and offered a point of entry for a larger number of eager enthusiasts to experience the brand. The 1941 Principia can be commissioned in three metals — white gold, rose gold and stainless steel - the latter material playing strong to the heartstrings of collectors everywhere. This example is produced in stainless, and features a 39mm polished case with a combination of concave and convex curves, a signed crown and stylized lugs affixed to the case by titanium screws. Produced from a solid sterling silver base, its salmon-toned dial features a stunning textured surface, applied polished indices, a small seconds display at 6 o’clock and a blued-steel ‘lance’ handset. As expected from the renowned Independent, the 1941 Principa is no slouch in the movement department, and houses the incredible 226-part, self-winding Calibre G-06, elevated by its hand-beveled stainless steel bridges made in likeness to the facade of Dutch houses, a ruthenium main plate and a 22k solid red gold monobloc rotor — all of which are finished and assembled by hand. Individually numbered and fitted to its a signed blue buffalo leather strap, this piece remains in exceptional condition throughout and is accompanied by its full set of factory collateral, including inner and outer boxes, hangtag, a note from the brand, and warranty card dated May, 2022. With only a handful of pieces produced annually and a waiting list that just keeps getting longer, this lovely steel and salmon beauty is a chance to snag a masterwork from an established and respected Independent manufacture that seems to just be getting started in the 'bring the heat!' department!