New Biver watches fuse killer complications with cool materials
But you'll need deep pockets
Quick Summary
Biver has launched two new variants of its Carillon Tourbillon range.
The pieces come in titanium and a two-tone titanium and rose gold – but you'll want to be sat down when you read the price.
I'm a huge fan of Biver. Ever since I first clapped eyes on the sheer artistry which exists in the back of its Automatique watches, I was hooked.
Led by Jean-Claude Biver – a watchmaker with history at some of the most prestigious brands on the planet – the brand produces simple, but brilliant timepieces. Now, it has added a new duo of models to its Carillon Tourbillon line, which make use of some more niche materials.
The two models consist of a titanium option, and a two tone titanium and 18k rose gold version. Both follow the form of the range, with a couple of seriously heavy-duty complications inside the case.
You'll get both a minute repeater and a tourbillion inside. Those are widely regarded as two of the most difficult-to-master watch complications out there, and carry a weight of prestige as a result.
They sit within a 42mm case, which is also a respectable 13.7mm tall. While it's not going to be the slightest piece you'll ever wear, it is a solid spec for such a complicated watch.
The Biver movement looks as impressive as ever, complete with a bi-directional platinum micro-rotor for automatic winding duties. It's something of a staple in the brand's movements, and it looks really fantastic.
The Biver bracelet design is also present and correct, offering a five-link design with a lot of contrasting edges. It's a seriously sharp-looking thing – particularly on the two-tone model.
In fact, the only thing I can see putting most people off is the price. At 475,000 CHF (approx. £432,000 / €506,000 / US$594,000 / AU$907,500) these are some eye-wateringly expensive watches.
Still, if you have a spare half a million lying around and fancy something a little more portable than a house – and a little more under the radar than a rainbow-genset Ulysse Nardin – this is a solid pick.
