The Collaboration of Craftsmanship: Benzinger GAP 1 Ice Blue & Define Watches

In the world of horology, where precision meets artistry, Define Watches stands as a unique beacon, forming genuine partnerships with the world’s most luxurious watch brands. A testament to these enduring collaborations is the creation of the limited edition Benzinger GAP 1 – Ice Blue, a masterpiece born from the creative synergy between Jochen Benzinger, Richard and Maria Habring, and Define Watches.

The Genesis of Elegance: A Fusion of Minds

Conceived and designed by Peter Petzold, Lydia Dalle Nogare, and Jochen Benzinger, the GAP 1 – Ice Blue Edition 2023 is a 5-piece limited edition that transcends traditional watchmaking. This masterpiece marries classic watchmaking elements with contemporary design, resulting in a timepiece that is not just visually stunning but also impeccably precise.

The in-house movement, based on Habring2’s A11 caliber, undergoes the masterful touch of Jochen Benzinger on century-old machines. The custom-made snowflake ratchet wheel, a whimsical addition, ties the movement to the captivating ice blue dial, showcasing Define’s distinctive colour palette.

The Art of Guilloche, Engraving, and Skeletonising: Elevating Craftsmanship

Jochen Benzinger’s mastery in guilloche, engraving, and skeletonising adds layers of sophistication to the GAP 1 – Ice Blue. The ice blue dial, hand-guilloched by Benzinger, features a barleycorn pattern and intricate ray patterns on sub-dials, harmonising timeless elegance with contemporary flair. The Breguet-style dial, with Roman numerals and partially skeletonised hands, further enhances its classic beauty.

The GAP 1 movement, a hand-wound manufactory caliber, operates at 28,800 oscillations per hour, boasting a 48-hour power reserve. Special features such as tangential screw fine regulation and the KIF shock absorber ensure accuracy and protection from external influences. Guilloched, skeletonised, and adorned with flame-blued wheels, the movement is unmistakably a Benzinger creation.

German-Austrian Partnership: Breaking New Ground

The GAP 1 collection signifies the German-Austrian Partnership, a collaboration between Benzinger and Austrian watch manufacturer Habring2. This collection features a hand-wound manufactory movement, departing from tradition, and breaking new ground for Benzinger. The 39mm steel case, minimalistic yet functional, showcases a 3D engraving on the watch back and a diagonally fluted crown, bearing the company signature ‘JB’ at 2 o’clock.

Technical Brilliance: A Symphony of Components

Technical specifications underscore the brilliance of the GAP 1 – Ice Blue. The high-grade steel case, sapphire glass case front, and exhibition case back house the in-house manufactory movement with off-center hour and minute indication, small second at 8 o’clock, and date indication at 4 o’clock. The bespoke, hand-manufactured, blued ratchet wheel in a custom snowflake design adds a touch of exclusivity.

Unveiling a Timeless Treasure: The GAP 1 ICE Blue

The limited edition GAP 1 – Ice Blue stands as a timeless treasure in the world of horology. Beyond its harmonised and bespoke design, this collection unites key figures in modern watchmaking – Jochen Benzinger and Richard and Maria Habring. To own this exquisite timepiece is to possess a beautiful and significant artefact, a testament to the collaborative spirit and artistry embedded in the heart of Define Watches.

About the Brands:

Benzinger: Master watch ennobler Jochen Benzinger is renowned for creating bespoke, one-off timepieces. His expertise in watch ennobling, skeletonising, and guilloching is evident in each unique piece, individually handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Define Watches: Define Watches proudly presents a curated collection of German, Austrian, and Swiss watch brands, embodying quality, attention to detail, and a new generation’s appreciation for luxury. With a commitment to maintaining direct relationships with watch manufacturers, Define Watches ensures the highest level of service and expertise.

Habring2: Founded in 2004 by Maria and Richard Habring, Habring2 stands as Austria’s pioneering watch brand, celebrated for innovation and craftsmanship. With its in-house caliber, the brand has earned four Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève awards, a testament to its excellence. Habring2’s commitment to sustainability and affordability makes it a beacon in horology.