Introducing the Benzinger GAP 1 – ICE Blue: A 5-Piece Limited Edition Exclusively for Define Watches

Introducing the Benzinger GAP 1 – ICE Blue: A 5-Piece Limited Edition Exclusively for Define Watches

Define Watches is thrilled to present a truly exceptional timepiece, the Benzinger GAP 1 – ICE Blue, a 5-piece limited edition watch that combines the artistry of watchmaking with contemporary design. Conceived and designed by Peter Petzold, Lydia Dalle Nogare, and the master watchmaker Jochen Benzinger himself, this collection is a testament to the harmonious blend of classic watchmaking elements and modern aesthetics.

Precision Meets Beauty At the heart of this masterpiece lies an in-house movement, crafted based on Habring2’s A11 calibre and meticulously enhanced by Jochen Benzinger himself using century-old machines. The result is a timepiece that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly precise. One standout feature is the custom-made snowflake ratchet wheel, seamlessly connecting the movement to the dial and adding a touch of whimsy for the discerning wearer.

The ice blue dial, a nod to Define Watches’ distinctive colour palette, exudes timeless elegance. Master ennobler Jochen Benzinger’s hand-guilloched dial showcases a classic barleycorn pattern on the main dial, which is both geometric and easy on the eyes. Subtle contrast on the sub-dials is achieved through an intricate ray pattern emanating from the centre of each dial. Roman numerals grace the main dial, while partially skeletonized hands elegantly indicate the hour and minute.

A Unique Collaboration What sets the GAP 1 ICE Blue collection apart is not just its bespoke design but also the union of key figures in modern watchmaking and ennobling: Jochen Benzinger and Richard and Maria Habring. Owning a piece of watchmaking history is thrilling, but possessing a timepiece as beautiful and significant as the GAP 1 ICE Blue is truly a horological treasure.

The Story Behind the GAP 1 The GAP 1, a hand-wound marvel, is the result of a collaboration between renowned watchmakers Habring2 and master ennobler Jochen Benzinger. Its name, “GAP,” derives from the German Austrian Partnership, proudly signifying this historic collaboration. Traditionally, Benzinger’s timepieces relied on Swiss-made ETA manual winding movements, which he then rebuilt and refined. However, the GAP 1 marks a significant departure as it features a fully-manufactured movement developed in collaboration with Habring2.

Elegance Meets Functionality Housed in a 39mm stainless steel case crafted in Pforzheim, Germany, the GAP 1 ICE Blue exudes subtlety and is perfect for those with slimmer wrists. The case design embraces functionality, offering a minimalist, straightforward appearance. The watch back features elaborate 3D engraving, and the diagonally fluted crown is adorned with the company’s signature ‘JB’ at an unconventional 2 o’clock position. The date pusher, thoughtfully framed at 3 o’clock, adds robustness and security.

The Beating Heart The hand-wound manufactory calibre of the GAP 1 operates at 28,800 oscillations per hour, delivering a robust 48-hour power reserve. Notable features include a tangential screw fine regulation for impeccable accuracy and a KIF shock absorber, guarding the watch against external influences. As is the signature of a BENZINGER creation, the movement is meticulously guilloched and skeletonized by hand, with flame-blued wheels and gold-plated movement parts.

Classic Dial Design The GAP 1 maintains simplicity in its dial design. The main dial, displaying the hour and minute, allows ample space for the small seconds at 8 o’clock and the date display at 4 o’clock. The result is an aura of refined elegance and timeless beauty.

Technical Specifications

• Case: High-grade steel case with 3-D engraving, 39mm diameter, 11.5mm height, sapphire glass case front, and exhibition case back.
• Movement: In-house manufactory hand-winding movement with off-center hour and minute indication, small seconds at 8 o’clock, and date indication at 4 o’clock.
• Special Feature: Bespoke, hand-manufactured, blued ratchet wheel in a customized snowflake design.
• Dial: Stunning electro-plated ice blue dial with silver chapter rings, hand-guilloched in a geometric barleycorn pattern on the main dial and ray guilloche pattern on sub-dials.
• Hands: Polished steel skeletonized hour and minute hands, stainless-steel counter hands.
• Strap: Special band set with 2 color-matched curated leather bands, deployment clasp, and pin buckle, secured with screwed-in strap lugs.

The Benzinger GAP 1 – ICE Blue is more than just a watch; it’s a masterpiece that combines craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless design, making it a horological treasure for generations to come.