The Wyler Genève watch company presents a chronograph for Baselworld 2007 that pays tribute – both inside and out – to the pioneering genius of the watchmaker Paul Wyler, who founded the company in 1896. The Wyler Genève Chronograph features a triple protection system consisting of Wyler’s most significant invention, the Incaflex balance wheel, coupled with a contemporary anti-shock case and a form of crown protection that is unique in the world of watchmaking.

The first element in Wyler Genève’s triple protection system is the contemporary case design, which is a masterpiece of miniature engineering. The watch movement itself is ensconced in a titanium case, which is in turn framed in a lightweight but ultra-strong carbon fibre construction. The individual components of the watch case are then screwed to this central framework, which is cushioned by tiny springs and functions just like a car’s suspension.

Inspired by such automotive parallels, the Wyler Genève Chronograph’s design also takes its cues from the world of the motor car. The crown, for example, comes in the same metal as the case but is covered in grooved rubber to resemble a car tyre. The rubber also offers improved grip compared with a standard metal crown. The chronograph pushers in the form of a car’s foot pedals continue the automobile theme and the rubber strap with its personalised Wyler motif also recalls the tread of a tyre. With no concessions allowed in terms of robustness, titanium screws are used to secure the fastening buckle to the strap, which is integrated directly into the watch case and secured by screws fed through the case back. Further protection is offered by the second element in the triple protection system: a unique crown lock bearing the Wyler logo that is attached to the case on either side of the crown and must be pulled out on both sides before any adjustments can be made.

The dial is packed with details that set the Wyler Genève Chronograph apart as a high-end timepiece. The base, available in black, silver and lacquered white, is divided into inner and outer zones which have contrasting brushed surfaces. All the elements on the dial are applied to this base – from the outer minute track and chronograph counter ring to the individual Arabic numerals and Wyler name. Matching facetted hands with luminous SuperLuminova tips complete the look and offer excellent clarity. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures that the watch’s good looks will remain unblemished.

Excellent timekeeping is ensured by a proven Swiss self-winding chronograph calibre, which has a 42-hour power reserve and is fitted with the original Wyler Incaflex balance wheel, the third element in the triple protection system. Considered revolutionary at the time of its invention in 1927, Wyler’s Incaflex balance wheel incorporates two flexible curved arms across its diameter that absorb any shocks to the wheel. The central chronograph hand is accurate to a quarter of a second and is complemented by a small continuous seconds dial at 9 o’clock and a date window at 4.30. The oscillating weight that captures the movements of the wearer’s wrist to power the watch has a personalised Wyler design in blackened heavy metal – a distinctive look that is enhanced by bevelled edges and apertures drilled into the mass, all of which are rhodium plated.

The Wyler Genève Chronograph is available a limited edition in 18-carat red gold, platinum, titanium or stainless steel and will be the last Wyler Genève timepiece to use the Incaflex balance wheel, making it both a candidate for the history books and a must for any collector of fine timepieces.

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