LEGARE Launches Chapter 1 AGP Inverted Watch

LEGARE has officially launched its debut creation, the Chapter 1 AGP Inverted watch, a timepiece that reimagines Albert-Gustave Piguet’s 1932 double-balance pocket watch mechanism. Founded by Wei Koh and Guillaume Tetu, the Neuchâtel-based brand positions itself as a "horological archaeologist," dedicated to reviving forgotten horological concepts and exploring their potential evolution within contemporary watchmaking. The Chapter 1 AGP Inverted serves as a tribute to Piguet’s intellectual curiosity and establishes LEGARE’s mission to investigate lost possibilities in mechanical timekeeping.

The watch is housed in a Grade 5 titanium case, measuring 37.5mm in diameter and a slim 9.95mm in thickness. Its design features an open, inverted movement layout, strategically placing the twin regulating organs on the dial side for enhanced visual appeal. Two independent balance wheels operate at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. These balance wheels are interconnected by a mechanical differential, which continuously averages their rates to provide a single, unified output to the flame-blued hands. To maintain the watch’s sleek proportions, the caliber incorporates side-angled lever escapements, a complication typically reserved for tourbillon constructions. The open architectural design is further accentuated by a sapphire minutes ring and showcases intricate finishing throughout, including hand-grained surfaces, mirror-polished bevels, and perlage.

The LEGARE Chapter 1 AGP Inverted watch is offered in two distinct executions, with each version being strictly limited to 25 individually numbered pieces, bringing the total production to 50 units. The "Elegant" edition features untreated German silver with Côtes de Genève decoration, complemented by a hand-stitched gray Alcantara strap. In contrast, the "Darth" edition presents a dark, monochromatic aesthetic. This version is crafted from frosted, black rhodium-plated brass and is paired with a blue Cordura fabric strap. Both executions are powered by the manual-wind Caliber LC1-AGP01, which offers a power reserve of 50 hours. The price for each version of this limited edition watch is set at $146,100 USD.

Albert-Gustave Piguet, the original designer of the double-balance pocket watch mechanism, was known for his innovative approach to watchmaking. His 1932 creation was a testament to his technical prowess and forward-thinking design. LEGARE's revival of this complex mechanism highlights the brand's commitment to preserving and reinterpreting historical horological achievements. The use of modern materials like Grade 5 titanium and advanced finishing techniques, such as frosting and black rhodium plating, alongside traditional craftsmanship, positions LEGARE at the intersection of heritage and contemporary luxury watchmaking. The limited production of only 50 pieces underscores the exclusivity and artisanal nature of these timepieces, appealing to collectors seeking unique and historically significant watches.