Pre-Basel World 2011: The Twenty-8 Collection From Kari Voutilainen
Basel World 2011 is almost upon us and soon the market will be literally inundated with new releases from the world of luxury watches. It can be hard to wade through the enormous amount of information disseminated during this incredible show however we do encourage you to try and save some processing space in your overworked brain for this particular unveiling; the new Twenty-8 collection from world-renowned, independent watch-maker Kari Voutilainen.
Mr. Voutilainen
Independent watch-making enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike will no doubt already be familiar with the name Kari Voutilainen. Already considered by many to be one of the greatest independent watch-makers of modern times, Voutilainen stands out as much for his heritage as he does his superb skills. You see, unlike so many of the world’s most famous watch-makers, Kari’s not Swiss; he’s Finnish.
Some may consider it a disadvantage (from a watch-making perspective at least) not to be born in a country that is highly regarded for its watch-making prowess. Switzerland obviously takes this to the next level, however, Germany, France or even England would have sufficed but Finland? As it turns out however, Finland is actually home to one of best watch-making schools in the world, located in Tapiola. Voutilainen completed his initial studies here before coming to Switzerland in 1989 to attend the International Watchmaking School and complete his WOSTEP accreditation.
His incredible talent was identified almost immediately and he was recruited to work for Parmigiani Mesure et Art du Temps where he spent the next decade overseeing the restoration work of some of the world’s rarest pieces as well as the creation of new and original ‘one-off’ pieces. In 2002 he officially established himself as an independent watch-maker and has been consistently exceeding expectations ever since with his incredible attention to detail and absolute mastery of the craft.
The Twenty-8 Collection
It is these incredible skills honed through time and the exposure to and creation of some of the world’s most exquisitely complicated timepieces that have allowed him to realise the all new Twenty-8 collection, powered by Voutilainen’s own in-house movement.
Given the growing costs of time and labor it is common these days to see the machining and fabrication of a number parts outsourced by independent watch-makers in a bid to operate more efficiently and cost effectively. However, in the case of Twenty-8 movement almost all of the components required have been fabricated in-house, including Voutilainen’s own specially designed direct impulse double-wheel escapement.
It is this escapement that really showcases Kari’s watch-making ingenuity. As the name suggests it features two escape wheels and does not require lubrication, it also requires 30-40% less energy than a conventional Swiss lever escapement thus allowing for a weaker mainspring and longer power reserve.
The Final Word
The Twenty-8 collection may not scream for attention like many of its competitors but then again, when you have a name like ‘Voutilainen’ gracing your dial there really isn’t any need to make a fuss, is there? Striking case design paired with classic style and finishing on both the dial and the movement that is second to none ensure that the Twenty-8 collection will be an instant hit with true lovers of haute horology. But really, was there every any doubt?
To learn more please visit: www.voutilainen.ch
Special thanks to Underthedial (aka Ian Skellern) for supplying the wonderful images.
Category: Basel World & SIHH
That is a real stunner.
Isn’t it just, classic watch making at its best!