SKEL-1 STAINLESS STEEL

The SKEL-1 Steel watch by Narbel & Co is an exceptional hand crafted timepiece that blends this independent watchmaking atelier’s mastery of Haute Horlogerie finishing with a contemporary aesthetic that is distinctively unique. Exclusively limited in production, Narbel & Co will craft only 10 to 15 pieces in this series per annum.

Having spent the early days of his career as a jeweller, and his formative watchmaking years with Audemars Piguet, Philippe Narbel of Narbel & Co unveiled his debut timepiece in 2021. Exhibiting similar styling codes, but with the added challenges brought by skeletonisation, the SKEL-1 is a visually stunning proposition that evolves the Narbel &Co portfolio beautifully.

Manufactured in stainless steel, with contrasting satin brushed and polished surfaces, the case of the Narbel & Co SKEL-1 Steel measures 40mm x 40mm. It is of a cushion style, displaying a subtle curvature and the profile is enhanced with pronounced inward and outer angles which taper gently through the bezel, upwards onto the dial. At each end of the case where the strap attaches, a single lobe replaces conventional lugs, while the pull-out crown has a satisfying level of deep fluting.

Beneath the gently curved sapphire crystal, the dial and movement are as one with the German silver plate having been meticulously skeletonised and with every angle displaying expert hand bevelling. A masterful showcase for the painstaking art of skeletonisation, the components of the calibre are exposed on the dial side, between a fine labyrinth of bridges, with every nuance meticulously decorated and finished. At the periphery of the dial, three-dimensional markers meld within the rehaut seamlessly, with the hours, minutes and small seconds indicated via skeletonised steel and 18ct gold plated hands which carry curvaceous tips.

On the underside of the watch, a sapphire exhibition caseback reveals the incredible level of artisanship devoted to the movement, with a holistic and well thought approach taken to each micro-step in both the skeletonisation and also the finishing of its components. Using the plans of a Peseux 7001 manual winding movement, Philippe has constructed his own unique version of the classic calibre, re-designing it for the modern era, and elevating it up to Haute Horlogerie standards. Displaying endless flowing lines, the intricate skeletonised bridges have been treated with black gold, and with 211 hand bevelled and polished internal angles, the craftsmanship displayed throughout is beyond exceptional.

In addition to the meticulous hand-finishing, the visual highlight on the rear side is the openworked ratchet cover which is hand crafted from german silver with a 18ct rose gold plating. Here, too a compendium of fine finishing techniques have been employed to add detail and texture. As a final flourish, a stylised letter “N” is carved into its centre, while an engraving of “Narbel” denoting the provenance of the piece is accompanied by the name “L’Abbaye” in honour of the beautiful village in Switzerland’s Valleé du Joux where the maker’s atelier is located. Beating at 21’600 vib/hr the fully wound barrel spring delivers a 42 hour power reserve.

A stunning piece of contemporary watchmaking art, the SKEL-1 Steel by Narbel & Co is presented on a choice of colours and types of leather strap, which are secured with a pin buckle, and with further customisation options at the behest of the client.