ROMA SYNERGY TERRACOTTA LIMITED EDITION

Combining the unique aesthetic signature of a Kari Voutilainen dial with the technical finesse of one of Swiss watchmaking’s very few entirely self-contained movement manufacturers, the twenty-piece Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition by Schwarz Etienne, is a very special creation which celebrates the best of contemporary independent watchmaking.

A watch which, since its unveiling in 2020, has attracted international critical acclaim, including a GPHG Awards nomination, the Schwarz Etienne Roma Synergy by Kari Voutilainen is the result of a dynamic collaboration between one of the best loved and in demand independent watchmakers, and a company which stands out as an innovator and a provider of superb, fully in-house manufactured mechanical movements.

With Kari Voutilainen’s inimitable and unmistakable visual magic Instantly apparent on a stunning hand guilloché dial, the Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition is a showcase for the Finnish maestro’s uncompromising attention to detail, with further surprises to be discovered on the underside, and for many collectors, an opportunity to connect with a watchmaker whose own creations are rapidly becoming ‘unicorn’ pieces.

Manufactured in stainless steel with polished finishing throughout, the round case is perfectly scaled for a universally comfortable fit, measuring 39mm across, and standing only 11mm tall. Its classic proportions are accentuated by a fluted push-in crown and squared lugs, which subtly taper and curve away from the case, where a weathered grey calfskin strap with orange stitching complements the style and personality of the watch.

Beneath a gentle convex dome of sapphire crystal, the dial of the Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition comes alive with the warmth of its beautiful and eye catching pale cupric hue, which is accentuated by the contrasting decorative finishes applied across its surfaces. Inspired by the colour and characteristics of terracotta, an ancient fired clay which absorbs ambient light and heat, the dial possesses a warm, earthy, rust orange appearance.

Featuring applied polished steel numerals and indices, which complement the polished faceted lance hour and minute hands, the dial is meticulously engraved, with three distinct applications of flawless rose engine turned hand guilloché, courtesy of Voutilainen’s Comblémine dial manufactory. The dark grey peripheral chapter ring is finished with a wavy soleil motif, while the reflections off the ecaille de poisson and recurring vague patterns which adorn the large central section and small seconds subdial respectively, play with the light as the watch moves around with the wrist.

Fittingly, the Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition is powered by a special version of Schwarz Etienne’s beautiful ASE200.00 automatic, micro-rotor movement. Inviting Les Ateliers Kari Voutilainen to breathe the master’s signature style of pristine horologic artistry over the company’s mechanism, its bridges and balance cock feature a delightfully engraved sunray Guilloché motif, while the snailing on the ratchet wheel and frosted micro-rotor further distinguish this exceptional Roma Synergy calibre.

Designed and developed entirely in house by Schwarz Etienne, one of the very few manufacturers capable of creating its own balance and hairsprings, the manufacture movement boasts an impressive power reserve of at least 86 hours while beating at a frequency of 3Hz (21,600 vib/h). A sapphire exhibition caseback reveals the craftsmanship and innovation housed within.

A versatile piece, which has the sophistication of a contemporary dress watch, or equally suited to the more casual and informal occasion, the Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition by Schwarz Etienne x Voutilainen x The Limited Edition is presented on a grey calfskin leather strap, with pale orange stitching and stainless steel folding buckle.

It is produced in an exclusive one-off series of only twenty pieces, with ten watches being delivered to customers in early 2023, and the other ten in summer 2023.

As production of this wonderful collaboration between the manufacturer and the master independent watchmaker nears the end of its run in 2023, the Roma Synergy Terracotta Edition by Schwarz Etienne x Voutilainen x The Limited Edition offers collectors and connoisseurs one of the last opportunities to acquire one of these magnificent pieces.

‘It is a privilege to present a special timepiece that tells so much about two of the most prestigious names in the art of contemporary watchmaking. Combining the unique engineering capabilities of Schwarz Etienne with the unmistakable aesthetics and finishing skills of a master of our time, gave us a perfect canvas to creatively study the combination of colours and finishing that would certainly entice our base of cultivated watch collectors’. Pietro Tomajer