One of our favourite watch brands Linde Werdelin have produced a limited edition collection of their SpidoSpeed in 18k gold. And they didn’t scrimp on the gold content, with the watch coming in at a hefty 126gms!
From the year of its conception, Linde Werdelin has been meticulously crafting quality, architecturally complex timepieces and digital sports instruments. A commitment that has remained true through evolution of craftsmanship by pushing the boundaries further each time.
“It is an extremely challenging procedure to drill the case out of a block of gold while maintaining its strength and integrity, but we were determined to undertake this ambitious and exciting task, and we are very satisfied with the results”, says Jorn Werdelin.
The case consists of 32 parts. It takes lengthy hours of meticulous work to construct and complete each case as it requires exceptional accuracy. The 126 grams (1/8th Kilo) 18 karat rose gold case is finished by hand with satin and microbillé treatment.
“A gold case developed in this particular structure and design is one of a kind in the watch industry; a cool and masculine look that breaks up the traditional use of gold for classic designed cases. Gold conveys a warmth and longevity, like no other material bears and has the potential to embellish within time,” says Morten Linde, creative mind at Linde Werdelin.
While the weight of gold is substantial, the skeletonised structure ascertains it is lighter than what a solid case would be and stays true to the original idea of weight reduction. Morten Linde explains “The idea of skeletonising the case is inspired by the racing car industry, where the case body is drilled out to maintain the bare essentials for weight reduction, yet offering a robust and stylish structure”.
This piece, like the original SpidoSpeed, is powered by a custom-made LW03 Concepto integrated chronograph movement, partially visible through the sapphire crystal case-back. This bespoke movement allows the crown and pushers to be completely aligned and to facilitate the attachment of the Linde Werdelin instruments.
SpidoSpeed Gold will be available in a numbered series starting with series A of a 100 pieces each. SpidoSpeed Gold will retail CHF 42,000 inclusive of VAT and available from May 2012 on LindeWerdelin.com or from any LW authorised retailer in local currency.
Linde Werdelin SpidoSpeed Gold Specifications:
Case: Entirely 18kt rose gold/ constructed of 32 parts / microbillé and hand satin finish anti-reflective sapphire crystal / see-through sapphire crystal in back case / spider web and chronograph icon engravings / screw in crown / chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock.
Dimensions: 44mm (w) by 46mm (l) by 15mm (h) Movement: LW 03 Concepto calibre 2251 integrated chronograph / 48 hours power reserve / 237 components / Balance frequency: 28800 Alt/H/ ceramic bearing in oscillator/ strengthened escapement.
Dial: Two- part black galvanic dial: perlage surface base part, opalin top dial part / rose gold plated chronograph sub-dials for hours, minutes and seconds. Water Resistance: 100m
Strap: SpidoSpeed black alligator strap with ardillion rose gold buckle.