Hello, today I’d like to introduce you to a Bovet watch. I had the privilege of being invited to Hôtel de la Réserve in Geneva during Geneva Watches Week to explore some of the brand’s exquisite timepieces. Before we delve into the stunning Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite, let’s briefly explore the history of the Bovet brand.
Founded in 1822 by Edouard Bovet in Fleurier, Switzerland, the haute horlogerie brand Bovet initially made its mark by exporting its watches almost exclusively to the Chinese market in the 19th century. Edouard Bovet’s journey to China in 1818 initiated this focus.
Bovet is renowned for its prestigious timepieces, which meld highly refined aesthetics with impeccable craftsmanship, securing its popularity among the Chinese elite. Following several takeovers, in 2001, Mr. Pascal Raffy, a passionate about watchmaking, acquired the brand, infusing it with new energy. He revived the brand’s historical heritage while injecting innovation focused on quality, aesthetics, and manufacturing tradition.
The brand has also introduced a number of innovations, including the patented Amadeo® system, which allows a wristwatch to be transformed into a pocket or table watch without any tools. Now, let’s move on to the presentation of this watch, which is part of the 19Thirty collection, a series that belongs to the larger Fleurier collection, first launched in 2015.
What are the features of the of the Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite?
Case
The Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite features a sandblasted titanium dial, measuring 42 mm in diameter and 9.05 mm in thickness, making it quite noticeable when worn. What I appreciate about this case is that it resembles a traditional pocket watch from the 1930s, with its iconic arch and crown positioned at 12 o’clock.
Dial
The Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite features a dial crafted from a slice of the 4.5 billion-year-old Gibeon meteorite that landed in prehistoric times in Namibia. Unlike typical meteorite dials, this one is not gray. It is treated with a transparent blue PVD coating that allows the distinctive Widmanstätten pattern (the visible lines on the dial) to emerge only after the meteorite slice has been etched with nitric acid. First discovered in 1836, Gibeon meteorites are composed of iron, nickel, and small amounts of cobalt, classified as fine octahedral iron meteorites. Known for their stability and unique structures, Gibeon meteorites are neither toxic nor magnetic, posing no harm to the watch or its wearer.
Movement
The Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite is powered by a hand-wound Manufacture movement. This movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and is exquisitely decorated with mother-of-pearl and Côtes de Genève. Remarkably, it features a 7-day power reserve, a notable achievement given its single barrel configuration.
Strap
Accompanied by a matching blue nylon fabric strap, the Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite watch adopts a sportier and more elegant appearance.
How much does the Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite cost?
The Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite is not a limited edition and is priced at CHF 35,000 (Excluding VAT).
Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite: A Watch from the Sky
While some may regard Bovet’s affinity for antiquity as old-fashioned, the Fleurier case, styled after a pocket watch, certainly finds its niche in modern collections. I am particularly fond of the brand’s approach in blending its traditional aesthetics with contemporary trends. The watch is not only comfortable and visually appealing but also exquisitely crafted. Why not add a Bovet watch to my collection? Time will tell…
Bovet 19Thirty Blue Meteorite – Watch Specifications
- Brand: Bovet
- Model: 19Thirty Blue Meteorite
- Reference : NTT0011
- Case Material: Sandblasted Titanium
- Dial: Gibeon Meteorite with Blue PVD
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Sub-Seconds, Power Reserve Indicator
- Movement: 11BM04, Manual-Winding, 21’600vph frequency (3 Hz)
- Power Reserve: 7 days
- Water Resistance: 3 ATM
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Caseback: Sapphire Glass
- Case Dimension: 42 mm (Diameter) × 9.05 mm (Thickness)
- Strap: Navy Blue Cordura with Stainless Steel
- Availability : Not Limited
- Retail Price: CHF 35’000 (Excluding VAT)
What are your thoughts on Bovet’s designs? Do you prefer their traditional or futuristic styles? Share your views in the comments.
For more information about Bovet, click here.
