Hello, today I would like to introduce you to a remarkable figure in the Geneva watchmaking scene. His name is Cédric Johner, an independent watchmaker. Before presenting one of the watches he created to celebrate 30 years of professional independence in jewelry and watchmaking, let me tell you about his journey.
Now working in his workshop based in Carouge, just outside of Geneva, Cédric first honed his skills in jewelry by apprenticing at Chopard from the age of 15 to 19. After completing his studies, he spent a few years working for a company before venturing out as an independent jeweler at just 24 years old. A few years later, alongside his work as a jeweler, he trained in watchmaking by attending evening classes at the Geneva School of Watchmaking. His rich experience and expertise eventually led him to create his own brand in 1997 with his first model, Abyss.
30 years later, he has revived his iconic watch shape, which has become his legendary signature and is revered by collectors worldwide. In this chronograph version, Cédric Johner decided to offer the Abyss model for the first time in 316L stainless steel, with numerous customization options for collectors. Now, let’s dive into the details of the watch.
What are the features of the Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph?
Case
The Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph features a polished stainless steel case, entirely handcrafted from a block of 316L steel, shaped using manual machines and tools. As the case takes form, it is hand-filed to achieve its final shape before being polished to perfection. The unusual tonneau-shaped case is accompanied by two pushers. It measures 39.00 mm x 41.20 mm x 11.80 mm, with a lug-to-lug distance of 47.50 mm. The case back is handcrafted and engraved with the individual number of the limited edition.
Dial
The Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph is adorned with a deep blue satin titanium dial, featuring whimsical Roman numerals and two silver 925 applied sub-dials. Time is displayed using hand-shaped polished steel leaf hands, harmonizing perfectly with the case. The round silver applique at 6 o’clock is engraved with the individual number of the limited edition.
Movement
The Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph houses the legendary Valjoux 23 caliber, restored and fully hand-decorated. This manual-winding chronograph features a column wheel and a horizontal clutch in an elegant and classic architecture. Operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz), it offers a power reserve of 46 hours. This movement stands out with its architecture of reliefs that play with depths and a “petite graine” decoration on the bridges and main plate, a technique derived from jewelry bead setting.
Strap
The Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph comes with a hand-stitched alligator leather strap that fits perfectly to the case. The strap is accompanied by a hand-crafted tang buckle, also made by Cédric Johner.
How much does the Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph?
Cédric Johner can only produce a few watches per year, so delivery times are discussed on a case-by-case basis. This edition is limited to 30 pieces and is priced at CHF 28,500 excluding taxes.
Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph: A Revamped Icon
The Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph is a truly captivating piece. It looks like no other, which has been its charm for many years. What I particularly like is that the clients of this edition were involved in the creation process, with the ability to choose the dial color, handcrafted movement finishes, and the strap. All of this is possible because Cédric Johner produces very few pieces and crafts up to 80% of the components, from the case to the hands. His workshop, steeped in tradition, reflects his artistic approach. Inspired by his surroundings, he approaches each watch as a work of art. After 30 years of exploring the world of horological craftsmanship, Cédric Johner still possesses that spark that drives him to incorporate invention and innovation into his art. He is a true craftsman, working materials in a traditional manner. His modesty almost makes us forget that he is one of the last master watchmakers following this artisanal protocol. I would like to personally thank him for his kindness and availability.
Cédric Johner Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph – Watch Specifications
- Brand: Cédric Johner
- Model: Limited Edition Iconic Abyss Chronograph
- Case : Stainless Steel
- Dial: Grade 5 titanium, circled and colored by anodization
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds, Chronograph with 30-minute counter
- Movement: Base Valjoux 23 entirely refurbished and re-finished to HH level – hand-wound column-wheel chronograph, Manual-Winding, 18’000vph frequency (2,5Hz) 17 jewels
- Power Reserve: 46 hours
- Water Resistance: 3 ATM
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Caseback: Sapphire
- Case Dimension: 39.00mm x 41.20mm x 11.80mm
- Lug-to-lug : 47.50mm
- Strap: Brown Alligator Leather with Stainless Steel Pin Buckle
- Availability: Limited Edition of 30 pieces
- Retail Price: CHF 28’500 (Excluding VAT)
Are you familiar with Cédric Johner’s creations? What do you think of this unusual design? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For more information about Cédric Johner, click here.
