BOVET Récital 12
For the very first time in its more than two centuries of history making the world’s most beautiful timekeeping objects, BOVET unveils the Récital 12, a timepiece that comes on a bracelet and is designed to be a constant companion.
The Récital 12 was in development for more than two years, as owner Pascal Raffy was keen to respond to requests made by many collectors around the world for an everyday-wear timepiece, specifically on a bracelet.
“BOVET has traditionally been a strap House, but we have had many collectors from all over the world asking for a metal bracelet,” explains owner Pascal Raffy. “I’m very detail oriented when it comes to comfort and design, so I knew if we did a bracelet, it would have to be as close to perfect as possible. My team and I worked on this timepiece for two full years, going through version after version to get it absolutely right. The bracelet is supremely comfortable, forming to the wrist and offering all-day wearability,” he continues. “I think its unique combination of style, comfort, lightness, and serious watchmaking will appear to collectors everywhere.”
The Récital 12 features a new 40mm case, a redesigned and reconfigured manual-wind movement, and the aforementioned bracelet. All in titanium, the Récital 12 is light, ergonomic, while at the same time focusing on high horology.
The choice of material for the Récital 12 was all important. Over the years, BOVET has made timepieces in 18K white gold, 18K red gold, stainless steel, platinum, and even sapphire crystal. Recently, the House has added titanium to its mix.
Light yet strong, titanium is the perfect material for timepieces, as it is highly resistant to corrosion, difficult to scratch, and hypoallergenic.
BOVET’s teams of engineers, constructors, and watchmakers worked together to master this cutting-edge material. Mr. Raffy started his career in pharmaceuticals, so he was well aware of the material and knew that titanium was being used in high-tech medical implants due to its strength, lightness, and biocompatibility.
BOVET uses grade 5 titanium, an alpha-beta alloy that contains 90% titanium, 6% aluminum, and 4% vanadium, which offers an excellent combination of high strength, low density, and good corrosion resistance. In addition, grade 5 titanium offers excellent resistance in natural environments, and is able to withstand exposure to acids, seawater, and other corrosives.
The titanium used in the Récital 12 is entirely recyclable, reinforcing BOVET’s commitment to sustainability. BOVET knows that it is possible to combine the House’s focus on luxury while being environmentally responsible.