Introduction

As part of Greubel Forsey's grand celebration for their 20th Anniversary, the luxury watchmaker has unveiled an extraordinary release: the Nano Foudroyante EWT. This marks the brand's tenth "Fundamental Invention," further establishing its reputation for innovative horology.

Unique Features

At its core, the Nano Foudroyante EWT is unlike any other watch. It features an exceptional 37.9mm by 10.49mm white gold case, accentuated by a tantalum bezel and a display case back. Notably, it contains a first-ever flying tourbillon and, in a groundbreaking twist, a monopusher chronograph that allows for a flyback function. This remarkable watch also incorporates a constant-running seconde foudroyante (lightning seconds) that splits each second into six parts based on a 3Hz tourbillon cage, adding an unprecedented level of precision and ingenuity.

Construction and Mechanics

Greubel Forsey has masterfully minimized components, utilizing a movement that measures only 31mm in diameter and consists of just 428 parts, making the overall construction impressively compact. This ingenious design ties the second function directly to the oscillations of the tourbillon, effectively optimizing the movement's efficiency while keeping it sleek.

Power Reserve and Exclusivity

Powering this exceptional timepiece is a hand-wound mechanism, providing a 24-hour power reserve while the chronograph is engaged—though the overall reserve when not activated remains undisclosed. However, future collectors may hesitate due to the price tag of CHF 465,000 (approximately $540,000), made even more exclusive with only 11 pieces available, each adorned with Greubel Forsey's hallmark hand-finishing.

Conclusion

For enthusiasts itching to add a truly innovative watch to their collection, the Nano Foudroyante EWT is a prime contender. Its striking dimensions are worth a mention; at just 10.49mm thick, it may present as modern and slim, but the design does yield a notable height on the wrist due to the unique lug configuration, reminiscent of the luxurious Patek Philippe Ref. 5004.

As luxury watch aficionados continue to navigate the world of haute horlogerie, it's evident that Greubel Forsey has encountered a tough competition landscape. While its earlier complex releases may have catered to a niche market, this new creation speaks directly to the passion of watch lovers, featuring advanced mechanics that were long sought after but seldom delivered.

Interestingly, former industry trends suggested a shift in focus to simpler pieces, yet Greubel Forsey's pursuit of sophistication remains steadfast. Even with their attempts to venture "downmarket," the brand has continuously dazzled collectors with intricately complicated timepieces, maintaining their reputation across the board.

In this era of accessible luxury and high-profile names, the Nano Foudroyante EWT shines brightly for its technical marvels and aesthetic beauty. Among watch connoisseurs, it's clear: owning this timepiece is a dream worth chasing—despite the hefty price tag attached.

In conclusion, the Greubel Forsey Nano Foudroyante EWT stands as a remarkable testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of perfection and innovation. It's not just a watch; it's a piece of art, history, and avant-garde engineering that is sure to make waves among collectors and enthusiasts alike. The watch world is watching—will you be one of the lucky few to own this masterpiece?