NO.182

This 40 mm chronograph in 18 ct rose gold was originally conceived as a performance tool. Alter transforms it by introducing a skeletonized movement, shifting the focus to structure and material.

The Owner’s Vision

The project began with a worn movement that required extensive repairs. Rather than restoring it to its original state, the owner chose to rethink the watch entirely. He had long been drawn to skeletonized movements and saw this as the right opportunity to develop a custom project around that approach.

Restoration and Preparation

The transformation begins with a complete disassembly in our Swiss workshops. Watchmakers and jewelers inspect, clean and service each component. The movement is restored to full function before any modification. Original finishes are preserved to provide a stable base for the next stages.

Design Research

The project was developed through close collaboration between the client and our team. After exploring several directions, we focused on three key interventions: a skeletonized movement, a forged carbon bezel with luminescent material integrated in the mass, and a smoked sapphire dial. Each element was developed to form a coherent technical composition.

Skeleton Movement

The calibre 4130 was fully skeletonized to expose its architecture. The bridges were reworked and reduced to open the view onto the gear train while maintaining structural integrity. The surfaces were given a cream finish, and the bevels were hand polished to define each edge. A black DLC treatment was then applied to unify the movement and enhance contrast.

The smoked sapphire dial introduces transparency while preserving legibility. Its dark tint partially obscures the movement, creating depth. Baton indexes maintain a clear reading structure.

Forged Carbon Bezel

The original bezel was replaced with a forged carbon composite. Luminescent particles are integrated throughout its mass. In daylight, it appears as a deep black marbled surface. In low light, it reveals a subtle glow that follows the natural patterns of the material.

The caseback was opened with a sapphire display to reveal the movement. Finished in black DLC, it echoes the bezel and integrates naturally into the overall design.

All modifications performed by Alter are fully reversible. The original bezel and dial are returned to the client, making it possible to restore the watch to its original configuration at any time.

WATCH REFERENCE116505
MATERIAL18 CT PINK GOLD
MOVEMENT SKELETONIZED CALIBER 4130
DIAL SMOKED SAPPHIRE DIAL
BEZELFORGED CARBON WITH SLN
CASEBACKBLACK DLC, SAPPHIRE DISPLAY

The project was developed using high-resolution photography and digital renders to define the final result precisely. All restoration and finishing operations were carried out in our Swiss workshops, following strict standards of execution.

Alter Geneva carries out each creation on a client’s personal watch. These independent works are not produced, approved, or guaranteed by the original manufacturers. As modifications may affect the brand warranty, Alter Geneva provides its own warranty. All creations are intended for private use only.