The chronograph is one of the few complications yet to appear in a Grande Seconde - until now. The designers have managed to retain the signature 8 dial design by adding a central seconds hand for the chronograph while the bottom sub-dial houses the minute chronograph hand as well as the retrograde date indicator. It also retains its minimalist aesthetic by having the chronograph operable via a single pusher on the crown, instead of two separate push pieces.

The inaugural edition is limited to 88 pieces, and fittingly luxurious with its red gold case, Petit Feu enamel numerals and Grand Feu enamel dial. The non-limited models are in stainless steel case with dial options in silver, blue or taupe gray. The design for these models differs slightly too in that the bottom sub-dial is off-centred towards the left but balanced out by a crown positioned at 4 o’clock.  

Also see: Inside the Zen-themed dinner hosted by Swiss Watch Gallery & Jaquet Droz

The new travellers’ watch makes full use of the spacious lower counter. Apart from the seconds indication, it features a date ring and a second time zone; at the centre is an image of Earth’s continents, properly evoking that globe-trotting spirit. In addition, one can instantly discern whether it’s day or night back home thanks to the day and night distinction on the second time zone ring.

There are four references, two in stainless steel with onyx or silver dial, and another two in red gold with ivory or black Grand Feu enamel dial.

ICYMI: 3 GMT watches for the practical-minded jetsetter

Stripped down to its bare essentials, the skeletonised version of the Grande Seconde is now given a high tech treatment in ceramic case. The lightweight, scratch-resistant material makes a nice match with the industrial mien of the openworked movement with the gear train fixed to the skeletonised bridges.

The blued screws, a hallmark in high-end watchmaking, offer a pop of colour amidst the muted tones that include 18k white gold hour circle and indexes. The large seconds sub-dial is made entirely of sapphire. The watch is paired with a blue canvas strap.

Also see: Skeletonised masterpieces from Audemars Piguet, Zenith and Bulgari