Baselworld 2007 - Gérald Genta

The original Gefica was created in 1988 during a safari in Africa. Named after three gentlemen, Messrs Geoffroy, Fissore and Canali, who were on the expedition, the Gefica was the first watch in the world made of bronze. It was discontinued some years ago, and quickly faded into history.

Nearly 10 years after the original was premiered, the company has revived the name and created a new Gefica. Like the original, it is presented in bronze but with a modern day touch of a caseback in grade 2 titanium, selected for its durability and antiallergenic properties.

Gérald Genta has done extensive testing of the bronze alloy to ensure it will withstand the test of time. Nonetheless, bronze is a material that will age and develop a beautiful patina over time, leaving each Gefica watch unique.

The Gefica with silver dial

The 2007 Gefica utilises the trademark Gérald Genta ‘Biretro’ movement, a double retrograde (minutes and date) with jumping hours. A concave, multi-level dial further accentuates the dial design. I predict this Gefica will soon become the signature piece of Gérald Genta.

In black

Exotic materials did not stop with the Gefica. Gérald Genta also unveiled the Arena Chronograph in a rose gold case with a tantalum bezel. The movement in this model is actually a Frederic Piguet cal. 1185, but it has been extensively modified resulting in a triple retrograde, jump hour chronograph. This model is also available in a hefty tantalum case with a rose gold bezel.

Arena Chronograph in Tantalum and rose gold

Gérald Genta now offers the Arena Retro specifically for ladies. Available in a range of colour combinations, the Arena Retro with the bubble motif is a departure from the staid, diamond set ladies watches that are the norm.

The Arena Retro for ladies

Following that, we now have the Arena Biretro is now offered in more colours, including the hot colour of the moment, white.

Arena Biretro

Arena Biretro in white

Finally there is an addition to the ever popular Fantasy range, which features Disney characters on the dials. 2007 sees Mickey take to the seas, depicted as a sailor on the newest Fantasy Retrograde.

Fantasy Mickey Mouse Sailor