Description

The present reference is the Sylvain Pinaud Origine in White Gold, an exceptional expression of independent artisanal haute horlogerie and the recipient of the Men’s Complication Prize at the GPHG. Conceived as an homage to the finest traditions of chronometry, the Origine unites classical watchmaking heritage with a striking, contemporary architectural layout.

The timepiece is presented in a 40 mm case measuring 11 mm in total thickness (including the crystal) with a water resistance of 3 ATM. Crafted in lustrous white gold, its ergonomic geometry and refined proportions ensure superb comfort and presence on the wrist.

The face of the watch is defined by its distinctive asymmetrical dial configuration. An off-centred silvered sub-dial indicates the hours and minutes alongside an adjacent small seconds display, offering superlative legibility and depth through contrasting textures and finishes. A mirror-polished steel cartouche anchors the dial design, while the lower portion of the dial is open to showcase the beating heart of the movement.

Dominating this open dial architecture is an oversized, 13.2 mm in-house free-sprung balance wheel with variable inertia, paired with a traditional Phillips terminal curve balance spring for optimal isochronism and precision adjustment.

Powering the watch is a proprietary manually wound mechanical calibre (measuring 33.8 mm by 6.9 mm with 22 jewels), operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and providing a 55-hour power reserve. Every component is crafted from traditional noble materials and decorated entirely by hand to the highest standards of fine watchmaking, featuring straight-grained surfaces, mirror-polished bevels, and meticulous anglage. The Sylvain Pinaud Origine stands as a masterclass in modern independent watchmaking, created to deliver chronometric excellence and enduring elegance for generations.

Sylvain Pinaud – Bio

An independent Swiss watchmaker based in Sainte-Croix, Sylvain Pinaud blends art and science in meticulously handcrafted timepieces. The son of a watchmaker, he grew up at the bench before formal training at the Morteau watchmaking school. Years spent in discreet ateliers and major manufactures honed his craft and informed a vision rooted in authenticity, mechanics, and artisanal excellence.

From his fully equipped workshop in the Jura mountains, Pinaud restores historical objects and develops innovative prototypes—believing that history feeds the future. Traditional lathes and milling machines sit alongside precision instruments as components are fabricated and movements are finished in-house. Eschewing assembly-line methods, he pursues qualitative, high-end watchmaking, dedicating the necessary time to each creation.

Pinaud’s work is marked by clean engineering, thoughtful aesthetics, and a sincere, hands-on approach that champions independence, relevance, and integrity in modern horology.