Magnetic Elegance: Unveiling the Christophe Claret XTREM

The Christophe Claret XTREM is an incredible feat of independent watchmaking, distinct from the bold designs of Greubel Forsey. It features a magnetic levitation system, an inclined tourbillon, and aesthetics and finishing refined down to every detail.

Sapphire hollow glass cylinders are interwoven within rose gold rings, cleverly beveled at both ends, creating an illusion of transparency and fragility.

Without holding it in hand and seeing how the light flows and changes along the streamlined Damascus steel case under different angles, it’s hard to fully appreciate its mysterious, delicate yet powerful beauty.
An incredible magnetic field: Master Christophe Claret collaborated with Professor Besson and his team from HEIG-VD to develop a time display where stainless steel balls float, controlled by magnetic wires. Golden spheres on both sides of the watch float in transparent sapphire tubes, corresponding to the passage of time. The wires, made of Dyneema nanofibers encased in polyethylene gel, can withstand a pull of 1,000 kilograms. This strong and durable material doesn’t take up much space, allowing the watch to maintain a compact size.

The inclined titanium frame places the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, tilted at 30 degrees on an independent curved surface. This design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to sophisticated watchmaking skills. The delicately crafted tourbillon frame, resembling silk threads, is a work of art, combining aesthetics, tradition, and precision.

The watch features white Damascus steel engraved with golden ripple patterns. Depending on the angle and light, the dial reflects golden ripples, creating an indescribable luminous effect. Damascus steel, known for its hardness and sharpness, was first made in the Caucasus region around 2500 BC and introduced to Europe during the Crusades. It was historically used to make scimitars.