Mastering Sound and Sophistication: The Christophe Claret Soprano Revealed

The Christophe Claret Soprano is a masterpiece known only to collectors familiar with minute repeaters. As a super flagship model by Master Christophe Claret, the Soprano was one of the six watches nominated for the Best Striking Watch Award at the GPHG (Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève).

Master Claret is regarded as a magician of complex movements in Switzerland. Over 30 years, he has developed 120 complex watches for 65 brands. Many legendary complicated watches are the works of Master Claret. The Soprano, however, is his magnum opus, created with his genius for his own brand.

The core philosophy behind Master Claret’s creation is all about sound quality:

To achieve a tone closest to real musical notes, Master Christophe Claret specifically used a Neuchâtel piano. Through the piano and specialized software, each gong spring was tuned to a frequency of 5 Hz. After grinding or adjusting the length, the final product was completed.

The gong spring, akin to the strings of a violin, is a crucial component determining the sound of the minute repeater. The striking of the gong spring by hammers, similar to playing a triangle or other musical instruments, seems simple in principle but represents the pinnacle of mechanical watch evolution and is among the most complex and top-tier functions.
Even within a gong spring made of the same metal and less than 1mm in diameter, it’s possible to produce two or more different pitches, each with its unique timbre, duration, pitch combination, or resonance.

The number of hammers dictates the richness of sound: two hammers resemble a string orchestra, while four hammers striking four gong springs echo a symphony orchestra, bringing a richer melody through four scales.

The 45mm diameter and skeletonized dial allow sound ample space to resonate, minimizing sound obstruction and maximizing both visual and auditory experience. Wearers can clearly observe the intricate movement operation and the effect of the gong springs being struck.

The watch uses a mix of precious metals. The bezel and case are made of gold, but crucial internal components are crafted from titanium, known for its superior sound transmission properties. Gold dampens sound, whereas titanium effectively carries sound from inside to the exterior. Titanium also has excellent sound quality, commonly used in high-end guitar bridges.

Master Claret’s patented design of four treble gongs reduces noise during high-frequency transmission, providing crystal-clear highs. The name “Soprano” suggests a powerful sound, yet it doesn’t win awards merely for being loud.
In fact, Master Claret refers to the lyric soprano, known for its soft, emotional tone, commonly associated with many opera roles. When the Soprano chimes, it uses four different high tones to compose four distinct melodies, reminiscent of the broad and gentle peals of Westminster chimes.