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Gerald Charles unveils the striking new Masterlink Boutique Edition

Its black dial is complemented with a case and integrated bracelet featuring the brand’s Darkblast® finish. It will be available exclusively at the brand’s boutiques.

What is the Gerald Charles Masterlink Boutique Edition?

It is a “refined interpretation” of the Masterlink Collection, the brand’s first two-hand asymmetrical integrated bracelet watch. The Masterlink Boutique Edition features “deeper tones and exclusive finishing” and will be available exclusively at the Gerald Charles Atelier in Geneva and JR Nagoya Takashimaya boutique in Nagoya City, Aichi Perfecture, Japan.

What are its dial features?

Gerald Charles Masterlink Boutique Edition.
Image: Notice the white railway-track minute scale on the outer dial. The Darkblast® finish of the case and bracelet is “a proprietary technique based on a specific powder-application process, giving the watch a deep, matte, and contemporary character while preserving the harmonious continuity of its surfaces.” The screw-down crown features both a Clous de Paris finish and a pyramid shape. The bracelet is available in three sizes: small: 157 mm, medium: 205 mm, and large: 222 mm. It features a micro-link system for adjustments and a folding clasp.

It features a double-layer black dial with a vertical sunray finish. The dial comprises “of two separate levels layered together” that are constructed “to create authentic depth” and not stamped. The rhodium finished baton-shaped hands and hour-markers feature Super-LumiNova inserts. 

What are its case and integrated bracelet features?

The case and bracelet are crafted from medical-grade 316L stainless steel and feature the brand’s Darkblast finish. The case measures 38 mm (width) * 38 mm (length) * 7.99 mm (thickness) and comprises of 31 pieces. Dial side and caseback feature sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coating on both sides. The caseback features a circular brushed finish. Water resistant up to 10 ATM or approximately 100 metres.

Is it powered by an automatic movement?

Gerald Charles Masterlink Boutique Edition and Calibre GCA1000.
Left: The Masterlink’s case shape is best described as an “asymmetric polygon with smooth edges.” Right: The Calibre GCA1000. Notice the Côtes de Genève, perlage, and circular graining on the bridges and the honeycomb pattern of the unidirectional micro-rotor. Furthermore, the micro-rotor features a sandblasted base and a sunburst brushing on the top.

Yes. It is powered by Calibre GCA1000 an automatic movement “developed between Geneva and Fleurier, Switzerland” that drives the hours and minutes. It measures 30.59 mm (diameter) * 2.67 mm (total thickness), comprises of 176 parts and 29 jewels, beats at a luxurious rate of 3 Hz or 21,600 vph and has a power reserve of 50 hours. It features a stop-second mechanism (though no seconds hand) and an Incabloc® anti-shock device.

Its architecture is similar to that of Parmigiani Fleurier’s PF703 and Vyntage Horology’s VHM-3.01, implying that it is a derivate of the same movement, all three creations of Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier. Notice the variable-inertia or free-sprung balance wheel on the lower right.

What do we think?

I have been fortunate to handle Gerald Charles’ watches, both at Watches and Wonders Geneve and Dubai Watch Week last year and admit that I prefer the Masterlink over the Maestro Collection. The Gerald Genta designed Maestro “inspired by Baroque architecture” is an acquired taste, you either love it or you do not. The Masterlink – with its unique case design, integrated bracelet, and reliable automatic movement – is a more contemporary design and likely to appeal to a broader audience. The Boutique Edition with its black dial and Darkblast finished case and bracelet might prove to be a hit with collectors of the brand’s watches and those seeking a versatile integrated bracelet watch.

Additional Details

Name: Masterlink Boutique Edition

Reference: ML1.0-SSDB-00SR-SBDP-BTQ

Price: On Request

Warranty: 5 years (Smart Warranty registration applicable)

Please visit the brand’s website and Instagram page for more information.