“The story of two watchmakers who established a luxury watch brand and in only a few years created some of the most innovative, refined, and sought-after timepieces in the world.”
Greubel Forsey has released The Art of Invention, a new special-edition book written by “renowned author and expert” Michael Clerizo. Greubel Forsey was founded in 2004, and The Art of Invention celebrates “20 years of pioneering excellence” of the brand.
The Art of Invention provides “an in-depth exploration of Greubel Forsey’s journey, revealing the philosophy and artistry behind each groundbreaking timepiece.”
Left: Rober Greubel. Right: Stephen Forsey. Circa early 2000’s.
It “provides a rare entry into the heart of Greubel Forsey’s Atelier. Through exclusive conversations and experiences with Co-founders Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey.”
It is “set against the backdrop of Robert Greubel’s farmhouse in the Jura Mountains, the book delves into Greubel Forsey’s insatiable curiosity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Michael Clerizo illustrates how Greubel Forsey is “not a company or a brand: it’s an adventure, one that they have lived for over twenty years.”
Image: This 17th century farmhouse at La Chaux-de-Fonds was transformed into the brand’s atelier.
Image: The modern extension to the 17th century farmhouse atelier. (Image credit: Greubel Forsey website.)
“The narrative explores the creation of complex timepieces, such as the Grande Sonnerie and the Hand Made 1, which come to life through countless hours of meticulous craftsmanship, blending modern innovations with time-honoured skills. In each creation, the atelier’s artisans strive to reach new heights, driven by the conviction that “each summit reached has revealed another to be conquered.”
Image: Greubel Forsey Double Tourbillon 30° of 2004. It was the brand’s original invention and laid the groundwork for their aesthetic. (Image credit: Greubel Forsey website.)
Image: Greubel Forsey First Invention Piece of 2008. (Image credit: Greubel Forsey website.)
“Clerizo captures the dedication of the Atelier’s artisans and engineers, highlighting their unparalleled commitment to hand-finishing and the daring concepts emerging from the Experimental Watch Technology research platform. The book conveys the passion at the heart of Greubel Forsey’s work: “It’s the passion that you embrace. It’s a kind of virus that takes you over…when you arrive at the crossroads, you need luck to have a good opportunity and a choice of direction.”
Our Thoughts
Greubel Forsey is among the most impressive names in watchmaking to emerge in contemporary times. I vividly remember the moment I first laid my eyes on a Greubel Forsey watch. It was at a watch event in Singapore during 2015. A well known husband wife collector duo were sitting next to me. They had brought with them not one, but four Greubel Forsey watches. I have seen my share of impressive watches, yet nothing prepared me for that moment.
A book on Greubel Forsey is long overdue. I am confident The Art of Invention by Michael Clerizo will find a prominent place in every watch collector’s personal library. I look forward to adding a copy to my own personal horological library.
Additional Details
Name: Greubel Forsey: The Art of Invention
Author: Michael Clerizo
Price: United States Dollar (USD): 150
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Please contact Greubel Forsey for more information. Also visit the Thames & Hudson website for more information and availability and ordering information.
Image: Michael Clerizo.
