Schaefer & Companions has introduced the Solune Grand Art Enamel, a limited edition of 8 watches from the their Antarctica Serie. Schaefer & Companions is a new watch brand, founded in 2024 in Le Locle, Switzerland. The brand is based on the “simple philosophy” of “artistic freedom.”
Key Features
Image: “The Solune case is inspired by celestial shapes and cosmic light.” The hour and minute hands feature a mix of brushed and polished finishes. Notice the circular seconds hand shaped like a seven-pointed star. It almost gives time a philosophical element here. Incredible details on the case and crown.
Functions
Hours, minutes, and seconds.
Dial
Image: “Fabienne Remmonay transforms Antarctica’s frozen landscapes into a breathtaking enamel dial, where crumpled silver foil beneath vibrant enamel evokes timeless emotions. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece, encased in Solune’s bold, angular design that celebrates limitless creativity and the fusion of art and watchmaking.” Each dial is unique.
Enamel dial by one of the brand’s Companion’s – Fabienne Remonnay.
Image: Fabienne Remonnay.
She is one of Switzerland’s leading experts in the “art of enamel.” She honed the craft of enamel at the renowned Donzé Cadrans SA, an enamelling atelier owned by Ulysse Nardin since 2011. Donzé Cadrans is renowned for traditional techniques such as grand feu, cloisonné, champlevé, and guilloché-flinqué.
Image: Stages of creating the enamel dial.
“Enamel has a character of its own, it guides me more than I guide it.” – Fabienne Remonnay.
Astral hour and minute hands. Inspired by the universe, they “embody the celestial theme of the Solume model.” Circular seconds hand is shaped like a seven-pointed star.
Movement
Left: Star-shaped rotor option. Right: Hand painted rotor option. Hand-painted by André Martinez – one of the brand’s Companions – it depicts Antarctica. I would choose this option, as the watch would possess the artistic craft of two renowned artists.
Powered by ETA 2892-A2, a mechanical automatic movement that drives the hours, minutes and seconds with stop seconds functions. Jewels: 21. Frequency: 28,800 vph of 4 Hz. Power reserve: 42 hours. Movement finishing includes perlage and blue screws.
This version of the ETA 2892-A2 is a TOP grade movement, which according to online sources means it is adjusted in 5 positions. According to Schaefer & Companions, it has an average accuracy of +/- 7 seconds per day.
Case
Image: “Its sharp, angular lines make a bold statement, embracing a design that isn’t afraid to take risks. This striking geometry goes beyond aesthetics, inviting the wearer to explore the interplay of shadow and light, with polished edges that capture and reflect every ray.”
Case is made from 904L stainless steel, and features a “combination of diamond-polished, matte, and sand-blasted surfaces with anti-fingerprint coating.” Case is available in 2 options: Natural (steel) or Dark Grey (IP6 coating).
Diameter: 43 mm. Thickness: 11.40 mm. Lug-to-lug distance: 49.30 mm.
Dial side features a double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides (7 layers on the top and 4 layers below). Caseback features a flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides (7 layers on the top and 4 layers below). Water resistance up to 5 bar or approximately 50 metres.
Strap options include apple leather (black or dark blue), nubuck leather (black or jeans), and Alcantara (anthracite).
Our Thoughts
The Solune Grand Art Enamel offers a beautifully crafted enamel dial and rarity (only 8 pieces) at an accessible price. Schaefer & Companions concept borrows from MB&F’s playbook. “Companions” is their equivalent of MB&F’s “Friends.” Including Fabienne Remonnay, there are presently 5 Companions. A link on their website allows you to apply to “Become a Companion.” In an industry obsessed with in-house, this is refreshing.
Image: Artisanal craft. A conversation starter at watch GTGs for sure.
While the overall design of the Solune Grand Art Enamel is an acquired taste, I applaud the entire concept of the brand. Let’s keep an eye out for them – I believe they have a bright and interesting future ahead.
Additional Details
Name: Solune Grand Art Enamel – Antarctica Interpretation
Limited edition of 8 pieces
Price: Swiss Franc (CHF) 5,800 (includes taxes)
Please visit the brand’s website and Instagram page for more information. Their website enables you to configure your watch with case options, movement rotor options, and strap options.
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