Millesime Moonphase Rose Gold Blue Ref. 2945-PC5-50001

Raymond Weil founded his eponymous Swiss watch brand in 1976 during the quartz crisis, aiming to create Swiss wonders that brings a whole new dimension to the industry. His vision quickly gained international acclaim. The brand is renowned for its strong musical inspiration, evident in collections like Amadeus, Fidelio, and Nabucco. The brand has continued to innovate while maintaining its family-owned independence and commitment to Swiss watchmaking excellence. Today, Raymond Weil is famous in the scene of horology being one of the flagships of the Swiss watchmaking industry.

The Raymond Weil Millesime Automatic Small Seconds clinched the prestigious 2023 Challenge Watch Prize at the Grand Prix de l'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), recognized as the "Oscars" of watchmaking. By winning this prize in 2023, Raymond Weil's Millesime Automatic Small Seconds wasn't just acknowledged for its aesthetics; it demonstrated innovative craftsmanship, design integrity, and performance—all at a sub‑CHF 2,000 price point. In essence, the Challenge Award is a high-profile nod that quality watchmaking isn't just for high-budget collectors—it celebrates accessible excellence and encourages the industry to innovate within attainable price brackets.

Raymond Weil Millesime Moonphase Rose Gold Blue Ref. 2945-PC5-50001

The Raymond Weil Millesime collection is a tribute to the elegance of mid-20th-century watchmaking, reimagined through a contemporary lens. Rather than replicating past designs, the brand crafted a fresh interpretation of vintage aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the refined simplicity of sector dials and the understated charm of classical timepieces. This approach, termed "evolved design," blends historical concepts with modern sensibilities, resulting in watches that feel both timeless and current. The Millesime series embodies Raymond Weil's commitment to honoring horological traditions featuring a classic three-part case with an ever-nostalgic design.

As we approach the three-part stainless steel case, the flat bezel, large fluted crown with the RW monogram and combination of finishes becomes apparent. The vertically brushed bezel is contrasted beautifully by the polished bevel and lugs , all elevated by a Rose Gold PVD coating that adds a profound sense of warmth and elegance. Measuring at 39.5mm in diameter, 46mm lug to lug and 10.05mm thick, tho made for the mens collection, the ever-universal 39.5mm sizing will surprise many with it's unisex fit. Added with drill lugs for ease of strap switching and curved to hug the wrist, the Millesime series is not lacking in the details category.

Tribute to the elegance of mid-20th-century watchmaking

Housed underneath the glassbox sapphire crystal with dual-sided antireflective coating is the elegant midnight blue sector dial. A crosshair at the centre which divides the watch into 4 sectors, popularised in the 1920s art deco period, the vintage inspired sector dial serves as an added geometry guide for simpler time reading experience. Complimenting the sector design beautifully is the discreetly vertically brushed centre section. Held together by a white minute track and Super-Luminova indexes and hands for legibility in the dark. Quietly sitting at the 6'oclock position is the moon phase complication striking sharply with the unique moon face for an otherwise quiet watch.

Powered by the automatic RW4280 (Based on the SW280), the watch features 26 jewels beating at 28,800bph with 41 hours of power reserve. With a sapphire crystal snapped back, it allows for 50m of water resistance. Great for everyday use.

Super-Luminova indexes and hands for legibility in the dark

Matching the watch beautifully is the blue leather strap, which leans into a vintage aesthetic while embracing modern craftsmanship. This classic look is elevated by a contemporary W-stitched detail near the lugs, a subtle nod to the brand's identity. Secured with a Gold PVD-coated buckle to match the case, the strap is an excellent choice that rounds out the watch's sophisticated and cohesive character.

Overall, the Raymond Weil Millesime Automatic has great execution from concept to timepiece. Their successful capture and integrate vintage watchmaking while delivering reliability and refinement from today's modern craftsmanship. With its timeless design, thoughtfully executed details, and robust movement, it stands as a testament to Raymond Weil's dedication to honoring the past while embracing the present—a true modern classic for discerning collectors and everyday wearers alike.