The Concorde, a supersonic jet that stopped flying in 2003, continues to inspire creators. Recently, Andersen Genève partnered with journalist and collector Justin Hast to create a unique watch that honors the aircraft. The Supersonic London Edition, a variation of Andersen Genève's Communication 45, celebrates the historical connection between London and New York, two cities closely tied to the Concorde's legacy. This watch is a blend of Swiss horology and aviation history.
The Supersonic London Edition features a platinum case crafted by master watchmaker Marco Poluzzi. The 38mm diameter case has a thickness of 8.95mm and is made using traditional techniques, without computer numerical control machining. The watch's design combines two horological inspirations: the teardrop shape and the cow horn style. Its case also features two recessed crowns, allowing for discreet time adjustments while maintaining the case's visual continuity.
The watch's dial is a work of art, created using the cloisonné enamel technique. At its center, the Concorde is depicted taking off above London, with Tower Bridge below its trajectory. The scene represents the transatlantic connections that marked the history of civil aviation. The dial also features a 24-hour ring in aventurine and a section in white mother-of-pearl indicating daytime hours. A brown mother-of-pearl disk at the periphery lists various destinations in rose gold, with London highlighted in blue.
The watch's movement is based on a vintage A. Schild SA automatic caliber, paired with a universal time module developed by Andersen Genève. This construction reflects the brand's historical approach to watchmaking: using a proven base movement and adding a complication designed in-house. The universal time module, introduced by Andersen Genève in 1980, allows users to consult the time in multiple cities using the destination disk and 24-hour ring.
The Supersonic London Edition is powered by a movement that operates at a frequency of 21,600 alternations per hour and has a 40-hour power reserve. The watch's oscillating weight, made of 21-carat blue gold, features a "tapestry" guilloché pattern and a three-dimensional Concorde silhouette, further emphasizing the aviation theme. This decorative element turns the watch's back into a second composition dedicated to the famous aircraft.
Only 20 pieces of the Supersonic London Edition will be produced, making it a highly exclusive timepiece. The price of the watch is not publicly disclosed and can only be obtained by contacting Andersen Genève directly. This limited edition represents a collaboration between Andersen Genève, Justin Hast, and 15 collectors and enthusiasts, bringing together high-end watchmaking, artisanal skills, and aviation heritage.
The Supersonic London Edition serves as a tribute to the Concorde, an iconic symbol of supersonic aviation. By combining high-end watchmaking with a piece of aviation history, Andersen Genève and Justin Hast have created a unique timepiece that will appeal to collectors and enthusiasts. The watch's blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design makes it a standout in the world of haute horlogerie.
Key points
- The Supersonic London Edition is a limited-edition watch that combines Swiss horology with aviation history, featuring a unique cloisonné enamel dial and a platinum case crafted by master watchmaker Marco Poluzzi.
