TorQ Mechanical Tantalum
- Category
- Challenge
- Case
- Tantalum
- Movement
- Manual-winding mechanical Power reserve: 40 h, 28800 vph Skeleton movement
- Functions
- Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Size
- 35 x 43 mm
- Thickness
- 7.4 mm
- Water resistance
- 30 m
- Reference
- TANTALUM
- Price
- 4,425 CHF
Description
The Grandeur torQ Tantalum achieves a manufacturing milestone by delivering a solid tantalum tonneau case and fully articulated integrated tantalum bracelet at a price point under 4,500 CHF. Tantalum remains one of the most challenging metals to manipulate in watchmaking; its extreme hardness, high density, and ductility cause rapid tool wear, typically restricting full tantalum construction to ultra-expensive timepieces. Overcoming these fabrication barriers at this price point represents a significant industrial and horological achievement.
The tonneau-shaped case features balanced dimensions of 35mm in width by 42mm in height, maintaining an ultra-thin profile of just 7.4mm. This geometry is defined by an immersive sapphire crystal architecture that comprises the front crystal, an exhibition case back, and unique lateral sapphire side windows. These side apertures allow multidirectional light to flood the dial from all angles, exposing the internal mechanics without compromising structural rigidity, while housing a highly open-worked skeleton movement featuring a small sub-seconds indicator.
To contrast the naturally dark, blue-gray hue of the raw metal, the sharp, angular facets of the tonneau case and the bold, tire-tread-inspired links of the integrated bracelet feature mirror-polished edge bevels. Executing these mirror-polished chamfers on tantalum is exceptionally difficult, as the metal’s unique material properties resist standard abrasive polishing techniques and tend to smear rather than shear. Overcoming this to create a continuous, flawless chamfered line across the entire profile creates a sophisticated architectural contrast that beautifully accentuates the case silhouette.
Finally, the watch utilizes an entirely new, proprietary hidden buckle design that is patent-pending. By eliminating the structural overlap and bulk inherent to standard deployant or butterfly clasps, the mechanism fastens completely flush against the underside of the wrist, delivering maximum daily comfort and a streamlined silhouette.
Supplied by the brand to the GPHG for its entry.