The young, independent brand, Grönefeld The Horological Brothers, may be an unfamiliar name to many enthusiasts, however over the last decade they have established a strong reputation for innovative watches manufactured with a mission to “build elegant timepieces with surprising mechanisms”. The Dutch brothers, Bart and Tim, come from a watchmaking family first established in 1912 by Johan Grönefeld, and are passionate for exceptional watchmaking, creating complications that will be cherished for years to come.

While known for complications like tourbillons, dead-beat and remontoire movements, Grönefeld’s 1941 Principia was released in 2018 as their first time-only wristwatch. Extremely well-made like their more complicated timepieces, the brand gave buyers the opportunity to choose the colour of the solid sterling silver dial with options in light blue, turquoise, salmon like the present watch, and cream lacquer. The automatic caliber with the same name as the model features exceptional hand finishing, with an extensively hand-decorated 22 karat sold gold full-sized winding rotor. Rotating on ceramic ball bearings, the rotor’s design prevents wear and eliminates the need for lubrication. The 1941 Principia was offered in pink and white gold, as well as stainless steel, and offered with a variety of strap options for the buyer.

With an intriguing name, the 1941 Principia was named for the birth year of the founders’ father, and Sir Isaac Newton’s “Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica”, which is appropriate given their desire for excellence in precision timing. The present example with movement number 83, is in near new, hardly ever worn condition. The watch is complete with all of its accessories and is an excellent opportunity for fans of Independent watchmaking.