When Gerald Genta created the Royal Oak in 1972 and the Nautilus in 1976, these designs broke all the traditional codes of the horological lexicon of the time. Their innovative and cutting-edge designs were a risky bet for the brands to revamp their image and were not readily accepted when these watches were launched and since then, they have become timeless icons of horological designs.
In parallel with his activities for large watch manufactures, Gerald Genta created his eponymous brand in 1969. It was under this name that Genta presented in the late 1990s the first retrograde watch combining jumping hours and retrograde minutes. This complex and demanding mechanism reflects the particular DNA of Gerald Genta, which perfectly marries innovative designs and complications requiring exceptional craftsmanship.
The present Retro dates from the late 90s. In perfect condition, it personifies the elegance and complexity that have become the pride of the brand. In fact, its enduring design inspired Bulgari, owner of the brand since 2000, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the brand with the Arena Bi-Retro, a reissue reinventing the distinctive design codes and innovative mechanical movements.