Millesime Small Second Burgundy - Leather Ref. 2930-STC-05450

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 Small Second Burgundy - Leather Ref. 2930-STC-05450

 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. Measuring at 39.5mm in diameter, 46mm lug to lug and 10.25mm thick, the 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 tuxedo burgundy 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. A glossy, silver lacquered index ring highlights the hour track, giving a luminous contrast against adjacent textures. 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 second track which just seems to fit so naturally.

Powered by the automatic RW4251 (Based on the SW260), 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 grey leather strap. Clearly appealing to a more vintage class, it is upgraded with a modern touch of W-stitched detail. Making it an excellent choice to compliment the watch's sophisticated look.
 
Overall, the Millesime Automatic from Raymond Weil demonstrates excellent execution from concept to finished timepiece. It successfully captures the spirit of vintage watchmaking while delivering the reliability and refinement of modern craftsmanship. With its upgraded tuxedo dial, carefully considered details and dependable movement, it stands as a testament to Raymond Weil's commitment to honouring the past while embracing the present, making it a true modern classic for collectors and everyday wearers alike.