Moritz Grossmann proudly unveils a distinctive new iteration of its Hamatic timepiece, the Hamatic Silver-Plated by Friction, launched to honor the 200th birth anniversary of its esteemed founder. This latest model builds upon the innovative Hamatic concept, first introduced in 2018, which is renowned for its unconventional hammer-style automatic winding mechanism. Unlike traditional central rotors, this system utilizes a pendulum-like weight that swings freely to energize the movement, offering a captivating visual display of its internal workings. This commemorative edition not only highlights the brand's commitment to ingenious mechanics but also introduces a fresh aesthetic with its meticulously crafted dial.
The watch maintains the elegant design principles of its Hamatic predecessors, presented in a refined 41mm three-part white gold casing, boasting a slender profile of 11.35mm. Its classic proportions ensure a sophisticated presence on the wrist. Complementing the white gold case is a luxurious blue kudu leather strap, adding a touch of distinctiveness. This exclusive anniversary piece is strictly limited to just 18 examples, underscoring its rarity and desirability among collectors. Consistent with Moritz Grossmann's esteemed reputation, the dial exudes clarity and precision, reflecting the same meticulous attention to detail found within its intricate movement.
A standout feature of this timepiece is its unique dial finish, described by Moritz Grossmann as 'silver-plated by friction'. This artisan technique involves the manual application of pastes and powders to the surface, resulting in a subtly grainy texture that diffuses light softly, preventing harsh reflections. The harmonious contrast between the blue numerals and scales against this delicate background is further enhanced by a vintage-inspired 'M. Grossmann' logo. Notably, this version transitions from the Roman numerals of earlier Hamatic models to a contemporary Arabic numeral display. Time is indicated by central hour and minute hands, with a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock, all accentuated by slender, hand-finished steel hands that are heat-blued to perfectly match the dial's markers.
At the heart of this exquisite watch lies the calibre 106.0, an in-house automatic movement celebrated for its hammer-style winding system. Operating at a frequency of 3Hz, this movement delivers an impressive power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Precision is paramount, with the movement regulated across five positions and equipped with a stop-seconds function for accurate time setting. As anticipated from Moritz Grossmann, the movement's finishing is executed to the highest standards, featuring untreated German silver components, intricate Glashütte ribbing, and exquisite hand-engraved details, all visible through the sapphire caseback. The Moritz Grossmann Hamatic Silver-Plated by Friction is scheduled for release in March 2026, with a retail price of EUR 73,500.
This special edition watch serves as a remarkable tribute to Moritz Grossmann's enduring legacy, blending traditional artisanal techniques with innovative watchmaking. Its limited availability and exceptional craftsmanship position it as a significant acquisition for connoisseurs and collectors alike, representing a harmonious fusion of historical homage and modern horological excellence.