MORITZ GROSSMANN ATUM SKELETT

The origins of Moritz Grossmann date back to the 19th century, when the brand’s namesake, Karl Moritz Grossmann, set up an atelier in a small town nestled within the Ore Mountains of Glashutte. Fast forward to 2008, and watchmaker Christine Hutter revived the brand for the 21st century, drawing on the traditional craftsmanship of the brand’s originator and adding some modern innovation into the mix.

The brand has put an emphasis on contemporary design since its rebirth, superbly demonstrated in its latest watch, the Atum Skelett. Bearing the name of an Egyptian deity (in line with the rest of the brand’s models), the watch is a beautiful example of skeletonisation—and it’s no wonder why, as the company sought out master engraver Christophe Schaffo in the development of the watch. Schaffo has run his own workshop in La Brévine, Switzerland, since 1985, and specialises in creating one-of-a-kind pieces from existing watches.

The watch’s calibre 100.5 has been skeletonised and stripped back as much as possible to allow for Schaffo’s customisation of the component parts. The bridges have been painstakingly chamfered, chased, and engraved entirely by hand, all of which is visible on both the dial side and through the exhibition caseback.

The dial also features a sophisticated chapter ring of Roman numerals around its perimeter, and long, elegantly tapered hands are made distinct from the skeletonisation thanks to their deep purple coloration. Moritz Grossmann Atum Skelett’s case measures 41mm in diameter, and for that extra level of customisation, can be ordered in either a rose or white gold case.