A Watch Enthusiast’s Guide to the C by Romain Gauthier Collection
In December 2023, I visited the Vallée de Joux, traveling along winding roads and admiring the breathtaking snow-covered landscape. Passing through Le Sentier en route to Le Brassus, we paused to explore Espace Horloger, a watch museum nestled in the heart of this region, often called the cradle of Swiss watchmaking.
The museum showcases both historical timepieces, with clocks and wristwatches spanning centuries, and modern horological marvels crafted right here in the Valley. In the contemporary section, a few legendary figures of the watch world are highlighted. Among them is Philippe Dufour, with a Simplicity model numbered 00 on display, along with his signature smoking pipe. Nearby is a unique piece by Gérald Genta, featuring a distinctive wristwatch with a wooden case and dial.
Also featured is Romain Gauthier, another native of the Vallée de Joux like Philippe Dufour. On display is the first timepiece from his eponymous brand, a piece from the Prestige HM collection, with serial number 001. This piece, owned by the museum, features an off-center sub-dial for the hour and minute hands—a design that would become a signature of the brand.
The exhibit also includes the beautifully decorated main plate of the Prestige HM, along with the wooden tools used for beveling. Exceptional hand-finishing is a hallmark of Romain Gauthier’s timepieces, so it’s fitting that the museum showcases both the tools and a finished component.
To be honest, I didn’t know much about Gauthier’s work at the time, other than his watches were super complicated and beyond my budget. But seeing his standing among industry greats in this renowned museum inspired me to learn more after my trip.
Fortunately, Gauthier’s offerings aren’t limited to the high-end Logical and Insight Collections; he also has a more accessible line. This collection, known as “C by Romain Gauthier,” is a modern sports watch crafted with the same traditional hand-finishing and meticulous detail. Originally called Continuum, symbolizing the blend of classic craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, it offers a refined, sporty elegance and several style options.
This collection presents an excellent entry into the world of this prestigious independent brand. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned so far, along with feedback from owners, and hope one day to own one myself.
The Lineup of C by Romain Gauthier
The “C by Romain Gauthier” debuted in 2021, featuring models available with either a titanium or platinum case, each paired with a matching bracelet or a rubber strap. Each case has a 41mm diameter, creating a balanced and versatile profile. While some models are limited editions, others are part of the standard collection.
Following are the C models ordered by the release date:
Titanium Edition One (rubber strap)
Released in 10/2021, 28 LE, CHF 37,000
Titanium Edition Two (rubber strap)
Released in 6/2022, 38 LE, CHF 38,000
Titanium Edition Three (rubber strap)
Released in ?/2022, 38 LE, CHF 38,000
Platinum Edition (rubber strap)
Released in 10/2022, CHF 78,000
Two dial options: light gray and blue
Titanium Edition Bracelet
Released in 12/2022, CHF 42,000
Two dial options: gray and salmon
Titanium Edition Four (rubber strap)
Released in 6/2023, 38 LE, CHF 38,000
Titanium Edition Five (rubber strap)
Released in 11/2023, 38 LE, CHF 39,000
Titanium Edition Six (rubber strap)
Released in 7/2024, 88 LE, CHF 48,000
Openwork dial
Platinum Edition Bracelet
Release in 11/2024, CHF 118,000
Note that the six models of the 41mm titanium case with a rubber strap are all limited editions and will conclude with the Edition Six. After this, no further models with these exact specifications will be produced. However, Romain Gauthier may introduce future models with different specifications, such as a smaller case or adding a new function.
An Eye Catching and Evolving Dial
Designing a distinctive sports watch in today’s market is no easy feat, especially given the numerous iconic models since the 1970s and the wide variety of existing styles. Yet, the fresh, unique dial of the C stands out, leaving no doubt that it is unlike any other model.
The C features a round dial set within a six-faceted round case. A key design element is its two off-center circles, easily visible in the image below, following the brand’s design codes. The first circle, slightly smaller than the dial itself, displays the hour and minute hands and is centered just above the geometric center of the dial.
The second circle, a smaller sub-dial for seconds, is positioned at 7 o’clock. Six lines of varying lengths radiate across the center of this sub-dial, dividing the space into twelve sections. These radiating lines, along with the circle, resemble a compass, providing visual balance against the crown at 2 o’clock.
The hour markers include Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12, with Roman numerals on the platinum models, complemented by hour markers of differing lengths. For the wearer, these perspective lines and applied markers create a fascinating, three-dimensional effect.
Romain Gauthier and his team further explore diverse aesthetics through different dial colors, textures, and fonts within the C series. One particularly captivating variation is the Titanium Edition Six, which features an openworked dial that reveals the second wheel and part of the escapement mechanism, echoing the Prestige HMS’s partially openworked design.
C by Romain Gauthier Caliber
Since its founding in 2005, Montre Romain Gauthier has produced a series of award-winning in-house movements, including the Prestige HM and HMS calibers, the Insight Micro-Rotor caliber, and the Logical One caliber, later followed by the C by Romain Gauthier caliber.
While the C caliber is relatively more accessible, it incorporates some of the same advanced mechanisms and components as its more complex counterparts, the Logical One and Insight Micro-Rotor. First, the regulator features the Romain Gauthier balance wheel, designed with curved arms and calibrated eccentric weights, along with a hand-assembled pallet lever shaped triangularly for maximum rigidity.
Additionally, the gears and ratchet wheels are crafted with circular, beveled spokes that enhance both elegance and structural integrity. The signature screw heads bear an S-slot design, not only adding visual appeal but also enabling greater torque during assembly.
The C caliber also boasts several unique features. Its distinct finger bridges reinterpret a traditional Vallée de Joux watchmaking style with a modern twist, adding robust structure suited to a sporty, active lifestyle. Furthermore, a specially designed snail cam allows for hacking, pausing the balance wheel when needed.
True to Romain Gauthier's hallmark, no detail is spared in the hand-finishing of the C caliber, as evidenced by exquisite examples shared on the Romain Gauthier Instagram account.
The C caliber is a manually wound movement with a 60-hour power reserve and a 4Hz beat rate. It comprises 154 components, including 24 jewels. The movement's dimensions are 32.10mm by 5.50mm.
Summary
The “C by Romain Gauthier” is a remarkable creation from an exclusive Swiss independent watch brand. Romain Gauthier himself is celebrated in the Espace Horloger museum as one of the top watch builders of our time. Additionally, the brand has received investment from Chanel, alongside F.P. Journe and MB&F, firmly establishing it in the upper echelon of Swiss independent watchmakers. Owning a “C by Romain Gauthier” is a gateway into the world of truly exclusive, high-end independent watch brands.
According to feedback from a few owners of the C Titanium Editions, the watch is exceptionally comfortable, thanks to its ergonomic design and lightweight materials. I had the opportunity to try on a few models and completely agree with this assessment. The platinum models have a more substantial feel, especially the one with a platinum bracelet.
The wide range of models and options for straps and bracelets make it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a finely crafted sports watch with an in-house movement. The titanium models lean more towards a sporty style, while the platinum editions have a slightly dressier appeal.
The titanium editions, numbered one to six and priced from CHF 37,000 to 48,000, are limited to a total production of 268 pieces, set between 2021 and 2025. This rarity contributes to their desirability; whenever a pre-owned piece surfaces on sites like European Watch Company, it tends to sell quickly. New limited-edition models will continue to be released, so it’s worth keeping an eye out if you're interested.
When it comes to competitors in the realm of highly exclusive, sporty timepieces from top independent brands, three options stand out. First is the Laurent Ferrier Sport Auto Blue, listed at CHF 48,000. Next is the H. Moser & Cie Streamliner Small Seconds with blue enamel, priced at CHF 29,900. The third alternative is the Grönefeld 1969 DeltaWorks, which lists at €49,800. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, as all these options are outstanding.
So, is the “C by Romain Gauthier" the right sports watch for you? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. And if I do end up adding one to my collection, I’ll be sure to share the news here!
Thanks for putting this together, useful resource! Did you know this model C used to be called Continuum, and they were forced to change it due to some copyright claim?
Anyway, I think its a cool watch; I just wish they had not made it impossible to use the bracelet with the strap editions, and vice-versa. I appreciate the design implications of this interchange, but Romain is an engineer - he could easily have created an 'adapter' or something to fill the gap in the strap edition to fit the bracelet (or, again, vice versa). Is it a deal breaker, of course not... but anyway, thanks again!
Having worn the platinum version with the rubber strap( it feels heavy) the new version with the platinum bracelet must be a beast and weigh a tonne.