Christophe Claret, one of the indispensable names of the Hi-End timepieces, was among the most exotic names of the SIHH 2018 fair with its Maestro Mamba model, inspired by Africa’s jungles.
Hi-End models, which force the limits of traditional watchmaking to the end, had an important place in this year’s SIHH novelties. Christophe Claret Maestro Mamba was one of those incredible models that once again showed us that luxury watches are not defined only by precious metals or gems, or even traditional complications.
The new model comes in a black PVD coated titanium case measuring 42mm in diameter and 16.06mm in height. The wide and domed scratch resistant sapphire crystal used on the front face of the mode allows the wearer to enjoy the multi-dimensional dial to the finest detail. Thanks to the sapphire crystal display caseback of the 30 meters water resistant case, the model’s art piece movement can also be enjoyed. The winding crown is adorned with a cabochon cut Tsavorite.
Actually, I don’t want to start with a sentence like “the most beautiful part of the Christophe Claret Maestro Mamba...” as every single component of this stunning timepiece is beautiful on its own. However, the dial has a special place among them.
The model’s partly skeleton-designed dial draws attention with the 3D Mamba snake figure prepared with excellent craftsmanship. The snake figure, surrounds the visible parts of the movement, is made of 4N gold alloy and colored in green with SpectraCoatTM material for the concept.
The indicators that are placed in the dial also reflect Christophe Claret’s innovative and contrary style in harmony with the overall concept. The dial features pointer style hour and minute markers accompanied with a large pyramid shaped date display with the rotating conic parts. In addition to the brand’s patented MEMO function, the dial also features Tsavorite details in line with the one on the winding crown. The hand set is made of black PVD coated titanium which is also Super-LumiNova® phosphorus material applied in matching green.
The new model is powered with Christophe Claret Caliber DMC16. 33 jewels hand-wound movement beats at 21600vph (3Hz) and offers a power reserve of 7 days when fully wound. The movement, which bears signature Christophe Claret details like its Charles X style bridges and skeletonized barrel, can be enjoyed through the sapphire crystal display caseback.
The model, which offers both exotic and authentic details at the same time, is offered on a green Mamba strap that comes from a snake that was actually caught in Mozambique. Let me add that the snake was caught on the land belonging to the owner of the largest Tsavorite mine. The strap is secured by a Christophe Claret signed black PVD coated titanium folding clasp.
Christophe Claret Maestro Mamba is limited to 28 units only and it is available for CHF 96,000. The model has an orange themed version Maestro Pantherophis which is adorned with sapphires. Maestro Pantherophis is also limited to 28 units and shares the same price tag with Maestro Mamba.
