The DANIEL ROTH Extra Plat Platinum, the Essence of Traditional Watchmaking, Elevated in Platinum.
In the spirit of independent watchmaking, DANIEL ROTH introduces a new expression of its Extra Plat collection that further elevates the exclusivity of the piece, while remaining understated in appearance. Crafted in platinum, a metal long associated with rarity and traditional savoir-faire, this latest addition brings a quiet yet unmistakable presence to the wrist that can be appreciated by connoisseurs. Beyond its brilliant surface, the watch is defined by the architecture and finishing of its Calibre DR002, where technical discipline and aesthetic restraint converge in perfect balance.
ARCHITECTURE IN MOTION
Maintaining Mr. Roth’s watchmaking philosophy, the Calibre DR002 is designed with an emphasis on proportional clarity
and equilibrium, where each component is meticulously positioned with intent. Extra Plat watches embody a unique philosophy in their own right, given the constraints of their thinness. Master Watchmakers Enrico Barbasini and Michel Navas asked themselves, “How far and no further” when designing the DR002. The finishes, requiring more than 70 individual operations, are executed by hand and are refined to a point of excellence.
In developing the movement, Barbasini and Navas aimed to strike a balance between chronometric precision and power reserve. To do so, the
frequency was increased by adopting a 4 Hz balance wheel. This required a different approach to ensure the higher frequency could be sustained without compromising energy efficiency or the calibre’s overall stability. The balance wheel itself was refined with a variable-inertia geometry with counterweights, all while preserving the movement’s slim structure.
ELEGANCE IN THE DETAILS
Meticulous bevelling is visible through the open caseback. Among the most demanding details are the internal angles, rendered in a rounded bercé form, an intricate execution that requires at least twice the time of a conventional bevel, underscoring the depth of hand-finishing involved.
This traditional watchmaking decoration is used to polish a radius or edge, rather than a flat, angled bevel, and is found throughout the edges of bridges to create a rounded, brilliant profile. The angled surfaces are meticulously shaped and refined by hand in-house using a cabron tool, a technique that delivers a level of precision and uniformity unachievable through automated processes.
TIME FORMED IN PLATINUM
The double-ellipse-shaped platinum case gives a sense of subtlety and exclusivity.
Platinum is significantly denser than gold, making it more difficult to work with, placing increased strain on tools and requiring precise, low-speed artistry, often taking up to three times as long to craft.
The base of the dial is in solid gold, accompanied by a gold minute disc finished with a filet sauté border and black typography indicating the time and the DANIEL ROTH name. Pinstripe guilloché adorns the dial and is executed entirely by hand using a rose engine, with each line individually carved. This process requires precise control over both depth and spacing to ensure uniformity across the surface.
Downward-shaped lugs enhance wrist comfort, complement the case shape, and serve as a base for the light-tan leather strap, creating a refined contrast.
The Extra Plat Platinum stands as a disciplined expression of DANIEL ROTH watchmaking codes, where refinement is achieved in accordance with the Brand’s guiding principle: “La Montre Objet d’Art.”
By uniting traditional hand-finishing with a rigorously engineered calibre, this watch reinforces a steadfast commitment to enduring savoir-faire and technical integrity, defined by exacting detail and quiet distinction.
