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Gérald Genta Debuts The Rather Striking Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal

Gérald Genta Debuts The Rather Striking Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal

Haute Time
By Haute Time January 29, 2025

A brand that we always greatly look forward to sitting down with during LVMH Watch Week, Gérald Genta walks a fine line of pushing modern design boundaries while also adhering to its rich history. This year, the brand debuted the Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal, a striking addition to Gérald Genta’s iconic watchmaking legacy, seamlessly blending timeless design with vibrant creativity. This fourth piece in the Gentissima Oursin collection, crafted in the gérald genta lab, radiates energy and sophistication with its individually screwed fire opal gems encircling the yellow gold case.

Designed as an homage to the legendary Mr. Genta, this masterpiece celebrates the Maison’s philosophy of distinction and elegance, offering endless creative possibilities for collectors who value extraordinary craftsmanship.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Gerald Genta

Inspired by the fire opal, a gem formed in the depths of Mexican volcanoes, this timepiece exudes warmth and creative energy. The fiery orange hue of the fire opal is symbolic of increased creativity and self-confidence, making it a perfect centerpiece for this exquisite watch.

Matthieu Hegi, Artistic Director of Gérald Genta, explains that this design pushes the boundaries of the Gentissima Oursin concept, showcasing Mr. Genta’s passion for organic colors, beautiful stones, and refined aesthetics. The fire opals, known for their unique chemical composition and vibrant tones, add an extraordinary depth and character to this horological masterpiece.

The origins of the Oursin design date back to 1994 when the Genta family vacationed in Corsica. Gérald Genta, captivated by the spiny, globular exterior of a sea urchin, sketched the first design for the Oursin collection.

This instinctive creativity became a hallmark of his work, resulting in a watch design that has transcended decades. The Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal continues this legacy, incorporating Gérald Genta’s love for meaningful materials and powerful stones while opening a new chapter for the Maison.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Gerald Genta

The fire opal, admired for centuries for its symbolism and beauty, plays a central role in this timepiece. From the Aztec civilization to modern times, it has been associated with joy, well-being, and enhanced creativity, reflecting Gérald Genta’s approach to design.

This vibrant gemstone is paired with an orange cornelian dial, creating a cohesive aesthetic that radiates confidence and elegance. Every detail of the watch, from the warm hues of the gemstones to the meticulous craftsmanship, speaks to the Maison’s dedication to creating meaningful and timeless pieces.

The craftsmanship behind the Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal is unparalleled. The 36.5mm yellow gold 3N case features a glass-blasted finish that contrasts beautifully with the brilliance of the 137 fire opals. These gems are individually screwed into the case with yellow gold 3N pins, showcasing the Maison’s commitment to precision and detail.

The dial, crafted from orange cornelian, is adorned with yellow gold 3N dots marking the minutes, while the yellow gold 3N hands complete the refined design. The slightly octagonal innermost edge of the case nods to Gérald Genta’s signature design elements, adding a contemporary touch to a classic silhouette.

At the heart of this exceptional timepiece is the GG-005 Zenith Elite movement, featuring a custom-designed 18-karat yellow gold oscillating mass. With a power reserve of approximately 50 hours and a frequency of 4Hz, this movement ensures precision and reliability, reflecting the Maison’s dedication to horological excellence.

The movement’s intricate design and performance are the result of the expertise of La Fabrique du Temps master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, who have upheld the high standards of Gérald Genta’s creations. The strap, made from black alligator leather, enhances the watch’s overall elegance and comfort.

With a lug width of 17.5mm, it ensures a secure and refined fit for the wearer. Every element of the watch, from the strap to the dial, has been carefully designed to create a seamless and cohesive aesthetic. This attention to detail underscores the Maison’s commitment to blending form and function in every piece.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Gerald Genta

Evelyn Genta, Gérald’s wife, reflects on the significance of the Oursin collection, noting that it remains one of her husband’s most cherished creations. She recalls how Gérald was fascinated by the way gemstones caught and reflected light, a feature that is beautifully captured in the Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal.

The play of light on the individually set fire opals creates a dynamic visual effect, making the watch a true work of art. This attention to detail and love for adornment are hallmarks of Gérald Genta’s design philosophy, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire and captivate. The bright hues of the fire opal and the intricate craftsmanship of the watch reflect the Maison’s dedication to creating pieces that are both timeless and extraordinary.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Gerald Genta

The Maison Gérald Genta continues to honor its founder’s legacy by creating pieces pushing traditional watchmaking’s boundaries. The Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal represents the perfect fusion of vibrant aesthetics and innovative craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of its legendary creator. Available in May 2025, the Gentissima Oursin Fire Opal is a limited-edition piece that exemplifies the Maison’s philosophy of blending beauty, creativity, and precision.