Angular Momentum is a small artisan watchmaker located in Bern, Switzerland. The company is operated and owned by the charismatic Martin Pauli. His general philosophy is to produce exquisite hand crafted timepieces that adhere to the finest traditional techniques. To accomplish this vision he has had to employ an enormous amount of skill and dexterity.
I first communicated with Martin Pauli about nine months ago to introduce my website Total Watch Reviews. When I told him about my prime objectives he was very insightful and encouraging. From the outset I have been an admirer of his craftsmanship and love his eclectic range of timepieces. All Angular Momentum watches are made to order exactly to the customer’s specifications. Over the last few years Martin has marketed primarily through his own website, Facebook and most importantly through referrals. As I have mentioned on numerous occasions I am a champion for the small independent watchmaker and so am delighted to showcase their artistry.
A few months ago I wrote an article entitled ‘XL Watches Part II’ featuring Angular Momentum’s Magnus Bronze Diver. This watch is constructed from solid bronze and has a colossal diameter of 60mm. In contrast, the Guilloche Noir and Koi is a more delicate affair with case size measuring only 42mm. These dimensions should appeal to the majority of people including the unisex market. I also feel the watch would feel fairly lightweight and comfortable to wear. I think this sublime timepiece would look great with a stylish tailor made suit.
Visually the façade of the Guilloche Noir and Koi is an absolute work of art. Martin has skilfully used traditional Japanese techniques (takamaki) to produce a one of kind piece. The dial is composed of black lacquer and has a beautiful Guilloche background. I love the high relief illustration of a Koi Carp that spans the whole diameter of the dial. Other stunning features include the array of diamonds, which represent water droplets and the intricate plume hour/minute hands. To achieve this level of perfection involved two months of non stop work.
Like a few watchmakers I have recently featured (RPaige, Torsten Nagengast and Fred Dingemans) Martin Pauli has opted to equip the watch with vintage movement. The Caliber FHF 72 was produced in 1955 by Swiss company Fabrique d’Horlogerie Fontainemelon and is manual winding. This 17-Jewel mechanism is also visible through the sapphire crystal case back and oscillates at a frequency 18,000 vibrations per hour. Functionally the Guilloche Noir and Koi features hours, minutes and a power reserve of 44-hours.
The Guilloche Noir and Koi is a unique timepiece that is presented with a hand sewn black alligator strap and matching clasp. All prices are available on application.
