Made in 1993 for a retailer of the brand in Hong Kong, this unique Andersen Genève Minute Repeater has an intriguing repeater slide design invented by Svend Andersen in 1987, and with a case constructed by Jean-Pierre Hagmann. Departing from the brand’s typical aesthetics, the piece combines a classic look that complemented by a traditional design.

Svend Andersen was born in Denmark in 1942, where he carried out his apprenticeship as a watchmaker, prior to moving Switzerland. He spent some time working at Gübelin, a famed retailer in Switzerland, then joined the Patek Philippe complications department, where he spent the best part of a decade. He then chose to strike out on his own as an independent maker, and launch Andersen Genève, in 1980.

Notably, Andersen is also the co-founder of the AHCI alongside Vincent Calabrese, an organisation celebrated for their championing of independent watchmakers. Over the past four decades years, the organisation boasts the membership of watchmakers such as Kari Voutilainen and Philippe Dufour. As a brand, Andersen Genève has focused on developing complications, and are well known for allowing collectors to personalise and create truly unique watches.

Encased in rose gold, this unique Andersen Genève Minute Repeater was made in 1993, at the special request of a retailer of the brand in Hong Kong. The design of repeater slide was invented by Svend himself, back in 1987, with the case being constructed by none of the than Jean-Pierre Hagmann, a famed casemaker whose mark, “JHP”, can be seen at the side of the case. It is particularly noteworthy for being waterproof, unlike other similar minute repeaters – not sealed tightly enough to meet diving standards, but sturdy enough to survive most ordinary contact with water.

The movement that powers this Andersen Genève Minute Repeater is based on a vintage Victorin Piguet pocket watch movement that includes two hammers with a gong. As one might expect, the movement is superlative both in terms of construction and finish. The bridges are finished with classic Geneva stripes; the seamless transition between the stripe and the angling on the side of the bridges demonstrates the watchmaker’s level of skill. The smallest details – from the black polish on some gears, to the layering of textures – are thoroughly thought out. The repeater complication is activated via a discreet slider found at the side of the case.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Andersen Genève Minute Repeater will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

This Andersen Genève Minute Repeater wristwatch is in excellent condition, having been carefully preserved throughout the lifetime of its ownership. The rose gold case displays very light superficial marks throughout, consistent with light wear over time, though it remains wonderfully preserved.