Bovet’s latest creation, the Récital 21, is a perpetual calendar with retrograde date presented in a modern style. The large, 44.4 mm titanium case contains tinted sapphire dial that reveals the calendar mechanism with twist: the retrograde date hand is damped so it gradually returns to the origin rather than jumping instantaneously.

Initial thoughts

Bovet is best known for its large complications, some of which are elaborately and intricately styled. The Récital 21 is classic Bovet, but in a slightly more approachable format. It’s a complicated watch but in a more contemporary package, especially with the sapphire dial and luminous markings. The case is (slightly) more wearable, though it has the signature sloped “writing desk” case, which is not for everyone but distinctive nonetheless.

As is typical for Bovet, the movement is in-house and impressively spec’ed. Notably, it incorporates the patented co-axial double seconds (that’s visible on the front and back), and a five-day power reserve.

Sapphire dial

The polished titanium case is 44.4 mm in diameter. In the usual Bovet style, the case slopes downwards from 12 to six o’clock, hence the “writing desk” nickname. Though large, it has short lugs for wearability.

Offered in green, blue, or brown tint, the sapphire crystal dial reveals the calendar module that’s enhanced by a damping mechanism that deliberately slows the date hand during its return.

All of the calendar indications can be adjusted via dedicated pushers, but the case includes an all-in-one pusher on the left of the case that simultaneously advances all the calendar indicators for convenient setting.

The watch is driven by the in-house 13DM05-QPR, a manual-winding movement with a five-day power reserve indicator.

Key facts and price

Bovet Récital 21

Diameter: 44.4 mm
Height: 15.40mm (12h) & 10.25mm (6h)
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: Cal. 13DM05-QPR
Functions: Hours, minutes, retrograde date and perpetual calendar with leap year indicator
Winding: Manual-wind
Frequency: 21,600 beats per second (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 140 hours

Strap: Shiny green, blue, or brown alligator strap with polished titanium ardillon buckle

Limited edition: 60 pieces per colour
Availability: Now at Bovet boutiques
Price: Upon request

For more, visit bovet.com