An Italian retailer best known for representing independent watchmakers, GMT Milano has just announced its own Voutilainen limited edition, the KV20i Reversed GMT Milano.

Based on Voutilainen’s inverted Vingt-8, the KV20i GMT edition sports a 4N gold-gilt movement that stands in bright contrast with the titanium case. The combination is classical and brings to mind historical pocket watches with frosted gilt movements.

Initial thoughts

The KV20i for GMT Milano employs a familiar combination of colours and finishes, but it stills manages to look fresh enough to be interesting. It helps that Voutilainen’s quality is impeccable, so everything that brand produces possesses a sheen that adds to the appeal, regardless of colour or style.

A good part of Voutilainen’s business is customised watches, so the GMT edition isn’t unique per se. But it is a good looking watch that is instantly appealing. This KV20i is also priced the same as a standard version from Voutilainen, so it’s also a fair proposition in value terms.

A reversed watch

The KV20i is the second generation of Voutilainen’s “reverse” model that debuted in 2019. It’s essentially an inverted version of the Vingt-8, the brand’s signature chronometer wristwatch.

The calibre has been turned over so that most of the action is on the front. The balance wheel, barrel, and going train are visible on the open dial, along with the indirect going train that relocates the hands from the back to front and centre.

The inverting of the movement allows the typical Voutilainen finishing to be shown off. Here it incudes frosted surfaces with generous anglage as well as the rounded cock for the oversized balance.

The chapter ring has the minute scale in dark blue

Over on the back the view is plainer, as this would ordinarily be the base plate under the dial in a conventional Vingt-8. Here the keyless works are visible, along with an off-centre seconds counter at one o’clock with a dark blue scale.

The KV20i utilises the quintessential Voutilainen case with short teardrop lugs. It’s entirely in polished titanium, giving it lightness but also the appearance of steel at a distance.

Key facts and price

Voutilainen KV20i Reversed GMT Milano

Diameter: 39 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: In-house Voutilainen movement with reversed architecture
Functions: Hours, minutes, and small seconds on the back
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour (2.5 Hz)
Winding: Manual
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Calfskin strap with pin buckle

Limited edition: 10 pieces
Availability: Only at GMT Milano, with delivery in approximately three years
Price: CHF125,000 before taxes

For more, visit Gmtitalia.com.