Bianchet Unveils B1.618 UltraFino Tourbillon With First Automatic Movement
Bianchet Pushes Boundaries With Ultra-Thin Tourbillon Debut
Swiss independent watchmaker Bianchet has officially announced the B1.618 UltraFino, marking several significant milestones for the Neuchâtel-based brand. Launched as a thinner evolution of their signature B1.618 collection, the UltraFino represents Bianchet's first automatic movement, first metal bracelet offering, and thinnest timepiece to date.
According to Watch Advice, the new collection maintains the brand's distinctive tonneau (barrel) case shape while achieving a remarkably slim profile of just 8.9mm in thickness. The watch measures 40mm wide and 47.39mm lug-to-lug, with a 1.2mm curvature from lug-to-lug that allows the case to conform naturally to the wrist.
Golden Ratio Philosophy Meets Modern Engineering
Founded in 2017 by husband-and-wife team Rodolfo and Emmanuelle Festa-Bianchet, the brand has built its identity around the mathematical principle of the Golden Ratio (1.618) and the Fibonacci sequence. This philosophy permeates every aspect of the B1.618 UltraFino, from case proportions to movement finishing.
The watch is constructed from Grade 5 titanium, offering both lightweight comfort and robust durability. Despite its ultra-thin dimensions, the B1.618 UltraFino delivers:
- 50 meters water resistance (5 bar)
- 5,000Gs shock resistance — capable of withstanding extreme forces comparable to jet fighter maneuvers or high-speed automotive impacts
- Integrated titanium bracelet with butterfly clasp
UT-01 Movement: Bianchet's First Automatic Caliber
At the heart of the B1.618 UltraFino lies the new UT-01 automatic tourbillon movement, a landmark achievement for the brand. The movement specifications include:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Automatic with tourbillon |
| Power Reserve | 60 hours |
| Frequency | 3Hz (21,600 VpH) |
| Finishing | Golden Ratio-adorned bridges |
| COSC Certification | Available upon request |
The tourbillon complication, visible through both the case back and skeletonized dial variants, serves to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch's regulating organ, enhancing timekeeping accuracy.
Four References Across Skeleton and Classic Dials
The B1.618 UltraFino launches with four distinct references, offering collectors a choice between openworked and closed dial designs:
- UFFTSKTNBL — Blue Skeleton with red vulcanised rubber accents
- UFFTSKTNRD — Red Skeleton with blue vulcanised rubber accents
- UFFTDLTNBL — Blue Classic solid dial with Golden Diamond guilloché pattern
- UFFTDLTNBK — Black Classic solid dial with Golden Diamond guilloché pattern
Each reference ships with an integrated titanium bracelet plus a complimentary color-matched rubber strap, allowing owners to switch between formal and sporty aesthetics. The closed-dial variants feature Bianchet's proprietary "Golden Diamond" guilloché pattern, inspired by the classic Clous de Paris hobnail finishing technique.
Pricing and Availability
The Bianchet B1.618 UltraFino is positioned in the luxury segment with the following international recommended retail prices:
- Skeleton variants: CHF 60,500
- Classic solid dial variants: CHF 55,500
The watches are available through Bianchet boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide. According to Watch Advice, COSC certification can be provided upon request for buyers seeking official chronometric validation.
For collectors interested in understanding movement specifications in depth, our comprehensive movement guide provides detailed comparisons of common automatic calibers used across the watch industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Bianchet B1.618 UltraFino different from the original B1.618?
The UltraFino is Bianchet's thinnest watch at 8.9mm, compared to the original B1.618. It also features the brand's first automatic movement (UT-01) and first integrated metal bracelet, whereas earlier models relied on manual-wind calibers and rubber straps exclusively.
Is the Bianchet B1.618 UltraFino suitable for daily wear?
Yes. Despite its ultra-thin profile, the watch offers 50m water resistance and 5,000Gs shock resistance thanks to Grade 5 titanium construction. The curved tonneau case design also provides ergonomic comfort across various wrist sizes.
Where can I purchase the Bianchet B1.618 UltraFino?
The B1.618 UltraFino is available through official Bianchet stores and authorized retailers. Interested buyers can visit Bianchet.com for direct inquiries.
Industry Context: The Rise of Independent Watchmakers
Bianchet's announcement arrives during a period of renewed interest in independent Swiss watchmaking. According to Watch Advice, the brand first gained international attention at the 2021 Geneva Watch Days with the original B1.618 Openworked, and has since expanded its presence through events like the Sydney International Watch Fair.
The B1.618 UltraFino positions Bianchet alongside emerging tonneau-case specialists competing in a segment traditionally dominated by established names like Richard Mille and Franck Muller. As the brand continues to develop proprietary movements and expand its collection, it represents a notable case study in how independent manufacturers leverage mathematical design principles and technical innovation to differentiate themselves in the competitive luxury watch market.
Those interested in watch construction fundamentals may find our water resistance testing guide useful for understanding how manufacturers achieve specific depth ratings across different case architectures.
Source
According to Watch Advice (watchadvice.com.au), published March 28, 2025. All specifications and pricing verified from original source material.