Meccaniche Veloci (the name translates as “fast engineering”) was founded in Milan in 2006, and its first model QuattroValvole (four valves) became its leitmotif, with four subdials for four time zones. In 2016 the company moved to Geneva. Today it makes a few thousand watches per year, with in-house movements.
Automotive inspiration
The Quattrovalvole CarboNero and CarboRosso are watches with an automotive character, visible particularly from the side view of the case that bears some similarity to a piston. In addition, the carbon fibre used for the dial is a reference to sports cars. The leather strap has black or red visible stitching that matches the colour details on the dial, and it is attached directly to the case using a system without springbars. The strap is opened and closed by means of a deployant clasp in brushed stainless steel. The watches are unusual for the layout, with four subdials for four time zones.
It’s big
This is a large watch, 49 mm in diameter and a thickness that is probably around 15 mm at the centre and even thicker – possibly about 19 mm – at the top and bottom – because the watch is contoured to fit the wrist. It is made in titanium that helps keep the weight down, but nonetheless the timepiece weighs 148 grams. The caseback provides an unusual view, with the brand’s characteristic oscillating weight, and wide flanges that provide lots of space for the engraved lettering that gives information on the limited edition number (total of 250 units), the origin in Geneva, and the 5 atm water resistance.
In-house calibre
The main dial is at top right, providing hours, minutes and date. The subdial at 5 o’clock has a second hand, the other two dials have just hour and minute hands. The single automatic movement, calibre MV8802, provides 48 hours power reserve, runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hertz) and has 328 components with 33 rubies. All the hour and minute hands are coated in SuperLuminova. Each subdial can be adjusted with its respective crown.
Price
The watch, QuattroValvole CarboNero (W10NC1SB) or CarboRosso (W10NC1SR), costs €8,900. It’s a massive instrument but an interesting and unusual concept. Further information from the Meccaniche Veloci website.