From the heart of Swedish watchmaking, Bravur presents a new iteration in its celebrated Grand Tour collection, a timepiece deeply entwined with the spirit of cycling and the pursuit of horological excellence. The La Grande Boucle III (£2075) is not merely a watch; it is a finely tuned instrument, a chronograph engineered to capture the dynamism of the open road and the precision demanded by both competitive cycling and discerning collectors alike.
This latest edition, limited in its production and expansive in its design inspiration, stands as a testament to Bravur’s unique ability to fuse sporting heritage with sophisticated watchmaking, resulting in a timepiece that is as compelling on the wrist as it is resonant with the soul of cycling’s grandest tour.
The aesthetic narrative of the La Grande Boucle III unfolds across its exquisitely detailed dial. A frosted, silver-white surface evokes the textured tarmac of cycling routes, subtly punctuated by smooth dots that whisper of the iconic polka dot jersey, a symbol of climbing prowess in the legendary races. These understated polka dots, a signature detail of the collection, shift in visibility with changing light, sometimes subtly blending, at other times boldly emerging, adding a dynamic layer to the dial’s visual texture. At twelve o’clock, the hour index takes centre stage, a design element inspired by the mile markers that punctuate winding French mountain roads. These indices, reminiscent of summit markers, subtly reference gradients, altitudes, and distances to the peak, a knowing nod to the ambitious cyclist’s relentless pursuit of ascents.
Lume-infilled hour markers ensure enduring legibility, seamlessly transitioning from daylight clarity to low-light visibility, reflecting the demands of both daytime rides and after-dark occasions. In a playful nod to cycling tradition, the chapter ring discreetly incorporates an inverted number 13, a whimsical symbol intended to ward off misfortune, a cherished superstition amongst seasoned riders. Adding a vibrant counterpoint, a yellow accent energizes the 15-minute counter at three o’clock, a functional and visually striking element designed to intuitively mark intervals when engaging the chronograph, activated with a confident press of the upper pusher.
Encasing this meticulously designed dial is a 38.2mm diameter case, crafted from 316L stainless steel and treated with a matte sandblasted black PVD coating. This ceramic coating not only enhances the material’s inherent hardness, increasing resistance to the wear and tear of an active lifestyle, but also bestows a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, lending the watch a modern sporting gravitas. The size, thoughtfully considered at 38.2mm, ensures a versatile fit, comfortably accommodating wrists of varying sizes both on and off the bike. Protected by a domed sapphire crystal, treated with an inside anti-reflective coating for optimal clarity, the dial remains legible even in bright sunlight, while a sapphire crystal case back reveals the intricate heart of the timepiece.
Turning the watch over unveils a recessed “finish line” checker pattern engraved on the caseback, a classic racing motif, alongside the individual serial number, underscoring the limited edition nature of this special release. The crown, featuring Bravur’s signature recessed surface design, and the responsive pushers are ergonomically engineered for effortless operation. Completing the ensemble is a sporty and resilient FKM rubber strap, designed for both comfort and durability in active pursuits, or the option of a more classic leather strap for sophisticated off-bike wear.
Beneath the dial’s captivating surface beats a Swiss-made Sellita SW511b movement, a celebrated automatic chronograph calibre. Visible through the sapphire case back, this 27-jewel movement is meticulously finished with rhodium plating, decorative flourishes, and blued screws, a testament to Bravur’s commitment to horological artistry even in the unseen elements. The custom rotor, adorned with a deeply etched “finish line” pattern, further reinforces the racing inspiration that underpins the watch’s design. This robust and reliable movement boasts a substantial power reserve of up to 62 hours and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring precise timekeeping and chronograph performance.
Hand-built in Båstad, Sweden, the Bravur Grand Tour La Grande Boucle III is more than a mere timepiece; it is a celebration of cycling heritage, a fusion of sophisticated design and Swiss precision, and a compelling companion for those who appreciate the art of both horology and the open road. Limited in its availability and expansive in its appeal, this chronograph stands poised to conquer both the challenges of the road and the discerning tastes of the modern collector.
