Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Circled J014014276 Black Dial

Opening Context
The Grande Seconde is the defining design of Jaquet Droz, drawing inspiration from a pocket watch created by Pierre Jaquet-Droz in the eighteenth century. Its unmistakable figure-eight dial architecture separates the hours and minutes from an expansive seconds display, transforming a simple time-only watch into something immediately recognisable. The Grande Seconde Circled J014014276 gives this historic arrangement a particularly sophisticated character, combining an 18K white gold case with a black Côtes de Genève dial and contrasting silver opaline subdials.

Why This Reference Matters
The Grande Seconde Circled J014014276 is distinguished by the strength of its dial architecture. Two overlapping subdials form the signature figure eight: the upper display indicates the hours and minutes, while the larger lower register places unusual emphasis on the passage of seconds. This inversion of traditional priorities is fundamental to the Grande Seconde, turning an ordinarily secondary indication into the visual centrepiece of the watch.

This execution adds considerable texture to that familiar arrangement. The black dial is decorated with Côtes de Genève, introducing linear depth and changing reflections across the surface, while the silver opaline figure-eight subdials create a crisp visual contrast. Roman numerals reinforce the classical character of the upper display.

At its heart is the automatic Calibre 2663.P. Offering approximately 68 hours of power reserve, the movement provides substantial autonomy while preserving the mechanical simplicity appropriate to the Grande Seconde concept. Its self-winding architecture makes the watch practical for regular wear, allowing the unusual dial design rather than additional complications to remain the principal focus.

On the Wrist
At 39 mm, the Grande Seconde Circled achieves an elegant balance between traditional dress-watch proportions and the space required for its distinctive figure-eight display. The 18K white gold case provides reassuring precious-metal weight while remaining visually discreet, allowing the contrasting black and silver dial to command attention. Paired with a black leather strap and matching 18K white gold pin buckle, the watch maintains a refined monochromatic character that works particularly well with its unconventional yet formal design.

Condition & Transparency
This example features a 39 mm case crafted from 18K white gold, paired with a black Côtes de Genève dial incorporating contrasting silver opaline figure-eight subdials, Roman numerals. It is powered by the automatic Calibre 2663.P, offering approximately 68 hours of power reserve, and is fitted to a black leather strap with an 18K white gold pin buckle. Particular attention should be given to preservation of the case geometry and finishes, condition of the decorated dial and opaline subdials, movement performance, alignment and operation of the overlapping displays, strap and buckle condition, and overall set completeness—communicated strictly on verified information.

Why It Belongs in a Collection
The Grande Seconde Circled J014014276 appeals to collectors who appreciate watches with an unmistakable identity but without reliance on elaborate complications. Its figure-eight architecture is deeply connected to Jaquet Droz’s historical design language, while the unusual combination of Côtes de Genève decoration and silver opaline displays gives this execution additional depth and individuality. The white gold construction further keeps the precious-metal nature of the watch discreet. Within a thoughtfully curated collection, it offers a compelling alternative to the more conventional Swiss dress watch—a design rooted in eighteenth-century horology yet still remarkably distinctive today.

Closing
The Jaquet Droz Grande Seconde Circled J014014276 is a beautifully individual expression of classical watchmaking. Combining its elegantly proportioned 18K white gold case, richly textured black Côtes de Genève dial, contrasting silver opaline figure-eight displays, and automatic Calibre 2663.P with its generous 68-hour power reserve, it captures the enduring appeal of the Grande Seconde: mechanical simplicity transformed into something memorable through proportion, symmetry, and exceptional design.

Specifications

• Case Size: 39 mm
  
• Material: 18K White Gold
  
• Dial: Black Côtes de Genève Dial with Silver Opaline Figure-Eight Subdials, Roman Numerals
  
• Strap: Black Leather Strap with 18K White Gold Pin Buckle
  
• Power Reserve: 68 Hours
  
• Movement: Automatic (Calibre 2663.P)

Shipments are delivered under Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms, with duties and taxes payable by the recipient.