The American Wilbur brand combines a traditional complication such as the saltarello with novel technical solutions and a bold, aggressive look.
When an independent producer receives a nomination at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève with his first project, one can have high expectations. Jason Wilbur succeeded in this feat in 2010 with his Tread 1, produced by the Devon brand, in which the time display is entrusted to a novel belt system. In 2020, the volcanic Californian designer launched his eponymous brand, Wilburand the expectations of 2010 were fully met.
The Leo model has a calibre designed by Jason Wilbur himself and produced in Switzerland by the Concepto workshop. It is a saltarello in which the time is displayed thanks to the -spectacular- superimposition of two discs (one of which is transparent) on which are printed portions of the digits that will compose the hour.
Geometric shapes
The entire movement is anchored to the case by four attachment points and creates the impression of an architectural exostructure.
The modular case in sandblasted titanium has a diameter of 48,50 mm, consists of eight elements and withstands a pressure of 3 atmospheres.
The Exp model is a solotempo with a steel and ceramic or titanium and ceramic 41 mm case, with the same skeletal design as Leo, but square in shape.
What is the inspiration for the design and aesthetics of the watches? "I christened it 'Dreams of machines'. because I believe that a watch is first of all a mechanical art and then a device that tells time,' explains Wilbur. "I have designed concept cars, I worked for Porsche and Honda, my inspiration comes from that world. I prefer carbon and titanium to gold and diamonds, they are the luxury of the future'. Website: www.wilburco.com; Instagram: @wilburwatchco.
