First impressions (aesthetics and dial)

Let’s start with the dial, because it’s impossible not to. The moment I saw it, I knew this wasn’t just another limited edition with a different colour scheme. The two-tone blue sector dial is the soul of this watch — simultaneously vintage and modern, calm yet captivating.

The central area has a rich, dark midnight blue tone, surrounded by a lighter ring defined by sharp, radial sector lines and a railroad minute track. It’s reminiscent of classic observatory-style dials but reinterpreted through Ferrier’s serene, minimalist lens.

The small seconds at six o’clock is neatly balanced, and the Assegai-shaped hands, in white gold, sweep gracefully over the surface. Everything feels measured, harmonious, and beautifully composed — no element screams for attention, yet each one contributes to a perfectly balanced whole.

This is the kind of dial that rewards time spent with it — changing subtly with the light, revealing textures and tones that photos simply can’t capture.

Case and dimensions

At 40 mm, the case sits in that sweet spot between traditional dress watch and modern daily wearer. It’s rendered in stainless steel, which I think is a fantastic choice for this piece — contemporary, practical, and giving the watch an approachable versatility.

Ferrier’s “Classic” case shape is instantly recognisable: fluid, round, and effortlessly elegant, with softly curved lugs that taper gently down to the wrist. The polishing is mirror-smooth, the transitions almost liquid. Even the onion-style crown feels right — tactile, precise, and somehow inviting.

It’s a design that doesn’t rely on sharp angles or flashy detailing to make an impression. Instead, it seduces quietly, through proportion and purity.

The Movement

Inside beats the Calibre FBN 229.01, one of Laurent Ferrier’s most celebrated creations. This micro-rotor automatic movement is more than just technically impressive — it’s a philosophical statement about what modern independent watchmaking can be.

Developed in collaboration with La Fabrique du Temps, the movement features Ferrier’s patented Natural Escapement — a silicon component system inspired by Breguet’s original design. It provides double direct impulse to the balance, improving energy efficiency while maintaining superb chronometric performance.

The finishing is nothing short of haute horlogerie at its best: hand-polished bevels, Côtes de Genève on the bridges, perlage beneath, and a solid gold micro-rotor beautifully engraved and guillochéed.

Flip the watch over and it’s instantly clear — this is the kind of movement that independent collectors live for. A genuine piece of art, both technically and aesthetically.

Wearability

On the wrist, the Salon des Horlogers × Laurent Ferrier Classic Micro-Rotor is everything you’d expect from a Ferrier — effortlessly elegant, supremely comfortable, and surprisingly versatile.

The curvature of the lugs makes it hug the wrist perfectly, and at just around 10.7 mm thick, it slides under a cuff with ease. The blue leather strap complements the dial beautifully, while the lightness of the steel case gives it an everyday practicality.

This isn’t a watch you wear to make a statement; it’s one you wear for yourself — for the quiet satisfaction of knowing what it is, what it represents, and how rare it truly is.

Finish, Details & Touches

The more time you spend with this piece, the more the details come alive. The dial’s surface finish — slightly matte, slightly sunburst — gives it a gentle dynamism. The applied indices are crisp and consistent, and the typography of the minute track is pure old-school elegance.

Every edge, every transition, every component feels deliberately thought out. The sapphire crystal is slightly domed, the caseback generously curved to show off that movement. Even the strap’s stitching — tone-on-tone blue — feels perfectly judged.

It’s a masterclass in restraint, where every design decision serves the watch, not the ego of its maker.

Value, rarity and market position

With only 25 pieces produced, this collaboration is rare even by independent standards. While it sits in the upper luxury segment — priced accordingly — its value lies not just in exclusivity but in what it represents: the confluence of two passionate forces dedicated to horological excellence.

For collectors who understand Ferrier’s quiet language of design and for those who appreciate the intimacy of independent production, this is a watch that ticks all the right boxes. It’s the kind of piece that will age beautifully — both visually and emotionally.

And in today’s market, where limited editions often feel contrived, this one feels utterly authentic.

Conclusion (our verdict)

The Salon des Horlogers × Laurent Ferrier Classic Micro-Rotor is more than just a collaboration; it’s a meeting of philosophies. Both names stand for craftsmanship, integrity, and a deep love for watchmaking done the right way — by hand, with heart.

From its perfectly balanced dial to its exceptional movement and effortless wearability, it represents everything I personally admire about independent horology: authenticity, restraint, and refinement.

It’s a watch that doesn’t shout to be noticed — but once you notice it, you can’t forget it.