Paul Gerber Retro Twin
In the world of independent watchmaking, Paul Gerber occupies a unique position. His work is admired not for brand recognition or mass production, but for originality, mechanical intelligence, and a deeply personal approach to horology. The Retro Twin is one of his most recognisable creations and a clear expression of his philosophy as a watchmaker.
A Different Way of Reading Time
The Retro Twin is built around the idea of retrograde time displays, where the hands move along an arc instead of making a full circle. When the hand reaches the end of its scale, it snaps back instantly to begin again. In this watch, Gerber employs two retrograde indications, typically for hours and minutes, creating a dynamic and engaging way to read the time.
This motion brings a sense of life to the dial. The sudden return of the hands is both precise and playful, turning a practical function into something visually captivating. It reminds the wearer that mechanical watchmaking is as much about emotion as it is about accuracy.
Mechanical Craftsmanship
Behind the dial lies a movement designed and finished by Paul Gerber himself. The Retro Twin is not an off-the-shelf construction but a purpose-built mechanism engineered to manage the energy demands of retrograde displays reliably. Every component reflects careful thought, from the geometry of the cams to the tension of the springs that drive the instantaneous return.
Finishing is equally important. The movement features traditional hand-worked details such as polished edges, finely applied graining, and carefully adjusted components. These are not decorative flourishes but evidence of a watchmaker who values craft at every level.
Why the Retro Twin Matters
The Retro Twin stands out because it represents true independence. It is not shaped by market trends or corporate design language. Instead, it reflects one individual’s curiosity and mastery of mechanics.
It is also technically significant. Retrograde mechanisms are difficult to execute well, requiring precise control of power and timing. Doing this twice within a single watch, while maintaining reliability and legibility, demonstrates a high level of horological skill.
For collectors, the appeal lies in rarity and character. Each Retro Twin is produced in very small numbers, often with subtle variations, making ownership a personal experience rather than a generic one.
On the Wrist
Despite its technical nature, the Retro Twin remains surprisingly wearable. The dial layout is unconventional but logical, and with a short period of familiarity, it becomes intuitive. It is a watch that invites interaction and rewards attention, revealing its complexity through motion rather than excess decoration.
In Summary
The Paul Gerber Retro Twin is a celebration of mechanical creativity and independent watchmaking. It transforms timekeeping into an active, almost theatrical experience, while remaining rooted in serious horological craftsmanship. For those who value originality, engineering depth, and the human hand behind the watch, the Retro Twin stands as a compelling and meaningful creation.
This beautiful timepiece is paired here with our bespoke crocodile strap with curved lug ends in burgundy.