Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm is a refined expression of traditional Swiss watchmaking blended with modern usability. Presented at Baselworld, this elegant timepiece features a prominent large double-disc date window at 6 o’clock and is powered by the high-performance Calibre 6950 automatic movement with a robust 72-hour power reserve.
Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm Case Design
The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm comes in a polished stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter and just 10.88mm thick, allowing it to slide effortlessly under a shirt cuff. The signature Villeret double-stepped bezel adds depth and visual elegance, inspired by classical pocket watch aesthetics.
Its curved lugs and balanced proportions make it suitable for both formal attire and smart-casual styling, offering exceptional wrist comfort.
Blancpain Villeret Grande Date and Large Date Display
The defining feature of this model is its clean and beautifully integrated large date window. Located at 6 o’clock, the double-disc mechanism ensures instantaneous date changes and improved legibility compared to standard date displays.
The ivory dial further enhances the visual impact, with polished applied hour markers and slim stainless steel hands, maintaining Blancpain’s tradition of classical minimalism.
Blancpain Villeret Grande Date Calibre 6950 Movement
At the heart of the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm beats the in-house Calibre 6950 automatic movement. This advanced caliber features:
– Twin barrels for stable torque
– 72-hour power reserve
– Silicon balance spring for anti-magnetic performance
– High-frequency operation for improved precision
Previously seen in notable Blancpain models such as the Aqua Lung Grande Date, this movement is admired for its reliability and technical refinement. For more details on Blancpain’s mechanical philosophy, you can explore the official Blancpain website.
Dial, Readability and Everyday Elegance
The soft ivory dial of the Blancpain Villeret Grande Date reflects light beautifully while maintaining excellent contrast and readability. The minimalist layout ensures the dial never feels cluttered despite the large date complication.
The sapphire crystal front and back allow wearers to enjoy both dial details and the decorated movement.
Strap, Wearability and Practical Use
The watch is fitted with a hand-stitched alligator leather strap and stainless steel pin buckle, offering elegance and durability. With a water resistance of 30 meters, it is suitable for daily wear, though it is primarily designed as a refined dress watch.
The combination of classical proportions, durable materials, and practical large-date functionality makes this model ideal for long-term collectors.
Collector Value of Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm
The Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm appeals to collectors who appreciate understated luxury without sacrificing technical integrity. It serves as a perfect gateway into high-end traditional Swiss watchmaking.
For collectors also interested in ultra-thin complications, you may like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Squelette, which offers a different aesthetic but similar horological pedigree.
Specifications – Blancpain Villeret Grande Date 40mm
- Case: Stainless steel
- Diameter: 40mm
- Thickness: 10.88mm
- Crystal: Sapphire front and back
- Dial: Ivory with double-disc large date
- Hands: Polished stainless steel
- Movement: Calibre 6950 automatic
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
- Strap: Alligator leather
- Buckle: Stainless steel pin clasp
- Water Resistance: 30 meters
