Encounter Trilobe's Trente-Deux: Unveiling the Unexpected flair of the Brand's Most Significant Sporty Timepiece

When it first came to light, the appeal of Trilobe’s newest watch, the Trente-Deux, seemed somewhat elusive. The weariness of ‘sportification’ might have blunted the initial burst of interest, and the deluge of new arrivals from the Geneva Watch Days possibly obscured its entrance. The repetitive integration of bracelets into every design also seemed to have taken its toll. However, on a closer, in-person look, the Trente-Deux reveals a multitude of unexpected layers that capture one’s curiosity.

The watch’s design, at first glance, mirrors the familiar aesthetics of the Patek Philippe Nautilus, especially with the left ‘wing’ on the caseband balancing the design against the right side crown-guards. The bracelet shape further echoes this design, albeit with a touch of uniqueness in the angular, polished center links. Contrary to assumption, the Trente-Deux does not feel like a mere imitation of another’s innovation but stands distinct in its aura and appeal.

Another captivating element is the textured use on the dial. Radiating from the subsidiary seconds with the impression of a ‘soleil’, the center dial is adorned with a Clous de Paris guilloché pattern, while azurage paints the edge. The hours and minutes present a pebbled grain texture, while the minute disc exploits depth and shadow brilliantly, setting itself slightly below the rest of the dial plane.

The ace achievement for Trilobe, however, lies within the watch case. Despite being merely seven years in the industry, the Parisian brand has taken a massive step to stand amongst elders, opening its own manufacturing facility. Situated merely 20 minutes from Paris, in Ivry-sur-Seine, this venture signifies Trilobe’s commitment to its craft and ambition of producing horology masterpieces in the years ahead.