Behold Manteio Zeus: A Grand Blend of Greek Mythological Influences and Horologic Innovation from a Self-Taught Artisan

A voyage through the horologic sphere often promises the discovery of unique creations. One such intriguing piece was unveiled during the Geneva Watch Days by the self-taught watchmaker Alex Goetschi, the founder of Manteio, a brand whose name resonates with ‘Oracle’ in Greek. Evidenced in his first-ever timepiece, the Manteio Zeus, Goetschi’s passion for watches, prowess in mechanical engineering, love for ornithology and knack for storytelling converge harmoniously. The Zeus, inspired by the King of Gods depicted in the Greek mythology, provides a tangible homage to the deity, lending itself to an exploration of intricate detailing.

Each aspect of the Manteio Zeus pays tribute to Zeus, the offspring of Rhea and Cronus who was destined to overthrow his father according to an ancient prophecy. Cronus, in an attempt to prevent this, consumed each of his children, with Zeus being the exception due to Rhea’s ingenuity in hiding him on Earth. There, he was raised by divine nymphs, the goat Amalthea, and Melissa the bee on the island of Crete. Zeus, having grown strong, eventually confronted and dethroned his father, fulfilling the prophecy by becoming the King of the Gods.

The tale of Zeus remarkably imprints on every facet of the Manteio Zeus. The watch continues the tradition of Greek mythological themes with a stunning stainless steel case, measuring 39mm in width and 9.7mm in height. The impressive shaped lugs mirror the pediment of an ancient Greek temple, while the blend of brushed, polished, and hand-bevelled edges intensifies its aesthetic allure. Similar to viewing a Tholos (temples of the oracles) from above, the crown exhibits Manteio’s logo, meticulously hand-engraved, whilst its perfectly polished bezel boasts a strong slope.