During our recent visit to Benzinger in Germany’s gold and gem capital, Pforzheim, the atelier was abuzz with activity and excitement because the first GAP Ice 2024 Limited Edition was presented to us and swiftly snapped up by its new owner.
Those of you who have been following Benzinger’s amazing work will know that the GAP 1 collection has a very illustrious heritage with its Habring2 movement, Benzinger ennobling, and limited edition guilloched dials (read more via the product links below). That’s why we are especially proud of our second, exclusive limited edition we’ve called LIGHT Ice.
The exclusive Light Ice collection will only be available in 2024 and features a gorgeous icy blue dial, guilloched in the classic barleycorn design and finished with crisp, blue Arabic numerals and indices on silver, chapter rings. Another special feature of the 2024 edition is the hand-made, silvery snowflake wheel that graces the stunning, hand-ennobled movement.
These projects bring us all joy and the lucky owners have a timepiece of value, remarkable workmanship, and watchmaking heritage. The five-piece, 2023 edition sold out immediately and the first piece from the new 2024 edition is already ‘on wrist’.
Introducing the 2024 Limited Edition Benzinger GAP 1 Light Ice
In the realm of luxury timepieces, the 2024 limited edition Benzinger GAP 1 Light Ice stands out as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design. Exclusively created for Define Watches by the talented trio of Peter Petzold, Lydia Dalle Nogare, and Jochen Benzinger, this watch marries classic watchmaking techniques with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.
At the heart of the GAP 1 Light Ice is an in-house hand-wound movement, based on Habring2’s renowned A11 calibre and meticulously hand-ennobled by Jochen Benzinger. This collaboration represents a significant achievement for Benzinger, showcasing the brand’s dedication to precision and artistry. One of the standout features is the custom-made snowflake ratchet wheel, a whimsical yet intricate detail that adds a unique touch to the movement.
The watch’s light ice-blue dial, inspired by Define’s own colour palette, exudes timeless elegance. The dial is brought to life through Benzinger’s masterful hand-guilloching, featuring a classic barleycorn pattern that is both geometric and soothing. The sub dials, adorned with a ray pattern, offer a striking contrast, creating a visually dynamic effect. Complementing the dial’s intricate design are crisp blue Arabic numerals and partially skeletonised flame-blued hands, ensuring both clarity and beauty.
The GAP 1 Light Ice is housed in a high-grade steel case, crafted in Pforzheim, Germany, with elaborate 3D engraving. The case measures 39 mm in diameter and 11.5 mm in height, providing a perfect balance between presence and comfort. The crown, positioned at 2 o’clock, and the date pusher at 3 o’clock, framed by a protective cover, enhance the watch’s functionality and robustness.
This timepiece is not only about aesthetics; it is designed for performance. The hand-wound movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), offering a power reserve of 48 hours. Features like the tangential screw fine regulation and KIF shock absorber ensure precision and durability, while the exhibition case back allows an unobstructed view of the beautifully guilloched and skeletonised movement.
Adding to the watch’s versatility are the two genuine leather straps included with the GAP 1 Light Ice. The grey ostrich strap with light ice-blue contrast stitching and the elegant midnight blue suede strap provide options to suit different styles and occasions. Each strap is secured with either a deployment clasp or a pin buckle, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
Owning the GAP 1 Light Ice means possessing a piece of watchmaking history, a treasure that will be cherished for generations. Explore this exceptional timepiece and experience the pinnacle of luxury horology.
