Gérald Genta's Legacy Lives On: A New Time-Only Creation from Geneva
Russell Sheldrake
January 26, 2026
Gérald Genta, the legendary watch designer, continues to inspire even after his passing. His influence is evident in the latest creation from Geneva, a time-only model unveiled at LVMH Watch Week 2026. This watch is a testament to Genta's enduring legacy and the impact he had on the industry.
The watch is a collaboration between Geneva and Matthieu Hegi, the Artistic Director of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. Hegi drew inspiration from Genta's iconic designs, creating a unique timepiece that pays homage to the Maestro's style.
One of the standout features is its distinctive shape. The watch boasts a rounded square case, a design that has been meticulously crafted to preserve Genta's signature style. Hegi's attention to detail is remarkable, as he incorporated a single, central lug, reminiscent of ladies' dress watches, to maintain elegance.
The bezel is a masterpiece in itself. With a stepped, rounded design, it adds a touch of sophistication and reflectiveness. The highly polished finish and mirrored baton markers and hands create a harmonious visual appeal. This clever design trick also makes the watch appear slightly smaller, drawing the eye directly to the dial.
The dial showcases a beautiful gradient effect, available in two shades of gold: rose and white. The rose gold dial transitions from dark brown to light sandy tones, while the white gold dial goes from black to silvery grey. Both variations feature finely grained textures, enhancing the gradient's visual impact as light dances across the dial's ridges and divots.
Hegi's design philosophy is evident in the dial's simplicity. The only text is the brand's wordmark and thin baton markers, ensuring minimal intrusion. A well-designed minute track surrounds the dial, reflecting the movement's shape and seamlessly integrating the time-telling function into the 'squircular' case.
Under the hood, the watch houses a Zenith Elite movement, an automatic calibre dating back to 1994. Over the years, it has undergone upgrades to meet the brand's high standards. With a 50-hour power reserve and a 4Hz frequency, it offers a reliable and standard set of specifications for today's market.
Despite its standard horological features, the watch's true value lies in its design. It is a testament to Genta's influence and Hegi's skill, making it a must-have for watch enthusiasts and a fitting addition to Geneva's collection.
Gérald Genta Geneva: A Timeless Masterpiece
The Gérald Genta Geneva collection is now available, priced at CHF 25,000. With its exquisite design, attention to detail, and Genta's enduring legacy, this watch is a true masterpiece that will captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
