Franck Muller’s Round Skeleton Baguette 31mm is the perfect marriage between fine jewels and high horology

Set to dazzle on the wrists of the discerning is the Franck Muller’s Round Skeleton Baguette 31mm collection, exclusive to Asia-Pacific and the manufacture’s latest addition to its Round Skeletons in 39mm and 42mm. 

The creation’s dainty new size belies its sheer sophistication, bestowed by superlative gem-setting and watchmaking excellence. Stones of the utmost beauty balance its sleek profile of 9.85mm and understated design, which embodies the brand’s quest for purity and excellence.

Crafted with white or rose gold, the model flaunts various versions. Each bezel is decorated with 60 baguette-cut diamonds or coloured gems weighing 4.61 carats, which are secured in place seamlessly using the flawless invisible setting technique.

To achieve this feat, grooves are carved into the sides of the stones, which are then slid into perfect alignment into rails within the bezel frame. 

Further complementing the gem-decorated bezel are 156 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 0.88 carats that are also meticulously set on the sides of the bezel and case.

All the glowing stones encircle a captivating skeletonised dial that allows even more light to shine, optimising the watch’s transparency. Franck Muller has minimised the in-house open-worked MVT FM 1540-RS manual-winding movement for this new size while still affording a generous four-day power reserve.

Parts of the movement, such as the main plate and bridges, are also pared down to make viewing the watch a veritable pleasure.

The multiple craftsmanship elements include mirror polishing on regulator assembly; bevelling on the mainplate, bridges and regulator assembly; flank drawing on the bridges and mainplate; diamond polishing on the sinks; circular satin brushing on the wheels, drums and barrel covers; and satin brushing on the mainplate and bridges.

What stole our hearts is the Rainbow version featuring multi-coloured sapphires, rubies, and tsavorites on the bezel. Equally stunning are references that focus solely on mesmerising rubies, emeralds, or blue sapphires. Those who prefer monochromatic elegance should look to the scintillating all-diamond creations.

As if that weren’t enough bling, each timepiece also comes fitted with a hand-sewn alligator strap, which boasts a matching rose or white gold buckle hand-set with nine baguette-cut precious stones matching the rocks on the bezel.