The Purple-Coloured Bovet Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter Two

The Bovet Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter Two is a substantial timepiece. It’s sporting a pocket-watch-like diameter of 47.8 mm and 15.5mm thickness at the highest point, so wrist wearability may not be ideal for some. The watch feels more like a technical and decorative marvel, a wearable objet d’art that asks to be placed on a desk rather than wrapped around the wrist. Still, the Brainstorm Chapter Two proves equally fascinating when viewed from various angles, as it allows us to discover important details, both decorative and functional – like the 5-day linear power reserve indicator at the top of the case, at the 12 o’clock side between the lugs.

When observed from a direct top-down perspective, the watch assumes a round appearance, showcasing a symmetrical and alluring arrangement of complications, with the illusion that the movement is rising from the back and floating in mid-air. However, a shift in viewpoint to the side unveils the watch’s multilayered construction, depth, and three-dimensional movement, providing an engaging visual experience that truly allows the wearer to appreciate its complexity. Although transparent sapphire cases keep popping up here and there, the Brainstorm Chapter Two distinguishes itself with its unconventional “writing desk” inclined shape, introduced in 2016. It has now become a signature Bovet design. Notably, the lightweight case isn’t entirely sapphire; instead, it consists of a titanium frame for the caseback and lugs, with the sapphire case middle and front mounted on this framework. The case, with its sloped profile, invites enthusiasts to explore the Brainstorm Chapter Two inner works and indications – a mesmerizing flying tourbillon, a captivating three-dimensional moon phase, and a second time zone indication.