Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Gerald Charles Releases a Trio of Gem Set Masterlink Models with Stone Dials
Three rare minerals transform the brand's integrated sports watch into a series of unique, naturally sculpted creations.
Stone dials have long held a special place in fine watchmaking. No two are ever alike, each preserving colours, textures and patterns formed over millions of years. For Gerald Charles, working with stone means embracing a challenge. The Masterlink is anything but round, and its asymmetrical silhouette leaves almost no margin for error. See how well the brand manages the task, discover the new Masterlink Gem Set Stone Dial, a trio of limited editions pairing rare natural minerals with the gem-set bezel.
With this release, Gerald Charles expands the Masterlink family of luxury sports watches launched in 2024. The model retains the unmistakable DNA inherited from Gérald Genta’s case design, most notably the distinctive “smile” at 6 o’clock and the layered bezel construction. At 38mm by 38mm and 7.9mm thick, the stainless steel case is comfortable, with 100m water resistance aided by a screw-down crown. As the earlier Masterlink Gem Set references, the white gold bezel is set with 60 baguette-cut gemstones, available in blue sapphires, red sapphires or green tsavorites. Each stone is shaped to follow the irregular geometry of the bezel, creating a perfectly continuous surface despite its complex profile. This time, however, the dial becomes another important focal point.
Gerald Charles offers three natural stones. Aventurine reveals a deep, shimmering surface filled with countless sparkling mineral inclusions. Spectrolite, a rare Finnish variety of labradorite, displays vivid flashes of blue, green and gold that appear and disappear as light strikes the dial. Iron Eye, formed from bands of tiger’s eye, jasper and hematite, delivers dramatic earthy patterns. Producing these dials is considerably more demanding than simply cutting a circular disc from stone. Every mineral block is first examined to identify suitable sections before being machined to Masterlink’s asymmetric profile. The dial is then gradually reduced to 0.55mm thick, a process where breakage rates are exceptionally high. Only a fraction of the original material survives to become a finished dial.
For time indication, each version features matching gemstone hour markers and baton hands filled with Super-LumiNova. This Masterlink series is powered by the ultra-thin calibre GCA5401, developed for Gerald Charles by Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier and visible through the sapphire caseback. Measuring 2.67mm in height, the automatic movement uses an off-centred micro-rotor, beats at 21,600 vibrations/hour and delivers a 50-hour power reserve.
The integrated stainless steel bracelet follows the geometry of the case, beginning with curved links that echo the Maestro’s signature “smile” before transitioning into straighter elements. Alternating brushed and polished finishes, hidden screws and a concealed butterfly clasp keep the clean architectural look that defines the Masterlink.
Limited to just 10 pieces per configuration, each of the new Masterlink Gem Set Stone Dial is priced at CHF 95,000 excl. taxes. More information at geraldcharles.com.
