Ceon GR-01 Ultra-Thin Magnetic Clasp

Quick Questions

What makes the Ceon GR-01 stand out among independent watches?
How does the magnetic clasp on the Ceon GR-01 work?
Is the Ceon GR-01 worth its CHF 15,000 price tag?
What movement powers the Ceon GR-01 and why choose it?
Where can I buy the Ceon GR-01 and how long is the wait?

Independent watchmaking often emerges from the most unexpected corners of the globe, and Brazil is now making a bold statement with the Ceon GR-01. Created by Ricardo A. Gracioli, founder of Ceon Watch Co. in Curitiba, this ultra-thin integrated timepiece is a testament to design ingenuity and meticulous hand-finishing. What truly sets it apart is not just its origin but its pioneering use of materials and a revolutionary magnetic clasp system.

Design and Case: Brazilian Tool Steel

The GR-01 presents a sleek industrial aesthetic with a 38mm diameter, 44mm lug-to-lug, and a mere 6mm thickness. The case, dial, and bracelet are machined from VC-150, a heat-treated martensitic tool steel originally used in steam turbine blades. This material provides the strength required for such a slim construction while becoming ferromagnetic after quenching—a property cleverly exploited for the clasp mechanism.

The three-piece case is secured by eight studs and screws, with heads aligned at cardinal points. It features a sapphire crystal, though water resistance is not officially rated, as the focus remains on design and finishing.

Finishing and Dial

Every component undergoes hand sanding and lapping for a mirror polish, followed by stonewashing to achieve a matte finish that reveals underlying luster in changing light. Chamfers are hand-polished using pegwood and diamond paste. The high polish serves a functional purpose as well: VC-150 is less corrosion-resistant than 316L steel, and the mirror finish reduces pitting. A chemical process forms a protective chromium oxide layer on all parts.

The dial, also crafted from VC-150 steel, is minimalist with polished Dauphine hands and a chapter ring featuring four sectors. A recessed small seconds subdial sits at 6 o’clock, accompanied by the maker’s signature, R. A. Gracioli.

Movement: Peseux 7001

Powering the GR-01 is the hand-wound Peseux 7001, a slim movement introduced in 1971. At just 2.5mm thick, it beats at 21,600 vph and offers 42 hours of power reserve, enabling the watch’s slim profile while remaining reliable and serviceable.

Innovative Magnetic Clasp

The bracelet clasp is a standout feature. Instead of a traditional folding mechanism, it uses a single magnet and precisely machined guide pins. The VC-150 steel becomes ferromagnetic after heat treatment, enabling this design. To protect the movement from magnetic fields, the caseback is carefully calculated in thickness, and a 0.2mm permalloy sheet provides an extra shield. The clasp is just 3mm thick, maintaining the bracelet’s continuous profile.

Availability and Price

The Ceon GR-01 is available only through direct inquiry with the atelier. Interested buyers must submit a declaration of interest, then discuss the project with Gracioli. Each watch is built to order in Brazil, with an estimated delivery time of around six months. The price is CHF 15,000.

Technical Specifications

Case: 38mm diameter x 6mm thick, 44mm lug-to-lug – heat-treated VC-150 Brazilian tool steel – sapphire crystal – closed caseback – water resistance not rated
Dial: machined VC-150 steel – polished Dauphine hands – small seconds at 6 o’clock
Movement: Peseux 7001 – hand-wound – 17 jewels – 21,600vph – 42-hour power reserve – hours, minutes, small seconds
Bracelet: integrated VC-150 steel bracelet – hand-finished – proprietary magnetic clasp – 21mm
Availability: built to order by Ceon Watch Co. in Brazil
Price: CHF 15,000

For watch enthusiasts seeking a unique independent piece, the Ceon GR-01 offers a compelling blend of Brazilian craftsmanship, innovative materials, and a distinctive magnetic clasp. Its ultra-thin profile and hand-finishing make it a noteworthy addition to the global independent watch scene.