Swiss independent watchmaker Biver has introduced the AB, its first stainless-steel and manually wound timepiece, marking a significant new chapter for the young Maison.
Created in response to requests from collectors who have supported the brand since its inception, the AB represents a departure from Biver’s previous creations. Rather than adapting an existing design, the watchmaker developed an entirely new timepiece, combining a bespoke movement, innovative dial construction and meticulous craftsmanship in a more compact, everyday-wearable form.
Priced at S$119,000 in Singapore, the AB demonstrates how stainless steel can serve as the foundation for an uncompromising expression of haute horlogerie.
Born from a Collector’s Challenge
The idea behind the Biver AB began with a seemingly straightforward request: collectors wanted a Biver watch crafted in stainless steel.
However, fulfilling that request meant more than simply replacing the precious-metal case of an existing model.
Instead, Biver approached the challenge as an opportunity to rethink the watch from the ground up, creating a new movement, dial and case that would retain the Maison’s distinctive standards of craftsmanship while offering greater versatility.
The result is the smallest Biver timepiece to date, measuring just 38mm in diameter and 9.8mm thick.
These refined proportions give the AB a more understated presence on the wrist, making it suitable for everyday wear without compromising the attention to detail associated with the brand’s high-end creations.
The stainless-steel construction also introduces a contemporary, restrained character, allowing the intricate dial and movement to take centre stage.
A New Manual Movement with 120 Hours of Power
At the heart of the AB is the newly developed JCB-004 calibre, Biver’s first manually wound movement.
Designed specifically for the watch, the movement features a double-barrel construction that delivers an impressive 120-hour power reserve, equivalent to approximately five days of running time when fully wound.
This extended autonomy offers practical convenience for a manually wound watch, allowing it to continue operating over several days without requiring daily winding.
A particularly distinctive feature is the power reserve indicator positioned at 12 o’clock.
Rather than using a conventional hand or subdial, Biver has incorporated a golden pin that travels along an arc, providing an elegant visual indication of the remaining energy.
The watch also features a signature zero-reset seconds mechanism, which allows the seconds display to return to zero for more precise time-setting.
Together, these details demonstrate Biver’s emphasis on combining mechanical sophistication with intuitive everyday functionality.
Black Onyx Meets Yellow Gold
The dial is one of the AB’s most striking features, bringing together the deep, polished appearance of black onyx with the warmth of 2N yellow gold.
The contrast between the two materials creates a sophisticated aesthetic that is both contemporary and timeless.
One of the most technically demanding elements is the intricate gold minute track, which is applied directly onto the black onyx surface.
This delicate construction highlights the precision required when working with natural stone, where even the smallest imperfections can affect the finished appearance.
Against the dark backdrop, the gold detailing stands out with exceptional clarity, creating a refined visual balance.
Hours, minutes and small seconds are displayed with deliberate simplicity, allowing the materials and craftsmanship to remain the focus.
The result is a dial that feels restrained at first glance but reveals remarkable complexity upon closer inspection.
Haute Horlogerie Finishing Without Compromise
Although the AB introduces stainless steel to Biver’s collection, the Maison has maintained the same demanding finishing standards found in its Carillon Tourbillon and Automatique timepieces.
The movement’s mainplate and bridges are crafted from PD210, a palladium-rich white gold alloy chosen for its natural lustre and distinctive properties.
Unlike conventional movement components that may require surface plating, PD210 retains its appearance without additional coating.
This material choice reinforces Biver’s commitment to creating watches in which even the components hidden beneath the dial receive exceptional attention.
The movement’s construction and finishing reflect the Maison’s belief that true haute horlogerie extends beyond visible decoration to encompass every aspect of a watch’s design and execution.
By pairing precious-metal movement components with a stainless-steel exterior, the AB creates an interesting contrast between understated appearance and elaborate internal craftsmanship.
One Watchmaker, One Complete Timepiece
Another defining characteristic of the Biver AB is its approach to assembly.
Each watch is assembled from beginning to end by a single watchmaker, rather than being passed through multiple assembly stations.
This individual is supported by a dedicated team of engineers, decorators and quality specialists, whose combined expertise contributes to the finished timepiece.
Singapore Pricing
The Biver AB retails for S$119,000, inclusive of tax.
