Raymond Weil Millesime Automatic Small Seconds anthracite dial steel bracelet 39,5 mm

Millésime Small Seconds

Since its recognition at the 2023 Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in the “Challenge” category, the Millésime collection has established itself as a pillar of Raymond Weil's watchmaking revival. True to the spirit of the Maison, this line celebrates the heritage of Swiss watchmaking through a sober, structured aesthetic entirely focused on quality craftsmanship.

The 2930-ST-60001 model, with its anthracite dial and stainless steel bracelet, embodies a more daring, more urban version of this modern icon. Far from unnecessary embellishments, this watch boasts a graphic purity and consistency that is rare in the mechanical watch segment under $2,000.

Design

The sectorized dial is undoubtedly the most striking feature of this model. It echoes the three concentric zones that are so characteristic of the collection:

• The outer seconds track, punctuated by precise markers.
• A discreet but textured spiral minute track.
• A vertically brushed center, contrasting subtly with the perfectly smooth hour track.

These alternating textures, set beneath a domed sapphire crystal glassbox, offer a refined play of light that changes with the angle of the wrist. It is not a spectacular effect, but an elegant visual breath, emphasized by a discreet engraved central cross that articulates the structure of the dial.

At 6 o'clock, the small seconds are set in a recessed disc surrounded by a finely engraved relief. This visual depression creates a natural depth without compromising legibility. No element is overloaded: everything is delicately organized into a hierarchy.

The silver-plated, faceted dauphine hands, coated with Super-LumiNova®, offer optimal visibility even in the dark. They blend perfectly with the monochrome dial.

Case and bracelet: masterful contrasts

The 39.5 mm stainless steel case strikes a perfect balance between presence and finesse. At 10.25 mm thick, it slips easily under a sleeve while maintaining a substantial feel on the wrist. Its Glassbox profile, inspired by vintage watches from the 1940s, accentuates the verticality of the dial without ever weighing down the watch.

The finishes alternate subtly: a vertically satin-finished bezel, a discreetly polished bevel, and polished lugs on the top and satin-finished on the sides. These plays of light reinforce the high-end look, rarely seen in this price range.

The whole is supported by a flexible and ergonomic five-link steel bracelet, whose central links are polished to play with the light, while the outer links are brushed for balance. It is equipped with a secure, easy-to-adjust and very comfortable double-push-button folding clasp.

Movement

The watch is powered by the RW4251 caliber, a Swiss automatic movement based on the Sellita SW261-1, renowned for its robustness, longevity, and ease of maintenance. It offers:

• Hours, minutes, and small seconds display
• A frequency of 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
• A power reserve of 38 hours

This is not a decorative caliber, but it is visible through a sapphire case back, revealing an oscillating weight engraved with the “W” monogram, which is discreet and consistent with the rest of the design. The watch is water-resistant to 50 meters, making it a reliable everyday companion.