Gerald Genta Tourneau "Squelette" Automatic 36mm ref.G1513 cal.5032 from 1980s

Long before Gérald Genta became a name recognized by virtually every watch enthusiast, his own manufacture was producing some remarkably expressive watches. The Squelette ref. G1513 is a particularly interesting example: an elegant automatic skeleton watch produced principally during the 1980s, with variations of the reference continuing into the 1990s, the G1513 appears in several remarkably different configurations. Examples are known in yellow gold, two-tone yellow and white gold, with tortoiseshell or precious-stone details, and with diamond setting—suggesting that the reference served almost as a canvas for different retailers and clients.

This particular example was retailed by Tourneau and is especially discreet in its identity. Rather than prominently displaying the Gérald Genta name on the dial, the signature is discovered within the movement itself. It gives the watch an intriguing anonymity from the front: its origins become apparent only when examining the mechanics more closely. At its center is the automatic caliber 5032, extensively skeletonized, engraved and decorated. Very little of the conventional dial remains.

Viewed from the back, Its broad rotor and substantial bridge give it an appearance somewhat reminiscent of the Frédéric Piguet caliber 70 and other refined ultra-thin automatic movements of the period. The comparison is primarily visual rather than mechanical, but both share that wonderful late-20th-century approach in which a relatively compact automatic mechanism. The jewelry component is equally important. A diamond-set bezel surrounds the exposed mechanics, while the crown is finished with a diamond cabochon.

Brand: Gerald Genta
Model: Squelette
Reference: G1513
Year of Manufacture: late 1980s
Serial Number: 16514
Material: 18k yellow gold
Dimensions: 36mm
Crystal Material: Sapphire
Luminous Material: N/A
Movement: cal.5032
Type of Movement: Automatic
Bracelet Size: 18mm 5mm inside lug
Bracelet: Gerald Genta, original 18k buckle
Box/Papers: None
Mechanical Functioning Guarantee: 6 Months

comments: watch working properly, service history unknown.