Sponsored: Meet the Gerald Charles Masterlink Gem-Set Limited Edition
Gerald Charles this month introduced the Masterlink Gem-Set Limited Edition, a new evolution of the Maison’s asymmetric integrated bracelet watch. For the first time, the Masterlink appeared with gem-set bezels, expanding the line while maintaining its distinctive design codes.
The release included three versions: one with baguette-cut blue sapphires, one with red sapphires, and one with green tsavorites. Each bezel was invisibly set with 66 custom-cut stones to match the asymmetric case shape. Every version was limited to just 10 pieces worldwide.
Legacy and Development
The Masterlink followed the path set by the Sarawak, a one-of-a-kind watch designed by Gérald Charles Genta in 2007 for the Royal Family of Sarawak. With more than 15 carats of diamonds and rubies, it remained Genta’s only known asymmetric integrated bracelet design.
“The Sarawak was the first and only known asymmetric integrated bracelet timepiece created by Mr. Genta, and from its legacy began the journey that led to the Masterlink — the first asymmetric integrated bracelet watch available on the market at the time,” said Gerald Charles CEO Federico Ziviani at launch.
Design and Construction
The watch featured a 38mm asymmetrical case derived from the Maestro silhouette, complete with the curved “smile” at 6 o’clock. The integrated bracelet was the first for the Maison, designed with hidden screws and a concealed butterfly clasp to ensure a continuous flow from case to bracelet.
At 6 o’clock, the central links curved with the case before gradually straightening, while at 12 o’clock they extended the top line of the bezel. Vertical brushing on the central links echoed the dial’s striped motif, which was constructed in two layers for added depth.
Movement and Technical Details
The Masterlink Gem-Set was powered by the extra-thin automatic Caliber 1.0 with micro-rotor, measuring just 2.7 mm in thickness. Visible through the sapphire case back, the movement featured snailing, Côtes de Genève, and circular graining, and provided a 50-hour power reserve.
The case measured 7.9 mm thick overall and was water-resistant to 100 meters. A screw-down crown with Clous de Paris finishing reinforced durability, while the watch carried Ergonteq certification for ergonomics and comfort.
“This was not an ostentatious piece, but the ultimate in discreet luxury,” Ziviani explained. “Luxury meant comfort, and the Masterlink was designed to feel perfect, no matter the occasion — even while swimming.”
Technical Specifications
Name: Masterlink Gem-Set
References: ML1.0-SSPS-WG31-18GS-SBCL (blue sapphires) · ML1.0-SSPS-WG32-18GS-SBCL (red sapphires) · ML1.0-SSPS-WG43-18GS-SBCL (tsavorites)
Case: 38mm asymmetrical, 316L stainless steel, white gold bezel with 66 baguette gemstones
Movement: Swiss Manufacture Caliber 1.0, automatic micro-rotor, 29 jewels, 50-hour power reserve, thickness 2.67 mm
Dial: Silver, two-level vertical sunburst finish, applied gemstone indexes
Bracelet: Proprietary integrated stainless steel, polished/satin-brushed, concealed clasp, 3 sizes with micro-link adjustment
Water Resistance: 100m (10 ATM)
Thickness: 7.99 mm
Limited Edition: 10 pieces per gem color
Retail Price: Upon request
The Masterlink Gem-Set Limited Edition brought gemstone bezels to Gerald Charles’s first asymmetric integrated bracelet watch, extending the line with three highly limited variations. Pricing is available upon request.
To learn more, visit Gerald Charles, here.
