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To encounter a master of these virtues was considered rare; even
emperors aspired to them. Yet, the honor and reward of a life lived in pursuit
of these values was not out of reach for the ordinary citizen. At Virtus, this
principle of attainability has informed our choices as well. Our goal was to
create a watch situated between the entry to mid-level watch market. We wanted to
make something that was worth possessing – a timepiece that captured the
artistry, history, and quality of high-end brands, but that did not cost the
equivalent of a midsize sedan. To meet this goal required excellent suppliers
and assemblers in Switzerland and China capable of both realizing our vision
and providing consumer service long after the initial purchase.
As for our team, we handled as much as possible in-house including
website development, video production, photo shoots, editing, and marketing,
ancillary work to watch design, but necessary to ensure a low overhead and fair
pricing for our customers. After two years of development, and a continuous
stream of input from friends, family, watch enthusiasts, and trusted suppliers,
I’d like to present you with the V1.
Designed for everyday and formal occasions, the V1 sports a polished
stainless steel case with a 38mm diameter and 10.5mm height dimensions. We
chose 38mm as a nod to vintage timepieces that were of smaller diameter than
their modern-day descendants. The watch remains understated but noticeable. The
movement is held secure by a screw down caseback, ensuring a tight seal for the
5 ATM rated case. The trim crown maintains a slim profile but is large enough
for practical manual winding, date setting, and hand adjustment.
The V1 is issued with a five-link steel bracelet with contrasting
polished and brushed gently curved metal links. The bracelet is secured with a
custom clasp decorated with the Virtus logo. The V1 is also available with a
leather strap complete with a butterfly clasp for formal occasions. The leather
strap is issued in black and brown colors, and features a convenient release
pin for quick changing.
The dial sports a guilloche pattern in jet black and azure colors demarcated
with applied indices. Classic dauphine hands mark the minute and hour. The face
of the watch is protected with a 0.5mm domed sapphire crystal. The reverse
features an exhibition caseback that displays the Sellita SW200-1 in Elaboré
configuration. We chose the Elaboré configuration for its detailed finishing,
three position regulation for accuracy, and Incabloc shock absorber for
durability. Circumscribed on the case is a Latin aphorism: “Vita brevis, ars
longa, occasio praeceps, experimentum periculosum, iudicium difficile.
