Model: Carlo Ferrara “Le Cirque” Dancing Regulator
Year: Early '00s
Limited Edition: 300 Pieces
Features:
The Origin. First and foremost, this is a regulator - a complication that separates the hours, minutes and seconds across different parts of the dial. But this isn’t your typical regulator. Carlo Ferrara stacked a complication on top of a complication. This is a unique "Dancing Hands" Regulator.
The Movement. On paper, the movement might not look especially exotic. It’s powered by an ETA 2892A2 - a premium ETA calibre used by the likes of IWC, Omega, Breitling and Tudor - but the magic lies in the modification.
The Production. After finalising his patented Dancing Regulator complication, Ferrara relocated his workshop to Switzerland and assembled a small team to help scale production. Though the watches were only produced for around 12 years, I’ve found over 20 distinct pieces, with retail prices ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on case material. It suggests Ferrara opted for the classically independent watchmaking move of prioritising design freedom over steady profits.
The Design. Art History is not my strong suit, so the inspiration behind the distinctive dial design eludes me. It’s clearly modern and interpretative - do the shapes in the middle of the dial depict circus performers putting on an impressive acrobatic display, much like the hands themselves? Possibly, but without an original source, I can only speculate.
The Popularity. In an old interview Mr Ferrara in which he talked about the international interest in his designs. While Europe was obviously his largest market, he noted with great intrigue and delight that Japan, unexpectedly to him, was the second largest.
The Maintenance. For anyone thinking about buying it, but worrying about the unusual movement - fear not as any watchmaker capable of servicing an ETA calibre should be able to handle it. The modified movement runs at 28,800bph and features 32 jewels - eleven more than the standard ETA 2892A2 thanks to the added module. I spoke to a watchmaker in Japan. His verdict? “Looks complicated, but simple to understand and disassemble.” That sounds like the perfect type of complication.
Specifications:
Condition: In very good condition overall. Any marks are small and hard to spot.
Scope: The original box, and a large original storefront display board (this will increase the cost of shipping, so please let me know if you would prefer not to receive it).
Movement: Heavily Modified ETA 2892A2, 28,800bph with 32 jewels
Dimensions:
- Case Width: 39.0mm
- Lug to lug: 45.5mm
- Case Thickness: 10.6mm
