Raymond Weil releases 5 new models to their Millesime 35mm collection, with three models in the time only central seconds and a two additional new models with moonphase display.
Press Release information with commentary in italics.
New: Raymond Weil Millesime 35mm
The Raymond Weil Millesime 35mm have the following retail pricing:
- Ref 2125-STC-65001 – CHF 1,575 / EUR 1,695 / USD 1,650 (excl. taxes)
- Ref 2125-SCS-50011 – CHF 1,925 / EUR 2,075 / USD 2,025 (excl. taxes) with lab grown diamonds
- Ref 2125-P5-45001 – CHF 1,850 / EUR 1,995 / USD 1,950 (excl. taxes)
- Ref 2145-SCS-05511 – CHF 2,450 / EUR 2,650 / USD 2,575 (excl. taxes) with lab grown diamonds
- Ref 2145-PC5-05650 – CHF 2,225 / EUR 2,395 / USD 2,325 (excl. taxes)
Commentary
What struck us with the new Raymond Weil collection is the simple beauty exuded by all the models. The Millesime collection was first revealed this year, during WWG, they showed a tri-compax chronograph and a basic automatic with central seconds hands and a sector dial. These were released in 39.5mm cases.
And for this novelty release, the time only models and the moonphase are released in a smaller 35mm case size. Three new 35mm models are released with automatic central seconds (Ref. 2125) and two additional 35mm models are released with automatic moon phase (ref. 2145)
Raymond Weil’s literature avoids saying that the watches are meant for the ladies, though everything from the diamond (lab grown) set horn on one of the models in each of the two references, to the lifestyle images released, screams that this is intended as a ladies watch. But we think the non-gemset versions might be a welcome size for the gentleman who have smaller wrists of just prefer smaller watches. Even the gemset version might be of interest to said gentlemen as well, especially as the detail is rather discrete and well done.
The aesthetics of the watches are gorgeous. The sector dial on the Ref. 2125 series are subtle yet powerful statements on the impact possible by just good layout, proportions and play of colour. This is an extension to the ones already released at WWG, and now adds three new dial colours in silver, denim blue, and burgundy
The moonphase models in the Ref. 2145 is also a line extension to the WWG release with new dial colours in denim blue and silver. It uses the same base sector dial layout with all the attributes we attach to the Ref. 2125, but with the added moonphase display. Raymond Weil does not discuss the accuracy of the moonphase display, and we do find the engraved face on the moon to be a bit disturbing.
The movements used, the Cal RW4200 and the Cal RW4280 appear to be based on the Selitta. A fair use case at this price point. Movement finish from the photographs look like competently executed at a high engineering level, with little emphasis on haute horlogerie finnisage.
A curiosity for us is that Raymond Weil choses to stay with gold plating instead of offering the option of solid gold cases. We understand that this in keeping with the pricing targets that Elim Bermhein, CEO and third generation in the family owner. But we would have thought that a solid gold case, of course in an appropriate price premium, will be of interest to some.
Release details
Building on the prestigious win in the ‘Challenge’ category at the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), an accolade that is both validation and motivation on the eve of the brand’s 50th anniversary, Raymond Weil’s millesime collection stands at the forefront of their mission to resonate with the new generation and all who appreciate exceptional yet accessible Swiss watchmaking.
In 2023, Raymond Weil launched the millesime collection as a tribute to Swiss horological tradition. Aligned with the ‘neo-vintage’ trend, it blends timeless elegance – characterized by its sectorized dial and geometric lines – and refined finishes, achieving a thoughtful balance between tradition and modernity.
In April 2024, marking the brand’s debut at Watches & Wonders, Raymond Weil unveiled 11 new references across three key expressions: new colorways for the 2023 GPHG award-winning model; an elegant new 35mm diameter; and two horological complications – the tri-compax chronograph and a moon phase.
Today, to celebrate this first year of success, the millesime collection introduces five new 35mm creations: three models feature a central second hand, while two showcase a moon phase complication decorated with a human face radiating optimism.
“Millesime represents a new chapter for Raymond Weil, connecting with a clientele that values timeless elegance. These watch enthusiasts are looking for superior quality, expert craftsmanship, and a design that harmonizes classic and modern aesthetics, with refined finishes—all at an accessible price point. This is a great opportunity, and we fully embrace it,”
Elie Bernheim, CEO and third-generation leader of the Raymond Weil family firm, who brings a fresh and innovative vision to the brand.
Each of the five new references reveals a subtle take on modernity:
- A tone-on-tone version with a stainless steel case around a silver dial, creating a striking play of metallic reflections;
- A trendy Burgundy dial, enhanced by a rose gold PVD steel case, offering delicate, sophisticated contrasts;
- Two designs with denim-blue dials – one showcasing a poetic moon phase and the other a central second hand – both accented by lugs set with lab-grown diamonds;
- Finally, a fifth model with clean, graphic lines that highlight the moon phase set against a silver dial, housed in a rose gold PVD case, capturing timeless watchmaking elegance.
Quality, craftsmanship, passion define these models, embodying the spirit of an independent, contemporary, and accessible watchmaking brand that transcends trends: Raymond Weil. These five new references are priced from CHF 1,575 to CHF 2,450.
A YEAR OF SUCCESS
One year after unveiling the first six references of its millesime collection, Raymond Weil revisits this already-iconic line with five new creations in a refined 35mm diameter. The millesime collection embodies understated luxury, blending character, simplicity, horological tradition, modernity, refined finishes, and Swiss quality.
This new sizing arrives in the autumn, further enriching the collection while maintaining a price range between CHF 1,575 and CHF 2,450.
DESIGN & VERSATILITY
An ergonomic and versatile design, sophisticated dials: Raymond Weil’s millesime collection – whose 39.5mm Petite Seconde model won at the 2023 GPHG – now broadens its appeal to those with smaller wrists and all lovers of fine Swiss mechanical watchmaking.
This new 35mm line features five references revolving around the two key models: the 2125, featuring a central second hand; and the 2145, distinguished by a poetic moon phase. The 2125 is available in three dial hues (silver, denim blue, and Burgundy) with geometric lines and a sectorized dial. The 2145, with its more poetic aesthetic, evokes the eternal connection between the measure of time and the graceful movement of celestial bodies in the nighttime sky. This model is offered in contrasting combinations: rose gold PVD steel with a silver dial or steel with a denim-blue dial. Both the 2125 and the 2145 in stainless steel with denim blue dial add a sleek sparkle with a modern touch of lugs set with 16 lab-grown diamonds.
THE NEW MODELS, UP CLOSE
2125: Three trendy, exceptionally wearable, modern yet classic color options join the millesime collection in a refined 35mm diameter. Each version features a high-quality stainless steel case. The sectorized dial displays the time with precision, with silvered hour and minute hands and Super-LumiNova®-coated indexes for optimal legibility in low light. The vintage-inspired design is further enhanced by a ‘glassbox’ sapphire crystal that brings out the intricate dial finishes.
2145: This new millesime moon phase model, powered by the automatic RW4280 movement, offers a comfortable 41-hour power reserve. The moon phase complication is expressed on two distinct dials, each with its own character. The first, with its rose gold PVD steel case and silver dial with Arabic numerals, emphasizes graphic and classic horology codes. The second, with its combination of a steel case with a denim-blue dial and lugs set with 16 lab-grown diamonds, offers a sleek, modern design. The 35mm millesime moon phase marks a fresh take on this iconic horological function: with its visually striking, sectorized dial, this model offers a reading of the lunar phases that is both dynamic and intuitive.
CRAFTSMANSHIP & ATTENTION TO DETAIL
While its particular aesthetic is instantly recognizable, the millesime collection maintains the brand’s throughline of exceptional craftsmanship in this segment. Be it with one of the fine leather straps featuring W-shaped stitching or the ergonomic steel bracelet (with a rose gold PVD option), each watch impresses from Raymond Weil’s signature high-quality finishes. Every detail reflects a meticulous dedication to craftsmanship, from the smooth chapter ring and spiral minute track to the vertically satin-brushed central section of the dial.
It all comes together in a watch that is bound to appeal to aficionados of fine Swiss watches and watchmaking, while remaining accessible and easy to wear.