The watch industry is a fascinating blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and storytelling. It's a world where history intertwines with innovation, and where timepieces often serve as tangible links to the past. One brand that embodies this spirit exceptionally well is Cuervo y Sobrinos, a name synonymous with Cuban heritage and Swiss watchmaking prowess. Their latest creation, the Robusto Pedro Murias, is a testament to this unique fusion, and a captivating tribute to a forgotten chapter in Cuban history.
Before we delve into the intricacies of this remarkable watch, let's first take a journey back in time to understand the origins of Cuervo y Sobrinos. Founded in 1882 in Havana, Cuba, the company quickly rose to prominence as a purveyor of fine timepieces and jewelry. The store, located on the prestigious Calle San Rafael, became a haven for discerning clientele, including luminaries like Ernest Hemingway and Winston Churchill. This era, often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Cuba, saw
Cuervo Y Sobrinos flourish, establishing itself as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
Courtesy of Cuervo y Sobrinos
However, the political turmoil of the mid-20th century forced the company to close its doors in Havana. For decades, the brand lay dormant, its legacy seemingly lost to the sands of time. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Cuervo y Sobrinos was revived in the late 1990s, thanks to a group of passionate entrepreneurs who recognized its historical significance and untapped potential. Relocating to Switzerland, the brand seamlessly integrated its Cuban heritage with the precision and expertise of Swiss watchmaking.
This Cuban-Swiss connection is at the heart of every Cuervo y Sobrinos timepiece, and the Robusto Pedro Murias is no exception. This limited-edition watch, crafted in partnership with The House of Grauer – a renowned cigar lounge in Geneva – pays homage to Pedro Murias, a legendary figure in Cuban cigar history. Murias, who began his craft in the 1860s, established a prominent cigar factory in Havana called "La Meridiana." His cigars were celebrated for their quality and craftsmanship, becoming a favorite among aficionados worldwide.
The Robusto Pedro Murias watch beautifully captures the essence of this bygone era. The watch face, in a striking salmon hue, is reminiscent of the original walls of the "La Meridiana" factory, evoking a sense of nostalgia and historical connection. Encircling the dial is a chemin de fer, a classic railroad-style track that adds a touch of vintage charm. The dial itself is clean and uncluttered, allowing the eye to focus on the essential elements.
Courtesy of Cuervo y Sobrinos
The hour and minute hands, silver-toned and generously proportioned, exude a bold presence. Their design, along with the Arabic numerals, is a nod to the classic styling of vintage timepieces. Both the hands and indices are coated with cream Super-LumiNova, ensuring optimal readability in low-light conditions while further enhancing the watch's vintage aesthetic. The small seconds subdial, located above the 6 o'clock marker, maintains the overall balance and symmetry of the design.
The case of the Robusto Pedro Murias is crafted from stainless steel, a material known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Measuring 38.5mm in diameter, it strikes a perfect balance between classic proportions and contemporary wearability. The watch sits comfortably on the wrist, its presence noticeable yet understated. The sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, protects the dial while providing exceptional clarity.
Turning the watch over, we are greeted by an engraved case back featuring the "Sans Souci" logo, a symbol deeply rooted in the Cuervo y Sobrinos heritage. The "Sans Souci" palace, once a renowned entertainment venue in Havana, represents the carefree spirit and joie de vivre that the brand embodies.
The Robusto Pedro Murias is offered with a choice of two straps: a dark brown leather strap with tone-on-tone stitching, or a stainless steel bracelet. Both options complement the watch's overall aesthetic, offering versatility for different occasions and personal styles. The leather strap, in particular, exudes a vintage charm that aligns perfectly with the watch's design inspiration.
Courtesy of Cuervo y Sobrinos
At the core of the Robusto Pedro Murias beats the CYS 5159 movement, based on the reliable Sellita SW 261. This automatic movement, with its 38-hour power reserve, ensures accurate timekeeping and smooth operation. The movement, measuring 25.6mm in diameter and 5.6mm in height, fits perfectly within the watch's 38.5mm stainless steel case. The case size, a modern interpretation of classic proportions, provides a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes.
The SW 261 is a workhorse movement known for its robustness and dependability. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring smooth sweeping of the seconds hand. The movement comprises 31 jewels, which minimize friction between moving parts, contributing to its longevity and accuracy.
One of the visually appealing aspects of the CYS 5159 is the decorated oscillating weight, visible through the sapphire crystal case back. The oscillating weight, also known as the rotor, is responsible for winding the mainspring of the watch as you move your wrist. The engraving on the oscillating weight adds a touch of refinement and showcases the attention to detail that Cuervo y Sobrinos is known for.
Courtesy of Cuervo y Sobrinos
Beyond its technical specifications, the Robusto Pedro Murias boasts a range of features that enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The dial, with its salmon hue and contrasting chemin de fer, is a testament to the brand's commitment to vintage-inspired design. The generously sized hour and minute hands, along with the bold Arabic numerals, ensure excellent legibility. The cream Super-LumiNova coating on the hands and indices not only enhances visibility in low-light conditions but also contributes to the watch's vintage charm. The small seconds subdial, positioned above the 6 o'clock marker, adds a touch of classicism to the overall design. This subdial, a common feature in traditional watchmaking, provides a subtle yet captivating way to track the passage of time.
The Robusto Pedro Murias is water-resistant to 5 ATM, making it suitable for everyday wear and light splashes. While not designed for diving or swimming, it can withstand accidental exposure to water, providing peace of mind for the wearer.
The watch is presented on a choice of two straps: a dark brown leather strap with tone-on-tone stitching, or a stainless steel bracelet. The leather strap, with its vintage appeal, complements the watch's overall aesthetic and provides a comfortable fit on the wrist. The stainless steel bracelet, on the other hand, offers a more contemporary look and added durability. Both options feature a stainless steel pin buckle engraved with the Cuervo y Sobrinos emblem, adding a subtle touch of branding.
Courtesy of Cuervo y Sobrinos
The Robusto Pedro Murias is delivered in a unique packaging – a standard humidor box made of PE 100. This specialized box, typically used for storing cigars, reflects the watch's connection to the House of Grauer and the world of fine cigars. The humidor box not only protects the watch but also adds a touch of exclusivity and sophistication.
Limited to just 100 pieces, the Robusto Pedro Murias is a true collector's item. Its rarity, combined with its captivating design and historical significance, makes it a desirable acquisition for watch enthusiasts and connoisseurs of Cuban heritage. With a retail price of $3,100, it offers exceptional value for a limited-edition Swiss-made watch with such a compelling story.