The brand Manufacture Royale is a bit controversial within the team of ‘the eclecticum’ – some find it a bit of an acquired taste; others appreciate the strong visual identity which combines classical watchmaking virtues with an exuberant modern embodiment. Regardless of this, our team agrees on the high watchmaking quality at Manufacture Royale, and with this piece particularly.

While he did not yet have the pleasure of holding the ‘Opéra’ in our hands, we are familiar with the current collection. The design derivation from the ‘Opéra’ watch is clearly retained in the ’ADN’ or the ‘Androgyne’ collections, as the ‘Androgyne Hulk Green’ shows:

The watches combine complex, almost baroque (and very comfortable) case designs with a modern boldly skeletonised movements, in this case a tourbillon with silicon escapement.

Watches like this we think speak mostly to the more flamboyant amongst the eclectics, to those who don’t dare to wear a ‘flashier’ watch, but who take very much care of overall quality and a consistent concept.

Such collectors definitely have only one benchmark in mind, and this is their taste, and their taste only. A watch has to fit into the concept of their attire like a glove, and the Manufacture Royal watches do this literally – the colour scheme can be customised, and the lugs are movable and bend around the wrist snugly.

Conclusion: We appreciate Manufacture Royale watches as gems for those who live their life to the fullest and seek a watch that likewise ‘lives’: no holds barred yet still designed with taste, impeccable watchmaking, and a pleasure wherever you look.

Clearly not for everyone, but to paraphrase what we have written above: ‘there is only one benchmark, and this is your taste, and your taste only!’

Go for it!

the eclecticum