Mastery of sapphire cases is one of the hallmarks of the independent Geneva-based brand Cvstos. In such creations, one might expect the transparency to reveal a bold and intricate mechanical display, showcasing technical virtuosity.
Instead, Cvstos takes a deliberately restrained approach. The movements inside the two new Challenge Purity models are extremely minimal. The real focal point is not the calibre itself, but the light that flows through it. This is a daring choice, as fewer components inevitably draw greater scrutiny. Yet the brand fully embraces it, offering a movement defined by purity and understatement, no seconds display, only central hours and minutes.
This stripped-back mechanical expression is housed in a generously proportioned case (53.7 × 41 mm), allowing the architecture to breathe. Thanks to its limited production volumes, Cvstos can explore refined combinations of tinted sapphire, red, blue, orange, and yellow, with just 10 pieces per color, paired with anodized bridges in matching hues.
The structure remains open and airy, featuring three double-arched bridges supporting the escapement, the gear train, and the barrel at 12 o’clock. Remaining true to its sporty roots, the Challenge Purity is worn on a Cordura strap. It is even rumored that Swiss padel champion Killian Jordan commissioned a bespoke version with a translucent case and red bridges.
Back on clay
The transition from padel to tennis is a natural one, and Cvstos makes it seamlessly. The brand introduces a new edition of its Challenge model created in collaboration with Karen Khachanov, currently ranked 14th in the ATP standings.
While the airy double-bridge structure of the Purity is retained, the execution is distinctly more sport-oriented, thanks to the use of a carbon case. In addition to its durability under the demands of professional sport, carbon significantly reduces weight, making the watch almost unnoticeable on the wrist: just 50 grams including the strap, 1.5 grams lighter than the previous version. This new release stands as a worthy successor to the pioneering model developed in 2025 by CEO Sassoun Sirmakes and Karen Khachanov, which sold out in record time.
Time to unwind
Beyond its high-performance, sport-driven pieces, Cvstos also appeals to connoisseurs of more relaxed pleasures. Two additional limited editions reconnect the brand with universes it has explored with a certain boldness, quite literally: tequila and cigars.
In the case of tequila, Cvstos continues its collaboration with Barajas Tequila, shifting from the Challenge line to the Jetliner collection. Limited to 50 pieces, the “tonneau”-shaped case, fittingly enough, is crafted in bronze, a material that will naturally evolve and develop a patina over time. The dial reflects the aesthetic codes of Barajas, featuring an openworked floral motif, a finely engraved case middle, and specially designed hands shaped like petals. The overall construction is intricate, mirroring the craftsmanship of each Barajas bottle, which is individually hand-painted.
From enjoying to burning, Cvstos takes a final step, this time in swirls of smoke. The brand unveils a limited run of 30 Jetliner PS (Petite Seconde) models in collaboration with Cavalier Genève, known for its handcrafted cigars. Both based in Geneva, the two houses share a deep commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and excellence.
This partnership brings together two worlds, Haute Horlogerie and cigar-making, where mechanical ingenuity meets traditional savoir-faire. Made of steel and accented with red gold elements, the watch incorporates a subtle nod to cigar culture: the 24-carat gold diamond emblem found on cigar wrappers is echoed in the bezel screws.
The movement is finished in a tobacco-inspired tone, while the strap is crafted in Havana-colored leather. And just as each Jetliner Barajas was delivered with a bottle, every Jetliner PS Cavalier Genève will be accompanied by its own cigar and humidor.
