The new Ventura SPARC MGS watch is the result of continued inquiries from watch fans. It features a new scrolling operating system and softer case shape for 2013.
At Baselworld in 2006 Ventura showcased a concept watch that it dubbed a “future timepiece”. But this brief glimpse of what Ventura might have had up its sleeve led to persistent enquiries about the particular design until the brand finally asked its designer Paolo Fancelli to put pen to paper and consolidate the design into a new timepiece.
The result has now been revealed: the SPARC Sigma MGS by Ventura – a generator operated automatic digital timepiece with fresh, fluid design that contrasts the chiselled case of Ventura’s original MGS watch.
As a digital watch, the energy demands of the Ventura are said to be much greater than the average analogue timepiece, owing to its use of liquid crystal display and multiple functions, such as a chronograph, countdown, dual time zones and perpetual calendar.
The solution was Ventura’s creation of its own micro generator system, the MGS, hence the name, which featured in the original SPARC MGS model. The latest version of the 56mm watch features the 11th version of this generator and an upgraded microprocessor that is both Flash programmable and has an energy management system.
This new system also features a motion detector that automatically switches off the liquid crystal display whenever the watch is not in use for more than 50 hours.
The way the watch is used has also been updated, with the SPARC Sigma watch incorporating the EasySkroll operating system, which has a slider that allows the functions of the watch to be viewed, selected and set by means of a single scrolling barrel, much like those that feature on a computer mouse.
To protect all the cutting-edge technology inside the watch, Ventura designed the outside of the timepiece with functional, hard-wearing materials. The cases and bracelets of all Ventura watches are made from a Durinox, a tempered, scratch-resistant stainless steel and the all models are fitted with sapphire crystal.
Ventura takes real pride in its production. A great deal of importance is placed on the assembly of its watches, with each of its craftsmen putting together an entire watch, rather than the watches going through an assembly line. Ventura’s software, movement and modules are also all created in-house, with the brand justifying that it “rightfully and confidently calls itself a Manufacture Electronique”.
To quell the rising demand, the SPARC Sigma MGS was launched last month in a pre-series of 50 numbered pieces. It will be put into regular production after BaselWorld.
THE STATS
• Movement: Automatic digital with chronograph, alarms, dual time zones and perpetual calendar
• Case and bracelet: Durinox hardened steel
• Glass: Two sapphire crystals
• Water resistant: Up to 30m
• Extras: Automatic sleep mode and backlight
• Power reserve: Will shut down after 50 hours of no motion
• RRP: about £3,275
This article originally appeared in the March 2013 issue of WatchPro. To read a digital version of the magazine in full online, click here.
