Indie zone

AN antidote to the stifling uniformity of mainstream luxury brands, niche independent watch brands - the top-rated ones, at least - offer fresh perspectives and emotive creations. This is usually demonstrated by their modus operandi. Comprising small, highly creative outfits free from conglomerate rule, these brands are known for inventive timepieces conceived from tight creative control. The horological equivalent of farm-to-table dining, if you like.

Laurent Ferrier is a brand that embodies such intimate, effervescent creativity. Its namesake founder is an esteemed master watchmaker who started his eponymous label five years ago after retiring from Patek Philippe. Known for putting refined twists on traditional watchmaking, Ferrier's new Galet Square pays homage to cushion-shaped watches from the 1920s.

An exercise in sensuality, the watch's case, bezel, sapphire crystal and lugs meld in a curvaceous, harmonious whole. The profile is especially beautiful when viewed from the side. Elsewhere, the clean and minimalist dial exemplifies Laurent Ferrier trademark classic-meets-modern aesthetic, while underneath is a lauded in-house automatic movement with micro-rotor and three-day power reserve - the same one that powers the brand's debut Galet Micro-Rotor collection.