Watch Paparazzi

Entrepreneur Jean-Claude Biver spotted wearing Rexhep Rexhepi

Few objects in contemporary watchmaking carry the weight of provenance that this particular piece does. Jean-Claude Biver — the man who revived Blancpain, transformed Hublot, and shepherded TAG Heuer's renaissance — is seen here wearing the platinum number 1 from Rexhep Rexhepi's Akrivia atelier in Geneva. That Biver holds this specific piece is no coincidence: he was among the earliest and most vocal champions of Rexhepi's talent, lending crucial credibility to an atelier that had yet to build a market track record.

The watch itself is a study in disciplined restraint. The platinum round case, estimated at approximately 39–40mm, frames a white enamel-style dial with a distinctly architectural stepped chapter ring — a Rexhepi hallmark that creates depth without ornamentation. Roman numerals at the cardinal hours anchor the layout, while a small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock carries the brand's signature sector-style printed numerals. The crown sits at 12 o'clock, a deliberate aesthetic choice that underscores the dial's vertical symmetry. The cream/off-white textured strap — likely galuchat or fine leather — complements the cool grey of the platinum case with considered elegance.

Rexhep Rexhepi founded Akrivia in 2012 after training at Patek Philippe and F.P. Journe. His movements are entirely hand-finished using traditional Geneva techniques: anglage, perlage, and côtes de Genève applied by his own hands. Each watch takes months to complete, and annual production is measured in single digits to low double figures. This scarcity, combined with movement quality that draws direct comparisons to Journe's early pieces, has created fierce secondary market demand.

Biver's ownership of platinum number 1 is a collector's footnote that elevates an already significant object into horological history. It represents the moment an industry elder formally endorsed a new generation — a passing of the torch captured in a single wristwatch.

On the secondary market, Akrivia pieces regularly trade at multiples of their already substantial list prices. Platinum references in particular, given platinum's production complexity and Rexhepi's limited output, command significant premiums. This specific piece, as number 1 with Biver provenance, is effectively priceless at auction.