Raymond Weil · Freelancer RW1212 Anthracite Skeleton 40 mm
The model in detail
Meet the watch
At six o’clock on this Freelancer, a balance moves rather than a seconds hand. The distinction matters: the regulator’s oscillations show that the mechanism is running, but using them to count seconds like a normal hand is awkward. Reference 2786-ST-60000 is the 40 mm anthracite skeleton version on a steel bracelet. The current catalogue labels it New; the official listing gives no exact premiere date, so this is a model review rather than a report of a launch taking place today.
The RW1212 is an automatic mechanical calibre: its rotating rotor uses wrist movement to replenish the mainspring’s energy. The instructions also provide for hand winding after unscrewing the crown. Stated reserve is 41 hours and the movement itself is 5.47 mm high. The specific reference’s page does not give frequency or jewel count; values from a similar version should not be transferred without confirmation. Skeletonisation alone establishes neither a higher frequency nor improved accuracy.
The open construction makes it possible to follow the layout. From the dial side, the barrel is visible at the top, the gear train below it and the balance under its bridge at the bottom. The balance and spring oscillate back and forth, setting the escapement’s rhythm. This is not a tourbillon: a supporting bridge does not mean that a carriage containing the entire escapement rotates. The transparent caseback shows the other side of the construction and the winding rotor, which partly obscures the view as the watch turns.
EnlargeThe reverse of the RW1212: an openworked winding rotor and visible balance beneath the transparent back.
© RAYMOND WEIL Genève · SourceDetails and limitations
The steel case measures 40 × 10.6 mm. Sapphire with antireflective treatment on both sides and bright nickel-plated hands with white Super-LumiNova help separate the time from the anthracite components. An open background is inevitably busier than a calm, solid dial, however; when trying it on, check legibility at the angle and in the light in which you usually read your watch. A 100 m water-resistance rating and screw-down crown offer useful everyday protection. After adjustment, the crown must be screwed back in as instructed.
EnlargeBracelet reference 2786-ST-60000 on the wrist in the brand’s official shoot; this is not an editorial fitting.
© RAYMOND WEIL Genève · SourceThe official Swiss storefront lists 2786-ST-60000 at CHF 3,495. The strap version has a different reference, so its price cannot automatically be applied to the bracelet model. The bracelet closes with a folding clasp featuring two security pushers. The main everyday compromise is the 41-hour reserve: remove the watch on Friday evening and it will stop before Monday morning without additional winding. Its primary attraction is the opportunity to observe its mechanics, rather than a long list of complications.
