Ba1111od is a young Swiss brand with a bold mission. It brings high-end watchmaking complications like the Tourbillon to enthusiasts at a much more attainable price range. Since its founding in 2019, the BA1111od has gained a reputation as a rise in the power of modern Swiss independent watch brands. It combines innovation with a commitment to making high-end watchmaking more accessible. The latest release, Chapter 4 Skeleton Tourbillon Ice White, fully encapsulates its mission. This is a fresh, bright new take on the brand’s existing Chapter 4 skeleton model, offering a more cooler aesthetic twist while maintaining serious watch chops.
44mm BA1111od No. 4.1 TVD from 2022
The next thing to do in Chapter 4…
One thing I learned following my journey with BA1111od is that each clock in the new chapter 4 feels like a step in the evolutionary story. I remember seeing firsthand the previous iterations of the skeletons in Chapter 4. These watches were created in grade 5 titanium cases with dark PVD or DLC finishes for a stealthy, technical look. Initially, it was only available in 44mm foam, but the brand reduced Chapter 4 to a more appropriate 40mm diameter and reintroduced it to last year’s Geneva watch.
Until now, all the skeleton clocks in Chapter 4 were equipped with a dark PVD coating in titanium cases. These versions had a certain edgy charm, but they were undoubtedly aesthetically pleasing on the dark side. Fast forward to ever, and the new Ice White Edition reverses that script completely. By switching to a stainless steel case and adding a bright white dial accent, the BA1111od gave the skeletons fresh energy shock to the skeletons of Chapter 4. It’s visible and bright and light. Once dressed for dark events, the watch now feels like it’s at home in a crisp, modern environment. I’ve even argued that this ice white version is the most fascinating iteration ever. This is because it shows how design can evolve (literally, figuratively) and make it shine brighter.
The beauty of skeletonized movement
The first thing to draw is the open work dial. Ba111od leaned against transparency here and is gorgeous. Anyone who knows me knows I am a clean skeletonized or openwork watch sucker. Chapter 4’s Skeleton Tourbillon Ice White features a semi-skeletonized dial that exposes many of its mechanical heart. The lighter colour scheme of the Ice White variant has less contrast than the previous one, making it slightly worse readability here. But that’s a small point. There are still clear micro-tracks around the dial edge, but most of the dial itself is a complicated web of wheels, gears and bridges. You will notice the 4 o’clock crown. This is an unusual arrangement that has been signed to the brand’s design. I think this off-quilter crown is practical and comfortable as it doesn’t dig into the wrist. Additionally, it gives the case a distinctive silhouette.
And of course there is the show’s star. Tour Billon is visible at 7am. The Ice White displays the mechanism of that tour bellon. This is a hand-winding movement developed by masterwatch maker Olivier Molly, offering an impressive 100-hour power reserve. Looking at it, it exceeds the four-day running time. It’s rolled up on Monday. Friday is still ticking. This is useful for watches that you don’t wear every day.
Straps and wear
While the watch may look amazing in press photos, daily wear is just as important. Previous models always wore well on my 6.75 inch wrists, so I was hoping this new version would do the same thing.
The BA1111od selects four straps/bracelets and adjusts the skeleton ice white from Chapter 4 to your liking. There is a refined stainless steel bracelet that perfectly fits the bold and robust all-steel appearance case. Next, there is a ceramic link bracelet, mixing ceramic and steel elements. If you prefer something more traditional, the Black Saffiano leather strap is a contrast to the modern dial. For sporty vibes, there are white rubber straps that perfectly match the ice white theme, making your watch ready for summer right away.
So let’s talk about details that may not be clear from the photos. If Ice White follows the plans of the other 40mm Chapter 4 model, the lug strap width is only 18mm. On paper, the 18mm wide strap for 40mm watches sounds a little slimmer, while most 40mm watches use 20mm straps. I have mixed feelings about it. The advantage is that the narrower straps can make the watch very comfortable. Less bulk to the sides of the wrist, focusing on the surveillance head. The downside, however, is that for strap junkies, you can find much less 18mm straps than the 20mm option.
Which one is popular?
Between a steel bracelet and a white rubber strap, I think this will be two of the two most popular options, but it comes down to versatility. Steel bracelets become popular for longevity. It also offers a versatile edge with the watch when needed, so you can wear it in a T-shirt or suit and won’t look out of place.
Meanwhile, the white rubber straps transform the watch into a sportier piece. That said, white rubber straps show more dirt, sweat and/or discoloration over time. It’s also more casual. You probably won’t wear rubber straps for business meetings, but you’ll just add a weekend, the beach, or just a lot of flares and it’s perfect. During the summer I wear the majority of my watches on white rubber straps as much as possible. But that’s a very personal preference!
Value Proposal
Talk to the happy elephant in the room, price. Ba111od focuses on lasers on offering Swiss-made tour bilons at unprecedented price ranges, and Chapter 4’s Skeleton Ice White continues that trend. Official Ice White prices start at €8,500/US$9,500/£6,895 (with rubber strap). Looking at it, it is very rare to find a Swiss-made tour billon under the figures of five. These Chapter 4 models are perhaps the most affordable Swiss-made Tourbillon watches (please tell me how wrong I am in the comments!)
A few years ago, when I learned about pricing for the BA1111od, I did a double take. The first chapter 4.1 was around CHF 4,500 (before tax). We’re talking about the complexity of many well-known brands securing ultra-high-end works. Traditionally, the Swiss Masons Tour Billon comes with a price tag that is the size of a small mortgage. It’s not uncommon to see over 50,000 CHF for something with toolbillon on the dial. Even brands known for their value like Tag Heuer made headlines a few years ago to release a “budget” Swiss Tour Billon about $15,000. So BA1111od is a big deal with much less. Ice white doesn’t make important things horns. First, it is designed and created in the heart of Swiss Watch Country (Neuchâtel and Jura Arc). Secondly, it has an internally developed movement by respected watchmakers. Finally, it was completed and assembled with attention to the details you can see through the dial.
It’s still a pretty chunk of Wonga
Certainly, 8.5,000 Euros is still a significant amount on absolute terms. Still, in the context of Swiss Tour Billon, it is an absolute bargain. Opens the door for collectors who have always dreamed of owning a Tour Billon but thought they were out of reach. The entire approach of BA1111 is disruptive. The brand is not satisfied with the old concept that Tourbillons must only belong to the Holy Grail of 100,000 or more, trapped in a safe. Instead, the BA1111od can place one on your wrist at the price of an entry-level luxury Swiss watch. From my point of view, it is huge in terms of highly democratic horology. Big boys probably don’t like me saying that…
ba1111od Final Thoughts Chapter 4 Skeleton Tour Billon Ice White
I’ve not only seen the press release and online images of Chapter 4 Skeleton Toolbillon Ice White from BA1111od, but I think this might be the best version of the Chapter 4 series so far. By introducing a bright aesthetic and sticking to the core principles of brand accessibility, it feels like the BA111od has become a hit in the sweet spot. Ice White combines the “amazing factor” of openwork tourbillon with the everyday wear-resistance of modern sports watches. It’s a kind of work that triggers conversation, but it doesn’t look flashy or overly stunning. In the collection, this watch will be a great addition to anyone who wants to taste high-end watchmaking without the usual 5-6-digit investment. It is also perfect for those who love innovative indie brands. I think I’m always a bit proud to wear something from a company that’s doing something differently.
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