Back in 2019, Franck Muller unveiled the Vanguard Ecrypto as the world’s first functional Bitcoin watch. Despite some still feeling apprehensive about the cryptocurrency, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has maintained its faith in Bitcoin – having revealed a new titanium timepiece that doubles as a cold storage Bitcoin wallet.
Named “Free The Money. Free The World”, the limited edition watch also comes as a ‘Deep Cold Storage’ Set. For the uninitiated, “cold” refers to being offline, meaning that the owners’ Bitcoin will be stored in an offline “cold wallet” instead of anywhere on the internet.
The 41mm black DLC-coated brushed titanium watch also sports a unique QR Code public address etched into the dial and a sealed USB containing the private key. This allows you to add Bitcoins to the wallet or check your balance.
Frank Muller goes sleek and sporty for the new Encrypto, fitting the watch with a matching black leather strap. Right in the centre of the dial is the Bitcoin logo, enhanced by eye-catching green and white accents. Powering the timepiece is a Swiss automatic Calibre FM 0800 movement which offers 42 hours of power reserve.
The timing for this latest release couldn’t have been better, as the price of a single Bitcoin hit an all-time high at US$49,951 in February, sending major firms flocking to the cryptocurrency and financial analysts into fully believing that Bitcoin is more than just hype.
And of course, the new Franck Muller Encrypto can only be purchased via Bitcoin or the watchmaker’s e-commerce platform for CHF12,000 (around RM53,155), and is available in only 500 pieces.
Photos: Franck Muller