Swiss independent watchmaker ID Genève Watches introduces the Circular C – SDG, an ultra-limited creation where only 17 timepieces exist worldwide. Launched during Climate Week in New York to mark ten years of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the release redefines what a luxury watch can represent. Rather than focusing solely on mechanics, the maison aligns high-end horology with measurable global impact. It is a collector’s piece shaped by purpose as much as precision.
The concept is intentional and symbolic: 17 watches for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Each timepiece is individually numbered from 1 to 17, directly corresponding to a specific global objective. This structure transforms ownership into stewardship, tying the wearer to a defined commitment. Scarcity here is not marketing theatre, but a reflection of focused intent.
The dial reinterprets the iconic SDG colour wheel as a vivid gradient, creating immediate visual recognition. Its chromatic spectrum flows seamlessly across the surface, delivering both expressive energy and restrained Swiss design discipline. The aesthetic balances contemporary boldness with architectural clarity. The result is a watch that communicates mission without sacrificing refinement.
Unlike conventional limited editions, the Circular C – SDG is not acquired through a standard retail transaction. Prospective owners are invited to apply, demonstrating initiatives or work that reflect the specific goal represented by their piece. This earned-not-bought philosophy shifts exclusivity away from wealth and toward tangible contribution. The watch becomes a marker of alignment rather than status.
Material engineering reinforces its circular ethos. The bezel and dial are crafted from regenerative carbon developed with CompPair, emphasising durability with reduced environmental impact. The case is produced from 100% reprocessed stainless steel, paired with a sapphire crystal composed of 70% recycled material and engraved with all 17 SDG entities. Powering the timepiece is a refurbished Swiss automatic movement sourced from historical stock, favouring restoration over new extraction.
Impact extends beyond construction. A portion of proceeds supports initiatives advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring financial commitment mirrors conceptual intent. The watch therefore operates across three dimensions: aesthetic symbolism, material circularity, and structured contribution. It stands as a case study in how sustainable luxury can integrate credibility at every level.
