ALTO is an independent watch brand created by Thibaud Guittard and launched on 29 April 2024. Its debut, the ART 01, is a faceted titanium watch with a micro-rotor movement and a seconds hand that runs counter-clockwise while the hour and minute hands move normally. The design takes inspiration from 1970s concept cars, according to the brand—not from any single identified car.
What is ALTO, and who makes the ART 01?
ALTO launched in 2024 as the watchmaking project of Thibaud Guittard. In its launch account, the brand names 1970s concept cars among his influences, alongside filmmaker Christopher Nolan, designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and Luca Bassani. Those are the founder’s stated inspirations, rather than a claim that the ART 01 reproduces a particular vehicle. ALTO’s launch account and Monochrome Watches’ launch-era report describe the watch’s wedge-like, faceted form and geometric dial.
What makes the ART 01 different?
A faceted titanium case and distinctive crystal
The First Edition, reference MK1 TI, uses a hand-satin-finished grade 5 titanium case. ALTO lists the case at 40 mm and the watch at 56 g. Its crystal is more than a simple cover: the brand describes a domed outer surface, two lateral bevels set at 17 degrees, and a hemispherically hollowed inner surface. ALTO says it spent more than 300 hours developing the crystal and two years developing the case, which involves over 20 machining steps. Those development figures are manufacturer-reported.
A layered geometric dial
The First Edition dial is made from seven elements of matte black lacquered brass. The layered construction complements the case’s angular profile, giving the dial a sculptural look rather than the flat appearance of a conventional printed face. These construction details are specified on ALTO’s ART 01 First Edition page.
#1 Best Overall
- Self-winding automatic
- Power reserve: approximately 41 hours
- Automatic-self-wind Movement
- Case Diameter: 39.5mm
- Water resistant to 50m (165ft: in general, suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not diving or snorkeling
A01 micro-rotor movement and reverse seconds
ALTO specifies an automatic A01 micro-rotor calibre, conceived by designer Barth Nussbaumer and developed by Cercle des Horlogers in Neuchâtel. The brand lists the movement at 4.04 mm thick and says it can be seen through the caseback; its published specifications also give a 4 Hz frequency and 48-hour power reserve. These movement details are ALTO’s descriptions; the sources cited here do not include separate confirmation from the movement maker.
Yes, the seconds hand runs in reverse: it travels counter-clockwise, while the hour and minute hands continue to move in the usual direction. It is a deliberate visual feature, not an indication that the whole watch runs backward.
Rank #2
- DAY/DATE CALENDAR: stay organized with the convenient day/date calendar displayed on the beautiful blue dial
- STURDY STAINLESS STEEL CASE: designed for durability, this men's watch features a stainless steel watch case that can withstand everyday wear and tear SEIKO QUALITY: handcrafted timepieces for every occasion
- CLASSIC BROWN LEATHER STRAP: the combined sophistication and versatility of a supple leather watch band make these the perfect men’s watches for any occasion
- 50M WATER RESISTANT: whether you're washing your hands or snorkeling off the coast, these men's wrist watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters, providing peace of mind in any situation
- SMOOTH AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT: our self-winding automatic watches for men deliver precise and smooth movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping LUMINOUS HANDS AND MARKERS: even in low light conditions, the luminous hands and markers ensure that you can read the dial indicator
ART 01 editions and specification differences
The name ART 01 covers distinct editions, so specifications should be read against the exact reference. In particular, ALTO’s current First Edition page and Monochrome Watches’ launch-era report differ on case size and water resistance for the original release. The figures below preserve those source distinctions rather than combining them.
| Edition | Reference and case | Dial and movement | Water resistance and other details | Edition size and price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Edition | MK1 TI; grade 5 titanium. ALTO currently lists 40 mm; Monochrome’s launch-era report gives approximately 41 mm. | Seven-element matte black lacquered brass dial; A01 automatic micro-rotor. | ALTO currently lists 3 ATM. Monochrome’s launch-era report gives 30 m. | Monochrome reported 25 numbered pieces and launch prices of CHF 18,450 or EUR 19,100, excluding VAT. These are historical launch-era figures, not verified current prices. |
| Monochrome Black | MK2 TI; grade 5 titanium with DLC coating; 40 mm. | Black FKM strap; A01 micro-rotor. | 5 ATM; 48-hour power reserve, according to ALTO’s current product page. | 30 pieces; current price not stated on ALTO’s product page. |
| Falcon Eye | MK4 AU; yellow-gold-finished case. | Falcon-eye stone marquetry dial; leather strap; A01 micro-rotor. | Not stated on ALTO’s product page. | 12 pieces; current price not stated on ALTO’s product page. |
Sources: ALTO First Edition, Monochrome Watches launch-era report, ALTO Monochrome Black and ALTO Falcon Eye. The First Edition discrepancy may reflect differing reporting or measurement conventions; check the specific reference and seller’s specification before relying on a dimension or water-resistance figure.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Rank #3
- NH35A Movement: Powered by Japanese NH35A movement, 21,600 bph, stop-seconds function, bi-directional automatic winding, 24 jewels, 41-hour power reserve, ensuring accuracy and durability for daily use
- Vintage Design: Inspired by iconic dive watches from the 1970s, this This timepiece features a durable CUSN8 solid bronze case and bezel, stainless steel case back, a combination of brushed and polished finishes for a timeless look
- Sapphire Crystal & BGW9 Super Lume: Scratch-resistant flat sapphire crystal with AR coating, BGW9 Super Lume on indices, hands, and bezel for clear readability in all conditions
- Watch Dimensions: Case diameter 43.8 mm, bezel diameter 41.5 mm, lug to lug length 46.8 mm, case thickness 13.5 mm, crown diameter 7 mm, weight 115 g. lugs 20 mm 200 M, fits wrists 7″ to 8.5″
- Waterproof: Rated for 200 m, suitable for handwashing, swimming, and diving, meeting all daily and underwater activity needs. The screw-down crown and unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel with 120 clicks ensure reliable underwater performance
How much does the ALTO ART 01 cost?
The launch-era price reported by Monochrome Watches for the First Edition was CHF 18,450 or EUR 19,100, excluding VAT. That is a historical launch price, not confirmation of today’s price or availability. No current First Edition price is established in the cited official product page. Prices and stock can vary by edition, region and retailer; the retailer listing for the later Monochrome Black edition should not be treated as evidence of First Edition inventory.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the ART 01 a practical everyday watch?
ALTO lists the First Edition at 3 ATM water resistance, while its Monochrome Black page lists 5 ATM. Those are different edition specifications, not interchangeable ratings. Neither listing supports treating the watch as a dedicated swimming or diving watch. The First Edition’s FKM strap and titanium case offer a light, sporty construction, but the design’s defining appeal is its unusual shape, crystal and reverse-running seconds display.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- NH35A Movement: This tactical frog watch V2 Orange is powered by the 24 Jewels NH35A self-winding movement, Assembled in Japan. Delicate and accurate.Power reserve can last for 41 hours.
- Cool Automatic Watch: Scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass with anti-reflective coating on inner surface; Stainless steel bracelet is adjustable by removing or adding links and fold over clasp with safety. A must have tactical frog watch for collection.
- Diving Watches: Double layer bezel design. Screw down lock for water tight seal and uni-directional outer stainless steel bezel to tell you "under" time easilly. Tactical frog mechanical watch is water resistant to 200M(20ATM). Suitable for professional marine activities, swimming, water sports and daily wearing.
- Luminated Watch: Green Luminious hands, scales and hour markers are featuring Swiss C3 material, which can last for at least 5 hours in dark and is able to quickly absorb and store light energy in a bright environment.
- Fashionable Style: The stylish outlook and vivid colored dial enhanced the sport and dynamic feel. A fashionable watch present for men, a must have for watch collection.
Rank #4
- Case diameter: 43.5mm
- Gold tone second hand
- Water Resistant To 165 Feet
- Power reserve: approximately 41 hours
- 21,600 vibrations per hour
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
