Cuervo y Sobrinos Asturias Pequenos Segundos

Cuervo y Sobrinos has expanded its offerings with a notable addition to the Historiador line, introducing the Asturias Pequeños Segundos Limited Edition, reference 3102.1LE. This release builds upon the foundation laid by the preceding Historiador Asturias models, presenting a focused interpretation of time-telling distilled to its core functions: hours, minutes, and the distinctly displayed small seconds that give the watch its name. This iteration distinguishes itself further through its exclusive nature, being produced in a highly restricted run.



The story of Cuervo Y Sobrinos is intrinsically linked to Havana, Cuba, during a period of considerable prosperity and cultural vibrancy. Founded in 1882 by Ramón Fernández Cuervo and his nephews (sobrinos), the firm initially established itself as a fine jewelry and watch retailer on Havana's prestigious Quinta Avenida. It wasn't just a shop; it became a destination, a symbol of luxury and discerning taste in the Caribbean's most dynamic city, attracting intellectuals, adventurers, and notable figures from around the globe. Their reputation grew, leading them to not only retail prestigious Swiss brands but also to commission and eventually produce watches bearing their own name, often co-branded with leading Swiss manufacturers before developing their distinct identity.



The brand's historical peak coincided with Havana's golden era in the first half of the 20th century. Cuervo y Sobrinos timepieces from this period reflected the unique "Latin Soul" – a blend of exotic Havana flair and European refinement. They captured the spirit of a time and place known for its opulence, style, and zest for life. However, the Cuban Revolution brought significant changes, and the brand eventually ceased operations, lying dormant for decades, its legacy preserved primarily in the cherished vintage pieces sought after by collectors.



The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a concerted effort to revive this unique horological marque. The resurrected Cuervo y Sobrinos brand sought to recapture the essence of its heritage, blending the historical Latin identity with contemporary Swiss watchmaking expertise. The Historiador collection, to which the Asturias Pequeños Segundos belongs, is central to this revival, drawing direct inspiration from the aesthetics and spirit of the brand's historical models, particularly those from the 1940s and 50s. This collection serves as a bridge between the past glamour of Havana and the present standards of Swiss quality.



The Historiador Asturias Pequeños Segundos Limited Edition adheres to a design philosophy centered on clarity and understatement. It deliberately avoids extraneous complications or decorative elements, focusing instead on presenting the time with straightforwardness. The design language harks back to mid-century sensibilities, where function guided form, resulting in a watch face that is balanced and easy to read. This approach allows the quality of the materials and the subtlety of the details to come to the forefront.



Encasing this refined display is a polished stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter. This size strikes a balance suitable for a variety of wrist sizes, offering presence without being overwhelming, consistent with classic watch proportions updated for modern preferences. The case height is a moderate 10.95mm, allowing it to sit comfortably under a cuff. The surfaces are meticulously polished, reflecting light and highlighting the smooth contours and the characteristic elongated lugs often associated with vintage Cuervo y Sobrinos designs, which curve downwards to enhance wearing comfort.



Protecting the dial is a double-curved sapphire crystal. This feature not only provides superior scratch resistance compared to mineral glass or acrylic but also contributes significantly to the watch's character. The curvature subtly distorts the view of the dial edge at oblique angles, a trait reminiscent of vintage acrylic crystals, adding depth and a touch of warmth to the visual experience. An anti-reflective coating is applied to the crystal's underside, minimizing glare and ensuring that the dial remains clearly visible under various lighting conditions. The case construction provides water resistance up to 5 ATM (50 meters), suitable for everyday wear and exposure to splashes but not intended for swimming or diving.



The focal point of this limited edition is undoubtedly its dial. Presented in a refined cream color, it offers a soft, warm backdrop that deviates from the more common white or silver dials. This specific hue contributes a gentle vintage feel, suggesting parchment or aged paper, enhancing the historical connection. The surface appears smooth and uniform, providing a clean canvas for the time-telling elements.



Arranged around the periphery of the cream dial are applied hour markers. These take the form of sleek, baton-style indexes, treated with rhodium for a bright, silvery finish that contrasts effectively against the warm dial color. Their applied nature adds a sense of dimension to the dial, catching the light differently than printed markers would. At the 12 o'clock position, the brand's historic CyS emblem is similarly applied, serving as a prominent marker and a signature element of Cuervo y Sobrinos timepieces. The careful placement and finishing of these elements ensure effortless legibility.



Positioned prominently at 6 o'clock is the feature that defines the "Pequeños Segundos" – the small seconds sub-dial. In this limited edition, the counter is rendered in embossed silver, creating a subtle textural and color contrast with the main cream dial. Its surface might possess a slightly different finish, perhaps a circular graining or a simple depression, drawing the eye towards the continuous sweep of the seconds hand. This separation of the seconds function onto its own axis is a classic watchmaking convention that contributes to the watch's vintage-inspired character and clean layout.



Indicating the time are the hour and minute hands, crafted in the distinctive "losangé" style. This translates to a diamond shape, appearing somewhat leaf-like but with more defined angles, tapering towards the tips. These hands are rendered in silver to match the indexes and the small seconds sub-dial, maintaining visual coherence across the dial. The small seconds hand, located within the 6 o'clock counter, is a simpler baton shape, ensuring it remains distinct yet unobtrusive, performing its function without detracting from the main time display.



Driving the hours, minutes, and small seconds is the Sellita SW 261 automatic movement. This Swiss-made caliber is known within the industry as a reliable workhorse, derived from the architecture of the widely respected Sellita SW 200 family (itself based on the ETA 2824). The SW 261 is specifically configured for the small seconds display at 6 o'clock. Its automatic winding mechanism means the watch is powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist, winding the mainspring to maintain operation.



The Sellita SW 261 operates at a standard frequency, typically 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), which ensures a smooth sweep of the seconds hand and contributes to good timekeeping accuracy. The movement has a diameter of 25.6 mm and a height of 5.6 mm. When fully wound, it provides a power reserve of approximately 38 hours, meaning it will continue running for about a day and a half off the wrist before needing to be wound again, either manually via the crown or through wear. Its presence underscores the brand's commitment to Swiss mechanical quality.



Adding an element appreciated by enthusiasts, the watch features a see-through case back, fitted with sapphire crystal just like the front. This exhibition window offers a view of the Sellita SW 261 movement within. While based on a widely used caliber, Cuervo y Sobrinos often adds touches of decoration, such as an engraved oscillating weight (rotor) bearing the CyS emblem or other brand motifs. Observing the movement's components, including the balance wheel oscillating rapidly and the rotor spinning with wrist movement, provides a connection to the mechanical nature of the timepiece.



Cuervo y Sobrinos offers this limited edition with two distinct options for securing the watch to the wrist. The first is a strap crafted from chocolate brown matte Louisiana alligator leather. This choice leans into the classic, dressier side of the watch's personality. The matte finish gives it a sophisticated, non-reflective appearance, and the rich brown color complements the warm cream dial beautifully. Alligator leather is prized for its distinctive scale pattern and durability, adding a touch of luxury.



Alternatively, buyers can opt for a stainless steel metal bracelet. This option imparts a more modern and versatile look, making the watch suitable for a wider range of occasions, including more casual settings. A well-integrated steel bracelet can transform the watch's character, giving it a sportier or more robust feel compared to the leather strap, while matching the material and finish of the case. The choice between alligator leather and steel allows the owner to tailor the watch's presentation to their personal style.



Regardless of the strap choice, the watch is secured with a stainless steel folding buckle. This type of clasp offers security and ease of use compared to a traditional pin buckle. Importantly, the buckle is engraved with the CyS emblem, reinforcing the brand identity and providing a final touch of detailed finishing even on the clasp mechanism.



A key aspect of the Asturias Pequeños Segundos Ref. 3102.1LE is its strict limitation. Only 82 pieces are being produced for worldwide distribution. This scarcity immediately elevates the watch beyond a standard production model, marking it as an item for collectors or those who value exclusivity. Each watch is individually numbered, further emphasizing its unique status within the small batch.



The specific number, 82, was deliberately chosen. It serves as a direct tribute to the year Cuervo y Sobrinos was founded: 1882. This explicit link to the brand's inception reinforces the historical narrative that is central to the company's identity. Producing 82 pieces transforms the watch into a commemorative object, celebrating the long lineage stretching back to Ramón Fernández Cuervo's original vision in Havana over 140 years ago. It's a tangible connection to the brand's enduring legacy.



Completing the presentation, the watch is delivered in Cuervo y Sobrinos' Standard Humidor Box (PE 100). While perhaps not a fully functional humidor in the cigar aficionado sense for all packaging levels, the use of a humidor-style box is a deliberate nod to the brand's Cuban roots and the island's famous cigar culture. It adds a unique element to the unboxing experience, further immersing the owner in the brand's distinctive blend of Latin heritage and Swiss watchmaking.



This limited-edition timepiece is likely to resonate with individuals who appreciate mid-century design aesthetics, mechanical Swiss movements, and the allure of a brand with a unique backstory. The combination of the cream dial, small seconds layout, and the choice between classic leather or versatile steel provides broad appeal, while the strict limitation targets those seeking rarity and a connection to the brand's founding history. It's a watch for someone who values understated presentation combined with exclusive availability.



With regards to purchasing, the Asturias Pequeños Segundos Limited Edition carries a retail price of $3,200 USD (or CHF 2,700). Given that only 82 individually numbered examples will be made available globally, acquiring one will require acting promptly through authorized Cuervo y Sobrinos dealers or boutiques.



Case: Polished stainless steel, 40mm diameter, 10.95mm height. Double-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on top, see-through sapphire case back. Water resistant to 5 ATM.

Movement: Sellita SW 261 automatic movement. Diameter 25.6mm, height 5.6mm. Offers a 38-hour power reserve. Features hours, minutes, and small seconds functions. Engraved oscillating weight.

Dial: Cream colored main dial with applied, rhodium-treated baton indexes and applied CyS emblem at 12h. Embossed silver small seconds counter at 6 o'clock. Silver losangé hour and minute hands, baton-shaped small seconds hand.

Strap: Choice of chocolate brown matte Louisiana alligator leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet. Both options include a stainless steel folding buckle engraved with the CyS emblem.

Price: $3,200 USD / CHF 2,700

Reference Number: 3102.1LE

Notes: Strictly limited edition of 82 individually numbered pieces worldwide, commemorating the brand's founding year of 1882. Belongs to the Historiador collection. Delivered in a Standard Humidor Box (PE 100).