What is retrograde mini?

Retrograde mini is a type of wristwatch complication that can be found in some high-end luxury watches. This type of complication uses a hand that moves in a circular motion to indicate the passage of time, but instead of moving in a continuous arc, the hand jumps back to its starting position at the end of each cycle. This creates a retrograde effect, which is where the complication gets its name from.

Retrograde mini complications can be used to indicate a variety of information such as the date, day of the week, or even the phases of the moon. They are often found in watches that have multiple complications, adding another layer of complexity and functionality to the timepiece.

Some examples of luxury watch brands that utilize retrograde mini complications include Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Breguet. The use of retrograde mini complications is considered to be a hallmark of fine watchmaking and can greatly enhance the value and desirability of a luxury timepiece.