The world of haute horlogerie is a realm of precision, craftsmanship, and innovation, and the Ferdinand Berthoud brand has been making waves since its revival in 2015. With a remarkable trajectory, the brand has captured the attention of collectors and industry experts alike, solidifying its place as a force to be reckoned with.
Today, we delve into the latest chapter of this fascinating brand's story: the Mesure du Temps 1787 collection, specifically the Chronomètre FB 2TV Flying Tourbillon. This timepiece is not just a watch; it's a masterpiece, a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to chronometry and an ode to the rich history of horology.
The Evolution of a Brand
The Ferdinand Berthoud brand, under the stewardship of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and his teams, has achieved remarkable success in a relatively short time. Its inaugural model, the Chronomètre FB 1, made a grand entrance by winning the prestigious Aiguille d'Or award at the GPHG. This was just the beginning of a string of accolades and widespread praise from collectors, solidifying the brand's reputation for exceptional design and craftsmanship.
The Naissance d'une Montre 3 project further elevated the brand's stature, showcasing its ability to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Now, as the brand celebrates its first decade, it's time to embark on a new journey with the Mesure du Temps 1787 collection.
A Movement Inspired by History
The Chronomètre FB 2TV Flying Tourbillon is a direct descendant of the brand's iconic FB-T.FC calibre, found in the Chronomètre FB 1. However, this movement is not just a replica; it's an evolution. The fusee-and-chain mechanism and tourbillon, signature Berthoud features, have been entirely reengineered, resulting in a movement that is both familiar and innovative.
One of the most striking aspects of this timepiece is its display. With a 3D architecture comprising an impressive 1,240 components, including 777 elements dedicated to the chain alone, the dial side is a spectacle. It's a testament to the brand's commitment to showcasing the beauty of mechanical movements.
Technical Marvels
The hand-wound calibre FB-TV.FC retains the pillar architecture of its predecessor but introduces a flying tourbillon with a spectacular 15mm diameter. Its cage, with three arms alternating between flat and sloping sections, is a work of art in itself. Running at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the variable inertia balance and four 18-carat gold fine-adjustment screws ensure precision.
In a nod to the brand's focus on chronometry, the movement includes a stop balance wheel and a second hand reset, allowing for accurate time setting. This rare combination of functions in a tourbillon movement is a testament to the brand's expertise and attention to detail.
The fusée-and-chain mechanism has also undergone a complete redevelopment, with a different orientation and geometry. The addition of a double superimposed Maltese cross-type stopwork system and two stopwork fingers ensures a constant energy delivery, enhancing rate stability and accuracy.
A Feast for the Eyes
The natural nickel silver movement, with its exceptional finish, is a true delight for watch enthusiasts. The attention to detail and the meticulous hand-sanding create a visual feast. The power reserve indicator, now located on the dial side, has been redesigned, providing a more stable torque and an increased power reserve of 60 hours.
The 44mm x 15.46mm round case, crafted from ethical 18k white gold, is a modern interpretation of the brand's signature style. The off-centred hours and minutes dial, with its white varnished base and black varnished track, adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.
A Limited Edition, But Not Quite
While the Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronomètre FB 2TV is not a limited edition per se, its production is expected to be limited to only 10 to 12 timepieces per year due to its complexity and the workshop's capacity. With a price tag of EUR 383,000, including taxes, this timepiece is a rare and exclusive offering.
In conclusion, the Mesure du Temps 1787 collection, with its flagship Chronomètre FB 2TV Flying Tourbillon, is a testament to the brand's evolution and its unwavering dedication to the art of watchmaking. It's a timepiece that blends history, innovation, and precision, creating a masterpiece that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the world of haute horlogerie.
