Saturday, January 30, 2016

A. Lange & Söhne – Mechanical Masters in Geneva and on world tour


A. Lange & Söhne Mechanical Masters in Geneva and on World tour SIHH 2016

After the presentation at the SIHH watch exhibition in Geneva, A. Lange & Söhne will be showing this year's debuts around the world in their boutiques and points of sale beginning in March.

From 18 to 22 January 2016, A. Lange & Söhne presented a new watch collection at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) in Geneva. A large, 1:50-scale model of the DATOGRAPH PERPETUAL TOURBILLON took centre stage at the Lange stand, with the theme of this year being "Mechanical Masters". Around 1200 journalists visited the traditional watch fair.

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"Despite the challenging environment, the SIHH was once again a success for A. Lange & Söhne this year," summarises Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid. "Our new watches were met with overwhelming enthusiasm among the press and specialist retailers, which has expressed itself through strong worldwide demand."

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Mechanical Masters


This year's theme was not only reflected in the technical and detailed design of the stand. It also describes the current debuts collection, which stands out due to its creative technical solutions, sophisticated functionality and striking designs.

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In the coming months, collectors and interested buyers will be given the chance to familiarise themselves with the new watch models in the Lange boutiques and points of sale. Individual stops will be announced at short notice on the A. Lange & Söhne Facebook page.

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Contact information for the media
Arnd Einhorn, Director Press and PR
* Tel.: +49 (0)35053 44 5505
* E-mail: presse@lange-soehne.com
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www.Alange & Soehne.com

Friday, January 29, 2016

Ateliers deMonaco – Daniel Alves Tourbillon Oculus















Ateliers deMonaco Tourbillon Oculus Daniel Alves NEW

Ateliers deMonaco created a unique timepiece for the FC Barcelona football player Daniel Alves

To honour an extraordinarily talented man, Ateliers deMonaco created a unique timepiece for the famous Brazilian football player Daniel Alves on the occasion of his nomination at the FIFA/FIFPro World XI Award 2015.

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For many years now the exciting game of football has been the inspiration behind some of Haute Horlogerie most complicated and sophisticated timepieces. Playing for FC Barcelona since 2008, Daniel Alves became famous for being one of the best defenders in the world. He earned a place in the FIFA FIFPro World XI for 2015 during the ceremony of the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2015, which took place in Zurich on January, 11th.

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Both football player and watchmaker have in common the passion for precision and skill. Ateliers deMonaco admires these qualities in Daniel Alves as a sportsman. He embodies professionalism paired with vitality and team spirit. In honour of his talent and his great career, the independent high-end luxury watch brand Ateliers deMonaco have created a unique timepiece called the Tourbillon OculusDani Alves.

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This personalised timepiece was specially designed for Daniel Alves, who's an enthusiastic person with a creative mind and an adventurous personality.









































Handcrafted by our skilled watchmakers and dedicated to the highest level of precision, the Tourbillon Oculus is truly as artful as Daniel Alves is on the field. This watch is powered by its own in-house developed and patented Xtreme Precision Tourbillon movement. This calibre encapsulates a unique hybrid between craftsmanship and innovative technology, delivering one of the most accurate Tourbillon movements in the world today.

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This movement is housed in an 18k rose gold case of 44mm that features a beautiful subdial in sapphire. The design of this unique timepiece is underlined by the wonderfully delicate "Côtes de Genève" decoration and the dial aperture at 6 o'clock that shows the hand engraved tourbillon cage held by a sapphire bridge. The case back of the Tourbillon Oculus enables the finesse and sophistication of the details of the movement to be observed, such as the perlage finishing and the hand engraved 22K gold rotor.

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The Tourbillon Oculus is finished with a personalized hand-stitched alligator strap and is delivered in a very elegant custom-made box. It's undeniable that this unique watch will remain a signature piece forever, just as unique as Daniel Alves.

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UNIQUE DESIGN FEATURES
  • Unique case design - 33 components to allow for contrasting handfinishing, blend of 18K gold with recognizable convex lines
  • In-house developed, Manufactured and patented Innovation
  • Perfect balance cage to bring gravity point of all 80 components exactly to the centre.
  • Use of Silicium and precise manufacturing methodology like LIGA and DRIE for 10 times higher accuracy, all leading to a regulation of 0 / +2 seconds per 24H for every time piece.
  • Sapphire bridge thanks to the latest laser cutting technology, enabling production while allowig for double sides anti-reflection.
  • The iconic 22K gold Rotor with unique ATELIERS DEMONACO shield, hand guilloché finishing, decorated front & back
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About Ateliers deMonaco:

Ateliers deMonaco was founded in 2008 to permit the next generation of watchmakers create timepieces of exceptional quality, with the latest innovation and the rarest, most exquisite and robust materials; to go far beyond what was considered possible. Our dream is one of relentless reinvention and commitment to bring you the extraordinary. We do this not only by putting something truly exceptional on your wrist but also by ensuring your deMonaco timepiece is more than an object of desire, a true reflection of your individuality. What unites us with our clients is the belief that life is not only about luxury, but luxury sure is life!

For more information, please visit our website or feel free to contact us directly. You can email Mrs. Manon Bussod at mbussod@ateliers-demonaco.com.
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www.danialves.com
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Press release 
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Ateliers deMonaco
Palais de la Scala
1, Avenue Henry Dunant
98000 Monaco
Telephone : +377 97975747

Elisabeth van Pappelendam, PR & Operations Manager
betty@ateliers-demonaco.com
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Ateliers-DeMonaco.com

MIDO – BARONCELLI Donna Diamonds
















MIDO BARONCELLI Donna Diamonds NEW

A radiant rendition of charm and femininity

The new Baroncelli Donna Diamonds is a celebration of graceful curves. Evoking the sophisticated forms of the Rennes Opera House, the harmonious rounded shape of its polished stainless steel case reveals a splendid white mother-of-pearl dial. Highlighting the extreme refinement of this timepiece, the 28 diamonds adorning the dial and central lugs imbue it with an unforgettable radiance. This highly feminine model is equipped with the Caliber 80, a cutting-edge, innovative automatic movement that ensures exceptional autonomy of up to 80 hours. Ideal for special occasions, the Baroncelli Donna Diamonds is a radiant rendition of charm and elegance.

The Rennes Opera House is an operatic landmark characterised by its distinctive rounded architecture. The harmonious lines and subtle curves, typical of the neoclassical tradition, make it a particularly outstanding monument. The sophisticated forms of the Baroncelli collection pay tribute to the timeless elegance of this building.

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The new Baroncelli Donna Diamonds is simply enchanting. A sign of extreme sophistication, its white mother-of-pearl dial houses 8 diamonds around its edge for a total of 0.04 carat. The magnificent iridescent reflections of the mother-of-pearl are enhanced by the unique radiance of the gems. An aperture at 6 o’clock reveals the date, while the hours are indicated by Roman numerals. Measuring 33 mm in diameter, the elegant round case in polished 316L stainless steel is also paved with 20 diamonds on the central lugs for a total of 0.118 carat. With its sumptuous dial and 28 diamonds, the Baroncelli Donna Diamonds is a rare distillation of charm and femininity.

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While the silhouette of the Baroncelli Donna Diamonds celebrates grace and harmony – a tribute to the delicate curves of the Rennes Opera House – its technical assets will also impress women who appreciate the mechanics of fine watchmaking. Its latest-generation automatic movement, the Caliber 80, provides exceptional autonomy, with up to 80 hours of power reserve. Finely decorated with an oscillating weight adorned with Geneva stripes and the Mido logo, this elaborate movement can be admired through the transparent case back. The faceted diamond-cut hands are protected by a sapphire crystal treated with an anti-reflective coating on both sides to ensure perfect readability. Water-resistant up to a pressure of 5 bars (50 m/165 ft), the Baroncelli Donna Diamonds is fitted with a polished 316L stainless steel bracelet, complete with folding clasp.

A model featuring a rose PVD-treated steel case and beige leather strap is also available.

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TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Ref: M022.207.61.116.11 BARONCELLI  Donna Diamonds 33mm

Movement   
Automatic Mido Caliber 80 (ETA C07.611 base), 11½’’’
Ø25.60 mm, height: 4.74 mm,
25 jewels, 21,600 A/H, NIVAFLEX NM mainspring,
ELINCHRON II balance-spring.
Elaborate movement, decorated oscillating weight with Geneva stripes and Mido logoAdjusted on 3 different positions for a high accuracy
Up to 80 hours of power reserve
Functions  
HMS + Date at 6 o’clock.
Case   
Polished stainless steel 316L, Ø33 mm, 3 pieces,
20 diamonds (total 0.118 carat) on the central lugs,
Sapphire crystal with an anti reflecting treatment on both sides,
Transparent case back to see the finely decorated and elaborate movement, engraved serial number,
Water-resistant up to a pressure of 5 bar (50 m / 165 ft).
Dial   
White mother-of-pearl,
8 diamonds (total 0.04 carat), date at 6 o’clock.
Hands    
Faceted diamond-cut.
Strap  
Polished stainless steel 316L with folding clasp.

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press.mido.ch 
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www.Mido.ch

Thursday, January 28, 2016

HAUTLENCE – VORTEX PRIMARY by Eric Cantona Black PVD Titanium Limited Edition
















HAUTLENCEConcepts d'exception VORTEX PRIMARY by Eric Cantona Black PVD Titanium Limited Edition NEW

HAUTLENCE UNVEILS IN PARTNERSHIP 
WITH ERIC CANTONA - VORTEX PRIMARY

SIHH 2016

Contemporary watchmaker HAUTLENCE strengthens its partnership with its dynamic ambassador, ex-footballer Eric Cantona, with the launch of a new multi-coloured and three-dimensional VORTEX PRIMARY. Unveiled on the first day of the prestigious Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH – Carré des Horlogers), the VORTEX PRIMARY combines Cantona’s strong passion for art with HAUTLENCE’s unique reinterpretation of time, resulting in a timepiece that is sculptured like a mechanical piece of art.

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Following the launch of the INVICTUS Morphos in 2014, HAUTLENCE’s first chronograph co-designed with Cantona, this incredible duo chose to reveal the second part of their collaboration with a new innovative timepiece in the Concept d’Exception collection. Stunningly designed from the inside out, the VORTEX PRIMARY is built on HAUTLENCE’s second Concept d’Exception, the VORTEX, introduced in July 2015. This new timepiece features the same spectacular mechanism while flaunting a whole new look made out of coloured glass structures, turning it into an astonishing creation.

A sculptural case inspired by stained glass windows and three-dimensional mosaic

Inspired by post-modern architecture and deconstructivism, the three-dimensional case of the VORTEX PRIMARY showcases facetted structures embellished with coloured glass that allow a view of the complex movement from all sides. Recalling the splendour of stained glass windows, this state-of-the-art case is crafted out of black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium and highlights a total of 19 different coloured glass panels, creating an eye-catching mosaic of shades. HAUTLENCE and Cantona chose a mix of materials in primary colours to create this vibrant design, which includes five transparent sapphire crystals, two semi-transparent sapphire crystals, four red ruby glass panels, five blue spinel glass panels and three yellow corundum glass panels. These windows reveal parts of the impressive movement from all sides of the case and let light through to focus on the mechanism. Besides its creative design, the case also weighs a remarkable 48 grams, making the timepiece both attractive and comfortable to wear.

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Commenting on the mosaic-inspired design of the VORTEX PRIMARY, HAUTLENCE Co-Founder Guillaume Tetu shares, “When we first started sketching the watches that Eric Cantona had in mind, we were looking for designs that symbolized the expression or reinterpretation of time. Eric asked if we could work with three- dimensional glass panels, which would allow a partial view of the mechanism powering the watch. The idea was to craft the timepiece sculpturally, in the same way one would design a three-dimensional mechanical piece of art.”

Sharing his thoughts on the VORTEX PRIMARY, Cantona comments, “My collaboration with HAUTLENCE allows me to bring a new dynamic to the expression of time while drawing on my passion for art. Through the VORTEX PRIMARY, I wanted to take a deeper look at the symbolism of passing time. The coloured glass panels make us question our own relationship with time, with light flowing through the case to highlight the movement in an almost mystical way. The primary colours used to embellish the case structure and balance out the complex mechanism that is at the heart of the watch. The VORTEX PRIMARY is a mechanical masterpiece housed in an astounding case, and I am so proud of the result.”

A dynamic display of time

In addition to its colourful exterior, the VORTEX PRIMARY stands out from the rest of the collection thanks to its lack of a dial. The retrograde minutes are placed directly on the sapphire crystal of the case, with the half-trailing hours indicated through HAUTLENCE’s signature jumping hour chain system that advances as time passes by. A power reserve indicator is portrayed in red at three o’ clock, while the movement’s regulating organ is on full display at six o’ clock as it rotates 60 degrees every 60 minutes. Such a dynamic design gives the timepiece a new look every hour.

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Three patents for an exceptional timepiece

Powering the VORTEX PRIMARY is the same movement as the VORTEX, a reinterpreted and redesigned version of the innovative in-house automatic calibre HL2.0 presented in the first Concept d’Exception in 2010. Angled at 90 degrees, the new in-house automatic calibre HLR2.0 is protected by three HAUTLENCE patents. The first patent pertains to the 12-link chain of the half-trailing hours, which smoothly turns in 3 to 4 seconds every 60 minutes to display the hour. Such a system differs from an instant system that switches the hours too quickly for one to truly appreciate and from a dragging system whereby time cannot be easily read between the hours. The half-trailing hours system rotates effortlessly without losing energy and displays the beauty of the movement and its mechanisms in action.

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The second patent relates to the regulating organ integrated into the mobile bridge-type movement. Its constantly changing position, driven by the display, compensates statistically for the effects of gravity, thus enhancing its precision. The third patent is linked to the operation of the movement’s two barrels. The main barrel is wound by the automatic-winding system of the movement and transfers the necessary energy to wind a second barrel that is dedicated exclusively to driving the complication. The main barrel continuously winds the second barrel so as to ensure that energy remains at an optimal level to change each hour. This ensures that these complex systems remain powered independently without impacting the precision of the watch.

The VORTEX PRIMARY is available with six different straps that can be easily interchanged with a screwdriver that is included in the box. The straps come in a choice of black Louisiana alligator leather or five different coloured rubber straps, each fitted with a folding clasp in grade 2 titanium with a satin-finish steel plate.

Limited to 18 exclusive pieces, the VORTEX PRIMARY combines Cantona’s powerful artistic eye with HAUTLENCE’s daring vision and boundless creativity. More than simply a wristwatch, the VORTEX PRIMARY is a true chef d’oeuvre — one that pushes horological boundaries while respecting watchmaking traditions.

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HAUTLENCE
Ever since its foundation in 2004, HAUTLENCE has been dedicated to bringing a new dynamic into the art of
watchmaking, thus gaining the recognition of watch collectors and connoisseurs the world over. The brand has
a portfolio of four calibres designed and manufactured in-house and relies on external partners for the
movements of certain collections. HAUTLENCE launched the HL calibre in 2005, followed in 2009 by the
HLQ calibre, with the brand’s third calibre, the HLC, hot on its heels in 2010. The following year saw the
introduction of the high-flying HL2.0 calibre in a variety of different versions. Since 2012, HAUTLENCE has
enjoyed the support of MELB Holding, which has made its experience and network accessible to the brand
with the aim of developing effective synergies between HAUTLENCE and the group as a whole.
Like its name, an anagram of the brand’s hometown of Neuchâtel, HAUTLENCE is renowned for turning
things upside down. The brand has challenged the boundaries of traditional watchmaking designs by drawing on
its architecturally-inspired roots and uniting them with innovative mechanical solutions borrowed from other
industrial worlds. Acutely aware of the two essential dimensions of time and space, HAUTLENCE is driven to
design timepieces with original lines and multi-level dial constructions that provide incredible depth.
Its Gentlemen Rebels approach to watchmaking is perfectly embodied in its choice of brand ambassador, Eric
Cantona, and its challenging communication message "CROSS THE LINE"

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Technical Specifications

Collection: Concepts d'exception

Model: VORTEX PRIMARY by Eric Cantona Limited Edition of 88 Pieces

HAUTLENCE HRL2.0 in-house calibre including gear train and automatic winding system.
Half-trailing hours displayed by a chain, retrograde minutes, mobile bridge-type calibre.

CALIBRE
Calibre description :
2 barrels: one going train barrel (power reserve for the entire watch calibre including
power for the second complication barrel) and a complication barrel.
Hours displayed by a 12-link chain hinged on a pallet system. The speed regulator ensures
that the hour display changes in a controlled and jerk-free manner in 3-4 seconds instead of
instantly. It completes 48 revolutions at each hour change. Hour system activated by a one-
revolution mechanism mainly composed of a connecting rod and a rack.
Mobile bridge-type calibre comprising the regulating organ and rotating through 60° at each
change of hour.
Movement kinematics featuring 90° changes of direction by means of special bevelled gears.
Automatic calibre with oscillating weight in 18-carat white gold
This innovative calibre is protected by 3 HAUTLENCE patents.
    Dimensions : 37.8 x 33.2 x 12.35 mm
    Manufacturing technology : multi-axis micro-machining, wire EDM. LIGA photolithography
    Number of components : 552
    Power reserve : 40 hours
    Regulating organ : 21,600 vibrations/hour
    Number of jewels: 92
    Finishing: fine-watchmaking type (satin-brushed, hand-drawn, hand-bevelled, black rhodium
coating and mirror-polished steel elements);
    Identification and numbering plate: HLR2 PRIMARY X/88.
CASE
    Case : Black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium
    Horns : Black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium, screw-in
    Crown : Satin-finish black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium with micro-machined HAUTLENCE logo
    Glass : 19 three-dimensional coloured sapphire crystals, scratch-resistant, produced by
multi-axis grinding;
    Alternating finishes : sand-blasting, satin-brushing and polishing
    Horn and case-back screws : Black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium
    Dimensions : 52 x 50 x 17.8 mm
    Weight of the timepiece: 148 grams
DIAL
Minutes displayed directly on the case sapphire. No dial;
Hours indicator : rhodium-plated underplate with black galvanic coating and white Super-
LumiNova® hours numerals ;
Minutes hand : rhodium-plated galvanic coating with red varnished tip;
Power-reserve hand : steel with red varnished tip 
WATER RESISTANCE   3 ATM
STRAP
Black hand-sewn rolled-edge, rubberised padded Louisiana alligator leather, large square
scales;
Black rubber; red rubber; blue rubber; yellow rubber; white rubber
Interchangeability spring bar and screwdriver;Folding clasp: grade 2 titanium with palladium plate

LIMITED EDITION 18 timepieces

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Press Release
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Contact us for any further information:
Guillaume Tetu, CEO and Co-founder - g.tetu@hautlence.com
Caroline Büchler, Marketing & Communication Manager - c.buechler@hautlence.com
Feel free to contact us for any further information:
Press@hautlence.com 
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www.Hautlence.com

BLANCPAIN – Women Ladybird Ultraplate Limited Edition













BLANCPAIN WOMEN Ladybird Ultraplate 2016 Limited Edition NEW

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2016, year of the Ladybird
Pre-Baselworld 2016

Blancpain displays its attachment to feminine watches more vividly than ever by launching a 60-piece limited edition marking the 60th birthday of the Ladybird.


At the time of its launch in 1956, the Ladybird was equipped with the smallest round movement on the market. This was a period when dainty sizes were all the rage, and the Blancpain master-watchmakers had demonstrated amazing ingenuity in successfully miniaturising the components of a mechanical watch: an authentic technical feat.

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2016 is the year this model turns 60. To mark the occasion, the brand has dreamed up several versions of the Ladybird, starting with the romantic Saint Valentine’s Day model was in February. The Baselworld display windows will be hosting a new interpretation by the artisans of the Manufacture, featuring a dial graced with luminous contrasts and displaying an elaborate foliage motif. The strap of the Ladybird is exclusively crafted from the small scales of Louisiana crocodile leather, thus creating a particularly refined aesthetic effect.

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For the 60th birthday of the Ladybird, the watch is issued in a 60-piece limited edition. Its bezel is set with 32 diamonds. Adorned with eight of these sparkling gems, the dial is swept over by drop-shaped hands framed by a 21.50 mm-diameter white gold case that houses a self-winding movement with a silicon balance spring.

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Blancpain –Women Collection
References:  0063E-1954-55A
Model: WOMEN Ladybird Ultraplate Saint-Valentin 2016
  • Limited edition of 60 piece
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Blancpain S.A.
Le Rocher 12
1348 Le Brassus
Suisse
International PR: Aude Rosati
Tel.  (+41) 21 796 3636
Fax (+41) 21 796 3637
E-mail: pr@blancpain.com
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Wednesday, January 27, 2016

De Bethune – DB25 World Traveller













De BethuneDB25 World Traveller White Gold Limited Edition NEW

De Bethune presents the DB25 World Traveller, an intelligent watch featuring a second time zone and world time expressed with a mysterious display. The exceptional ease of use and convenient systems for setting and display make this timepiece a world première.

The DB25 World Traveller is designed to become a loyal companion for the long- distance traveller. Although the invention of multiple time zones dates back to the 17th century, the readability and adjustment of the functions on a wristwatch have never been so simple and intuitive. The system is completely secure and each indication can be controlled independently. Once again, De Bethune stands out from the pack by inventing a timepiece that is simple in appearance but conceals a gem of technical intelligence.

Navigation instrument

Visually, the refinement of the DB25 World Traveller lies in the concentric arrangement of the functions. World times appear on a disc in the centre of the dial, encircled by a graduated channel in which a moving microsphere indicates the reference time – also known as the home time. This microsphere, a technical signature of De Bethune since their invention of the three-dimensional moon-phase, has two halves that allow it to also indicate day and night. One half is blue, the other pink, and they reverse positions when they pass 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Local time is displayed on the hour circle, and the day on the last exterior circle.

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The DB25 World Traveller is equipped with the mechanical calibre DB2547 with manual winding, the latest manufactured. The morphology, performance and high-quality execution of the calibre illustrate the degree of excellence and the philosophy of technical exploration that are so particular to De Bethune. For the first time, the central delta bridge is embellished with a “Côtes De Bethune" decoration in the centre, produced using the Microlight micrometric engraving technique developed by De Bethune. The polished plate is hollowed out to become concave and thus intensifies the reflections of light as a result. The regulator is equipped with a new evolution, a titanium balance wheel with white gold inserts, developed particularly for optimal management of temperature variations.

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Absolute comfort


The DB25 World Traveller transforms the way that a second time zone can be displayed along with a world time indicator. True to the De Bethune approach that focuses first and foremost on the reason behind any watchmaking function, David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet have aimed to make the display correspond ideally to the traveller's needs. They focused their research on readability and comfort, both in wearing the watch and in manipulating its settings.

Starting in the centre, the dial indicates world time, which is set using an almond-shaped push-piece positioned at 8 o'clock. This flexible and precise system moves the city display disc, which is decorated with concentric Microlight, by one-hour clockwise jumps. The first time zone, or reference time zone, is displayed with 24-hour markers and indicated with a mysterious display by the position of the microsphere, which appears to float weightlessly in its channel. Using the crown, it can be set in both directions (clockwise/anti-clockwise). At 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., the crown pivots on itself to present a pink gold face for daytime, or a back side in blued steel for the night. Local time, or the second time zone, is indicated by the blued leaf-shaped hands, whose curve matches the relief of the dial. The minutes hand remains naturally coordinated with the reference hour, while the hours hand is controlled by the crown pulled out to the second notch. The hours hand moves forward and back by direct jumps of precisely one hour. The day indication is the last circle on this display, with a design that evokes the solar system. The day is coordinated with local time only in the clockwise direction, and indicated by a jumping pointer that is adjusted by a corrector at 10 o'clock.

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The generous 45 mm diameter white gold case provides plenty of room for this display. The champagne and silver tones also structure the reading by sequencing the succession of the indications. The alternation of decorations and volumes also enhances readability, for example, with the slightly domed hours ring, which is also highlighted with a powdered effect to intensify the luminosity of the surface.

The case stands above the wrist, like an instrument, with open lugs attached to the case back. This frees up the middle so that it is accessible for easy adjustment. The crown is an essential component of the DB25 World Traveller; designed to be thin but wide and slightly raised for greater ease in handling. It moves on three notches that are distinguished from one another by their markings.
A spirit of technical innovation

The mechanical calibre DB2547 with manual winding in the DB25 World Traveller is the 25th calibre designed, manufactured and assembled in-house by De Bethune. In its own right, it is the result of more than 10 years of knowledge and inventions developed by Denis Flageollet and his team. To achieve this new streamlined display, the movement integrates 430 parts.

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Visible through a sapphire case back, the reverse side of the movement reveals a new titanium balance wheel with white gold inserts in the rim. The result of in-depth research and prototypes, the balance wheel has the capacity to neutralise the effects of temperature variations through its interaction with the balance spring, with its "De Bethune" flat terminal curve that ensures concentric development. The aerodynamic shape was also designed to diminish air resistance, an important source of disruption, to the greatest extent possible. True to form, it guarantees perfect balance through all stages from manufacture to assembly. Silicon was chosen for the escapement wheel, due to its light weight and in order to increase the power of the calibre. As for the regulator, it is completely maintained by a triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system exclusive to De Bethune. The system combines a titanium bridge that integrates two jewels that act as support columns on each side. A leaf spring system supported by the jewels holds the system in place. The partially visible twin barrels accumulate five days of power reserve through a patented self-regulating power mechanism.

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Other distinctive features: De Bethune finishes its movements so that they reflect as much ambient light as possible. For this reason, the finish on the majority of the components is mirror-polished. A number of them, whether they are steel or titanium, are also blued, reflecting De Bethune's signature colour, as seen here on the bridge and the rim of the balance wheel, as well as on the leaf spring of the triple shock absorber. Rose-work grinding is reserved for the barrel ratchets. An outer ring decorated with grained Microlight and perforated by oblong apertures provides the support for the various indications.

-----------------------------------
De Bethune

De Bethune explores the future of fine watchmaking. An independent brand founded in 2002 by Curator David Zanetta and Expert Master Watchmaker Denis Flageollet, it designs and manufactures all of its timepieces in house. Thanks to a limited production volume, De Bethune enjoys an unmatched capacity for innovation. With more than 10 patents for fundamental inventions and some twenty world firsts presented since the brand's founding, De Bethune also possesses a catalogue of 25 exclusive calibres that have been tested for regular usage.

Through its creations, De Bethune follows in the line of its forerunners, the great watchmakers, in their quest for a perfect measurement of time which is aligned with a sense of absolute beauty. Using the most up-to-date scientific discoveries, their efforts converge in the invention of unique new high-performance solutions.

The "De Bethune" style flows from its philosophy. It has one goal: to use contemporary or even futuristic style to recreate the aesthetic intensity and emotional vibration elicited by the most exceptional creations from previous centuries, or even millennia. Here, history exists only as a rallying call to achieve the levels of excellence of the past, and push ever further.

De Bethune's unique essence relies on an intense and constant dialogue between the past, present and future. Beyond timepieces, De Bethune's creations raise questions as much as they intrigue, bearing witness to a constant redefinition of the watchmaking art.

----------------------------------------------
Press release SIHH Geneva 2016
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De Bethune Geneva Office
25 Grand-Rue 1204 Geneva
Switzerland
Tel: +41 22 310 22 71
Fax: +41 22 310 33 40
Contact Katidja Valy
katidja.valy@debethune.com
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www.DeBethune.ch

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Ulysse Nardin – Royal Python Skeleton Tourbillon














Ulysse Nardin Exceptional Royal Python Skeleton Tourbillon Manufacture Limited Edition NEW

Untamed and Exotic, the Ulysse Nardin Royal Python Skeleton Tourbillon Showcases a Design Evolution.

The Ulysse Nardin Skeleton timepiece is a transparent beauty, where the inner workings become the art form. It shares its fluid network of positive and negative space intertwined ever so delicately with its wearer. The seemingly infinite maze of individual movements, parts and bridges are reduced to essential composition and masterfully reinterpreted into a rare piece of work. The Royal Python Skeleton Tourbillon takes the beautiful complexity of its predecessor to an entirely new level.

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Natural, free-flowing light passes through the timepiece, creating radiant luminosity. Silicium technology and an in-house-developed flying tourbillon honor the mechanics of the collection, featuring a silicium balance spring, anchor and escapement wheel. Hand-painted movement bridges dotted with rubies reveals the skill and sensibility of the artist, while exhibiting the wondrous world of Ulysse Nardin’s métiers d’art. A python strap finishes the snakeskin-inspired aesthetic of the entire timepiece.

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Lush like the jungle, this “call of the wild” timekeeper is as original in style as it is in makeup. A limited edition of 18 pieces in rose gold 4N, the Royal Python Skeleton Tourbillon presents a fearless character intended for the uninhibited at heart.

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Technical Specifications

Reference: 1706-129/08 18 Rose Gold case Python leather strap Limited edition 18 pieces

Movement:
Calibe: UN-170 Manufacture
Escapement wheel and balance spring in silicium
23 jewels, 18’000 V/H
Power reserve: Approximately 170 hours
Winding: Manual Winding
Functions:
Hours and minutes
Tourbillon
Case:
18 ct Rose Gold
Hand painted flange, motif Royal python
Dial: Skeleton
Diameter: 44 mm
Crown: Screw-down security crown
Water-resistance: 30 m
Crystal: Anti-reflective sapphire crystal
Case-back: sapphire crystal
Strap:
Exclusive Python leather strap

Limited edition 18 pieces
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