Back in 2015, Chopard launched a new brand, named after one of the most important figures in the evolution of precision timekeeping: the Swiss chronometer master Ferdinand Berthoud. Ferdinand Berthoud has made quite a horological impact: its Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud FB1 won the prestigious Aiguille d’Or at the 2016 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. And now for 2018 the nascent brand presents a regulator: the Chronomètre FB 1R.6-1.
The 44 mm x 13.95 mm case is composed of a steel cylinder whose molecular structure has been reinforced by a thermo-chemical process involving the diffusion of vapour-phase carbon, thereby guaranteeing an exceptional surface hardness of 1200 Vickers and making it extremely robust. It is also exceptionally corrosion-resistant and biocompatible. But this watch also makes a powerful visual statement, with its stunning tourbillon opening on the dial side, while the minimalist dial balances everything out.
The dial, which is made of nickel silver, vertically satin-brushed by hand and then black rhodium-plated, is a unique type of regulator where all the indications are split to bring the best possible view. A patent has been filed for the sophisticated power-reserve indication, that’s how special this watch really is. Two octagonal-shaped stainless steel side pieces give the case a characteristic shape including two lateral portholes at 2 and 11 o’clock providing a chance to admire the chain-and-fusee mechanism in action.
The Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 1R.6-1 is a 20-piece limited edition. Price on request.