Ferdinand Berthoud is undoubtedly one of the most esteemed names in watchmaking in the 18th century. Based in Paris, he was appointed Horologist-Mechanic to the French navy by King Louis XV. In 2015, the Ferdinand Berthoud brand was re-established and acquired by Chopard, led by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and his team, with the goal of honoring the legacy of this remarkable horologist.

The present Chronomètre FB 1R is a horological masterpiece that seamlessly combines technical expertise with contemporary design.

Heavily inspired by Berthoud’s 18th century Marine Clock, this timepiece features a regulator-type display. The dial showcases three openings: one for the hours (at 2 o’clock), another for the minutes (at 12 o’clock), and a third for the power reserve (at 10 o’clock), while the seconds are indicated by a centrally mounted hand.

At the heart of the watch is the FB-T.FC.R-2 caliber, which boasts a pillar-type architecture and notably includes a tourbillon with a direct-drive seconds hand, unlike most other tourbillon cages which rotate 360° every 60 seconds and by fitting a small hand to the revolving cage. The entire movement is powered by a constant force delivered through a fusée-and-chain transmission mechanism, incorporating a satellite differential gear and a Maltese Cross stopwork device. This intricate movement comprises an impressive 1,153 components, including 790 for the chain alone.

What sets this watch apart is its bronze case, part of the Edition 1785 which is a series of five unique bronze pieces, each with its own distinct patina. The cases vary in color, with some exhibiting brown tones while others display a rich green. The present watch has an evenly distributed patina, making it particularly charming and attractive.

In addition to the bronze case, a striking feature is the calligraphy by renowned Chinese artist Fan Zeng, located at 4 o’clock on the dial. Born in 1938, Fan Zeng is a contemporary master of traditional Chinese painting, celebrated for his skillful integration of landscape, flower-and-bird and figure painting, along with poetry and calligraphy. He even has an art museum in Nantong, China.

The Chinese character "福" (fu), meaning "fortune", "blessing" and "good luck", encapsulates the ideals of happiness, prosperity and well-being, often symbolizing a positive and desirable state. The Chinese character is further engraved in gold, symbolizing wealth, success and prestige, especially in Chinese culture.

This truly unique piece from the Maison of Ferdinand Berthoud comes as a full set with all accompanying accessories, representing a rare opportunity to own a work of art that is both mechanically and artistically exceptional.