The PHILLIPS New York Watch Auction: X, takes place on June 8 and 9, 2024, at our Park Avenue headquarters. The auction includes more than 150 of the world's finest watches – and though we are loath to boast, we truly think it's one of the best catalogs we've ever put together. We'll be highlighting a number of the most interesting lots and stories featured in the sale right here, including the Haldimann H1 Flying Central Tourbillon (lot 96) featured below.
In the realm of haute horlogerie, where time is not just measured but meticulously crafted, few names resonate with as much reverence as Beat Haldimann. A Swiss watchmaker of unparalleled skill and vision, Haldimann has carved a niche for himself in the realm of luxury timepieces, where tradition meets innovation in a symphony of precision and artistry.
Based in the picturesque Swiss town of Thun, Beat Haldimann has been making watches under his name for the past two decades. If you visit his workshop, no CNC machines will be found; he works only with his hands, using the most traditional methods for a production of no more than 30 pieces per year, with the help of a small team. His approach to watchmaking is deeply rooted in tradition, drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of Swiss watchmaking while pushing the boundaries of innovation.
The inception of his watchmaking brand began with the creation of his first clock featuring resonance in 2000. Commencing his watchmaking career in 1991 with a goal of making watches without the use of any CNC machines, Haldimann also stumbled upon a surprising family tradition dating back to 1642, compelling him to honor this heritage by personally restoring and servicing all watches bearing the Haldimann name at no cost. Surprisingly, Haldimann is actually now considered to be the oldest family-run independent Swiss watch manufacture still owned by the family that gives the company its name.
This unwavering commitment to authenticity and individuality is one of the many characteristics that sets Haldimann apart from much of the rest of the Swiss watch industry.
Haldimann's original creations were complications such as repeaters, tourbillons simple or double with a resonance system. His approach was not only horological but also philosophical with the creation of a watch with a central tourbillon with no hands (H3), and even a timepiece with a darkened crystal blocking the view on the hands thus keeping time but not showing it (H9).
Introduced in 2002, the H1 Flying Central Tourbillon – like the platinum example included in the upcoming Phillips New York Watch Auction: X (lot 96) – is perhaps Haldimann's best known model. Featured prominently at the center of the dial is a raised and exposed escapement equipped with a flying tourbillon in a lyre-shaped cage measuring an impressive 17.8mm in diameter – a nod to the large escapements used in historic pocket watches. The in-house, manual-wind caliber H-Zen-A within provides a power reserve of 38 hours using three mainspring barrels.
The overall aesthetic of the 39mm platinum case, dial, and hands found on this example is stunning – striking a balance between understated elegance and distinctive character. The platinum case provides a luxurious heft when worn, and the bold black dial with hand-engraved numerals contrasts strikingly against the white metal case. The hands, inspired by an 18th-century Haldimann Frères pocket watch, include a seconds indicator driven by the rotation of the flying tourbillon cage.
The H1 featured below is one of very few examples that Haldimann produced with a black matte dial. Preserved in outstanding condition and offered with its original certificate, it is an elusive and rarely seen, hand-made masterpiece beckoning the attention of the most discerning collectors of independent brands. You can view the watch's dedicated catalog page here.
In an age where disposable consumerism reigns supreme, Haldimann's dedication to traditional craftsmanship serves as a beacon of hope for connoisseurs of fine watches.
As the world of watchmaking continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the timeless allure of a beautifully crafted timepiece. And in the hands of master craftsmen like Beat Haldimann, the art of watchmaking will continue to thrive, inspiring generations to come with its blend of tradition, innovation, and uncompromising quality.
You can view the complete catalog for the Phillips New York Watch Auction: X right here.