Manufacturer: Haldimann Year: 2009 Reference No: H1 Movement No: No. 19 Case No: No. 19 Model Name: H1 Flying Central Tourbillon Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual; cal. H-Zen-A Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: Platinum Haldimann pin buckle Dimensions: 39mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Haldimann Certificate, invoice, and personalized letter.
Catalogue Essay
For over two decades, Beat Haldimann has dedicated himself to crafting timepieces using the most traditional and artisanal methods. 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.
Introduced in 2002, the H1 Flying Central Tourbillon 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, manually wound calibre 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 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 present H1 is one of very few examples that Haldimann has produced with a stunning 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.
