With a founder whose heritage is deeply rooted in the European aristocracy, as you might expect, the DeWitt Manufacture creates wristwatches which are crafted with a nod to traditional watchmaking techniques.

However, Count Jérôme DeWitt, the brand’s founder, has also instilled a dynamic ethos into his eponymous company. Right from their inception, the DeWitt Manufacture has been the source of many patents and innovations, and has been firmly committed to demonstrating a pioneering spirit through a collection of ground-breaking Concept timepieces.

For the Academia Mathematical wristwatch, their fourth Concept piece, DeWitt have dispelled with a watch dial’s most rudimentary feature - its hands. And, in doing so, they have created a timepiece which indicates the time in a wholly unconventional, yet exquisitely beautiful manner.

At first glance, the Academia Mathematical throws up a visual conundrum. Numbers emanate from the centre dial, as if they have been scattered with abandon. However, even though this extraordinary time indication flies in the face of tradition, it is in fact, as precise and orderly as any conventional watch dial.

At the centre of this “Mystery Dial” are two vertically-aligned apertures which display the hours and minutes. Just beneath the tinted sapphire of the dial, four independent numeral discs turn on a central axis ready to line up instantly and precisely, enabling the hours and minutes to be read. Visible beneath the sapphire, the numerals are each fixed onto a golden ring as if held fast in a golden embrace, in anticipation and ready to jump into action when it is their turn. The elegant typography of these precious numerals adds to the allurement of the spectacle.

Around the flange of the dial, the DeWitt branding is subtle, appearing at the upper dial, while the inscription “Mathematical” appears at the 3 o’clock. Proudly proclaiming the exclusivity of this revolutionary watch the words “Limited Edition” appear at the perimeter over at the 9 o’clock location. At the 6 o’clock the watch reveals its undisputable origins of “Swiss Made”. A trim, polished bezel adds an understated and refined frame.

Within the modestly sized 42.5mm 18-carat rose gold case, the DeWitt Manufacture automatic calibre beats at a frequency of 21,600vog. Comprising of 384 individual components, it has been hand-assembled by the company’s Master Watchmakers and hand-decorated with both circular and bevelled Côtes de Genève patterns. The meticulous crafting can be appreciated through the case back sapphire. On the case side, the unmistakeable “Imperial Column” profile features black rubber inserts.

This exclusive Grand Complication watch which is limited to just 28 pieces will appeal to those discerning collectors who value uniqueness, exclusivity and superlative craftsmanship. The piece comes presented on a black alligator leather strap with triple folding clasp, with a polished 18-carat rose gold cover signed with the DeWitt signature “W” motif.