With unprecedented time indications, the Hautlence HL Vagabonde 01 watch demonstrates the technical ingenuity and imagination of this quintessential independent watchmaking company whose name re-assembles the letters of Neuchâtel in anagrammatic style. A limited release of only 28 pieces, this model is characterised by highly modern aesthetics and a fascinating dial arrangement.
The watch carries a distinctive 39mm x 46mm Grade 5 Titanium TV-screen shaped watchcase, with a trim bezel and fluted crown. The substantial profile, which recalls the outline of retro television screens, enables a generous opening for the unique panorama which lies beneath the bevelled sapphire crystal.
The base of the dial is crafted from black opaline, decorated with a 3D laser effect filigree honeycomb filigree pattern, which is a signature Hautlence motif. Against this dramatic background four discs enable a compelling display for the hours and the minutes.
The largest disc, for the minutes takes up the central position. Its middle section has been enhanced with an open-worked honeycomb decoration enabling a look-see to the mechanisms beneath. Around it, three skeletonised satellite discs take up position.
The minutes indicated via standout white double-digit numerals are exposed in a 240° sector that revolves around the dial. As it completes its trajectory, it aligns the 00 indicator with one of the three orbiting skeletonised hour discs. With precise, mechanical orderliness, the correct hour disc aligns to indicate the current hour, visible through an aperture.
Although resolutely technical in character, the dial is also characterised by such equipoise that instantly one becomes captivated by its unique persona and its poetic display of the transition of time.
Enabling the motion of these intriguing time indications, the Hautlence HTL 205-1 self-winding calibre beats at 21,600vph. Based on the HMC 200 movement of the brands’ sister-company H. Moser & Cie., this calibre is equipped with a bi-directional winding system enabling an ample three days of power reserve.
Revealed through a sapphire section in the caseback, the modern architecture of the calibre is enhanced by broad Côtes de Genève decoration and a honeycomb pattern on the rotor.
The Haultence HL Vagabonde 01 is limited to 28 pieces only, and is presented on a black Louisiana alligator strap secured to the wrist by a Grade 5 Titanium folding clasp with a satin-brushed steel plate.
Only 26 years old, and already with her own independent watchmaking atelier, Shona Taine’s passion for watchmaking was forged when she was barely a decade
Introducing a new sportier dial layout to the portfolio, the Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads Secret Alloy model is an evolution of the company’s acclaimed chronograph
Introducing a new sportier dial layout to the portfolio, the Faubourg de Cracovie Crossroads Deep Blue model is an evolution of the company’s acclaimed chronograph
From one of the treasures of Swiss independent watchmaking, the brand new 240º collection from Saint-Imier-based Zeitwinkel marks the introduction of a collection of contemporary