HELIOS 42 ALBEDO

A masterpiece in miniature, the Helios Albedo 42mm watch by Frédéric Jouvenot debuts a new case which has been designed to enhance the visual pleasure of the spectacular dial-side arrangement which is at the heart of this ingenious collection.

Frédéric Jouvenot is an extraordinary watchmaker who, from his atelier in La Chaux-de-Fonds, creates timepieces of unparalleled originality. Hand-crafted using traditional methods, yet exhibiting supreme inventiveness, his Solar Deity collection pushes the boundaries and possibilities of time indication, with a unique dial architecture which represents the passing of the hours through a fascinating mechanical sundial. Aesthetically beautiful in the highest degree, the Helios Albedo 42mm watch brings a more refined profile to this highly covetable series.

No less complex than previous Helios models, the Frédéric Jouvenot Helios Albedo 42 carries a completely redesigned case which offers the wearer improved visibility on the dial and movement side. With further attention devoted to the trademark Jouvenot openworked lugs and to the bezel area, the 42mm case has sleek profiling that is both elegant and refined. Manufactured from titanium it promises lightness on the wrist, and is meticulously hand-finished. Distinctive recesses in the bezel are positioned so they correspond with each hour, and adding subtle detailing, the flange has been engraved with arabic numerals.

The dial of the Frédéric Jouvenot Helios Albedo 42 watch is immediately compelling. Offering a three-dimensional architecture, twelve dual faced conical batons, represent the hours, each separated by a miniature pyramid. Emanating from the centre of the dial, each baton transforms in its appearance by flicking through 180° showcasing their meticulous black-polished finish, or vice-versa, at the passing of the hour. Luminous strips on the dark half of each one ensures excellent legibility in low light conditions. Named Albedo which is also a term used in astronomy to describe the reflective nature of our planets, the stunning Frédéric Jouvenot Helios Albedo 42 captures the essence of the light which emanates from celestial bodies to superb effect.

Having dispensed with the hour hand, an equally exceptional solution has been devised for the minutes. Beautifully simple in its execution and functionality, a central rotating disc, bearing the maker’s motif, aligns its arrow tip against the disc which carries the minutes, rendered in black numerals. Finishing this highly original façade, visible screws at the tip of each pyramid enhance the aesthetic and give it a marginally industrial appearance.

Turn the Helios Albedo 42 watch by Frédéric Jouvenot over and the sapphire crystal caseback offers the wearer an even more in-depth view of the immaculate detail and hand finishing which has been devoted to the in-house manufacture manual movement. Notably, the mechanism which is at the heart of the jumping hour indication is enclosed within a 12mm capsule and is demanding of 100 components on its own.

Beating at a leisurely 28’800 vph, the calibre has a power reserve of 50 hours, and the detailing of its impeccable Côtes de Genève decoration, beveled edges and mirror polished finishes denotes its Haute Horlogerie prestige.

The Frédéric Jouvenot Helios Albedo 42mm watch is presented on a black alligator strap with titanium folding.