• HAUTLENCE Sphere Series 2 Innovative Complication
  • HAUTLENCE Sphere Series 2

    Innovative Complication

    Hourstriker Staff
    Words by: Hourstriker Staff
    October 1, 2024
  • Since its inception in 2004, Hautlence has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a wristwatch can be, crafting timepieces that are as much mechanical marvels as they are wearable sculptures. With the introduction of the Sphere Series 2, HAUTLENCE once again demonstrates its unwavering commitment to innovation, presenting a timepiece that redefines how we perceive and experience the passage of time.

    The Sphere Series 2 is not merely a watch; it's a testament to HAUTLENCE's relentless pursuit of horological excellence. It embodies the brand's philosophy of fusing artistry and mechanics, resulting in a timepiece that is both visually captivating and technically groundbreaking. This limited edition of 28 pieces is a monochromatic masterpiece, rendered in shades of gray and black, that amplifies the watch's dramatic architecture and intricate mechanics.

    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE


    From the moment you lay eyes on the Sphere Series 2, it's clear that this is no ordinary timepiece. The watch's signature TV-shaped case, finished in anthracite PVD, exudes a sense of modernity and sophistication. The grained gray dial, with its contrasting black elements, creates a visual depth that draws the eye into the heart of the watch's mechanical ballet. The black rubber strap, seamlessly integrated into the case, adds a sporty touch, making the Sphere Series 2 a versatile companion for any occasion.

    At the heart of the Sphere Series 2 lies its groundbreaking spherical jumping hours display. Occupying the left side of the dial, the anthracite-finished sphere appears to float beneath a slightly domed sapphire crystal. Each of the twelve hours is meticulously engraved onto the sphere's plates and filled with white Super-LumiNova®, ensuring optimal legibility even in low-light conditions. As each hour passes, the sphere performs a mesmerizing three-axis rotation, revealing the next numeral in a precisely choreographed dance of time.

    This captivating display is made possible by a complex mechanism involving four conical gears that evolve around two crossed axes inclined at 21 degrees. These unusual gears, partially visible through the openings between the sphere's two shells, add another layer of visual intrigue to the watch's already captivating dial.

    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE


    Opposite the spherical hours display, on the right side of the dial, resides HAUTLENCE's signature retrograde minute hand. It gracefully sweeps along a 180° arc track crafted in sapphire crystal with a black outline. The large aperture within the track offers a glimpse into the watch's intricate gear train, showcasing the mechanics that regulate the minute hand's return to zero. The minute track's white applied numerals, crafted in Globolight®, a ceramic-based material charged with Super-LumiNova®, emit a mesmerizing blue glow in the dark.

    The Sphere Series 2 is powered by the hand-wound A80 caliber, a movement developed and manufactured in-house by HAUTLENCE. This skeletonized caliber, with its contemporary decoration, is a testament to the brand's commitment to both technical prowess and aesthetic refinement. The in-house hairspring, produced by Precision Engineering AG, HAUTLENCE's sister company, ensures exceptional accuracy and reliability. The movement's skeletonized drum and ratchet reveal the mainspring of the barrel, offering a visual indication of the impressive 72-hour power reserve.

    Beyond its technical virtuosity, the A80 caliber is equipped with a safety device that prevents incorrect manipulation, such as reverse time setting, which could damage the movement's unique pair of functions. This attention to detail underscores HAUTLENCE's dedication to crafting timepieces that are not only visually stunning but also built to last.

    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE


    The spherical jumping hours display, the centerpiece of the Sphere Series 2, is a feat of engineering that reimagines how we perceive the passage of time. The anthracite-finished sphere, seemingly suspended in mid-air, rotates on three axes to reveal the current hour. This mesmerizing display is a result of meticulous craftsmanship and a complex mechanism involving four conical gears. These gears, partially visible through the openings between the sphere's two shells, add a layer of visual depth and mechanical intrigue to the watch's dial.

    On the opposite side of the dial, the retrograde minute hand adds another dimension to the Sphere Series 2's unique timekeeping experience. The minute hand gracefully sweeps along a 180° arc track, its journey punctuated by a dramatic return to zero at the end of each hour. The large aperture within the track offers a glimpse into the watch's complex gear train, revealing the mechanics that govern this captivating complication. The minute track's white numerals, crafted in Globolight®, glow with a mesmerizing blue hue in low-light conditions, ensuring optimal legibility at all times.

    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE


    The Sphere Series 2's 43.0 x 50.8 x 15.6 mm case, crafted from steel with an anthracite PVD finish, perfectly complements the watch's monochromatic aesthetic. The case's TV-shaped silhouette, a signature element of HAUTLENCE's design language, is both bold and refined. The notched crown, adorned with a black rubber ribbon, provides a secure grip for winding and setting the time. The watch's 10 ATM water resistance ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily wear, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.

    At the heart of the Sphere Series 2 beats the hand-wound A80 caliber, a movement that embodies HAUTLENCE's commitment to technical innovation and aesthetic excellence. The caliber's skeletonized architecture showcases its intricate components, while its contemporary decoration adds a touch of modernity. The in-house hairspring, produced by Precision Engineering AG, HAUTLENCE's sister company, guarantees exceptional accuracy and reliability.

    The A80 caliber's 72-hour power reserve, visible through the skeletonized drum and ratchet, ensures that the watch will continue to keep time even after being set aside for a few days. The movement's safety device, which prevents incorrect manipulation, is a testament to HAUTLENCE's dedication to crafting timepieces that are not only beautiful but also built to last.

    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
    Courtesy of HAUTLENCE


    The HAUTLENCE Sphere Series 2 is a watch that defies categorization. It's a mechanical masterpiece that seamlessly blends artistry and engineering, resulting in a timepiece that is both visually captivating and technically groundbreaking. Its bold monochromatic aesthetic, innovative complications, and meticulously crafted in-house movement set it apart from the crowd.

    With a limited production of only 28 pieces, the Sphere Series 2 is a rare and exclusive timepiece that will undoubtedly appeal to discerning collectors who appreciate the artistry and mechanics of fine watchmaking. Its price, available upon request, reflects the watch's exceptional craftsmanship and limited availability.
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