Daniel Roth Papillon Chronograph

Chronographs are currently enjoying a major comeback as the useful complication and a significant token of horological expertise. Sensitive to this renewed interest, Daniel Roth proudly introduces the first ever chronograph version of its iconic Papillon watch: the Papillon Chronograph.

Transparent timekeeping

The Papillon Chronograph on which the cover has disappeared, thus fully revealing the patented two-hands mechanism highlighted by larger blued hands, and also providing ample space for the chronograph indications. This model is powered by an FP Calibre 1185 base movement, specially modified for Daniel Roth. The generous 43 x 46 mm case in yellow, white or red gold, the first curvex-style Z version, features larger lugs and naturally implies a greater inter-horn width and thus a more opulent wristband. To ensure ideal wearer comfort, the leather strap is enhanced with inserts to ensure a perfect fit on the wrist. The case middle also carries the trademark Daniel Roth ridged crown, framed by the two chronograph pushbuttons, while the curved case is fitted with a flat sapphire back revealing the beautifully decorated movement. The original dial comprises a number of visual elements that both facilitate read-off and draw the gaze. Perhaps the most striking aspect of all in this model is the sense of openness and transparency. The silver-coloured or ruthenium dial base is adorned with Côtes de Genève, while the whole is topped by a transparent sapphire curvex crystal, glareproofed on both sides.

The transparent 12-hour and 30-minute chronograph counters are positioned at 10 and 2 o’clock respectively, overlapping the central chronograph seconds circle with its black numerals. The black minute semi-circle lends a visually appealing technical touch, while its large numbers ensure perfect readability on a multi-layer dial also featuring a guilloché clous de Paris motif framed by a white semi-circular minute track located inside the chronograph seconds circle and complementing the outer minute display. Providing eloquent proof of the characteristic attention devoted to details by the Daniel Roth designers, the chronograph seconds hand stops at 6 o’clock so as not to hinder the visibility of the jumping-hour display as it would if its resting position were in the conventional spot at 12 o’clock.

When the imagination takes flight

Introduced within the horologically refined Académie collection, the new Papillon Chronograph is driven by a high-end Frédéric Piguet Calibre 1185 mechanical self-winding column-wheel chronograph movement. Worn on a black, blue or brown crocodile leather strap, complete with the Daniel Roth buckle, this distinguished model embodies a sportier, more refined grand complication model with strong mechanical connotations. The designer has clearly allowed his imagination to take flight, and the result is an intriguing and original chronograph version of an icon model that embarks its wearer on a fascinating mechanical journey through the timekeeping stratosphere…

Technical description

Calibre number: DR 2319
Movement : FP 1188
Power-reserve: 45 hours
Mechanism: Jumping hours, 2 retractable
minute hands, chrono
Introduced: 2008
Movement:
Height: 5.50 mm
Mechanism : 3.00 mm
Diameter: 31.50 mm
Vibrations: 21’600 A/h.
Balance: 3-arms Cuproberyllium ring
Balance-spring: Flat
Escapement: Lever
Jewelling: 45 jewels
Case: White , yellow gold 2N18 or red gold 5N18, open back with sapphire crystal
Height: 46.00mm
Width: 43.00mm
Thickness: 15.80mm
Distance between lugs: 24.00mm
Dial: In a guilloché pattern, 3 parts
Wristband: Alligator
Special finishing on movement: Hand-bevelled, Côtes de Genève finishing
Water-resistant: 3atm ■

© 2008 All rights reserved