Pre-Watches and Wonders – Ferdinand Berthoud Régulateur Squelette
Only 20 examples of the new Régulateur Squelette movement will be produced and housed in a choice of round or octagonal cases. This calibre with tourbillon and fusee-and-chain transmission thus heralds a new approach for Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud.
In a bid to strengthen ties with the original inspiration of its founder, Ferdinand Berthoud (1727 – 1807), the Manufacture bearing his name is introducing an evolved version of its business model: as of now, Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud will communicate the total number of units for each inhouse-made calibre. This new mindset is embodied by a first creation: the Régulateur Squelette FB RS, a new model based on the FB-T.FC-RS calibre. For the first time, Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud has announced that the production of this movement will be strictly limited to 20 in all.
The FB-T.FC-RS calibre is the first skeleton movement produced by the Manufacture. This regulator-type chronometer movement with tourbillon and fusee-and-chain transmission is the result of comprehensive technical and aesthetic development and is inspired by Marine Clock No. 8, produced by the master-watchmaker in Paris in 1768. Through the opening visible at 2 o’clock, a large-diameter sapphire disc indicates the hours, while minutes are read off on the dial offset to 12 o’clock. The seconds are displayed on a flat sapphire inner bezel ring surrounding the dial. The FB-T.FC-RS calibre features a pillar-type structure in which the barrel and the reverse fusee are both suspended. This fusee-and-chain transmission mechanism ensures the distribution of energy by delivering “constant force” to the tourbillon with its direct-drive seconds. Finally, the power-reserve indicator is visible on the case-back side.
The choice of watch exterior – from among the various combinations offered by Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud – will be left to the collector. Henceforth, the Manufacture will be offering two variations: the FB 1RS.6 with an octagonal case in carburised stainless steel and the FB 2RS.2 with a round case in 18-carat rose gold. This carburised steel has had its molecular structure reinforced, making its surface (1200 Vickers) extremely resistant to scratches and corrosion. The gold is of certified ethical origin.
