The watch world often fixates on the future, chasing innovation and pushing the boundaries of technological advancement. Yet, amidst this relentless pursuit of progress, there's an undeniable allure in revisiting the past, in unearthing the vintage charm that once defined an era. Hautlence, the Swiss watchmaker renowned for its avant-garde designs and mechanical ingenuity, has embraced this sentiment with its latest creation, the Retrovision '47.
This isn't just another timepiece; it's a journey back in time, a tribute to an era where radios ruled the airwaves and design aesthetics were a harmonious blend of form and function. Inspired by the iconic "Model 5A5" radio broadcast receiver from the 1940s, the Retrovision '47 is a captivating fusion of nostalgia and horological prowess, a testament to Hautlence's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking artistry.
Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
Before delving into the intricacies of the Retrovision '47, it's essential to understand the brand behind this extraordinary timepiece. Founded in 2004,
Hautlence quickly established itself as a maverick in the watchmaking industry, unafraid to challenge conventions and redefine the norms of haute horlogerie.
The brand's name, an anagram of Neuchâtel, the birthplace of Swiss watchmaking, is a nod to its heritage and a reminder of its deep-rooted connection to the rich traditions of the craft. However, Hautlence's creations are anything but traditional. From its groundbreaking HL movement to its distinctive rectangular cases inspired by television sets, the brand has consistently pushed the envelope, captivating collectors and enthusiasts with its daring designs and mechanical marvels.
In 2022, Hautlence embarked on a new chapter, embracing a more contemporary and sporty approach while retaining its signature codes of audacity and innovation. The brand's commitment to exclusivity and craftsmanship remains unwavering, with an annual production of around 200 pieces, each meticulously crafted and infused with the brand's unique DNA.
Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
The Retrovision '47 is a testament to Hautlence's ability to seamlessly blend the past and the present. The watch's design is a love letter to the 1940s, a decade marked by a distinct aesthetic that celebrated simplicity, functionality, and timeless elegance. The watch's cuboidal case, crafted from hand-painted titanium, evokes the marbled green and white Bakelite of the Model 5A5 radio, while the titanium lugs, shaped like carrying handles, further accentuate the vintage charm.
The dial, a masterpiece of intricate detailing, is where the Retrovision '47 truly shines. The central hour and minute hands are a nod to traditional watchmaking, but the offset dial on the right side, adorned with red hands that mimic the frequency selector dial of the radio, adds a playful touch of whimsy. The brass and 2N gold dial, embossed with the Hautlence Möbius emblem, exudes a sense of luxury and refinement, while the "speaker" grill on the left side reveals a glimpse of the mesmerizing 60-second flying tourbillon, a testament to Hautlence's mechanical mastery.
The Retrovision '47's case, measuring 39.2mm x 44.4mm x 12.1mm, is a testament to Hautlence's dedication to craftsmanship. The cuboidal form, with its softened corners, is machined from grade 5 titanium, a material celebrated for its lightweight durability and hypoallergenic properties. But it's the hand-painted shell finish that truly sets this watch apart. Each case is a unique canvas, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of marbled green and white hues that evoke the Bakelite of the 1940s radio that inspired it.
Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
The lugs, sculpted from grade 23 titanium, transcend their utilitarian function, transforming into miniature handles that pay homage to the radio's portability. This clever design not only reinforces the watch's vintage aesthetic but also enhances its ergonomic appeal, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist.
The caseback, visible through a sapphire crystal, is a window into the watch's mechanical soul. The D20 automatic caliber, with its 72-hour power reserve, is a marvel of engineering, featuring a mesmerizing 60-second flying tourbillon that whirls beneath a "speaker" grill on the dial. The engraving on the caseback, reminiscent of the radio's specifications, adds a touch of whimsy and reinforces the watch's nostalgic charm.
The dial of the Retrovision '47 is a microcosm of horological artistry. The central hour and minute hands, crafted from 2N gold, are a nod to traditional watchmaking, while the offset dial on the right side, adorned with red hands that mimic the frequency selector dial of the radio, injects a playful element into the design. The dial itself, made of 2N gold-plated brass with vertical satin finishing, features minute numerals in black Super-LumiNova for enhanced legibility in low-light conditions.
Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
The embossed pattern of the Hautlence Möbius emblem in the center of the dial is a subtle yet impactful detail that reinforces the brand's identity. The "speaker" grill, under which the tourbillon resides, features a motif of radio waves in gray Super-LumiNova, adding another layer of visual interest to this captivating timepiece.
The Retrovision '47 is paired with a red calf leather strap that complements the watch's vintage aesthetic. The supple leather, with its contrasting stitching, not only enhances the watch's comfort but also adds a touch of sophistication to its overall appearance. The steel buckle, engraved with the Hautlence logo, is a testament to the brand's attention to detail.
The Retrovision '47 is not just a watch; it's a collector's item, a piece of horological history that is sure to appreciate in value over time. With a limited production of only 10 pieces, this watch is destined to become a coveted treasure for discerning collectors who appreciate the fusion of artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Courtesy of HAUTLENCE
Priced at 60,000 CHF, the Retrovision '47 is an investment in exclusivity and a testament to Hautlence's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. It's a timepiece that transcends trends, a wearable work of art that tells a story of nostalgia, innovation, and a passion for horological excellence.
The Hautlence Retrovision '47 is a watch that defies categorization. It's a vintage-inspired masterpiece that celebrates the past while embracing the future. It's a testament to Hautlence's ability to seamlessly blend tradition and innovation, resulting in a timepiece that is both nostalgic and avant-garde. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of haute horlogerie, the Retrovision '47 is a watch that is sure to leave a lasting impression, a reminder that timekeeping can be an art form, a journey through history, and a celebration of human ingenuity.