New Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud watch Launch Report, VIDEO and Photos from Paris

Sep 23, 2015,07:41 AM
 

The new timepiece from Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD was launched in Paris on 22 September 2015. It embodies a modern vision of the creations that the master might create if he were still living today. As a tribute to the horological genius of Ferdinand Berthoud,  Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, President of the Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD, wanted the new timepiece to represent a continuation of the work of the master chronometer-maker. Drawing inspiration from the original Ferdinand Berthoud marine chronometers and astrological timepieces housed in his personal collection, the team adopted a contemporary approach guided by the same innovative spirit.  Included is a video of the watch.


FB 1.1 and Gimbal Case

FB 1.1 and Gimbal Case


The imposing yet wearable octagonal case with watertight portholes houses the new Chronometer FERDINAND BERTHOUD FB 1 mechanical hand-wound, 3Hz oscillating movement made up of 1,120 components. Entirely independently conceived, developed and produced by the Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD in Fleurier, the FB-T.FC calibre features a tourbillon with central seconds, a distinctive pillar-type architecture, an innovative suspended fusée - chain regulating system and a mobile cone indicating power-reserve. Patents have been filed for each of these features.


The Launch


Squadron Vice Admiral Yves Lagane, Yacht Club de France President

Squadron Vice Admiral Yves Lagane, Yacht Club de France President

Vice-amiral d'escadre (2s) Yves Lagane, President of Yacht Club de France welcomed us to the premises and described the Spirit of the Sea that all mariners have that guides them through life.
As Ferdinand Berthoud was famous for his marine chronometers, worked in Paris and was commissioned as 'Horologist-mechanic to the King and the Navy' by two Kings and an Emperor of France, it was apt that the re-launch of Ferdinand Berthoud chronometers was at the Yacht Club de France that received Royal Patronage from Emperor Napoléon III on 15 June 1867.



Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Chronometrie Ferdinand Berthoud President

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Chronometrie Ferdinand Berthoud President

Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD President, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele (KFS) introduced the design and engineering team that was in Research & Development for three years.

He stated: “We have a major responsibility in bringing the legendary Ferdinand Berthoud back to the forefront of the watchmaking scene. Our goal is not to develop nostalgic commemorative models, but instead to offer contemporary watches that will prove worthy of the great name they bear and of the excellence that is legitimately inspires.”


KFS invited his sister and wife to unveil the two variants of the new Chronometer FERDINAND BERTHOUD FB 1. 


Caroline and Christine Scheufele

Caroline and Christine Scheufele



What followed was an embarrassment of kisses as his family recognised the significance of THAT moment when "The Journey and Watchmaking Adventure Continues....'



Et Voila; it is revealed

Et Voila; it is revealed





















In subsequent reports, we will explore the technical specifications, goals and objectives for Project F.

We will hear from the President, Designer, and Engineers in Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD to address all the critique of their creation.


An elated and passionate watch lover

An elated and passionate watch lover


Meanwhile, I leave you with the 'money shot' of FB 1; there really is no question necessary afterwards......

The video is below too.
 



FB-T.FC calibre
FB-T.FC calibre



 

Publications


FB 1 watch: part 1 - Movement
www.watchprosite.com


FB 1 watch: part 2 - Case and Dial
www.watchprosite.com



Regards,

MTF


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Comments: view entire thread

New Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud watch Launch Report, VIDEO and Photos from Paris

 
 By: MTF : September 23rd, 2015-07:41
The new timepiece from Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD was launched in Paris on 22 September 2015. It embodies a modern vision of the creations that the master might create if he were still living today. As a tribute to the horological genius of Ferdinand...

A new incomer, I wish them success :)

 
 By: Mark in Paris : September 23rd, 2015-08:09
The movement on this official picture looks impressive and beautiful. Looking forward to learning further details! Cheers, Mark

I was surprised by the detail of the reasoning behind each design decision

 
 By: MTF : September 23rd, 2015-17:21
Indeed, each decision was after prolonged thought. For example, the "Swiss" lever mechanism was used because Berthoud was friends with Thomas Mudge, the Englishman who invented the lever escapement and also used it in his movements. Although, Berthoud pla...

The key to success:

 
 By: CaliforniaJed : September 23rd, 2015-09:07
This line from KFS: Our goal is not to develop nostalgic commemorative models, but instead to offer contemporary watches that will prove worthy of the great name they bear and of the excellence that is legitimately inspires. If that is the mantra, this wi...

Definitely a worthwhile credo

 
 By: KMII : September 23rd, 2015-11:59
While I like the odd tribute model as much as the next man, I find it imperative that a brand continues creating a fresh legacy and KFSs credo certainly goes in that direction

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele explained the guidance the team adhered to during the development

 
 By: MTF : September 24th, 2015-06:25
Karl-Friedrich Scheufele explained the guidance the team adhered to during the development of FB 1 watch: “We sought to transpose what Ferdinand Berthoud might have created if he was living now. The contemporary translation of his genius consists of drawi...