Ferdinand Berthoud FB1 Launch Photos

MTF's initial launch photos of the Ferdinand Berthoud FB1 provide a crucial first look at a significant achievement in haute horlogerie. This article captures the excitement surrounding the debut of a watch featuring six new and four patent-pending mechanisms, offering a foundational perspective on its technical and aesthetic innovations for collectors and enthusiasts.

Key Points from the Discussion

The author outlines a planned series of reports to comprehensively cover the Ferdinand Berthoud FB1, starting with live photos and culminating in a full watch review, to allow for gradual absorption of its momentous details.
The author explains that every design element of the FB1, from movement to case, is meticulously crafted based on Ferdinand Berthoud marine chronometers, incorporating modern materials and technology, emphasizing that its unique aesthetics are not designed for mass appeal.
A contributor praises the FB1 as a mechanical marvel with superb finishing, likening it to the highest end of Montblanc Villeret, and noting its appeal to discerning collectors rather than mass luxury.
A contributor expresses admiration for the movement's finishing but notes that the case and dial design are not to their personal taste.
A contributor finds the movement fantastic but is not keen on the case shape, eagerly anticipating a detailed report.

The Discussion

AlexSunrise

Sep 22, 2015

Impressive!

Can\'t wait to learn more. Safe travels, MTF, Alex

andrewluff

Sep 22, 2015

Certainly looks interesting...

not keen on the case shape but the movement looks fantastic!! Looking forward to your report. Cheers Andrew

Ornatus-Mundi

Sep 22, 2015

I am absolutely d'accord with you, Andrew. There is a lot to like and admire...

many classics (Maltese Cross, for example), and some new aspects. But I am not sure about the design. Magnus

Mark in Paris

Sep 22, 2015

It seems technically impressive

and the finishing on the movement's side (bridges and other different elements) looks beautiful (on the pictures at least). However, I'll say the case and the dial are not my cup of tea. Curious to learn more. Cheers, Mark

MTF

Sep 23, 2015

Every element of design and execution has a reason irrespective of personal opinion

Mark, The movement, dial, hands, font, crown, sapphire glass, and case are all designed and executed for specific reasons based on the Ferdinand Berthoud marine chronometers but also modern materials and technology not available to the original workshops. When the production is low e.g. 3 pieces a month, you realise that the "looks" cannot appeal to every individual out there. That would be bland mass marketing to a common "norm" like a U.S.A. presidential election: Say nothing controversial, Do

Ornatus-Mundi

Sep 23, 2015

I am very much looking forward to your thoughts and insights, MTF! [nt]

Key Points from the Discussion

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