Independents
Mike H provides an exclusive, in-depth look at the manufacturing process of the Hentschel H1 chronometer manufactory caliber HUW 1130 Premium, designed for the WatchProSite 20th Anniversary edition. This detailed update showcases the meticulous steps involved in crafting a high-precision movement, from the installation of golden chatons to the final assembly of the escapement. His post offers a rare glimpse into the artisanal techniques that define independent German watchmaking.
In the first WIP update featured last November (here www.watchprosite.com ) I promised to update you as work goes on. I was mentioning that the next article would be about the movement, so let let’s see how Hentschel is working on the chronometer manufactory caliber HUW 1130 Premium…
1.The screwed-on golden Chatons which provide extra shock protection for the rubies are the most laborious but technically best solution for bearing the wheels pivots
2. The Chatons are pressed into the finished bridge
3. After that the rubies are set into the Chatons
4. Additionally the Chatons are fixed with 0.3mm small and thermally blued screws
5. The finished mainplate
6. The assembly starts with inserting the wheel train
7. Then come the different bridges
8. The crown wheel and mainspring barrel can now be added
9. The assembly is finished by mounting the escapement with the balance wheel and swans neck regulator
10. The HUW 1130 P caliber combines robustness with precision. The next step is the adjustment of the movement before it goes for testing
In spite of the today’s logistics constraints due to the sanitary situation that prevails since several months, Hentschel has managed to organize its activity so as to remain in line with the planned schedule.
However there are some other constraints with the dials: dial production is always a highly complicated process and when going for an innovative and exclusive dial you obviously add risks in the present world that experiences production hiccups.
For this reason some slight delay seems unavoidable and the estimated delivery date will now be April (or maybe end March if we are lucky).
Thanks for your understanding but we cannot criticise Andreas Hentschel for making no compromise on testing period so as to be certain of the quality of the WatchProSite 20th Anniversary Hentschel H1.
Stay tuned for a last update before we take delivery of this great watch!
MikeCan't wait to see the finished product - and happy Bday WPS!
Although I was not among those who ordered a watch, I'm a fan of Hentschel and glad to hear the project is going well.
You have good taste, they are indeed exquisite
I like the oversized swans neck and general architecture of the movement. Thanks for the updates!
Thanks for the update - looking forward to next step and finally seeing the watch upon completion! Ps: since the delivery is nearing, I was wondering whether anyone was planning to pick it up at the manufacture? Maybe combined with a mini-visit? WDYT? Cheers, Jerome
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