Independents
Philippe M.'s original post introduced the Vianney Halter Antiqua OCEAN, a concept that generated significant buzz among collectors for its bold design and unexpected direction as Halter's first diver and stainless steel watch. This article revisits the community's initial reactions and the surprising revelation that followed, highlighting the enduring appeal of Vianney Halter's unconventional approach to watchmaking and the playful spirit within the independent watchmaking community.
"14 years after presenting his Antiqua, Vianney Halter offers you to explore the Silent World.
As a big fan of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Halter turns his precious perpetual calendar watch into a male stainless steel toolwatch purposely made for scuba diving : ANTIQUA OCEAN
Like on the Antiqua of the early days, the various functions are dispatched on several portholes : the time is in the upper right porthole while the date is just underneath.
Another set of hands gives the dive duration in the lower left dial while the upper left porthole houses an accurate depth jauge.
The Antiqua OCEAN is 300 m deep waterproof. It is tight on the diver’s wrist by means of a hand sewed rubber strap and a stainless steel ardillon buckle. Hands are SuperLuminova coated for improving legibility even in muddy water."
(source : www.vianney-halter .com)De Bethune DB25 Reference DB25
The DB25 represents De Bethune's entry in the 44.5mm manual-wind category, distinguished by its silver dial configuration within the DB25 series. This reference launched in 2006 and continues the brand's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie complications.
The 44.5mm case is crafted from 18k white gold with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. Water resistance extends to 30 meters. The manual-winding caliber DB2105 movement provides a substantial 120-hour power reserve. The watch features a leather strap attachment.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking De Bethune's technical approach to timekeeping in a precious metal case. The extended power reserve and manual-wind operation position it for enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on interaction with their timepieces. The 44.5mm sizing places it in contemporary proportions within the independent watchmaking segment.
Otherwise you may never get to enjoy the depth gauge. I had to visit his web-site - with a view of the back - because we are getting dangerously close to April 1. Congratulations to Vianney !!! amerix
LOL, that was my first thought as well Oliver
...I want to hold one.
Beautiful piece in there , though the time dial could look better without the ocean IN MY OWN OPINION , happy to see such a creation yet im left in wonder IF the piece lost it poetic part for the sake of the functional one.... Faisal
nobody even dives with a Rolex let alone.... For its own merits, crazy-weird as usual from the mad genius. I don't understand why someone as independent as VH can't just make a watch for 'no use' and no reason'. Why pretend it is for diving? Ludicrous meets double ludicrous. VH is so independent and so his-own-man, why not just say, I made this nutty thing, do you like it?
That's a magnificent April Fools joke
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