Alkiro1 recounts a memorable visit to Vianney Halter's workshop during the PuristPro Swiss Independents GTG, offering a rare glimpse into the world of this ingenious watchmaker. This article captures the unique atmosphere of Halter's creative space and his unconventional approach to horology, highlighting why he is revered among collectors.
Hi everybody,
As you probably know from now on, few of us had the chance to meet incredible and genius watchmakers during three days.
I thought that was mandatory to share our experiences with everybody here and try to give you our feeling during these moments. You probably already understood that we were like kids in a candy shop ;-)
One of these genius is Vianney Halter. Even if I quickly met him at the 2017 Geneva SIHH, that was truly the first time I was able to listen to him and talk with him.
I met someone really really endearing and... crazy. Why crazy? Because he lives watchmaking, he sleeps watchmaking, he dreams watchmaking (he created his Deep Space when he was dreaming yes yes) and so on.
I want to thank Mr Hater for his warm invitation and to give us the opportunity to enter into his universe.
PS: my shots were taken with my iPhone so I'm sorry for the bad quality.
So let's go
The Master surrounded by his machines (just few of them) and above him one of his other passion which is aviation (here a wing). Yes, Mr Halter is a pilot too and he's able to repair or improve his flying toys
His bench
His daughter who is also a watchmaker and works with him.
Almost everything is made internally and sometimes you need specific machines like this huge (at least for me) press. To give you an example, when he was making is Deep Space prototype, he needed a sapphire glass. A company was able to make one for him for $25'000. Too expensive! So he made it himself and it took three weeks.
Another machine to make Geneva stripes.
Why a small demagnetizer when you can own a big one
Everybody can guess the Witschi on the left. But, for Mr Halter, this tool is not sufficient. It's perfect to start to adjust your watch but, if you really want to check and adjust every details, you need the old one on the right. If you have or can find one... keep it!
The Deep Space which won the GPHG 2013 Innovation Prize.
Few parts of it.
Another parts.
Vianney Halter is also a collector and he keeps in a dedicated room few "interesting" things
Two marine chronometers
He particularly loves old and big clocks found in castles, churches...
Who is able to guess what is this engine below? I'm waiting for your answers ;-)
Interesting wall no?
The Classic Janvier (Masterpiece). Functions: hour, minute, small second, equation of time, moon phase cycle, annual calendar and lunar calendar.
The Antiqua (perpetual calendar). Just think about the required mouvement to create such a timepiece with spread dials.
One of the Trio.
Family shot with the Satellarium (top center - Unique piece - not complete here) which is able to give you the temperature thanks to a tiny thermometer.
I hope you enjoyed this tour like us
Best wishes
Alkiro
