H11/H12 - Central balance | H11 | Rose Gold

This Haldimann H11* presents a true vision of independant, artisanal watchmaking, having been assembled entirely by hand, with the use of traditional tooling. From his workshop in the peaceful Villa Nussbhül, Beat Haldimann works away at fulfilling a vision of watchmaking which has long disappeared almost everywhere else. While Haldimann is perhaps better known for his experimental watchmaking, the H11 and H12 lines are perhaps the simplest of the watchmaker's work, and these are the first pieces that do not integrate the central flying tourbillon complication. This piece was delivered in 2018, roughly five years after the introduction of the watch in 2013. Much like his earlier pieces, the philosophy behind the H11 is rooted in the idea of pursuing mechanical innovation while staying within the parameters of elegant design, as championed by Glashütte watchmaker Carl Moritz Grossmann. Haldimann’s subscription to this school of watchmaking is evident in the overall design of this H11. The 39mm rose gold case on this example features a three-part construction, with a pronounced bezel and caseback sandwiching a concave midcase. All parts wear an even polished appearance. At 3 o'clock is a well-proportioned onion crown. The lugs, originating from the midcase, are straight, with a gentle curvature to them. The case bears a strong similarity to earlier cases, with the same straight lines and understated shape. The dial is minimal in its furnishings, allowing the striking, textured blue surface to take centre stage. Its hand-engraved indexes are rendered in a warm gold tone that closely echoes the case. The distinctive spade-shaped hands, meanwhile, draw inspiration from an 18th-century Haldimann Frères pocket watch. Unusual and immediately recognisable, they have become a recurring signature throughout Haldimann’s work. Meanwhile, the movement is entirely hand-finished, displaying a frosted effect, echoing the finishing of the dial. This meticulous details and finishing is all the more remarkable, considering it was created without the assistance of any electronic equipment. Indeed, Haldimann forgoes the use of CNC machinery in favour of antique tooling, continuing the legacy behind his name. The exhibition case-back of the H11 allows the owner to admire the almost ascetic minimalism to the design and function of the watch. Only the frosted main-plate, crown wheel, ratchet wheel, and the legendary Haldimann central balance are visible. The central location of the movement’s balance wheel not only offers a unique visual element, but is also a first for a wrist watch with centrally mounted hour and minute hand. The oscillations of the balance are maintained by a unique modified Swiss lever escapement for improved isochronism - the cross-shaped sprung anti-shock system, developed by Haldimann. The movement is engraved with Haldimann's name near the base of the movement, as well as "H11" and the movement number to the right of the balance wheel. If sold within the United Kingdom, this Haldimann H11/H12 - Central balance will be subject to 20% VAT Closer look Brand: Haldimann Model: H11/H12 - Central balance ref. H11 Movement: manual-winding calibre 2015F Functions: hours and minutes Features: hand frosted dial, display back Case material: rose gold Case diameter: 39mm Case thickness: 10mm Lug-to-lug: 48mm Crystal: sapphire front & back Strap: leather strap, Haldimann rose gold pin buckle Lug width: 20 x 18mm Year: 2018 Accompanying materials: Haldimann outer box & inner wooden box, certificate of authenticity & guarantee booklet (signed & dated), product book Condition This Haldimann H11/H12 - Central balance is in excellent overall condition. The case and lugs show very light superficial marks on the very surface of the material. The dial, hands, and movement are free of imperfections and have been well preserved. All hallmarks and engravings are well defined. Warranty The watch comes with a two-year, limited warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.