BESPOKE QUINTESSENCE
Taking the idea that form follows function counter-intuitively. This is the slant which the firm takes with its brand new version of its Furtif model. Explanation.
In 2008, Hysek inaugurated its Furtif collection. The guiding thread was as such to present a timepiece as skeletonized as much as possible. The intention was not however to reveal, as is frequently the case, an existing caliber but to actually imagine this from the very moment it was designed so it could be totally unveiled. This became reality with a tourbillon movement hosted in a square case. End 2019, the brand presented a major development with a new 100%-manufacture caliber – HW34. This hand-wound movement brings together some 172 components and creates a quadrilateral with four perfectly-equal sides.
In this extremely pared down structure, the layout of the indexes pursues the manufacture’s stylistic identity. They are also markers for the mechanical architecture. As such, we discover the seconds wheel at 1 o’clock, the barrel at 5, the bridges, suspended in mid-air, stretching all the way to 7, whilst the escapement is located at 11 o’clock, beating at a rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The various levels of layout are showcased through insightful design which invites light in. By the way, its chassis boasts a charcoaled finish. This technique involves applying a stick of a specific type of charcoal, by hand, leaving a unique pattern which brings out all the highlights of the surface. Four options are available: anthracite, rhodium-plated, blue and violet. They are proposed with a choice of titanium and gold, titanium and PVD, or totally titanium cases. Each timepiece can also feature a bespoke engraving. And, the result? The Furtif 44 mm Skeleton offers infinite variations and can be a one-of-a-kind piece enhanced with its wearer’s desiderata.
Price: CHF23,600 hysek.com
By Dan Diaconu