In Focus: Haldimann H1 Flying Tourbillon
Kwan Ann Tan
Sharpening the focus on one detail from one watch by one watchmaker. We explore Beat Haldimann’s H1 Flying Tourbillon, and the striking central tourbillon that dominates the dial.
Haldimann’s work is characterised by an intense focus on artistic expression, as well as a keen ambition to produce highly technical work. The central flying tourbillon of the H1 has a lyre shape cage crafted from stainless-steel and finished by hand. This is architecturally inspired by the tourbillon made by German watchmaker, and inventor of the flying tourbillon, Alfred Helwig. As with the cage, the oversize tourbillon is also inspired by vintage pocket watches.
The exhibition caseback reveals the minimal appearance of the calibre H-Zen-A, a lighter touch in comparison to the baroque style of the tourbillon, a nod to Haldimann’s focus on function in this instance.
“The central flying tourbillon of the H1 has a stainless steel, lyre shaped cage inspired by German watchmaker Alfred Helwig.”
This particular example is a variation on the usual H1, as it was created with input from members of ThePuristS forum and features a design quirk where the 1, 7, and 8 numerals are rendered in red. We have also previously encountered a variant with a black dial, a slightly more modern take on this classically-focused piece, while more recent examples like the time-only H12 demonstrate the evolution of and connection between Haldimann’s earliest and later examples. Illustrating a shared philosophy and thread of design between his watches.
The more classical examples from Haldimann’s workshop, at the opposite end of the spectrum compared to his more conceptual pieces.
There is a significant emphasis on traditional methods within each of his pieces, as Haldimann’s workshop does not possess a single CNC machine. These variations are evident across the movements across the different H1 watches as well, as there are subtle differences in how the calibres are named on the movements, speaking to the minute adjustments and frequent improvements that the watchmaker continues to make to his watches. This approach not only emphasises the maturation and growth of the watch alongside the artist but also pays tribute to the long line of watchmakers that Haldimann descends from.
