Here is an early example of Vianney Halters second release in the steampunk inspired Futur Antrieur range, the Classic. Its white gold 36mm case is complemented by a silver dial with engraved details filled with black enamel paint, applied by hand. Another feature that dates it as an early production piece is the shape of the bridges, which are much more like the ones found on the Lemania ebauche the self-winding calibre VH198 is based on.

The Classic inherited a simplified variation of the innovative design of the Antiqua that was the result of Halters collaboration with Jeff Barnes, an American graphic designer with a longstanding interest in horology. The time-only watch, first seen in 2000, was the second installment in the Futur Antrieur collection that imagined a future of the sort Jules Verne and H. G. Wells envisioned in their works. Just 250 pieces were created in pink, yellow, and white gold.

This example, forged from white gold, is an early example from the line, as evidenced by a number of details. Designed and constructed in Halters Janvier SA workshop in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland, it benefits from a 36mm case that is essentially similar to the one underpinning the Antiqua. However, as the name indicates, it presents a much more restrained version of the porthole inspiration. The three-part case features a brushed, stepped bezel with 12 rivets that correspond to the Arabic chapter of hours. The polished lips on the bezel, both where it meets the midcase and the crystal, are a design element that is repeated on the dial to create an almost jewel-like effect. The lip on the recessed centre of the dial as well as the raised island featuring the watchmakers initials feature this embellishment. Similarly, the raised arced plaque with the brand mark also features polished bevels.

On the silver dial is an engraved chapter of sector-style minutes followed by one of Arabic numerals, both filled with black enamel paint applied by hand. The watchmaker's initials and the brand mark are also done in this same fashion. In earlier examples such as this one, this hand painting was much more evident in its execution than in later pieces, where such decoration was much more uniform. While the outer rim of the dial is finished in satin circulaire, the inner dial features a frosted finish.

The midcase is flat and polished and features shrouded lugs that are 20mm apart. The watch comeswith a black alligator leather strap from the brand, secured by a signed white gold pin buckle.

It has a display caseback with a brushed rim on which are laser-engraved details such as the serial number, precious metal hallmarks, the watchmakers initials, and the country of origin. Visible through the sapphire crystal is the self-winding calibre VH198,based on theLemania 8810, with its distinctive mystery sapphire winding rotor. Here we find further evidence of this being an early variant. While later examples feature redesigned bridges and watchmakers initials engraved on them, earlier ones are much closer in their architecture and finishing to the Lemania calibre they are based on.

This, along with the dial finishing that bears more evidence of the watchmakers hand, makes this Classic a rare and attractive proposition for collectors fascinated by Vianney Halters early works.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Vianney Halter Classic will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Vianney Halter Classic is in excellent overall condition. The case and lugs show virtually no signs of wear and are consistent with minimal wear over time. The dial, hand-painted numerals, blued hands, and movement are free from any imperfections. The hallmarks and engravings on the caseback are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.