This 39mm platinum Haldimann H1 Flying Central Tourbillon* is the first piece designed by maker Beat Haldimann as an independent in his workshop in Villa Nussbhl. Its simple aesthetic belies a surprising level of complexity in the form of a central flying tourbillion, oversized in its proportions. Even within the remarkable catalogue of work that followed it, the H1 is special. It represents not just his historical inspirations but the genesis of his vision of forward-looking, innovative watchmaking.

First introduced in 2002, the H1 was watchmaker Beat Haldimanns first attempt as an independent. While he has come to be known for his experimental watchmaking, the H1 is perhaps the clearest indication of the historical inspirations that guide him. As the name suggests, central to the watch face is a large flying tourbillon, architecturally inspired by the one made by German watchmaker, and inventor of the flying tourbillon, Alfred Helwig. The philosophy behind the H1 is also very much rooted in the idea of pursuing mechanical innovation while staying within the parameters of elegant design, championed by Glashtte watchmaker Carl Moritz Grossmann. Haldimanns subscription to this school of watchmaking is evident in his design of the H1.

The 39mm platinum 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. They are 20mm apart and the watch comes with a choice of alligator and grained black leather straps held in place by screwed-in pins. The exhibition caseback reveals the in-house manual wound calibre H-Zen-A. Fairly minimal in appearance, it wears a frosted plate with three visible spring barrels two of them interact through gear trains with the pinion on which the tourbillon is mounted while the third governs the functioning of the hours and minutes hands. Aside from the working rubies, the plate features an embossed brand logo with fine, precise engravings detailing the brand name, calibre and serial numbers.

The watch face is marked by a recessed dial and a pronounced brushed rehaut. This aesthetic accommodates the tourbillon that floats over the frosted dial. Save for a chapter of engraved, lacquer-filled Roman numerals, interspersed with minute plots, the dial is minimal in terms of furniture. Two concentric rings that express the time through Breguet-style hands in this particular example, lie at dial level, underneath the tourbillon cage.

Measuring 16.8mm in diameter, the tourbillon is even bigger than those on 16-ligne pocket watch calibres of old that inspired its design. Completing a rotation every 60 seconds, thereby approximating a seconds hand, it has a lyre shape and a stainless-steel cage finished by hand, much like the rest of the movement. In fact, Haldimann famously forgoes almost all modern conveniences in favour of traditional tools and techniques for much of his manufacturing.

This example, delivered in 2011, is accompanied by its original wooden box and requisite paperwork.

Closer look

Condition

This Haldimann H1 Flying Tourbillon is in excellent condition throughout. Light superficial marks are found on the bezel at the6 and9 o'clock position, only on the very surface of the material, consistent with minimal wear over time. The dial hands and movement are free from any signs of imperfection. The hallmarks 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.