Created by Beat Haldimann at his workshop in the peaceful Villa Nussbhl, the H1 Flying Tourbillon is a complex piece with an oversized tourbillon as the central focus on the dial.

This complex flying tourbillon created by independent watchmaker Beat Haldimann is inspired by the work of Alfred Helwig, a German watchmaker who invented the flying tourbillon. On the Haldimann H1, the oversized tourbillon sits in the centre of the dial, with an impressive diameter of 16.8mm, comparable to what you might find in a pocket watch from days past. Shaped like a lyre, the cage is made from stainless steel and finished by hand.

The silvery dial allows the tourbillon to stand out, with the indexes being hand engraved and then filled in with lacquer. Meanwhile, the spade-shaped hands are inspired by an 18th century Haldimann Frres pocket watch, with the seconds being indicated thanks to the rotation of the flying tourbillon cage.

The flying tourbillon requires more energy than a traditional tourbillon, which is fixed on a bridge. As a result, the H1 is equipped with a triple barrel mechanism, with two of these being connected to the tourbillon and the third one powering the hands. The movement is entirely hand-finished, displaying a subtle frosted effect. This meticulous details and finishing are 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.

Closer look

This Haldimann H1 is in very good condition throughout. Light superficial marks are found on the case and lugs, consistent with minimal wear. The hallmarks and engravings on the case back are crisp and well defined.

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