The Ferdinand Berthoud brand has been making waves in the watchmaking world since its revival in 2015, and the release of the Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is no exception. This new collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of horology, blending historical references with cutting-edge innovations. Personally, I think this is a significant step forward for the brand, and it's fascinating to see how they've managed to blend tradition and modernity so seamlessly. What makes this particularly fascinating is the attention to detail and the sheer complexity of the movement. The Chronometre FB 2TV is a true masterpiece, with a 3D architecture comprising no fewer than 1,240 components, including 777 elements for the chain alone. In my opinion, this level of craftsmanship is what sets Ferdinand Berthoud apart from other watchmakers. One thing that immediately stands out is the flying tourbillon, which is a signature feature of the brand. The tourbillon is a mechanism that compensates for the effects of gravity on the watch's accuracy, and the FB 2TV takes this to a new level with its spectacular 15mm diameter cage. What many people don't realize is that the tourbillon is not just a showpiece, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring the watch's accuracy. If you take a step back and think about it, the flying tourbillon is a testament to the brand's commitment to chronometry, and it's a feature that's sure to impress collectors and horology enthusiasts alike. A detail that I find especially interesting is the fusee-and-chain mechanism, which is a signature feature of Ferdinand Berthoud's movements. This mechanism is responsible for providing a constant force to the watch's movement, ensuring that it runs smoothly and accurately. What this really suggests is that the brand is not just about creating beautiful watches, but they're also about pushing the boundaries of what's possible in horology. Now, let's talk about the case. The 44mm x 15.46mm round case is crafted from ethical 18k white gold, and it's clearly inspired by the Remontoir d'Egalité FB 2RE. The case features two box sapphire crystals, one at the front and one at the back, which provides excellent scratch resistance and durability. The off-centered hours and minutes dial is a unique feature, and it adds to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal. From my perspective, the dial is a work of art, with its white varnished base and black engraved minutes track. The ultra-thin central seconds hand allows the time to be read on the white lacquered inner bezel ring, which is a clever design choice that enhances the watch's readability. Now, let's talk about the strap. The watch is offered on a hand-stitched alligator leather strap, which is available in various sizes and colors on request. The strap is a perfect match for the case, and it adds to the watch's overall elegance and sophistication. While not a limited edition, the Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is expected to be produced at only 10 to 12 timepieces per year due to its complexity and the workshop's capacity. This limited production run is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and attention to detail. In conclusion, the Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is a true masterpiece, and it's a watch that's sure to impress collectors and horology enthusiasts alike. The attention to detail, the complexity of the movement, and the brand's commitment to chronometry make this a must-have for anyone who appreciates the art of watchmaking. If you're looking for a watch that's both beautiful and technically impressive, then the Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is the perfect choice for you.
