The world of horology is abuzz with the unveiling of the Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV, a masterpiece that seamlessly blends historical references with cutting-edge innovation. This watch is a testament to the brand's resurgence under the leadership of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, who, along with his team, has breathed new life into this historic name. Since its revival in 2015, the brand has garnered accolades, including the prestigious Aiguille d’Or at the GPHG, and has cultivated a dedicated following among collectors for its distinctive designs and impeccable craftsmanship. The Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is a pinnacle of this legacy, pushing the boundaries of what a timepiece can be.
A Legacy of Precision and Innovation
The Chronometre FB 2TV is a direct descendant of the FB-T.FC calibre from the 2015 Chronometre FB 1, but with a twist. It introduces a flying tourbillon, a departure from the traditional underbridge tourbillon of the FB.1. This change is more than aesthetic; it's a functional enhancement. The flying tourbillon, with its 15mm diameter and three-armed cage, runs at 21,600 vibrations per hour, ensuring unparalleled precision. The variable inertia balance, featuring four 18-carat gold fine-adjustment screws and a spring with a Phillips terminal curve, further underscores the watch's commitment to accuracy.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the FB 2TV is its stop-balance mechanism and second hand reset function. These features, rare in tourbillon watches, allow for time-setting with to-the-second accuracy. The crown-integrated pusher not only resets the seconds hand but can also be used in fly-back mode, enabling short-time interval measurements up to 60 seconds. This level of functionality is a testament to Berthoud's dedication to chronometry.
The fusee-and-chain mechanism, a signature Berthoud innovation, has been entirely reengineered. It now features a double superimposed Maltese cross-type stopwork system and two stopwork fingers, ensuring a consistent energy delivery range. This enhancement, combined with a redesigned flying barrel that eliminates friction, contributes to the watch's overall rate stability and accuracy.
A Dial-Side Masterpiece
The FB 2TV's movement is a marvel of engineering, with 1,240 components, including 777 for the chain, meticulously finished by hand over nearly 300 hours. The power reserve has been increased to 60 hours, and winding is faster, requiring just 6.25 turns of the crown. The movement is housed in a 44mm x 15.46mm case, crafted from ethical 18k white gold, and features a domed sapphire crystal and a sapphire caseback, both glareproofed for optimal visibility.
The dial is a work of art, with an off-centered hours and minutes display, a white varnished dial base, and an engraved black varnished minutes track. The ultra-thin central seconds hand, measuring 25.80mm, allows for precise time reading on the white lacquered inner bezel ring. The power reserve indicator, located at 7:30, is driven by a mobile arm tipped with a ruby, providing a unique visual cue for the watch's remaining power.
A Limited Treasure
The Ferdinand Berthoud Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is not a limited edition, but its production is constrained by the brand's capacity to produce only 10 to 12 timepieces annually. This exclusivity, combined with its price tag of EUR 383,000 (including taxes), makes it a coveted treasure for horology enthusiasts. The watch is offered on a hand-stitched alligator leather strap, available in various sizes and colors, and secures with a white gold double-blade safety folding clasp, adjustable for a perfect fit.
In conclusion, the Mesure du Temps 1787 Chronometre FB 2TV is a testament to the enduring appeal of horological craftsmanship and innovation. It embodies the spirit of Ferdinand Berthoud, blending historical references with modern advancements to create a timepiece that is both a collector's dream and a technical marvel.
