Ferdinand Berthoud Chronometre FB 1R.6-1 “Carburised Steel, Tourbillon”

Up for grabs is a Ferdinan Berthoud Chronometre FB1

Reference FB 1R.6-1 in a limited edition of 20 pieces

Inspired by the Marine Clock No. 7 that Ferdinand Berthoud produced in 1767, the construction and the regulator-type display of the Chronomètre FB 1R.6-1 overturn traditions. Composed of the rear side of the black rhodium-plated nickel silver regulator plate adorned with straight-grained lines, the dial features three openings: one for the hours (at 2 o’clock), another for the minutes (at 12 o’clock) and a third for the power reserve (at 10 o’clock). The Calibre FB-T.FC.R, with its pillar-type architecture, features a direct-drive centre seconds tourbillon whose constant force is provided by a fusee-and-chain transmission mechanism incorporating a satellite differential gear and Malte Cross stopwork device.

The case of the Chronomètre FB 1R.6-1 is made of a new material: carburised stainless steel, a steel whose molecular structure has been reinforced by a thermochemical process. Its exceptional hardness of 1’200 Vickers on the surface makes it extremely resistant, particularly to corrosion.

The dial is black rhodium-plated nickel silver regulator plate (dial) satin-brushed by hand.

The case is 44mm wide and 13.95mm thick, though it wears surprisingly well given the fact it doesn’t have tradition lugs.

This watch comes complete with box and papers.