Bernard Favre, the creator of the famous Planet winding system, is now launching the Crown Ultimate, a genuine small piece of workshop equipment used to wind hand-wound mechanical watches. Taking inspiration from the functions and codes of traditional watchmaking, this unique creation is designed for very exacting customers who are passionate about fine mechanics.
A new masterpiece has now been added to the “Bernard Favre Watch Accessories collection” – the Crown Ultimate which marries precision mechanics with watchmaking artistry. Its innovative and exclusive mechanism immerses us in the world of the workshops of yesteryear. The Crown Ultimate is a new sophisticated timekeeping instrument designed to power hand-wound timepieces with any level of complication.
Assembled and checked in the workshops of Bernard Favre, all the components of the Crown Ultimate have been entirely manufactured in Switzerland according to the highest quality standards. Thanks to its adaptable support, this piece of workshop equipment can accommodate timepieces of all shapes, measuring from 24 to 60 mm in diameter, as well as those equipped with a crown positioned at 3 o’clock, 4 o’clock or 12 o’clock. Rotating the support, which is calibrated over a 135-degree segment, enables the crown to be precisely positioned irrespective of the position of the crown on the watch case. A setting wheel can also be used to adjust the height of the support, depending on the thickness of each watch case.
It should be noted that the timepiece is held securely in place by four mobile rods which are covered in leather to protect the watch case. These rods can be adjusted individually.
An ingenious mechanism
A system of cogs, powered by an extremely quiet and very low-consumption electric motor, drives a clamp fixed on the watch crown. The rotation of this crown winds the barrel spring until it is at full capacity. Once winding is complete, and when the spring is fully tensioned, an electronic command from the motor interrupts the process. Thanks to its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the device guarantees an operating autonomy of 6 months.
A plate engraved with the name of the owner also bears the individual number of each Crown Ultimate and indicates the number of pieces manufactured. (Limited edition of 99 pieces.)
Technical specifications
- Base: Brass gilded with 5N gold
- Finishes: Brass gilded with 5N gold and stainless steel, satin-finishing, polishing and micro blasting
- Power supply: Rechargeable battery with autonomy of 6 months
- Dimensions: 130 x 260 x 150 mm, including crystal protection
- Guarantee: 24 months
- Price: 11,800 CHF including flight case
About Bernard Favre
Bernard Favre is an insatiable explorer, constantly on the lookout for new ideas. His technical drawings give rise to high-end components created by experienced master craftsmen who share the same passion for their art and values in common: attention to detail, quality finishes and respect for watchmaking traditions. Assembled in Bernard Favre’s workshop, these creations illustrate the happy marriage of Swiss Made expertise and talents, combining innovation, sophisticated design, technical research and functionality.
A free spirit and a visionary, Bernard Favre creates exceptional, high-precision mechanical pieces based on original concepts. One such example is his “Planet”, a creation which made its world début in 2011. Although he has a particular affinity for metal – a legacy from his gold smelter father – he favours high-quality materials such as leather, carbon fibre, crystal and wood. In this respect, 2019 marked a turning point for Favre who, this year, decided to dedicate himself to designing even more exclusive and customisable pieces.
