The Helix Series 1 by Hautlence is an innovative timepiece that invites watch enthusiasts into a new realm of horological creativity. Originating from the renowned watchmaking region of Schaffhausen, this watch stands as a testament to contemporary design and engineering excellence. It deviates from traditional forms to offer a modern interpretation of timekeeping, it is an HAUTLENCE.
The dial of the Helix Series 1 features a skeletonised design crafted from rhodium-plated brass with vertical finishing. It hosts retrograde displays for both hours and minutes, ensuring precise readability. The hours and minutes are accentuated with a blue ALD coating, and the numerals are made from Globolight® (already well know from the “sister” brand Moser), adding a modern aesthetic and functional sophistication to the watch.
At the core of the Helix resides the D51 automatic mechanical movement. This calibre has been entirely designed, developed, and manufactured in-house. It incorporates a micro-rotor, which not only facilitates compact dimensions but also maintains high-performance standards. The movement comprises 235 components, operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 hertz), and offers a substantial power reserve of 65 hours.
The Helix is encased in the familiar rectangular case made from satin-finished and polished grade 5 titanium. Its dimensions are 37.0 x 45.10 x 11.8 mm, or 10.5 mm without the sapphire crystal. The watch is water-resistant up to 10 ATM, ensuring durability and versatility. A prominent feature is the extra-hard domed sapphire crystal, which includes an anti-reflective treatment for clarity. Completing the case design is a titanium crown with a black rubber ring, engraved with the HAUTLENCE logo.
The Helix Series 1 is produced as a limited edition of just 28 pieces, emphasising its exclusivity. It embodies Hautlence’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking through innovative mechanical solutions and design. The Helix redefines the perception of time, not just as a circle but as a spiral, inviting those who appreciate the artistry of time to forge a deeper connection with its mechanics and aesthetics.
For further information, Hautlence encourages you to engage with them through their various social media platforms or reach out directly. I will be especially curious to see the live images and videos from other, “luckier”, publications that had the chance of having it firsthand.
Hautlence HELIX Series 1 Technical Specifications
Reference CD51-TI00 – CHF 75’000.- 28 pieces limited edition
Movement
- Calibre D51 automatic mechanical movement with micro rotor
- Retrograde hours and minutes
- Central cylindrical tourbillon
- Power reserve: minimum 65 hours
- Alternances: 21,600 vibrations/hour
- Number of components: 235
- Number of jewels: 36
Case
- Case middle and bezel: satin-finished and polished grade 5 titanium
- Crown: polished grade 5 titanium with black rubber ring, engraved HAUTLENCE logo
- Crystal: extra-hard domed sappphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment
- Back: sapphire crystal, engraved «HAUTLENCE», «10 ATM», «Suisse»
- Dimensions: 37.0 x 45.10 x 11.8 mm / 10.5 mm without sapphire crystal
- Water resistance: 10 ATM
Dial
- Skeletonized and rhodium-plated brass with vertical finishing
- Hours and minutes displays: rhodium-plated brass with blue ALD coating
- Globolight® hours and minutes numerals
Strap
- Gray rubber strap with navy blue textile inserts
- Buckle: grade 5 titanium
- Quick strap release function
About HAUTLENCE
Founded in 2004, HAUTLENCE – whose name itself is an anagram of Neuchâtel – pays tribute to the birthplace of the watchmaking art. The brand has been praised by watch collectors and aficionados from across the world for bringing a new dynamism to the art of fine watchmaking.
In 2022, HAUTLENCE embarked on a new chapter in its history. While continuing to refine and develop the brand’s signature codes, HAUTLENCE adopted a brand new, more contemporary and sporty approach. Featuring a new structure, a more exclusive distribution network and a visual identity aligned with the brand’s positioning, HAUTLENCE now has the resources to confirm its status as a leading independent.
With annual production of around 200 pieces, HAUTLENCE has nine calibres designed and developed in-house, whilst also relying on external partners for the movements used in certain collections.
In strategic terms, HAUTLENCE can count on support from MELB Holding, an independent family watchmaking group which has been offering its experience and network since 2012, with the synergies between HAUTLENCE and the group sure to grow.
HAUTLENCE is pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking codes, uniting them with innovative mechanical solutions and an unlimited universe borrowed from the various arts, combining design, architecture, and movement. The brand takes its inspiration from this to create new approaches to time display, which it uses to elevate the two key dimensions of space and time. Ever conscious of a functional relationship with beauty, HAUTLENCE invents timepieces with completely new contours and depths, respecting every stage and every person involved in their production.