Simply Abu Dhabi XXXIV

1 4 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I T he DC6 “1740” is inspired by the classic half-hunter pocket watches that were used by the marine adventurers of bygone eras. One of Candaux’s many areas of expertise is the tourbillon, and in this new watch he has managed to combine philosophy, astronomy and mathematics to devise a unique inclined bi-plan tourbillon – the 60-seconds flying tourbillon has been designed using a ceramic ball bearing inclined at 3 degrees from the horizontal. Within another construction inside the tourbillon’s grade-5 titanium cage, the balance has been placed in a position with another 30 degrees’ inclination, hence the name ‘bi-plan’ flying tourbillon. The result provides a definitive improvement on the standard, horizontally orientated tourbillon construction we see in modern watches. The original tourbillon design, as used in pocket watches, was conceived for dealing with the forces of gravity from mainly vertical positions in waistcoat pockets. That is totally different today with our contemporary wristwatches, and the tourbillon must adjust to the angles and movements of our dynamic lifestyles, functioning in all manner of positions, whether sitting, reading, walking, running, or working behind a computer. Candaux’s bi-plan flying tourbillon was created in such a way as to ensure a continual change in position of the cage and of the regulating organ in relation to these types of wrist positions people normally use in daily life, thus optimising its capacity to compensate the influence of gravity that could affect chronometric results. Following the best practices possible, the curve of the spiral has been given a Breguet overcoil ending in a Phillips terminal curve, ensuring the balance spring’s poise and functionality, with a resultant lower friction on the balance staff in every vertical position. The spiral extremity of the spring is maintained by a stud specially developed for this timepiece in order to guarantee reliable, long-term fixation. Details like these ensure the optimal long- term functioning of the movement and guarantee the quality of chronometric results. The visual effect of the watch is dramatic – the DC6 is a unison of ancient watchmaking with cutting-edge modern design. Traditional finishing techniques are used but also new and reinvented techniques are found, and Candaux has invented new patterns of decoration and hand finishing. The front face of the watch is in Grade 5 titanium decorated with guilloché “Pointe du Risoux”, with 18K white gold and palladium indexes chamfered and polished by hand. The entire front has been gently and almost imperceptibly inclined; standing slightly higher in the case at the 12 o’clock position and lower towards 6 o’clock. This unusually positioned bezel comfortably enhances reading the time. Thanks to the innovation of the integrated crown, each of the bridges are inclined at three degrees from each other and the view of the movement’s interior surface shows a cascading effect. The “magic crown” is a double-patented system comprising 31 parts. The crown is unlocked by pressing on it and then adjusting it into 3 positions: neutral, time-setting, and winding. It is built with 3 O-ring gaskets ensuring a strong protection against water and humidity. The retractable crown not only adds to the unique appeal of the watch but also protects it from shocks that can be a common issue for watches with the crown on the case edge. It also improves the water resistance, as the crown is less likely to move and let water in. Time is displayed on the spherical, convex micro-dial under the right sapphire dome with two curving hands precisely tracing the dial’s exact form. The flying tourbillon’s hypnotic dance takes place under the sapphire dome on the left, with seconds shown on a blued index on the edge of the tourbillon cage. The beauty of the fully visible, patented and tilted tourbillon echoes the display of the three-dimensional hours and minutes window. The symmetry and harmony deftly evokes the old half-hunter timepieces and marine compasses that inspired this fascinating timepiece. The DC 6 Solstice Titanium Half Hunter 1740 is mounted on a choice of 3 coloured straps in natural anti-allergy rubber. Red, orange and blue, the strap is manufactured with different layers of hardness in the rubber in order to ensure rigidity and softness at the same time. The price for each of the eight, limited edition DC 6 Solstice Titanium Half Hunter 1740 watch is €241,500. After an exceptional career to date, the natural evolution for David Candaux is to build a world-revered brand and to share his vision of 21st century Fine Watchmaking.