Ferdinand Berthoud

Since Chopard Group and its co-president Karl-Friedrich Scheufele revitalized the Ferdinand Berthoud name with the introduction of the FB1 in 2015, Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud has become synonymous with its fusee-and-chain tourbillon movement. This innovation has formed the cornerstone of most of its high-end timepieces.

Unveiled in 2022 at Watches & Wonders Geneva, the Chronomètre FB RSM reimagines the architecture and design of the Marine Clock no. 8 crafted by Ferdinand Berthoud in Paris in 1768. With the debut of this timepiece, the brand introduced two new complications: a deadbeat seconds, prominently displayed on the center of the dial, and a stop-seconds mechanism. Hence the name Chronomètre FB RSM, with the 'SM' signifying 'seconde morte', French for deadbeat seconds.

Developing a deadbeat seconds mechanism presents a significant challenge for any watch striving for chronometer certification. Maintaining the regularity of torque, fundamental for a constant-force caliber, while interrupting its flow 60 times a minute without compromising its linearity, is a remarkable technical achievement. This is why most deadbeat seconds movements struggle to achieve COSC certification. However, Ferdinand Berthoud, renowned for the precision of their timepieces, managed to ensure accurate timekeeping, a fact attested by the accompanying COSC certification.

The hours are indicated by a rotating disc at 2 o'clock; the minutes are displayed by a faceted and skeletonized hand on the subdial at 12 o'clock. Following the regulator layout, the seconds hand takes center stage on the watch face. Limited to a production of only 20 pieces, we are delighted to present lot no.3/20, fitted with a white gold case and an elegant blue dial.