The Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is a remarkable creation that showcases the brand’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship. This limited-edition timepiece was designed to celebrate the 5th anniversary of ART IN TIME, a gallery founded in Monaco in 2019 by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. As one of only five pieces, this titanium-clad beauty is a celebration of independent watchmaking and Ferdinand Berthoud’s rich heritage. Let’s dive into what makes this piece stand out.
The FB 3SPC.4 is the third modern creation from Ferdinand Berthoud, first presented in 2022. It answers the need for a more accessible model without sacrificing the precision and quality the brand is known for. The FB 3SPC.4, like its predecessors, is a mechanical wonder. It is powered by the hand-wound FB-SPC calibre, a movement that features a cylindrical hairspring. This rare and complex feature is a throwback to historical watchmaking, referencing the No. 26 decimal pocket watch crafted by Louis Berthoud in 1793. The cylindrical hairspring breathes concentrically, ensuring more consistent timekeeping accuracy. The FB 3SPC.4 achieves an impressive average rate variation between -1 and +3 seconds per day, a level of precision that surpasses the standards of COSC certification.
The movement of the FB 3SPC.4 is a work of art, boasting a stop-second mechanism for precise setting and a 72-hour power reserve. It operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, or 3Hz, offering a balance between performance and power efficiency. The movement is encased in sandblasted titanium, a first for this model, giving it a sleek, modern look. The case is 42.3mm in diameter, with a sapphire crystal porthole at 9 o’clock that offers a glimpse of the cylindrical hairspring in action. This detail adds a dynamic element to the watch, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate movement inside.
The white dial of the FB 3SPC.4 is complemented by blue numerals and minute markers, creating a striking contrast that enhances readability. The hands are crafted from 18-carat gold and treated with blue CVD, adding a touch of luxury to the design. The seconds subdial is positioned at 6 o’clock, and the power reserve indicator, also in 18-carat gold, is arrow-shaped, ensuring the wearer can easily track the remaining power.
Each of the five limited-edition pieces comes with three interchangeable straps: blue rubber, blue alligator leather, and grey alligator leather. These straps are secured by sandblasted titanium pin buckles, ensuring durability and style. The back of the watch is engraved with ‘Art in Time’, ‘5th Anniversary’, and ‘One of Five’, making each piece truly unique.
With a price tag of CHF 135,000, the Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is undoubtedly a luxury item. However, for those who appreciate the fine art of watchmaking and the history behind the brand, it is worth every penny. This watch is not just a timepiece; it’s a statement of craftsmanship, precision, and timeless design. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of haute horlogerie, the FB 3SPC.4 is a watch that deserves a place in your collection.
The Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is a masterpiece that combines historical watchmaking techniques with modern technology. Its precision, design, and craftsmanship make it a standout in the world of luxury watches. With only five pieces available, this watch is as exclusive as it gets, making it a true collector’s item.
| Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 – Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Case | 42.30mm diameter x 9.43mm thickness, Sandblasted titanium case, Sapphire crystal with double-sided AR coating (front and caseback), Sapphire crystal porthole at 9 o’clock, 30m water-resistant |
| Dial | Peripheral inner bezel ring and seconds subdial in semi-matt white varnish, Sandblasted brass, White rhodium-treated and sandblasted components of Calibre FB-SPC, Facetted and skeletonised open-tipped hours and minutes hands in 18-carat gold with blue CVD treatment, Seconds hand with counterweight and arrow-shaped power reserve hand in 18-carat gold with blue CVD treatment |
| Movement | Calibre FB-SPC, In-house, COSC chronometer-certified, Hand-wound, 37.30 mm x 6.84 mm, 230 components, 47 jewels, 72-hour power reserve, 21,600 vibrations/hour, Cylindrical hairspring, Stop-second mechanism, Hours, minutes, small seconds, and power reserve indicator |
| Strap | 3 interchangeable straps: Blue alligator leather, Grey alligator leather, Blue rubber, Sandblasted titanium pin buckles |
| Limited Edition | 5 pieces (Engraved ‘Art in Time’, ‘5th Anniversary’, ‘One of Five’) |
| Price | CHF 135,000 |