Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4
Ferdinand Berthoud Releases the Ultra-Limited Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 to Commemorate ART IN TIME’s Fifth Birthday
Based on the GPHG-winning Chronomètre FB 3SPC and made to celebrate ART IN TIME’s fifth anniversary, this quintet of Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 editions from Ferdinand Berthoud are masterpieces worthy of hanging in any gallery.
By Mike Espindle
Executive Editor
To commemorate the fifth anniversary of ART IN TIME, which was created by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele in 2019, the artisans at Ferdinand Berthoud have crafted five (and only five) FB 3SPC timepieces exclusively for this unique watchmaking gallery dedicated to providing a space where watchmaking houses can unite around their shared values of craftsmanship, independence, and originality.
ART IN TIME (On the Wrist)
Based on the Chronomètre FB 3SPC, which won the Chronometry Prize at GPHG 2023, the new Ferdinand Berthoud Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 takes the FB 3SPC’s COSC-certified mechanical movement with its cylindrical hairspring approach (which was a world’s first in 2022) and adds an exquisite 42.3mm sand-blasted titanium case with attractive blue and white dial details.
The Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is also an apt presentation of thoughtfully harmonious structure. For example, the arc-shaped bridge at 12 o’clock complements the small seconds indicator that “floats” at 6 o’clock and has a prominent angular anchoring bridge visible underneath, balancing the watch vertically.
Meanwhile, the oversized crown and large plate on the right side of the dial (which carries a retrograde 3-day power reserve indicator) provide the needed contrast to make the three primary escapement components (the balance wheel, pallet lever, and escape wheel) on the left side of the dial, giving the FB 3SPC.4 an elegant lateral balance.
The approach of isolating the escapement components from the rest of the movement (which is visible via a transparent caseback, of course) emphasizes the kinetic qualities of the construction as well as provides a top-side view of the remarkable cylindrical hairspring.
Like the original 3SPC, much of the FB 3SPC.4’s architecture recalls Ferdinand Berthoud pocket watches from the past, but the simple, modern numeral font and mix of angular and circular design elements are nothing but modern. That modernity is then doubled-down on by the piece’s overall edgy vibe due to its brushed titanium case and lugs.
The FB 3SPC.4 also comes with three interchangeable straps: blue alligator leather, gray alligator leather, and an unexpected blue rubber strap.
Something Special
The caseback bears three commemorative engravings: “Art In Time,” “5th Anniversary,” and “One of Five.” Again, only five have been made.
“We are delighted to be able to offer this special edition of the FB 3SPC Chronometer at ART IN TIME,” said the watchmaking gallery’s director, Johann Martinez. “Its very light case, rubber straps, and exclusive colors bring a modern touch to this collection, renowned for its traditional approach to chronometry.”
While no pricing has been made available, with only five executions, the price of the Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is probably a moot point anyway.
For more information, visit Ferdinand Berthoud’s website or the ART IN TIME website.