Hautlence has not followed the traditional path in the way its timepieces are developed. The brand works with a select group of about 50 artisans known as “the College” to bring its creations to life. The goal is to find the best source for each component. In several areas, such as machining and surface treatment, technology is evolving rapidly, and it is not possible for a small brand producing relatively few timepieces to keep up in all of these areas.
For example, some components are made using photolithography and electro-shaping – a technique similar to that used to make integrated circuits. Other components require recently developed manufacturing processes and technologies. Hautlence believes its approach allows it to take advantage of the best available methods to produce the best results.
Each Hautlence timepiece is built around the caliber, which is not only unique to Hautlence, but which is a fully integrated design. For example, the guided linear bearings of the connecting rod assembly, the inertia block of the jumping hour directly integrated into the bottom plate, and the different time-display levels are not compatible with the simple addition of a complication board or module to a base caliber.
All the pieces are made according to technical drawings and in very limited series on premium machines with digital controls. In all, each movement has over 150 components. While the best machines create many of the components, final finishing and adjustment must be performed by the hands of master craftsmen. Bridges, plates, springs and rods are angled by hand so that their edges form a fine shiny thread underlining the details of the components. In all, more than 40 pieces per movement pass beneath the craftsmens’ files, lathes and smoothers.
For 2010, Hautlence presents its new HL timepiece collection, featuring a honeycomb skeleton dial that allows a view of component. The HL is made in limited and numbered editions of 28 to 88 pieces per model with prices ranging from $48,400 to $88,000. These models will be available in North America this month. You may enlarge the images with a click.
HAUTLENCE HL03 – version 2010
Dial: Ruthenium honeycomb skeleton with hand applied “Moebius” sign. Tracks with laser cut minute figures.
Case: 18K pink gold.
Buckle: Adjustable triple fastener folding in18K pink gold with double safety pushbutton or pin.
Limited to 88 pieces.
US Retail Price: $57,500
HAUTLENCE HL04 – version 2010
Dial: Opaline silver honeycomb skeleton with hand applied “Moebius” sign. Tracks with laser cut minute figures.
Case:18K white gold.
Buckle: Adjustable triple fastener folding in 18K white gold with double safety pushbutton or pin.
Limited to 88 pieces.
US Retail Price: $62,100
HAUTLENCE HL Ti – version 2010
Dial: Rhodium honeycomb skeleton with hand applied “Moebius” sign. Tracks with laser cut minute figures.
Case: Titanium 5 base and back.
Buckle: Titanium ardillon.
Limited to 28 pieces.
US Retail Price: $48,400