From one jumping hour to another

Since the brand was founded in 2004, all the movements that Hautlence develops and produces in-house feature jumping hours and retrograde minutes, either as such or in association with other functions. The brand has entirely revisited classic mechanisms and created two generations of exclusive calibres protected by patents. The technical aspects are backed by an extremely sophisticated architectural approach to aesthetics and are showcased within cases specially designed and adapted to display them to their full advantage.

The first-generation movements comprise an apparently classic jumping hour with numerals successively appearing in an aperture by instant jumps every 60 seconds. Nonetheless, this is no longer a disc bearing numerals jumping beneath an aperture, but rather a disc with an aperture jumping above the numerals – an arrangement that is not only original but also more difficult to achieve. This jumping hour display is associated with retrograde minutes (the hand returns rapidly to zero upon reaching 60 minutes) in a completely unprecedented way, and therein lies the main innovation introduced by Hautlence. A patented connecting rod system links the two functions. This complex and efficient device naturally elicits admiration among connoisseurs, especially since one can generally follow the linear motion of its rods on the dial side.

 

 

The second generation is highly spectacular. The jumping hour function is composed of a 12-link chain hinged on a pallet system. With each new hour, the numerals take between 3 to 4 seconds to position themselves at the centre of a specially cut-out notch. This so-called “half-trailing” system was chosen rather than an instant system that would entail jerking and excessive energy consumption, and also in preference to a trailing system that would make the numerals move too slowly and impair readability. Once again, jumping hours are coupled with retrograde minutes and their operation is based on the exclusive connecting rod system. In addition, the heart of the movement is a bridge-type miniature marvel that is mobile and rotates through 60° at each change of hour – an original and patented way of compensating for the effects of gravity on the regulating organ. To enable observers to appreciate it in all its splendour, Hautlence presents it in cases fitted with sapphire crystals on top, below and on the side.

Moreover, HL2 movements are distinguished by two barrels, a feature protected by a third patent. The main barrel, which is charged by an automatic winding energy, transmits the required energy to a second barrel exclusively dedicated to driving the hours and minutes display. The first continually rearms the second so that changes take place in an optimal manner, with a specific and separate energy supply that does not interfere with the precision timing of the watch. At Hautlence, the HL2 series has paved the way to the “Concepts d’exception” models through which it intends to give free rein to its expertise and its creativity.