Pairing the rectangular case of its Swiss Alp Watch with the highly technical movement from its sister brand Hautlence, H. Moser & Cie. has created a delightful surprise which combines tradition with modernity. This unique approach faithfully employs classic 'Haute Horlogerie' techniques whilst incorporating the ultimate in technological movements. A striking contrast in a mesmerizingly beautiful watch that is compelling from every angle. The Swiss Alp Watch stands against the tide of smart watches, as a symbol of traditional Swiss watchmaking. The Swiss Alp Watch Minute Retrograde features all the attributes one would expect in a timepiece made in the 'Haute Horlogerie' tradition: the piece features a minute dial created in 'Grand Feu' enamel over a smoked sapphire crystal and fitted with a flame-blued retrograde hand.
The Case
Its 18K white gold rectangular case is spectacular with its rounded corners, curved sapphire crystal on its edges, and three 3D sapphire crystals adorning the top and sides. The exquisite curved crystal case sets off the Hautlence HL2.0 calibre to stunning effect. The hourly rotation of the regulating organ on the mobile form movement can be admired through the large opening. The case band right below the opening is engraved with the limitation of this special watch.
The Dial
Featuring a semi-transparent smoked sapphire crystal dial, the H. Moser & Cie. Swiss Alp Watch Minute Retrograde is fitted with a 'Grand Feu' enamel minute dial with markers in 5-minute increments. Meanwhile, the hours are indicated by jumping hours with classic looking Roman numerals. The escapement and hairspring are produced in-house by Precision Engineering AG, a sister company of H. Moser & Cie. and Hautlence and are fully visible via an opening at 9 o'clock and the side window described earlier.
On this jumping hours model, the hours are shown in Roman numerals —as is the tradition— and are driven by a chain system comprising 12 hinged links. Occurring every 60 minutes, the jump is not instantaneous, taking place over 3 to 4 seconds, in a controlled way to ensure the components are protected from shocks, thanks to the mechanism's integrated speed regulator. This smooth rotation, with no shock or loss of power, means that the wearer can admire the beauty of the movement at work. Additionally, the dial features a power reserve indicator at 6 o'clock.
The Movement
Powered by the Hautlence automatic calibre HL2.0 with two barrels, the H. Moser & Cie. Swiss Alp Watch Minute Retrograde guarantees a 45-hour power reserve. The movement features a micro-rotor and is fully visible via the display case back. Exquisitely finished, this H. Moser & Cie. timepiece brings the best from Hautlence in a very interesting collaboration between both sister companies.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the H. Moser & Cie. Swiss Alp Watch Minute Retrograde wears extremely well and true to its size, perhaps just a little too high on the wrist. The watch is delivered with a matte black alligator leather strap and a second strap, in beige kudu leather with a green leather lining —a true hallmark of H. Moser & Cie. This watch is available in a very exclusive limited edition of only 10 pieces.
Sticker Price $22,000 USD. For more info on H. Moser & Cie. click here.
