Dive into the fascinating world of split-second chronographs, these horological marvels capable of measuring several times simultaneously. Discover 5 exceptional models that combine technical prowess and refined aesthetics, and that are likely to make your heart beat faster as a lover of fine watchmaking.
The split-seconds chronograph: a high-flying watch complication
Split-seconds chronographs, also known as rattrapante chronographs, represent the pinnacle of horological precision. These sophisticated watches feature two superimposed seconds hands, allowing multiple simultaneous events to be measured or split times to be timed without interrupting the main timekeeping.
The operation of a split-seconds chronograph is a true mechanical feat. The split-seconds hand, usually placed above or below the main chronograph hand, starts and stops at the same time as the latter. A special mechanism allows the split-seconds hand to be stopped independently to read an intermediate time, then to instantly “catch up” with the main hand in flight to resume its course.
This watch complication, long reserved for very high-end watches, has seen a resurgence of interest in recent years. More and more brands, from the most prestigious to the most accessible, are now integrating this function into their collections. Here is a selection of 5 remarkable split-seconds chronographs currently available on the market.
FP Journe Single Pusher Split-seconds Chronograph: French elegance
The FP Journe Chronographe Monopoussoir Rattrapante is a true watchmaking masterpiece presented at SIHH 2018. This watch is inspired by a unique model created for the Only Watch 2017 auction, which achieved the record sum of 1.15 million Swiss francs.
Technical characteristics :
The FP Journe Monopoussoir Rattrapante Chronograph stands out with its innovative movement. The 1518 caliber incorporates a direct clutch mechanism with a swinging ratchet, thus preventing the hand from jumping when starting the chronograph. This technical feat guarantees optimum precision when measuring time.
Indicative prices: โ Titanium version: approximately โฌ58,000 โ Platinum version: approximately โฌ78,000
IWC Portugieser Rattrapante: sporty elegance
The IWC Portugieser Rattrapante is a watch that combines the classic elegance of the Portugieser collection with the technical sophistication of a rattrapante chronograph. In 2017, IWC launched a series of limited editions of this watch, each dedicated to a specific boutique of the brand around the world.
Highlights of the IWC Portugieser Rattrapante:
The history of the Portugieser Rattrapante dates back to 1995, when Richard Habring developed a rattrapante module for the famous Valjoux 7750 movement. This innovation allowed IWC to democratize this complex complication.
The split-seconds function on this model is intuitive: the pusher at 10 o'clock controls the upper hand, while the one at 2 o'clock manages the lower hand. This ergonomic layout makes it easy to use the split-seconds function, even in intense timing situations.
Breitling Navitimer B03 Rattrapante: aviation on the wrist
The Breitling Navitimer B03 Rattrapante is a watch that perfectly embodies the brand's spirit of adventure and precision. Introduced in 2017, it is equipped with Breitling's first in-house rattrapante chronograph movement.
Technical characteristics :
Breitling Caliber B03 is a true technical feat. Based on Caliber B01, the brand's first in-house movement, it incorporates a split-seconds module made up of just 28 parts. This modular construction guarantees exceptional reliability and makes the watch easier to maintain.
The Navitimer B03 Rattrapante is distinguished by its exclusive โStratos Grayโ dial, reserved for the boutique edition. The three dark gray counters (minutes at 3 oโclock, hours at 6 oโclock and small seconds at 9 oโclock) contrast elegantly with the dial background, offering optimal readability.
Indicative price: around โฌ12,000
Patek Philippe Ref. 5372P Grande Complication: the pinnacle of watchmaking luxury
The Patek Philippe Ref. 5372P Grande Complication represents the pinnacle of watchmaking art. Launched in 2017, this watch embodies the evolution of the Geneva-based brandโs legendary line of split-seconds chronographs.
Outstanding features:
The Ref. 5372P stands out with its clean and balanced design. The dial, available in sunburst blue or vertical satin-brushed rose gold, offers perfect readability despite the complexity of the information displayed. The chronograph counters at 3 and 9 o'clock are flanked by apertures indicating the month and day of the week respectively. The date is displayed in a subdial at 6 o'clock, while the moon phases have been moved to 12 o'clock.
This watch perfectly illustrates Patek Philippe's technical and aesthetic mastery. The monopusher split-seconds mechanism, combined with the perpetual calendar, makes it one of the most complex and prestigious watches on the market.
A. Lange & Sรถhne Triple Split: the revolution in timekeeping
The A. Lange & Sรถhne Triple Split is a true revolution in the world of watchmaking. Presented at SIHH 2018, it is the world's first mechanical split-seconds chronograph capable of measuring comparative times over several hours.
Revolutionary features:
The Triple Split pushes the split-seconds concept to its paroxysm. In addition to the classic split-seconds hand, it has additional split-seconds hands for the minute and hour counters. This technical feat makes it possible to measure and compare times up to 12 hours, opening up new possibilities in long-term timekeeping.
The L132.1 movement is a masterpiece of complexity, made up of 567 parts. Despite this complexity, the Triple Split maintains remarkable readability thanks to a carefully considered design.
Indicative price: approximately โฌ147,000
Split-seconds chronographs represent the ultimate in mechanical watchmaking. These 5 models illustrate the diversity and excellence of this complication, from the most classic watches to the most daring innovations. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a lover of fine mechanics, these watchmaking masterpieces will not fail to fascinate you with their technicality and refinement.
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