Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The Titanium-Clad Ferdinand Berthoud Chronometre FB 3SPC.4
An Exclusive Chronomètre FB3 SPC to celebrate the 5th anniversary of ART IN TIME in Monaco.
ART IN TIME was founded in Monaco by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele in 2019, Co-President of Chopard and President of Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud. The gallery was established with the vision of creating a unique platform for watch aficionados, curating a select group of brands representing the pinnacle of independent watchmaking. To celebrate the 5th anniversary of the concept, a special edition of the exquisite Ferdinand Berthoud FB3 SPC is unveiled. The result is a limited series of just five pieces: the Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4, crafted for the first time in sandblasted titanium.
First presented in 2022, the FB3 SPC represents the third contemporary creation from Ferdinand Berthoud. It answers the demand for a slightly smaller and more accessible model within the Berthoud lineup, but it remains firmly rooted in the brand’s dedication to mechanical precision and fine craftsmanship. This work of art was the winner of the Chronometry Prize at the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG).
One of the most fascinating aspects of the FB 3SPC is its architectural calibre fitted with a cylindrical hairspring. This rare and complex feature is also a nod to a historical piece from the Berthoud archives: the No. 26 decimal pocket watch, crafted by Louis Berthoud in 1793. Unlike a standard flat balance spring, a cylindrical hairspring breathes concentrically, enhancing timekeeping accuracy by keeping the oscillation more regular. This sophisticated design is extremely difficult to manufacture and requires more space inside the movement, but the results are worth the challenge. The FB 3SPC achieves a remarkably accurate average rate variation between -1 and +3 seconds per day – significantly more precise than the standard COSC certification allows. Its hand-wound FB-SPC calibre beats at 3Hz and it boasts 3 days of power reserve when fully wound. Its stop second mechanism allows for precise setting.
The FB 3SPC.4 retains the characteristic Ferdinand Berthoud case shape, with a 42.3mm diameter and a prominent crown, designed for ease of use. The case features a porthole on the side, offering a unique view of the hypnotic cylindrical hairspring in motion. In this new iteration, the case is crafted from sandblasted titanium, while the movement is white rhodium-plated and sandblasted, perfectly complementing the white dial and inner bezel ring. The blue numerals and minute track further enhance the contrast. As always with Ferdinand Berthoud, each component of the movement is meticulously hand-finished, showcasing the brand’s commitment to impeccable craftsmanship.
These five ART IN TIME Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 models come with three interchangeable straps: blue rubber, blue alligator leather, and grey alligator leather. Each strap is secured by sandblasted titanium pin buckles. The back of the watch is engraved with ‘Art in Time’, ‘5th Anniversary’, and ‘One of Five’.
The price of this superb titanium watch is set at CHF 135,000. For more information, please visit www.ferdinandberthoud.ch and www.art-in-time.com.
