Monochrome Watches
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Introducing

The Hautlence HLXX, Celebrating The Brand’s 20th Anniversary With the Original HL Movement

A commemorative edition of the signature HL series to celebrate two decades of disruptive horology, with the return of the brand’s inaugural movement.

| By Xavier Markl | 2 min read |

Independent watchmaker Hautlence, which made its debut 20 years ago in Neuchatel, has always been known for its modern approach to watchmaking with creative designs, exposed mechanics and innovative ways of displaying time. Now a sister company of H. Moser & Cie, the brand made a comeback a few months ago with modernized, streamlined aesthetics and a sportier personality. Notably, the brand’s signature TV-screen-shaped case now features an integrated design with no visible lugs. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the brand has infused its new visual identity into a commemorative edition of its signature HL series, releasing the new Hautlence HLXX powered by the most emblematic of its movements. 

One of the earliest Hautlence watches, from the HL series.

Back to where it all began… If the Hautlence HLXX commemorative is unmistakably a piece from the HL collection, it has been imbued with the updated brand design. Notably, its exposed mechanics are now showcased into a modernized interpretation of Hautlence’s signature TV-screen case. While still maintaining its rectangular shape and rounded corners, the watch boasts an integrated design with no visible lugs, bringing a sportier character. Fashioned from robust yet lightweight grade 5 titanium, its dimensions stand at 37mm x 45mm x 11.75 mm (10.5 mm excluding the sapphire crystal), ensuring a relatively sleek profile (all things considered). The water resistance is rated at 100 meters.

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The exposed mechanism of the HLXX is still based on the same movement as the original models, with a few visual updates. It showcases its intriguing lever system linking the retrograde minutes hand and jumping-hour indication, reminiscent of coupling rods found in locomotives of yesteryears. No technical novelty here, yet just like for other recent Hautlence editions, the overall look feels more contemporary with an uncluttered grey satin-brushed décor.

The architecture of the calibre A20 features a sub-dial on the left-hand side, where the jumping hours are displayed via a mechanism where a sapphire disc rotates every hour. Positioned on the bottom-right side sits the retrograde minutes hand, which swiftly resets to zero every 60 minutes. Adding to the spectacle, the passage of time is now depicted through a rotating Hautlence logo, which doubles as a small seconds indication. The hand-wound calibre A20 can be further admired via the exhibition caseback. It beats at 21,600vph and boasts a 40h power reserve.

The Hautlence HLXX comes on a black integrated rubber strap fitted with a quick-release system that allows you to swap straps in seconds. It is secured to the wrist thanks to a titanium folding buckle. A limited edition of 20 pieces, ot should be priced at CHF 39,900 (approximate price to be confirmed). For more details, please visit www.hautlence.com. 

https://monochrome-watches.com/introducing-hautlence-hlxx-20th-anniversary-comeback-original-hl-movement-specs-price/

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