Atelier de Chronométrie AdC#1
The debut creation from Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona, the Observatoire Chronometer has been certified by one of the world’s most prestigious observatories. Over a number of years, based on the hefty experience of the team, Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona has developed their own requirements and standards to create and execute unique artisanal timepieces.
Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona´s main drive is to return to artisanal ways of crafting timepieces, and therefore demonstrating that in the XXI century it is possible to creating handmade wristwatches without renouncing the quality and the accuracy.
The design is characterized by a minimalist shape case that focuses the attention on a two tone Sector dial that offers an easy and precise time measurement and big sub-seconds such as the antique competition chronometers.
The hypnotic blued steel hands – an essential part of the time indication, which enhance the whole concept of the chronometric look.
Technical details
Model: Observatoire Chronometer
Movement
The calibre of Observatoire Chronometer is based on the legendary Omega 30mm, Calibre 266. It has been chosen because of its parts´ durability and stability. The master watchmaker can reinvent it creating a unique calibre each time, changing the aesthetical appearance and also technically. Taking as a base a simple Omega Cal.266 the atelier has crafted a chronometer.
The calibre has 23 pieces completely handmade (the bridges are made of German Silver, rachet click, balance stud plate, hands, etc.) The rest of the calibre parts are completely modified and decorated by hand (the wheels, the teeth, pinions, anchor, etc.). The calibre finish includes techniques such as handmade “frosting”, not sandblasting. As well as hand beveling and black polish.
The calibre (13 lines and 4mm height) includes:
3 superior bridges made of Arcap entirely crafted and decorated by hand using artisanal methods.
The rachet click, inspired by the antique high-grade pocket watches, is completely handmade in one unique piece and finished by file. Although its delicacy, it offers high reliability and excellent sound; the typical “click” that characterises the Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona chronometers. This rachet click is greatly appreciated by the “connoisseurs” and can be modified at buyer´s request.
The rachet and the crown wheel are black polished, the crown wheel core is fully handmade. Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona offers a choice of mate finish and/or combined with polished detailing. There is also a possibility to change the quantity of the screws of the crown wheel core as well as the finishes.
The balance is a “free sprung balance” regulated by inertial screws and two “massellottes” made of 18k white gold. The shock system is the three points contact KIF. Customer can also choose between Incabloc or non shock system similar to the antique pocket watches.
Train wheel: Original from the Omega cal. 266, reformed and improved. The brass wheels are golden to avoid corrosion. The customer can choose the color for the train wheel. Anchor escape original from the Omega calibre, remade to get the maximum efficiency.
On completion of assembly, each calibre will gone through strict quality inspection procedures before chronometer certification by l’Observatoire de Besançon in France.
The Case
Its handmade 18k gold, measures 37’5mm (without crown). It is available in 18k yellow, rose and white gold as well as combined, for instance, case in white gold with bezel and crown in rose gold. Also available in stainless steel. The diameter can be adapted from 35mm up to 38’5mm as per customer request. The chronometer comes with two case backs: one see-through back and one snap on back.
The option of snap on back instead of screw back is as a part of the Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona philosophy. The movement beats at 18.000 vph just like in the old times. This wristwatch has this amazing possibility to be heard, this slow hypnotic tick tack sound makes the piece alive, which would be impossible with the waterproof case.
The dial
There are 3 dial options: silvered two tone, rose two tone and gilt glossy black dial (with silver signature and scales). All the dials have engine turned sub-seconds and are “galvanic” like in the 40’s. There is also the possibility of create a cloisonné dial. As all the parts of the Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona wristwatches, the dials can also be made to measure at customer’s requests.
Straps and bracelet
The leather straps are handmade in Barcelona and come with 18k handmade buckles in yellow, rose, white gold and stainless steel. There is a wide variety of leather: reptile leather, oak leather, ostrich leather, etc. There is also the bracelet option. It’s a “beads of rice” bracelet entirely hand made in 18k gold. The customer can choose the material; 18k white, rose or yellow gold and also combination of both. The finish can be high polished or satin.
Delivery time
The delivery time for the chronometer is approximately 8 months.
Customer services
All Atelier de Chronométrie Barcelona timepieces have 5 years warranty and lifetime free services (periodical time service predetermined by the team).
