Recently the 29th Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) exhibition took place in Geneva and by all accounts was an enormous success. This year the show attracted over 23,000 visitors who were treated to a range of exquisite timepieces. Even if you are not particularly interested in horology some of the novelties on display are artworks in their own right. They also display a level of passion and craftsmanship that truly should receive the respect it deserves.
In an ideal world, I would have loved to have attended this year’s SIHH event. However, I had several work commitments that prevented me from making the epic journey from Australia to Geneva. This year many independent brands like Armin Strom, Christophe Claret, DeWitt, and MB & F joined the normal Richemont contingency. Certainly, this added an extra dimension to the event because of the variety. One of my favourites from this show is the Kinetic Table Clock from exclusive Swiss manufacturer Hautlence.
Presently in the world of horology clock are experiencing a renaissance period. Konstantin Chaykin is creating some beautiful pieces and MB & F’s alliance with L’Epee has been very successful. In contrast to these mechanical marvels, Hautlence has approached it from a different perspective. In fact, they have created a futuristic mechanical Objet d’art, which is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery. Even more impressive this statement piece has a power reserve of one and a half months.
Aesthetically the HL Kinetic Table Clock has a really refined contemporary appearance. I love the twin cylindrical glass columns, which house two revolving mechanical spheres. These amazing black skeletonized globes feature rotating minutes and hours. Interestingly they follow a central axis and appear to be moving in a random motion. Certainly, I can envisage this novelty will appeal to disciples of minimalistic product design.
