By Adam Keith, Associate Timepiece Editor for ViaLuxe-
The Chronoswiss Sauterelle is the first timepiece developed by the esteemed Munich-based luxury watchmaker to feature an in-house developed manufacture movement. Presented in a distinctive regulator model, as well as a conventional three-handed model with hands mounted on a central arbor, the Sauterelle showcases charming features of prestige horology, including a Breguet overcoil equipped balance beating at 18,000 vibrations per hour, and a rare leaping seconds hand complication.
The movement of the Chronoswiss Sauterelle reflects founder Gerd R. Lang's obsession with the principles and aesthetics of classical watchmaking. Developed with the assistance of Karsten Frassdorf, this manually wound caliber utilizes an additional small gear train with a secondary wide pallet lever and escape wheel; this unique arrangement works in conjunction with a small spring to permit advancement of the second hand after the balance wheel has completed five semi-oscillations. As a result, the eye perceives the hand moving in precise one second jumps--a perfect mimicry of a battery-powered quartz watch. Power reserve is an impressive 60 hours. There are other surprises, as well: the space between the third wheel and balance bridges is equipped to store various spare parts for future servicings.
The Chronoswiss Sauterelle timepiece shares in common the distinctive classical design that has become familiar from such Chronoswiss timepieces as the Regulateur and the Delphis. The watches are fitted with sapphire crystals, and straps in alligator leather. Cases are crafted from stainless steel, or 18-karat pink gold.
More about Chronoswiss:
Chronoswiss brand & timepiece collections
Chronoswiss Regulateur watch
Chronoswiss Delphis watch
Chronoswiss product blogs
Chronoswiss news