Ferdinand Berthoud FB 3SPC.4 Stopwatch

To celebrate the 5th anniversary of Art in Time, the prestigious Monaco-based gallery founded by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Ferdinand Berthoud has unveiled a truly exceptional timepiece: the Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4. This new limited edition, crafted from sandblasted titanium, embodies the fusion of historical watchmaking expertise and modern innovation.

Founded in 2019, Art in Time was the brainchild of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard and President of Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud. The gallery was conceived with a vision to create a unique platform dedicated to watch connoisseurs, bringing together some of the most exceptional independent watchmaking brands in the world.

First launched in 2022, the FB 3SPC series quickly gained recognition as one of Ferdinand Berthoud’s standout collections. The watch was designed to appeal to collectors who appreciate slightly smaller, more accessible pieces. In 2023, the FB 3SPC was awarded the prestigious Chronometry Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), further cementing its place in horological history.

The new FB 3SPC.4, crafted for ART IN TIME’s anniversary, elevates this collection with its first-ever sandblasted titanium case. Measuring 42.3mm in diameter, the titanium case is lightweight and offers a modern aesthetic that complements the watch’s intricate mechanics. The sandblasted finish gives the timepiece a distinctive, contemporary look.

At the heart of the Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is one of its most captivating features: the architectural calibre fitted with a cylindrical hairspring. This rare and complex mechanism is a direct homage to a historical piece from the Berthoud archives—the No. 26 decimal pocket watch, crafted by Louis Berthoud in 1793. Unlike a traditional flat balance spring, the cylindrical hairspring breathes concentrically, which allows for a more consistent and accurate oscillation.

The complexity of the cylindrical hairspring design is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship required to create it. The mechanism occupies more space within the movement but is well worth the effort, as it delivers an impressive timekeeping performance with an average rate variation of just -1 to +3 seconds per day, significantly exceeding COSC certification standards. The movement, powered by the hand-wound FB-SPC calibre, operates at a frequency of 3Hz and boasts a 3-day power reserve. The stop-second mechanism allows for precise time-setting.

The Chronomètre FB 3SPC.4 is designed to be admired. Its 42.3mm sandblasted titanium case includes a porthole on the side, offering a unique view of the cylindrical hairspring in action. The movement itself, white rhodium-plated and sandblasted, is a marvel of engineering. It sits behind an oversized sapphire crystal, treated with anti-reflective and anti-static coatings, ensuring that the intricacies of the movement can be seen from all angles without distraction. The white dial and inner bezel ring provide a stark contrast to the blue numerals and minute track, giving the watch a clean, modern look.

To complement its versatile design, the FB 3SPC.4 comes with three interchangeable straps: blue rubber, blue alligator leather, and grey alligator leather, each secured with sandblasted titanium pin buckles. This allows the wearer to switch between styles effortlessly, whether for formal occasions or everyday wear. The back of the watch is engraved with the words “Art in Time,” “5th Anniversary,” and “One of Five,” marking its status as a limited-edition collector’s piece.