Starting inside out, the watch has a heavily-modified double barrel Lemania 8810. The rotor is sapphire glass, with a weight mounted on its periphery - an ingenius solution to having a self-winding mechanism, without obstructing the view of the highly-finished movement. The Côtes de Geneve stripes play a Vasarely-type illusionary effect with the viewer, while the polished angles add a further level of dynamism to the look.
The case size is 36 mm but feels much larger on the wrist, with its thick and eccentric bezels, fancy lugs and the studded crown. The watchmaker states that these rivets are designed to help the grip on the crown. But it feels rock, punk, riotous or just simply joyful; all characteristics the watchmaker is known for.
And then the stunning dial - it has depth, with the inner chapter set lower in the centre, and a textured finish, while the outer chapter ring has a circular finish. All the while light is masterfully reflected off the polished angles. A further level of depth is added in the form of the beautiful, curved blue hands. This stunning detail adds a great dimension to what otherwise would be an overwhelming bi-metal look.
Nothing is classic about this watch - neither the case, nor the innovative rotor, the hands or the dial. Perhaps that is what makes it timeless - a rare find and worthy investment from an independent watchmaker.
Closer look
| Brand: | Vianney Halter |
| Model: | Classic |
| Movement: | mechanical automatic (modified Lemania 8810) with 'mystery rotor' |
| Functions: | time-only: hours, minutes, center seconds |
| Features: | display back, blue hands, limited edition of 250 |
| Case: | 36 mm yellow gold |
| Crystal: | sapphire front and back |
| Bracelet: | black alligator strap with yellow gold VH tang buckle |
| Year: | 2001 |
| Box & papers: | Certificate of Authenticity |
