HYT H3 Linear time
We were among the first to introduce the world to the concept of liquid watches back in 2011 when Vincent Perriard, Founder of HYT (Hydro-Mechanical Timepieces) shared with us his concepts of using liquid for the time indication of a watch. He launched his brand in 2012 at BaselWorld and now, three years later, unveils the third evolution. (You can read about other HYT evolutions here, here and here.)
The new HYT H3 takes the idea of liquid time indications to new heights with this watch that – for the first time – is rectangular instead of round in shape. The two-tiered case design features an all-new movement and a linear indication of time, as opposed to a circular around-the-dial indication. The watch still indicates time as in the past, via two bellows injecting the capillaries with fluid that moves to display the time.
The new movement for this watch was created in cooperation with APRP
Challenges in creating the new timepiece run the gamut from machining the architectural case and crystal, to providing the energy for the retrograde linear liquid time indication and developing a format for the bellows, placing them at opposite ends of the case instead of next to one another so they work for the movement and the design.
Beneath the bellows, on the lower portion of the dial, the hands-free time display comes into play. HYT has created a rotating dial with 4 faces arranged along the time display tube. Each of these faces is graduated with 6 hours, thereby enabling the 24 hours of the day to be displayed. There is also a minute tube for reading the minutes in a similar fashion. Once again, HYT worked with APRP to create the new movement. Since the caliber is quite complex, and we are busy here at BaselWorld, we will bring more details and pictures post show. Stay tuned.
