BOUTIQUE
HAUTLENCE
Vortex Gamma Magma
Already representing the epitome of avant-garde
horology, Hautlence has crafted the case of the
new Vortex Gamma Magma in a
composite material known as HLLightColor.
According to Hautlence, this composite
material is borrowed from the automotive
industry and integrates ceramic nanotubes in a
colorful and stable material that can be machined
to the precise tolerances of a watchcase, while
weighing only ΒΌ of the weight of titanium. Various
brushed and polished finishes can also be applied
to the space age composite to thoroughly embed
the color within the interstices of the material.
This material also allows Hautlence to pick bold
colors, as is clearly shown with the new release. It
demands attention with its sandstone/tangerine
interpretation of orange. Traced by a black line,
the geometry of the case is enhanced by six
three-dimensional sapphire crystals that allow full
view of the amazing Cal. HL2.0 automatic winding
movement.
The watch displays time in an unusual mix
of elements, The digital hour is displayed on a
twelve-link articulated chain that changes hours
in a three-to-four-second controlled motion. This
hourly change also rotates the entire
escapement in an elegant ballet of micro-
mechanical ingenuity.
Equipped with two barrels, the Vortex Gamma
Magma dedicates the second barrel to driving
the complication and is continually recharged
by the main barrel, allowing the optimal level
of energy to be available each time the hour
changes. This double barrel system ensures the
mechanisms of motion and timekeeping are
supplied independently and will not affect the
chronometry of the timepiece. This amazing work
of horological ingenuity is available for $170,000.
IW RATING
Design: 9 (out of 10)
Futuristic geometry and exotic time display
create an uncanny timepiece.
Innovation: 9
Dual power supply with non-traditional display,
rotating escapement and space age materials
to boot.
Finissage: 8
Multiple surface treatments on movement.
Legibility: 7
Digital hour and retrograde minute make for an
easy reference.
Rarity: 9
Hautlence only manufactures a total of 200
watches per year, including all variations.
Value: 7
Previous Hautlence exotics holding at 75% or
more of initial price in secondary market.
Overall iW rating: 49 (out of 60)
36 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | WINTER 2019