Jaquet Droz ticks into action
Jaquet Droz’s Grande Seconde Deadbeat is a revolutionised model of the iconic 18th century complication complete with a new calibre that honours historical tradition
A masterwork of watchmaking precision, the concept of the Independent or “Deadbeat” Seconds is a very rare complication created during the Age of Enlightenment. The newly discovered technique meant that the direct-drive seconds hand no longer advanced in a linear fashion, but rather made a small jump every second, giving extremely accurate measurements that lead to the notion of the chronograph. Similar to the ticking of a quartz movement, the Grande Seconde Deadbeat is a limited edition piece of just 88 watches and is powered by a 2695SMR, self-winding mechanical calibre which asserts a power reserve of 40 hours.
Combining fine craftsmanship, artistry and a precision timekeeping the Ivory Grand Feu enamelled dial has been subtly reworked by the designers of the brand. The hours and minutes function appear off-centre on a small modest dial showcasing a blend of Roman and Arabic numerals, whereas the prominent seconds hand takes centre stage and sweeps the whole circumference in soft halting movements, while the date indication occupies the space at the bottom of the dial that is traditionally reserved for the seconds hand in the vintage model. The Grande Seconde Deadbeat timepiece measures 43mm in diameter and has an 18-carat red gold case that is water resistant to a depth of 30 metres. The watch is completed with a rolled-edge black alligator leather strap that is entirely hand crafted.
