rawing deep inspiration from its rich history, Edouard Koehn is reviving the split-seconds chronograph, an iconic complication that featured prominently in the brand’s legacy. The split-seconds chronograph or rattrapante chronograph has long been classified by connoisseurs as the most complicated among chronographs.
The movement of the new Edouard Koehn Legacy Rattrapante was constructed such that it replicates the dial layout of the original pocket watch chronograph produced in the early 1900s. The raison d’être of the split-seconds chronograph is to simultaneously measure intermediate times, a function particularly sought-after in the dynamic world of sports. Master watchmaker Edouard Koehn (1839 to 1908) was recognised for his mastery of this high complication.
The instantaneous 60-minute chronograph counter is positioned at 12 o’clock while the small seconds is at 6 o’clock. The red central chronograph seconds hand is activated by the pusher at 2 o’clock and Edouard Koehn movement engineers developed a coaxial arrangement with the pusher on the crown controlling the blue central split-seconds chronograph hand. The pusher at 4 o’clock resets the chronograph function.
Faithful to the historic model, the Legacy Rattrapante Split-Seconds Chronograph is enhanced by a grand feu enamel dial a tribute to the mysterious technique of enamelling. Used by watchmakers since the 15th century, this craft has its roots in antiquity. Dial enamelling consists of applying the meticulously prepared enamel powder onto the dial’s base plate and fusing the two together by cooking them at 840 degrees Centigrade / 1,544 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense heat is due to the high melting point of the enamels and this explains why this type of enamelling is referred to as grand feu. It has been elevated to the level of an art, so much so that it requires manual precision and craftsmanship.
Split-seconds chronographs are highly appreciated by connoisseurs of high horology. The Legacy Rattrapante Split-Seconds Chronograph marks a significant milestone as this complication defines the identity of the brand and resonates with the DNA of master watchmaker Edouard Koehn’s eponymous label.
The limited edition Edouard Koehn Legacy Rattrapante is available in fine 316L stainless steel and priced at CHF 15,800.00 each.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
50 PIECES LIMITED EDITION
- Automatic Chronograph movement, Concepto base exclusively modified for Edouard Koehn
- 28’800 vibrations per hour 4hz, 31 jewels, 48 hours power reserve, 282 parts
- Top chronometer quality regulating organ - balance spring
- Functions : Hours, minutes, seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock
- Chronograph : 60 seconds Chronograph by central hand (red hand), central Split-Seconds chronograph (blue hand), instantaneous 60-minute chronograph register at 12 o’clock
- 316L Stainless steel case, with coaxial crown-pusher to activate the split- seconds chronograph
- Diameter : 40.0mm
- Height : 13.10mm without glass box sapphire crystal 14,60mm with sapphire crystal
- 50 meters water-resistant
- Double sided antireflective glass box sapphire crystal
- Dial: Grand feu white enamel - inspiration from the original pocket watch dial
- Sapphire crystal case-back
- 50 pieces limited edition in steel, individually numbered on the case back
- Louisiana alligator leather strap with alligator leather lining. Dimensions 20mm x 18mm
- Steel folding buckle – pin buckle optional