Beauregard x Vianney Halter: Ulysse Saint-Petersbourg Watch

Discover the Artistry of Time: A Masterpiece Unveiled

A Dazzling Dial: The Heart of the Saint-Petersbourg Edition

The latest Beauregard Ulysse limited edition stands as a tribute to the rich artistic heritage of Saint-Petersbourg and the meticulous tradition of gem-cutting. Its captivating dial is an immediate focal point, crafted from a delicate rose gold filigree that forms an intricate floral pattern, adorned with 85 vibrant gemstones. This design evokes the lavishness and sophisticated charm of the Russian Imperial court. Reminiscent of a stained-glass window, the dial is composed of four rock crystals, twelve amethysts, thirteen fanta opals, twelve fire opals, twelve topazes, twelve yellow opals, and twenty peridots. Each stone is precisely hand-carved and meticulously set within Beauregard's workshop in Montréal. This translucent, colorful arrangement shimmers with every movement, uniquely playing with light due to a mother-of-pearl disc positioned beneath the gems. Adding to its distinctiveness, the hour and minute hands are ingeniously mounted to complement the dial's unique architecture, rather than being conventionally centered. An innovative mechanism, developed in collaboration with Vianney Halter, drives these hands from two discs featuring internal peripheral gearing.

The Horological Ingenuity: Vianney Halter's Contribution

While Beauregard's jewelry expertise shines through in the watch's creative and gem-set composition, Vianney Halter's horological prowess is evident in its mechanical heart. The movement of the Ulysse Saint-Petersbourg is an enhanced version of the UhrTeil AG SA-30 architecture, originally developed by Andreas Strehler's movement-making company. This base movement has been seen in other notable timepieces, including the Strehler Sirna, several CvdK models, and the Gronefeld 1941 Principia. Halter, an independent watchmaker from Sainte-Croix, has further refined this mechanism, incorporating his signature mysterious winding system. The elegant construction of the movement is visible through the watch's sapphire crystal caseback, where a transparent sapphire disc acts as the central rotor section, connecting to a heavy mass at its periphery, creating an intriguing visual effect.

Precision and Aesthetics: The Movement's Technical Excellence

From a technical standpoint, the movement boasts a large balance wheel that operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, ensuring precise timekeeping. It also offers a substantial 56-hour power reserve, making it reliable for daily wear. The movement's finishing is a blend of understated elegance and sophisticated modernity. Notably, the rotor is engraved with the names of Alexandre Beauregard and Vianney Halter, symbolizing their collaborative spirit and enduring friendship. It also bears the Latin phrase "Vulnerant omnes, ultima necat," meaning "they all wound; the last one kills," a classic horological maxim referring to the passage of time.

Elegant Encasement and Distinctive Wearability

This refined caliber is encased within a round, 41mm diameter pink gold case, exuding luxury and sophistication. The case is adorned with brushed and polished surfaces, and its top is protected by a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. A sapphire caseback allows for a view of the intricate movement within, while the crown is exquisitely set with a peridot. With a water resistance of 30 meters, the watch is suitable for everyday wear. On the wrist, the Ulysse Saint-Petersbourg makes a striking statement, its unconventional design immediately drawing attention. Despite its 41mm diameter, it wears smaller than anticipated due to its short lugs, measuring 45.5mm from lug to lug. This unique timepiece is certainly a conversation starter, prompting curiosity and admiration from onlookers.

Limited Availability and Exquisite Presentation

The Beauregard Ulysse Saint-Petersbourg is presented with a chestnut alligator strap, meticulously crafted without visible stitching, and secured by an 18K rose gold pin buckle. This exceptional timepiece is offered as a highly exclusive limited edition, with only 10 pieces available worldwide. The price for this horological and artistic marvel is set at CHF 148,000, excluding taxes. For further details and inquiries, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official Beauregard website.