Born in 1727 in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, Ferdinand Berthoud was a scientist and watchmaker by profession. Officially becoming a watchmaker in 1753 residing in Paris, Berthoud was appointed Horologist-Mechanic by appointment to the King and the Navy, with an emphasis in creating marine chronometers. Ferdinand Berthoud passed away in 1807 at the age of 80 leaving behind a trail of his body of work paving way for future horologist.
In 2015, the Ferdinand Berthoud brand was re-established and acquired by Chopard spearheaded by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and his team with an aim to manifest the legacy of one of the greatest horologists in history. The first creation under the helms of the new acquisition was the Chronometer FB1.1 featuring a contemporary design with a distinctive octagonal -shaped case. Executed to the highest standards, it features a 1-minute tourbillon escapement, fusée-and-chain transmission, constant force regulation and power reserve indication all interpreted in a mesmeric architecture of the firm’s cal. FB-T.FC-2 with transparent sapphire plates and bridges allowing the wearer to view the intricacy of the movement in full. Supported by titanium pillars, the method pays homage to 18th century marine chronometers. Chronometer certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) Ferdinand Berthoud timepieces are extremely precise. With such an important achievement and testament to the contemporary watchmaking community, the FB1.1 was awarded the Aiguille d’Or at the GPHG 2016 and the Chronometry prize in 2019 for the FB 1R.6-1.

The present example Ferdinand Berthoud FB1.3.-1 Sapphire Blue Chronometer was launched in 2019 during the Dubai Watch Week. Extremely rare and limited to only 5 pieces worldwide, it is cased in platinum and grey ceramic giving a sublime contrast against its satin-finished blue dial. A wonderful sight to behold, the dial is extremely refined indicating its time on a sub dial at 12 o’clock, power reserve at 9 o’clock and its 1-minute tourbillon escapement proudly displayed at 6 o’clock. A truly refreshing timepiece, PHILLIPS is absolutely delighted to offer the present timepiece, which is the first example to be offered at our auction. The present example numbered 1 is offered with its full set of accessories and in a well-preserved state. A gem for lover’s of independent timepieces.