Unusual quirky-time telling has become the signature of master watchmaker Ludovic Ballouard, and the present Half Time perfectly embodies this.

At first the watch may surprise as there is only one visible retrograde hand and nothing else. Nevertheless, the way of reading time is both simple and playful. The dial is composed of two rotating discs, each printed with half a Roman numeral. The numbers are not lined up and appear closer to undecipherable hieroglyphics than numerals. However, at each hour one disc jumps clockwise and the other counterclockwise, perfectly aligning at 12 o’clock where the hour can be read. Minutes are indicated by a retrograde hand on the lower part of the dial.

The brand name and opening for the hour marker as well as the retrograde section for the minutes and the individual watch number are suspended on a hand engraved plate giving the watch an incredible architectural appeal.

The movement also presents a fantastic three dimensional architecture with the different gears, arms and clicks on different levels. The movement, fully conceived, developed and assembled by Ballouard consists of over 300 components.

Small yet important details on the platinum case show Ludovic Ballouard’s dedication to perfection and craftsmanship, such as the hand engraved initials on the platinum crown and side of buckle. The inscriptions on the case back have also been hand engraved.

The present Half Time in virtually unworn condition represents a true technical tour de force from one of the most creative thinking watchmakers of the 21st century.