In the universe of horology, the H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour collection is a captivating testament to contemporary minimalism within the classic round wristwatch design. A pinnacle of sophistication and refinement in the brand’s catalogue, this series showcases a remarkable range of offerings. From the understated three-handed stainless steel entry point to the highest complexity featuring complications like perpetual calendars and minute repeaters, the Endeavour collection embodies the perfect union of modernity and tradition. At the Geneva Watch Days 2023, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has once again pushed the boundaries of design, engineering, and aesthetics with its latest creations: the H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour Vantablack® Tourbillon Concept and Vantablack® Centre Seconds models. A harmonious marriage between radiant red gold and the deepest black known to mankind, these watches capture the essence of contrast, symbolism, and refined elegance.
Endeavour Centre Seconds Vantablack®
The H. Moser & Cie. Endeavour Centre Seconds Vantablack® (ref. 1200-0411) results to be the classic three-handed Endeavour model, but within an elevated form. Encased in 18k red gold with a 40mm diameter and a slender 11.2mm thickness, the heart of the watch lies beneath its Vantablack® dial, recognized as the darkest substance on Earth which is not merely a colour; it is like an absence of matter. The Vantablack® is a material developed for applications in astrophysics and military technology, composed of carbon nanotubes that absorb an astounding 99.965% of incoming light, rendering it the darkest man-made substance. When a photon strikes Vantablack®, it is as though it vanishes into nothingness. This remarkable material transforms the watch dial into an artistic canvas where light and shadow converge, inviting contemplation and curiosity. The Vantablack® dial serves as a stage for the red gold indices, which stand as luminous beacons in the obsidian expanse and together with leaf-shaped hands stand out, they showcase the time with precision. The signature concave sections along the case’s sides add a dynamic touch to the overall aesthetic. The juxtaposition of these elements, the radiant gold against the Vantablack® abyss, creates a dynamic tension that draws the observer into a spellbinding dance of contrasts. The Caliber HMC 200 automatic movement beats at a frequency of 21,600vph (3 Hz), powering the watch, providing a remarkable power reserve of approximately 72 hours but also thanks to its large, engraved gold oscillating weight, a nod to the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to elegance. This movement is equipped with a regulating organ from Precision Engineering AG, the sister company of H. Moser & Cie. The hand-stitched grey kudu leather strap complements the watch’s aesthetics, culminating in an 18k red gold pin buckle.
Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack®
On the other hand, through the H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack® ref. 1804-0403, H. Moser & Cie. takes minimalism to sublime heights. With the same 40mm diameter red gold case, but actually measuring half a millimeter thinner than its three-handed counterpart with an overall height of 10.7mm, the watch houses the one-minute flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, seemingly suspended within the heart of a cosmic void. Devoid of indices or logos that might distract from its elegance, the tourbillon becomes the centrepiece of this watch. The watch is powered by the HMC 804 calibre, a self-winding movement featuring a double hairspring meticulously designed in-house. This innovation corrects the movement of the point of gravity on each spring as it expands, reducing friction and enhancing accuracy. The watch is adorned with a hand-stitched black alligator leather strap, secured by a signed 18k red gold deployant clasp. H. Moser & Cie. has achieved a true embodiment of Haute Horlogerie, where precision and artistry converge.
H.Moser & Cie. code of design
One cannot overlook the significant divergence in price between these two closely related timepieces. While the H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour Centre Seconds Vantablack is priced at 25.000 CHF, its more intricate counterpart, the H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack, commands a price tag of 75.000 CHF. This stark contrast emphasizes the value attributed to the complexity and innovation embedded within the latter. These two models are more than just watches; they are expressions of an ethos. H. Moser & Cie. reminds us that true luxury is not solely defined by logos or marketing but by the inherent craftsmanship and artistry of the watchmakers and dial-makers. The brand’s approach rekindles the appreciation for savoir-faire, reviving the beauty of simplicity and the unexpected power it wields.
In conclusion, the Endeavour Vantablack® collection by H. Moser & Cie. represents a symphony of contrasts, where light and darkness coalesce to create horological masterpieces that transcend time. In a world where ostentation often obscures genuine luxury, H. Moser & Cie. emerges as a beacon of authenticity. As we witness the dance between radiant red gold and the abyss of Vantablack®, we are reminded that elegance is found in the harmony of contradictions, and true luxury is defined by the artistry of creation. H. Moser & Cie.’s remarkable creations reaffirm that a watch is not merely an instrument to measure time; they are reflections of the brand’s commitment to tradition, innovation, and the enduring allure of understated luxury.
Check out also the in-depth analysis on another interesting watch made by Moser, the Pioneer Cylindrical Tourbillon.