The Michel Herbelin French Watchmaking Studio has revisited its archives – stretching back 75 years – to introduce this new model to the Newport Héritage collection. Inspired by a diving watch designed by the brand in the Seventies, it remains faithful to the maritime hallmarks characteristic of the Newport.
As well as embracing sporty French chic, this automatic timepiece is water-resistant to 300 metres and made to be immersed in deep waters with gusto.
“Michel Herbelin is a brand supported by watchmaking heritage dating back to the middle of the 20th century, which we can tap into at will to satisfy the huge and satisfying increase in vintage.”
Mathieu Herbelin, Associate Creative Director, Michel Herbelin & Grandson of Founder
The watchmaking studio is setting its sights on the carefree years and freedom of the 1970s. Enlarging the Newport Héritage collection, this new nautical instrument has all the attributes required for diving or carrying out activities that involve extended periods in the water. The 316L stainless steel case (42 mm in diameter) is cushion-shaped, which was very fashionable in the Seventies. Predominantly polished, apart from the edges which are brushed, it is crowned by a polished blue ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel.
By way of contrast, the white graduated 60-minute scale – complete with indicator triangle with white luminescent coating – ensures optimum visibility during dives and decompression. The 120 bezel clicks make it easy to handle, even with gloves on, a detail that differentiates top-of-the-range diving watches. Protected by a double-sided domed sapphire glass, the dial reveals a subtle matte dégradé effect case back that gradually turns from deep black on the outside to navy blue at the centre, similar to the colour of the bezel. Ensuring optimal visibility essential for diving, it features oversized hands and hour markers with blue-emitting luminescent coating for excellent readability in the dark.
As with all Michel Herbelin timepieces, the Newport Héritage Diver was drawn, designed, assembled, adjusted and inspected at the brand French’s studio in the Jura mountains of the Franche-Comté region. Only the automatic mechanical movement that powers it is Swiss-made (Sellita), guaranteeing accuracy and reliability. Beating at 28,000 vibrations per hour and incorporating 26 jewels, it provides 38 hours battery life. The Michel Herbelin engraved oscillating weight with its refined finish, can be admired through the transparent case back.
“In view of the success of our first limited edition three-handed Newport Héritage model with date in 2020, this trend has been confirmed by the challenging times we live in. says Maxime Herbelin, grandson of the founder and Associate Marketing Manager of the brand. This is why we decided to expand the Newport Héritage collection.”
Maxime Herbelin, Associate Marketing Manager, Michel Herbelin & Grandson of Founder
Technical Specifications:
Ref. 1774/BL15CB
CASE:
• 316L polished stainless steel, brushed edges
• Polished blue ceramic bezel
• Double-sided domed sapphire glass
• Transparent case back
• Crown stamped with a ship’s wheel, screw-in case back
• Cushion-shaped; diameter : 42 x 42 mm
• Water-resistant to 300 metres
DIAL:
• Black to navy blue dégradé effect, matte
• Steel faceted hour/minute hands and hour markers coated with a blue luminescent substance
• Nickel central seconds hand
• Double day/date aperture at 3 o’clock
FUNCTIONS:
• Hours, minutes, seconds, day, date
STRAP:
• High-performance FKM elastomer in blue
• double-fold deployant clasp with a steel securing buckle and wetsuit extension
MOVEMENT:
• Swiss automatic ( Sellita, SW220-1 calibre )
• 26 jewels, 28,800 vibrations per hour
• ‘Michel Herbelin’ engraved oscillating weight, refined finish
• 38-hour power reserve
PRICE:
RRP £1,100.00
For more information please visit https://www.michel-herbelin.com