Trio | White Gold

Part of the Futur Antérieur collection, this Trio* continues Vianney Halter's aesthetic style and steampunk focus. Introduced in 2007, the watch came several years after Halter's Antiqua, with a similar design ethos but distinct structural and mechanical differences. The watch is also powered by a sapphire mystery rotor, a patented invention from Halter. The watch is one of only 10 examples in white gold.

Known for his futuristic and highly stylised steampunk aesthetics, Vianney Halter's work pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking codes, reimagining form and structure. The Trio Grande Date was introduced in 2007, as part of Halter's Futur Antérieur collection. The series takes inspiration from the futuristic worlds envisioned by Jules Verne and H. G. Wells in their fictional work. 

The case takes the distinctive shape of an ingot, with a rectangular form. Halter experimented with a similar shape just a few years earlier, in a watch that became one of several commissioned by Goldpfeil from different independent watchmakers. The Trio more clearly in the same vein as Halter's earlier pieces, even carrying through the array of hand-pressed rivets. The first watches were born of a collaboration with Jeff Barnes, an American graphic designer with a longstanding interest in horology, sparking influences that spoke to Halter’s own aesthetic sensibilities. The Trio features a brushed surface, in contrast to the main dial, seconds sub-dial, and two date indicators. Despite its blocky appearance, and 44mm x 32mm size, the watch curves downwards very slightly, allowing it to sit comfortably on the wrist.

The dials are arranged in a way that brings to mind a kind of meter display. The hour and minute dial bears a close similarity to those found on the Antiqua and Classic pieces, which predate this Trio. Placed so that the dial is slightly sunken, the silver dial features an engraved chapter of sector-style minutes followed by one of Arabic numerals, both filled with black enamel paint applied by hand. The watchmaker's initials and the brand mark are also done in this same fashion. A small day/night indicator can be found to the right of Halter's initials. Blued hands complete the look, adding a touch of colour to the silvered tones. While the outer rim of the dial is finished in satiné circulaire, the inner dial features a frosted finish. This is surrounded by a brushed, stepped bezel with 12 rivets that correspond to the Arabic chapter of hours and that takes inspiration from a ship's porthole.

The seconds sub-dial and date apertures are lower down on the surface, with the seconds sub-dial in a very similar style to the main dial. Meanwhile, the Grande Date was a new feature used by Halter, implementing a two-disc display system intended to improve the readability of the date. This also integrated a gear configuration that allowed both the date and time to be changed independently through the crown, with a quick set function for the date. The crown itself bears rivets that add texture, while further supporting the watch's style.

The watch is fitted with the VH205 calibre, visible through the caseback. The movement makes use of Halter's sapphire mystery rotor, an intriguing detail that gives this automatic piece the appearance of a manual-winding watch. Furthermore, collectors will be able to appreciate Halter's finishing techniques, with beautiful Geneva stripes found throughout, as well as sharp bevelling and anglage seen across all the parts. When the calibre is fully wound, the watch has a 70-hour power reserve and beats at 21,600vph.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this Vianney Halter Trio Grande Date will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This Vianney Halter Trio is in excellent overall condition. The case shows extremely light superficial marks on the brushed and polished portions. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections. The hallmarks/engravings on the caseback and buckle are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.