Chronometry DSTB 42 Red Gold 42mm, 18K red gold 5N, Alligator Leather Strap

All true-beat seconds require a dedicated mechanism. No wristwatch escapement naturally beats at the rate of one oscillation per second, a frequency designed for certain large-format clocks. The A&S6203 calibre functions at 4 Hz or eight oscillations per second. Creating a seconds hand that jumps from one index to the next requires a dedicated mechanism, similar to an escapement. Developed in-house by Arnold & Son watchmakers and reserved for this collection, the mechanism is fully displayed on the dial side in tribute to the groundbreaking advances that John Arnold brought to marine chronometry.

This true-beat seconds mechanism is showcased in a manner befitting its historical importance for Arnold & Son. Choosing to position it on the dial side means the movement must be crossed, adding an additional level to the A&S6203 calibre and requiring the creation of three specific bridges. They are designed in harmony with the Arnold & Son style. Openwork and three-dimensional, they are crafted in solid gold.

On these bridges, the seconds hand follows the track stretching between 9 and 12 o’clock, providing balance opposite an off-centred hours and minutes dial in white opal at 5 o’clock. This layout reflects an intentional aesthetic choice, rather than merely a contrived offsetting of the movement, as indicated by the crown, which remains at 3 o’clock