Hautlence Helix Series 1: A Cylindrical Tourbillon for the New Era
Key Highlights
- Rectangular grade 5 titanium case with domed sapphire crystal and 10 ATM water resistance
- Central cylindrical tourbillon framed by retrograde hours and minutes
- In-house D51 automatic calibre with micro-rotor, 235 components and 65-hour power reserve
- Skeletonised rhodium-plated dial with blue-coated retrograde scales and Globolight® numerals
- Limited edition of 28 pieces from an independent, architecture-driven Swiss maison
Architecture in motion
The Helix Series 1, reference CD51-TI00, treats the wrist as a stage for mechanical architecture. Its newly designed rectangular case in grade 5 titanium is compact and sharply defined, combining satin-finished and polished surfaces for a strong but lightweight presence.
An extra-hard domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment rises above the case, adding curvature that softens the geometry and plays with light. It draws the eye straight to the central cylindrical tourbillon, which appears almost suspended beneath the glass.
The cylindrical tourbillon is the visual and conceptual heart of the watch. Spiralling like DNA, it introduces a vertical dimension to the classic tourbillon and suggests time as a rising helix. On either side, retrograde hours and minutes perform clean jumps, delivering a dynamic yet legible display that echoes Hautlence’s focus on alternative time indications.
The D51 calibre: compact power
The Helix Series 1 is powered by the D51 automatic mechanical calibre, designed, developed and manufactured by Hautlence. A micro-rotor enables a compact, balanced layout while maintaining autonomy, and the movement comprises 235 components and 36 jewels, beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with a minimum 65-hour power reserve.
The skeletonised, rhodium-plated brass dial with vertical finishing opens the calibre to view. Hour and minute displays, also in rhodium-plated brass, receive a blue ALD coating, while Globolight® numerals provide clarity without sacrificing sculptural depth. The sapphire caseback is engraved with “HAUTLENCE”, “10 ATM” and “Suisse”, underscoring both Swiss origin and robust specification.
Limited, deliberate, independent
The Helix Series 1 is limited to 28 pieces, reflecting Hautlence’s preference for tightly controlled production and artisanal focus. The case measures 37.0 x 45.10 x 11.8 mm, or 10.5 mm without the crystal, combining a pronounced wrist presence with 10 ATM water resistance.
A grey rubber strap with navy blue textile inserts and a grade 5 titanium buckle completes the piece, with a quick-release system for easy changes. The overall impression is contemporary and sport-leaning, yet firmly anchored in haute horlogerie finishing.
Founded in 2004 and named in tribute to Neuchâtel, Hautlence has built a reputation for reinterpreting fine watchmaking through new structures and original displays. Now based in Schaffhausen and supported by independent family group MELB Holding, the maison maintains an intentionally limited annual output of around 200 pieces and has developed nine in-house calibres.
Why it matters
The Helix Series 1 channels Hautlence’s architectural, experimental spirit into a more contemporary, sport-oriented format without diluting its technical ambition. By placing a cylindrical tourbillon and retrograde indications in a new titanium rectangular case, it reinforces the brand’s role in independent haute horlogerie for collectors seeking conceptual design, mechanical depth and genuine scarcity.
For GCC collectors drawn to independent voices and unconventional tourbillon complications, the Helix Series 1 offers a focused expression of what Hautlence represents today.
