Hautlence / Retrovision ’85

Key Highlights

• Robot-inspired timepiece that transforms from an oversized wristwatch into a table clock, echoing an iconic 1980s Japanese toy.
• Powered by the self-winding D31 calibre from the Vagabonde Tourbillon, with flying tourbillon, double hairspring and wandering hours display.
• 3D‑printed titanium case with copper‑coloured PVD accents, sapphire crystals front and back, and 5 ATM water resistance.
• Central sapphire minute disc surrounded by three rotating hour satellites for a wandering reading of time.
• Limited to just 8 pieces, in line with Hautlence’s avant-garde Playground philosophy.

A robot from the 80s, reimagined in haute horlogerie

Hautlence’s Retrovision ’85 channels the 1980s fascination with transformable robot watches into a contemporary mechanical sculpture. Inspired by a Japanese toy icon, it turns childhood fantasy into a fully fledged haute horlogerie object that can be worn on the wrist or displayed as a table robot.

The case, bezel and crown are 3D‑printed titanium with copper‑coloured PVD elements that recall the warm metallic tones of 80s toys and arcade machines. A bevelled rectangular sapphire crystal with antireflective treatment frames the display, while a sapphire caseback opens onto the movement.

The Retrovision ’85 is designed to transform. As a wristwatch it measures 64.0 x 60.0 x 11.8 mm. When converted into a table clock on its platform, it grows to 70.0 x 96.0 x 43.0 mm, becoming a kinetic object for a desk or cabinet with 5 ATM water resistance.

The dial layers enhance the retro‑futuristic aesthetic. A frosted titanium base supports a rhodium‑plated brass intermediate dial with blue and purple PVD treatment, colours reminiscent of arcade screens and early home consoles. Above sits a sapphire minute disc with applied numerals and Globolight® rings, adding depth and luminous contrast as it rotates.

The D31 calibre: a playful wandering of time

Inside the Retrovision ’85 is the D31 self‑winding mechanical movement, shared with the Vagabonde Tourbillon. It features a flying tourbillon, double hairspring and wandering hours and minutes display. Beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the calibre comprises 217 components and 39 jewels with a minimum 72‑hour power reserve.

The wandering display defines the watch’s character. Three hour satellites orbit a central minute disc, each satellite turning on itself in a complex system of gearing and indexing that embodies Hautlence’s approach to rethinking how time can be presented on the wrist and beyond.

Details for the few who will own it

The Retrovision ’85 is produced in a limited edition of 8 pieces, underlining Hautlence’s independent approach. It is delivered on a black rubber strap with steel pin buckle and quick attachment system, allowing the watch to be detached and placed on its support with ease. The platform bears engravings of “Hautlence”, “Retrovision ’85”, “Suisse”, “Möbius” and “5 ATM”.

Hautlence has challenged classical watchmaking codes since 2004, developing nine in‑house calibres and maintaining annual production around 200 pieces with backing from MELB Holding. The Retrovision ’85 distils this philosophy into a single object, treating timekeeping as a field for design, narrative and playful interaction.

Why it matters

By recasting a beloved 1980s robot watch in the language of haute horlogerie, the Retrovision ’85 demonstrates that technical sophistication and playfulness can coexist in a serious collectors’ piece. For enthusiasts of independent watchmaking, it offers a rare combination of nostalgia, sculptural presence and wandering time display, limited to numbers that preserve genuine exclusivity.

For GCC collectors interested in independent voices with a strong design narrative, the Retrovision ’85 stands as a striking conversation piece and a concise expression of Hautlence’s Playground spirit.