Every year, SIHH presents to the world a host of fascinating timepieces from an ever increasing number of manufacturers. One of the newcomers to SIHH 2018 is DeWitt, and they are raring to go. The brand is set to unveil its latest novelty, the Academia Endless Drive, at the most important watch fair of the year.
DeWitt Academia Endless Drive
The Academia Endless Drive reveals an original design, consistent with the strong and distinct character of DeWitt creations. The case of the Academia Endless Drive is a contemporary 42.5 mm in diameter and 12.85 mm in thickness. Crafted in a modern mix of rose gold and black rubber, the case is round with DeWitt imperial columns on the sides. The interplay of contrasting effects achieved through the combination of traditional and innovative materials, 18-carat rose gold and black rubber, recreates the famous imperial column motif, the distinctive signature of the brand with the symbol of Emperor Napoleon I. Also on the case flank of the case is a rose gold crown adorned with the brand’s W signature.
The dial of the timepiece is not only exceptionally crafted, but also interesting from a design standpoint. Set within two cut-outs in the black galvanic dial are two white-silvered rotating discs that display the hours and minutes which in turn are indicated by two gold triangle pointers. The most striking feature on the dial of the Academia Endless Drive, however, remains the rotating endless screw in the centre, a nod to automotive mechanics, the field of inspiration preferred by the brand’s founder, Count Jérôme de Witt. The curves of the screw in unidirectional movement denote an irreversible rotation that fascinates the observer and serves as an allegory for time itself. Aesthetics aside, the helical screw is actually linked to the power reserve’s winding system. More precisely, the model features two degrees of freedom. As the power reserve decreases, the screw rotates. When the barrel is wound, the screw slides on its longitudinal axis.
The Academia Endless Drive is powered by the in-house manufactured, 320-part and 39-jewel Calibre DW1653. The 30.6 mm automatic movement has a power reserve of 59 hours when fully wound and operates at a stately 21,600 vph. It also features a variable-inertia balance with a flat balance spring and a Swiss lever escapement. The movement in all its glory can be viewed via the sapphire crystal case back.
Matched with black satin calf leather straps and a 18-carat rose gold, triple folding clasp with the W signature, the watch has an industry standard water resistance of up to 30 metres (splash protected only). While not a limited edition, production is likely to be limited given the manufacture’s relatively low annual production numbers.
1 Comment
Disappointing, 42.5 mm diameter and 12.85 mm thickness