H11, Central Balance, Blue Dial, Pink Gold

Manufactured using only traditional techniques by hand, this H11 was the first time-only from the quietly exceptional independent watchmaker Beat Haldimann. Haldimann produces under 20 watches yearly, across all models. The extremely manual methods of watchmaking Haldimann employ naturally keep that number extremely low, with no CNC whatsoever. Unlike earlier H1 Central Flying Tourbillons, the H11 places the balance centrally, but not dial-side. The H11 is a symphony in simplicity, vertically symmetrical with the balance directly below the hour and minute pinions. This is one of just three examples ever made in this specification, with a frosted midnight grené dial and 18k pink gold case.  

The development story is very much a Thun workshop tale. Beat Haldimann conceived and executed the calibre all within Villa Nussbhül, turning case and movement parts inside his atelier so the aesthetic and technical decisions remained married from idea to finish. That central balance required rethinking the layout of the going train and escapement—not a styling tweak but a movement architecture problem—and Haldimann solved it with a modified escapement and a openworked cock that lets the balance appear to float above the plate. The result is a watch whose "simplicity" is actually the visible surface of intense mechanical problem-solving. 

The dial of this H11 is a deep, midnight blue grené, with hand engraved numerals in the silver plate. The indexes are first engraved then filled in lacquer. The dials are then fastidiously brushed in silver powder to finish the surface.  

H11 was Haldimann’s first wristwatch to abandon the tourbillon while keeping the brand’s signature floating central regulator, and the hands themselves are a deliberate nod to a Haldimann Frères pocket watch from the 1790s—small, spade-tipped hands that keep the dial classical while the movement does the unusual work. On the caseback you’ll find almost nothing but a frosted main plate, the crown and ratchet wheels, and that hypnotic centre balance — a reminder that Haldimann’s craftsmanship is as much about what is omitted as what is shown. Even the cross-shaped anti-shock system was developed at Haldimann. 

Ownership of an H11 is as much about understanding how Haldimann’s watches are made as contemplating its outright splendor. For collectors who love the marriage of philosophical restraint and technical ingenuity, the H11 delivers with no corners cut. 

This H11 presents in excellent condition. Its case bears light signs of wear including small marks near 7 and 10, pictured. Bits dial is even a beautiful with light signs of patina. The 'S' of Swiss had begun to oxidize slightly, leading to a mildly darker tone than the remainder of the word. Its calibre H11 is running well in specification on our timing equipment.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.