By adopting the name of the “Auto” calibre, already seen in the iconic Sport Auto model, this new reference underscores the shared heritage between the dynamism of the motor racing world and the elegance of more classic automatic watches. The Classic Auto Horizon is therefore also equipped with the latest self-winding movement with micro-rotor; able to withstand any test, it also includes a date function, making it perfect for everyday use.
The Classic Auto Horizon features a distinctive, iconic round case inspired by 19th century pocket watches; this classic pebble shape is where the Classic collection gets its name. Here, it is made from stainless steel with a diameter of 40 mm, enclosing the LF 270.01 self-winding movement. This calibre is particularly robust as it was originally designed for the Sport range.
The Classic Auto Horizon is so much more than a simple timekeeper; it is a demonstration of an expertise which spans the centuries, an illustration of harmony and minimalism, and, most importantly, the catalyst for a myriad of emotions. It tells the story of the balance between beauty and function.
In technical terms, this is achieved with a fine layer of translucent blue lacquer applied to a base treated with a silver galvanic coating. In the centre of the dial, the vertical satin-brushed finish evokes a feeling of freedom and new horizons. The minute track, with its circular satin-brushed finishing framing the dial, is the embodiment of reliability.
The piece also features the visual signature of the Sport and Classic Auto models: the stamped aperture with bold lines which gently slope towards the clearly legible date transfered in slate grey on a white disc. To reinforce this line and subtly draw the eye to the date, the aperture is framed by a fine dark blue transfer. The dial is also marked by a matching cross in the centre to highlight the position of its iconic Assegai spear hands, made from stamped white gold. The small seconds, recessed at 6 o’clock, is snailed and punctuated with dark blue markers and a baton-shaped hand, also in white gold. The iconic white gold drop-shaped indices ensure the overall harmony of the dial.
The second self-winding movement with calendar created by LAURENT FERRIER, initially for the Sport Auto, the calibre LF270.01 is the result of an exclusive in-house development. Paying subtle homage to the brand’s first self-winding movement, the micro-rotor with natural escapement, this calibre has been designed, decorated, assembled and adjusted entirely in the LAURENT FERRIER workshops.
It features a Swiss lever escapement, which is a worthy match for any situation. It uses an automatic winding system with an off-centre micro-weight. To significantly improve its resistance to impacts and vibration, this movement has been fitted with a unidirectional ball bearing. Like a balance wheel, the micro-rotor is equipped with an oscillating weight in 950 platinum positioned directly between the main plate and the rotor bridge to give optimum stability and maximum winding power. When fully wound, this calibre offers a power reserve of more than 72 hours.
The sapphire crystal case back reveals a movement with impeccable finishes, the architecture of which showcases the celebrated curves of the natural escapement micro-rotor.
Inspired by the calibre FBN229.01, this new weight is made from 950 platinum and features a new engraved motif which evokes the feathers of a bird to complement the beak shape of the automatic bridge. The engraved feathers are accompanied by chevrons indicating the winding direction.
Each LF 270.01 calibre alone requires more than 139 manual finishing operations. The weight bridge, in particular, has been decorated by hand with multiple finishes: the angles are softened then finished with gentian wood and diamantine, while the surface is mirror polished. Furthermore, the movement also features several internal angles, multiple zinc-polished surfaces and numerous satin-brushed and circular-grained finishes, all executed by hand in the LAURENT FERRIER workshops. The rhodium-plated Côtes de Genève on all of the bridges brings the final touch to this exceptional calibre.
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