Before heading to Geneva for Watches & Wonders 2024, we were already very excited about the latest addition to the HYT lineup. The new HYT T1 Series is beyond what we expected. Redesigned, better, and more wearable are just some of the words that come to mind after perusing the new watches. As HYT celebrates its 12th anniversary this year 2024, the new HYT T1 is a smaller hydromechanical watch with a case diameter of 45.3 mm, a slightly more slender profile, and a new ergonomic design for optimum comfort.
After owning a HYT H1 Dracula, the biggest difference comes from the way the watch is worn. Presented for the very first time with a solid dial that hides the bellows, the four new watches are simply gorgeous. Whether it is the one in titanium, the DLC titanium, or the 5N gold model, the watches are more refined. As far as dials, there is a salmon-colored one, anthracite, and silver dials offer a unique contrast with the titanium and DLC titanium case, while the exquisitely elegant case in 5N gold and DLC titanium stylishly enhances the midnight blue dial.
For the first time in its history, the brand introduces a fully enclosed dial where the bellows are not exposed at 6 o’clock, designed to achieve absolute harmony. Featuring circular satin finishes along the minute track and on the hour ring that enhances a sophisticated color palette —Silver Dial ref. H03205-A, Slate Dial ref. H03206-A, Salmon Dial ref. H03207-A, and Midnight Blue Dial ref. H03208-A— paired with blue or black tinted fluids, adding a distinctive elegance. Additionally, a 72-hour power reserve indicator is positioned between 2 and 3 o’clock on the solid dial.
As usual, the time display, specific to HYT and calibrated for 12 hours, combines the fluidic hour indication —via the liquid-filled glass capillary along an outboard scale from 6 o’clock to 6 o’clock— with a mechanical minute indication via a central hand sweeping around an inboard minute track. Specifically, a tinted liquid progressively fills the capillary, marking the hour against the outboard scale along the dial’s flange. After 12 hours, as it reaches the 6 o’clock position on the right, the tinted liquid retrogrades to its starting point at 6 o’clock on the other side. For a precise reading of the time, the minute markers are displayed in Arabic numerals around a dedicated sector on the dial.
Things to Know About the Watch
A reduced diameter that is as surprising as it is self-evident. The T1 Series Collection embodies an aesthetic ideal expressed in its most absolute form. The complexity of incorporating the full scope of HYT’s fluidic technology into a smaller diameter case was an adventure that demanded the highest level of precision —and the ability to square the circle between design and technical constraints. Modern and designed for everyday wear, its innovative ergonomic silhouette, free of lugs, is enhanced by an octagonal case structure with gently curved lines and complemented by an interchangeable strap system.
The Interchangeable Strap System
The interchangeable strap system is seamlessly integrated into the overall architecture of the case and it snaps right into it without any lugs. It allows the wearer to go from a nylon strap to a rubber strap within seconds. The strap flows naturally from the case to the curve of the wrist, ensuring unparalleled comfort and remarkable wearability. The strap can readily be clicked in and out by pressing a push-button located on the back in the case middle, precluding inadvertent release. A titanium pin buckle —PVD titanium on the 5N gold/titanium model— adds elegance to a secure fit.
The Movement
The open case back, secured with screws, features an anti-reflective sapphire crystal to offer a clear view of the intricate workings inside. Here, the manual wound calibre 501-CM is fully visible with no obstructions including the two hallmark bellows —pistons— that regulate the movement of fluids under the impulses of the 41-jewel movement composed of 352 parts.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, the new HYT T1 wears incredibly well and much better than any of its HYT counterparts, old or new. Each reference is offered with two interchangeable straps, each with its very own buckle. Our favorite model is the 5N gold model paired with light blue straps complementing the color of the dial. The new HYT T1 is the perfect hydromechanical watch and a must-have.
Sticker Price CHF 48,000 Swiss Francs —approximately USD 53,000— for the Titanium models, and CHF 64,000 Swiss Francs —approximately USD 71,000— for 5N Gold. For more info on HYT click here.
