First presented in 2014 by Van Cleef & Arpels as the Pierre Arpels Heure d’ici & Heure d’ailleurs in an 18K white gold pebble-shaped case measuring 42 mm in diameter —which you can read about it here—, VC&A presented a new iteration of this watch during the SIHH 2018, this time with the more appealing and contemporary 'Midnight' round case in 18K pink gold measuring 42 mm in diameter. The new Midnight Heure d’Ici & Heure d’Ailleurs is equipped with Van Cleef's own dual time zone movement which offers an understated and poetic interpretation of time, suspended between two horizons. Reading the hours becomes an invitation to travel, like a window open on the world.
About the Watch
With its new Midnight case, the new Van Cleef & Arpels Midnight Heure d’Ici & Heure d’Ailleurs watch revisits Van Cleef & Arpels’ vision of masculine elegance. Its slender bezel and horns
provide the frame for a generously proportioned dial. In a unique design, the case and hour markers —in satin-finished and polished pink gold— harmonize with the black of the dial, embellished with a stamped sun motif. The pure lines complement an asymmetric decor, in which the cursive letters of the watch’s name pay tribute to the poetry of words. In an extra touch of refinement, a single crown is used both to wind the movement and to set the dual time zones and minutes.
For the first time, the Midnight case accommodates a dual time zone movement. Developed in
partnership with Agenhor —Atelier Genevois d’Horlogerie—, this exclusive automatic movement stands out for its jumping hour and retrograde minutes display. The Heure d’Ici —the reference hour displayed in the window at the top of the dial— and the Heure d’Ailleurs, corresponding to the second time zone indicated in the lower window, jump simultaneously thanks to a single
sector that synchronizes both hour disks with the minutes’ retrograde hand. When the latter reaches 60 minutes on the graduated scale, it returns to its starting position in perfect synchronization with the hour display.
The Movement
Its movement, developed in partnership with Agenhor is fully visible via the display case back and it features a platinum micro-rotor with a blue lacquered 'piqué' design. By oscillating in two directions, it can supply energy continuously. The movement is exquisitely finished and provides a power reserve of 48 hours.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the Van Cleef & Arpels Midnight Heure d'Ici & Heure d'Ailleurs watch wears true to its size and with immaculate wrist presence. The understated elegance of this timepiece is remarkable and this is a timepiece that embraces the principles of VC&A and a perfect example of 'haute horlogerie'.
Sticker Price $28,300 USD. For more info on Van Cleef & Arpels click here.
