Baltic and SpaceOne have introduced the Seconde Majeure, a new timepiece generating excitement among collectors. Priced at €2,500 (approximately $2,950), this watch emerges as a unique collaboration between the Parisian microbrand Baltic and the independent company SpaceOne, co-founded by Théo Auffret and Guillaume Laidet.
Seconde Majeure: A Collector's Delight
While the watch industry buzzes over the Swatch X Audemars Piguet collaboration, the Baltic X SpaceOne Seconde Majeure stands out for its niche appeal. It targets collectors interested in complex horological features, like wandering hours and deadbeat seconds. This isn't just another watch for social media; it's a carefully crafted piece designed for enthusiasts.
Design and Mechanics
The Seconde Majeure blends SpaceOne's futuristic design with Baltic's vintage-inspired aesthetics. It features a 38.5mm case with a crown at 12 o'clock. The watch displays jumping hours through a sapphire disc and uses a separate transparent display for minutes. A central seconds hand adds dynamic movement, reflecting the watch's name and energy.
Under the hood, the Seconde Majeure uses the Swiss-made Soprod P024 automatic movement, with a custom jumping-hour module by Auffret. This approach keeps costs reasonable while showcasing the mechanical intricacies.
Two Distinct Variants
The Seconde Majeure is available in two versions: a brushed finish and the hand-finished “Charbonné” variant, which costs nearly $1,200 more. The Charbonné version features a maillechort mainplate, meticulously hand-worked using a charcoal technique in Auffret's Paris atelier.
A Unique Collaborative Spirit
Unlike many collaborations where logos share dial space, the Seconde Majeure reflects both brands' influences. Baltic is known for its vintage-inspired tool watches, while SpaceOne excels in affordable mechanical innovations. This collaboration captures the spirit of enthusiast-driven watchmaking, appealing to a selective audience who appreciate jumping-hour complications.
The Seconde Majeure arrives at a time when watch collaborations are ubiquitous, yet it distinguishes itself by focusing on enthusiast brands connecting directly with their audience. It's a mechanical marvel for those who appreciate the intricacies of horological design.
Source: https://www.gq.com/story/baltic-space-one-seconde-majeure-new-watch-alert
