H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Retrograde Seconds: New Interpretation of a Classic Complication
With the Pioneer Retrograde Seconds, H. Moser & Cie. presents a watch with an unusual and striking complication that nevertheless embodies the brand’s minimalist philosophy. The retrograde seconds is not only technically fascinating, but also puts in an impressive performance on the dial. Inspired by the world of motorsports, the watch is sporty and elegant at the same time.
Case
The case of the Pioneer Retrograde Seconds is made of stainless steel and measures 42.8 mm in diameter. With a height of 14.2 mm, it has a robust appearance, which is further enhanced by the domed sapphire crystal. However, the screw-down crown with the engraved ‘M’ does ensure water resistance of up to 120 metres. The see-through case back allows for a view of the movement inside.
Overall, the size of the watch is consistent with the sporty design language of the Pioneer collection. Angular lugs and a solid feel characterise the look of the case.
Dial
The dial of the Pioneer Retrograde Seconds is in deep midnight blue with a sunburst finish. True to H. Moser & Cie.’s minimalist philosophy, the logo appears here in transparent lacquer, making it virtually invisible. The focus is entirely on the retrograde seconds at 6 o’clock. This complex mechanism completes its semi-circular journey in 30 seconds, after which it jumps back to the starting position. A double cam under the seconds hand facilitates this operation. A two-tone disc beneath the snail indicates whether the watch is in the first or second 30-second period of the cycle.
The hour and minute hands are typical of the brand with their leaf shape and filled with luminescent material. They ensure good readability even in low light conditions. Faceted index appliques add an extra touch of elegance to the otherwise technical-looking dial.
Movement
At the heart of the Pioneer Retrograde Seconds is the HMC 250 movement. Based on the HMC 201 movement, this calibre features a module designed by Agenhor SA that enables the retrograde seconds. The automatic movement measures 32 mm in diameter and has a height of 6.5 mm. It oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour.
The power reserve is at least three days. The bi-directional winding means that the mainspring is wound in both directions. The hacking seconds feature stops the seconds hand when the time is being set. The anthracite finish with Moser stripes and the partially skeletonised bridges give the movement a high-quality appearance. The engraved oscillating weight adds an extra visual highlight.
Strap
The Pioneer Retrograde Seconds is available with different straps and bracelets. These include a hand-stitched black alligator leather strap, a rubber or textile strap, as well as a steel bracelet. Regardless of the choice of bracelet or strap, the watches always come with a steel pin buckle engraved with the H. Moser & Cie. logo.
Price & Availability of the H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Retrograde Seconds
The H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Retrograde Seconds is an exclusive timepiece. As such, it is aimed at collectors and connoisseurs of haute horlogerie. Interested parties should contact authorised dealers for information on prices and availability.
On 2 October, what had long been rumoured became a reality: LVMH and Formula 1 have entered into a partnership. As Formula 1 prepares for its 75th anniversary in 2025, this global partnership not only marks the end of one era but also heralds a new beginning. In this billion-euro deal, which binds LVMH to…
In celebration of its tenth anniversary, Laurent Ferrier is introducing a new, classical timepiece – the Classic Origin Opaline. Housed in a Grade 5 titanium case, it follows a pure design code, featuring an uncluttered white-silver opaline dial and a light brown Barbialla calf leather strap. According to the brand, the latest model is designed…
Just in time for summer, Wempe, in collaboration with Ulysse Nardin, presents a maritime sports watch in vibrant orange and ultra-light materials as part of their Signature Collection. Since 2022, Wempe has been creating limited-edition models in partnership with renowned watch brands. The family business’ many years of expertise and the wishes of its customers…
Something is brewing on the horizon in the sandy desert of Dakar – is it a mirage? No, it's the unmistakable curves of a Porsche, still clear through the sandstorm. But this is not just any Porsche speeding through the metres-high dunes. In the scorching heat, you can recognise the new Porsche 911 Dakar. The…
With the RM 47 Tourbillon, Richard Mille is presenting an extraordinary timepiece that pays an artistic tribute to Japanese culture. Instead of a dial, the wearer can admire a three-dimensional decoration depicting a samurai warrior. This symbolises the traditional Japanese values that still influence society today. The work of art is made entirely by hand…
Chopard has acted as the official timekeeper of the Italian classic car rally Mille Miglia. Not only does Chopard's co-president take part in the 1000-mile race, but also the annual event sees the introduction of exclusive timepieces to celebrate the events. This year, Chopard presents the Mille Miglia GTS Azzurro Power Control and the Mille…
The Breitling Navitimer B02 Chronograph 41 Cosmonaute Limited Edition celebrates the Manufacture's connection with space flight. Today, Breitling is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Mercury Atlas 7 mission, during which astronaut Scott Carpenter wore a special Navitimer on his wrist as he circumnavigated the Earth three times. In fact, Breitling has therefore officially claimed…
Everyone carries the desire to create connections with others and spread happiness. With this in mind, what could be more symbolic than the smiley? Little more than 50 years ago, a yellow circle, with two oval eyes and a broad, smiling mouth, established itself as a collective symbol of positivity and pop culture. Today, it…
Richard Mille is known for technical finesse beyond the norm. Now, the brand is launching the RM 30-01 featuring a declutchable rotor in two versions. Its movement automatically stops the winding as soon as the maximum power reserve is reached. This prevents the barrel from overwinding, which in turn improves accuracy. The RM 30-01 follows…
Nestled away amongst deep red hearts, gold thorns and shiny green leaves, Louis Vuitton reveals its latest innovative timepiece for women: the amorous Tambour Fiery Heart Automata. With its sparkling diamond-set crown and spinning tourbillon, the automaton timepiece certainly shows Louis Vuitton's La Fabrique du Temps artisanal and watchmaking abilities at their absolute finest. An…
In 2010 already the Geneva watch manufacture Patek Philippe united sports and technique with the ‘Nautlilus’ collection. Now the brand presented a new model (Ref. 5726/1A-014) of this line on the watch fair Baselworld 2019: A version with stainless steel strap, like the first Nautilus from 1976, and a blue dial with a subtle shading from…
When people think of "Panerai", they most certainly associate it with Italian flair and the Submersible - the characteristic diver's watch with the crown protection bridge. But Panerai does Grande complications too. We present some highlights from the tinkerers in Neuchâtel. Perpetual Calendar PAM0715 With the Luminor Perpetual Calendar, Officine Panerai offers a perpetual calendar…
Exclusively for owners of the Porsche 911 Targa GTS Edition 50 Years of Porsche Design, the manufacturer is presenting the Chronograph 1 911 Edition, a timepiece designed to go with the car. Both celebrate Porsche Design's 50th anniversary and reference the past of the iconic 911 and Chronograph 1. The new Porsche Design Chronograph 1…