he true-beat seconds was intrinsic to the marine chronometers that John Arnold supplied to the Royal Navy. Their escapements beat with the steady rhythm of one oscillation per second, naturally revealed by the seconds hand. With this clear, regular rhythm, Arnold & Son invented one of its most iconic complications: the true-beat seconds, also known as deadbeat seconds.

The grained dials, with their dense texture and vibrant shine, are adorned with three openwork gold bridges supporting the true-beat seconds mechanism, facing the off-centred white opal hours dial. This subtle interplay of textures and finishes demonstrates the depth of complexity and singularity that defines the DSTB collection.

All true-beat seconds require a dedicated mechanism. No wristwatch escapement naturally beats at the rate of one oscillation per second, a frequency designed for certain large-format clocks. The A&S6203 calibre functions at 4 Hz or eight oscillations per second. Creating a seconds hand that jumps from one index to the next requires a specific mechanism, similar to an escapement. Developed in-house by Arnold & Son watchmakers and reserved for this collection, this mechanism is fully displayed on the dial side in tribute to the groundbreaking advances that John Arnold brought to marine chronometry.

The DSTB 42 is one of Arnold & Son’s most iconic lines and is based on the A&S6203 calibre, fully developed, machined, assembled and regulated at the Manufacture. This self-winding movement is powered by a 22-karat gold oscillating weight and offers a 55-hour power reserve. It beats at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour and, naturally, drives its true-beat seconds in 60 precise jumps per minute.

Price: CHF 42,700 (red gold), CHF 54,600 (platinum)

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