Swiss watchmakers Louis Erard and Vianney Halter have introduced their third collaborative timepiece, Futur Antérieur, at the Geneva Watch Days 2026. This new creation draws inspiration from the iconic Antiqua watch, a perpetual calendar timepiece presented by Louis Erard in 1998. The Futur Antérieur boasts a distinctive design, featuring two automatic movements and a retro-futuristic aesthetic.
The Futur Antérieur watch showcases a stainless steel case with an asymmetrical design, comprising 67 pieces. The case measures 38mm in diameter, 44mm in length, and 8.85mm in thickness. The design is characterized by two prominent circular dials arranged diagonally, echoing the Antiqua's off-center displays. The case is adorned with 12 polished yellow gold rivets and features a satin-finished vertical brushing on its sides.
The watch features two independent dials, each housed in a raised bezel. The lower dial displays hours and minutes, while the upper dial shows small seconds. The dials are available in two aesthetic variations: a golden version with yellow gold-toned surfaces and a silver version with rhodium-plated elements and ruthenium-finished surfaces. Each dial features a pearled center, surrounded by a brushed circular bezel and black graduations.
The Futur Antérieur's mechanical architecture is its most striking feature, with two Sellita SW100 automatic movements powering the watch. Each movement operates independently, with one driving the hours and minutes hands on the lower dial and the other powering the small seconds on the upper dial. This configuration allows for a unique display without requiring a specially developed complication.
The Sellita SW100 movements measure 17.2mm in diameter and 4.8mm in thickness, operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Each movement has 25 jewels and offers a minimum power reserve of 38 hours. The use of two movements enables two separate winding and regulation systems, resulting in unsynchronized seconds on the upper dial.
The Futur Antérieur is available in two limited editions of 178 pieces each, in gold and silver versions. The watch is priced at 4,950 Swiss francs (excluding taxes), with a special edition case featuring both models available for 9,900 Swiss francs (excluding taxes) in a limited run of 78 pieces.
This collaboration between Louis Erard and Vianney Halter aligns with the manufacturer's strategy of offering high-end, independent watchmaking creations at more accessible price points. The Futur Antérieur is a testament to the innovative spirit of both watchmakers, pushing the boundaries of traditional watch design and mechanics.
Key points
- The Futur Antérieur features two independent Sellita SW100 movements, powering separate dials for hours, minutes, and small seconds.
- The watch's design draws inspiration from the 1998 Antiqua timepiece, with a retro-futuristic aesthetic and off-center dials.
- The Futur Antérieur is available in two limited editions of 178 pieces each, priced at 4,950 Swiss francs (excluding taxes).
