Introduction
The first Charles Frodsham Wristwatch to appear in Public Auction
While Swiss watchmaking is certainly the golden standard in the modern era of horology, there was once a time when English watchmaking occupied the same space, and watchmakers like Charles Frodsham were at the front and center of those glory days. Today, with only a small number of high-end manufacturers, it is timepieces like this Charles Frodsham Double Impulse Chronometer that highlights English watchmaking’s styles and sensibilities in the modern independent watchmaking era. Launched in 2018 and made in-house, the Double Impulse Chronometer is a masterpiece, combining traditional English craftsmanship with cutting-edge modern technology. This luxury timepiece was the first wristwatch to utilize the oil-less double impulse escapement mechanism that enhances accuracy and efficiency. Powered by an exquisitely hand-finished 2-train, 43-jewel, movement, which is visible through an exhibition caseback, we get to see Frodsham's ongoing dedication to precision and artistry in chronometry. Its traditionalist design blends centuries old materials and techniques with those of today, and features a stunning white ceramic dial, finely crafted equal-length hands, and Roman numeral indices in blued steel, with vapour deposited signature, tracking, and cyphers. Highlighting British watchmaking, this exceptional chronometer embodies the pinnacle of British horology, making it a must-have for watch enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its lengthy waiting list both as a result of Frodsham’s famously low production and collector’s intense admiration for this beautiful timepiece.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch and Certificate of Origin
Est. value range
$100,000 – $150,000
The Details
Brand
Charles Frodsham
Dimensions
42.2mm x 10.7mm
Model
Double Impulse Chronometer
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
N/A
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
2019
Condition
Like-New
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch and papers
Dial Color
White Zirconium Dioxide Dial with Dual Cyphers
THE DIAL
The matted-white ceramic dial features two equal-length hands, a quirk inspired by a Frodsham tourbillon pocket watch from the early 1900s, and the heritage cyphers are taken from 19th century Frodsham pocket pieces.
THE MOVEMENT
The movement features 18k rose gold wheels, a large diameter free-sprung balance with proprietary shock system, hack feature, and a differential up-and-down mechanism with state of wind indication visible uppermost on the winding wheels.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in like-new cosmetic condition, showing minimal signs of wear. The watch is accompanied by a Certificate of Origin only, as the watches are delivered without boxes by Charles Frodsham. There is light oil creep visible on the winding wheel coming from the mainspring arbor- this occurred occasionally on some of the very first examples that left the workshop. **Please Note: The Charles Frodsham workshop has graciously offered to the new owner, a complimentary check-up to clean the movement and insure that it is operating optimally. (Buyer would be responsible for transportation fees and any possible associated duties)**
Our Perspective
A wonderfully-crafted timepiece that both highlights and celebrates British watchmaking, it is watches like the Double Impulse Chronometer that remind us of just how excellent British watchmaking once was, and how excellent it seems to be becoming once again.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
