Launched in 2003, the Franck Muller Crazy Hours is exactly the sort of playful interpretation of the abstract concept of time that we might expect from the outside-the-box thinking Master of Complications. Coming to Franck Muller while on holidays in Mauritius, the idea for the Crazy Hours was to display time as a fluid concept that is ultimately what one makes of it. With this, the Crazy Hours displays the time by using a non-traditional layout for the hour numerals. The even numbers start with 2 in the traditional 12 o’clock position and work their way around the dial in an anti-clockwise fashion. The uneven numbers begin with 1 at the 7 o’clock position and work their way around the dial in an anti-clockwise fashion. This pattern makes it so each hour is approximately 150 degrees away or 5 positions from the number before it and as such the hour hand has to make dramatic sweeps across the dial from hour to hour. These jumps from the hour hand are achieved by a modified jumping hour module that follows the algorithm created by having the hours placed in the order they are. Boasting a diamond-set construction and pave-set diamond dial to its uniquely colorful and whacky dial layout, the ref. 7851 CH COL DRM D CD is a wonderful example of Franck Muller’s claim to fame as the Master of Complications. Made of 18kt white gold in Franck Muller’s tonneau-shaped “curvex” case, this timepiece embodies everything that Franck Muller has come to stand for with even horology’s most simple function given a unique complication, and its design lavish and opulent.

Bridging the gap between the opulent execution of a watch design and complexity for the craftsmanship and intrigue, Franck Muller have carved out a name for themselves as one of watchmaking’s most unconventional brands.