When it comes to mastering the intricate world of watch complications, H. Moser & Cie. has proven time and time again that they are a force to be reckoned with. In 2015, they wowed the watch aficionados with their Endeavour Perpetual Calendar Concept, a watch that stripped away the complexities of the perpetual calendar and presented it in the most user-friendly and minimalist way. Fast forward to today, and H. Moser & Cie. has taken another giant leap, this time conquering the hyper-complex Chinese calendar complication with the Endeavour Chinese Calendar.
This remarkable timepiece combines the ancient Chinese lunisolar calendar with the modern Gregorian calendar, a feat attempted by a few but mastered by none with the same elegance and discretion as H. Moser & Cie. Achieved through a collaboration with Agenhor SA, the Endeavour Chinese Calendar represents the perfect fusion of two distinct cultures.
One of the most astounding aspects of this watch is its ability to remain accurate without any manual corrections for a staggering 12 years. This is in stark contrast to other models on the market, which require at least 70 adjustments over the same period. Agenhor’s mechanical prowess shines through in this regard, leaving competitors in the dust.
The watch’s dial displays the months and days of the Chinese calendar, the days of the Gregorian calendar, the moon phases, and the zodiac signs corresponding to each Chinese year. This intricate choreography is made possible by two cams working in parallel and relaying information through feelers.
Unlike many other Chinese Calendar watches, the Endeavour does not rely on traditional Oriental design motifs. Instead, it offers a contemporary Westernized interpretation that is both legible and balanced, according to CEO Edouard Meylan.
The 40mm red gold case of the Endeavour has a thickness of 13mm and boasts a signature scalloped pattern on the caseband. The polished finish contrasts beautifully with the vertically brushed finish in the hollowed-out area, adding to the watch’s allure.
One of H. Moser’s signature features is its use of fumé dials, and this timepiece is no exception with its captivating Midnight Blue dial. The applied indices and gold hour, minute, and small seconds hands contribute to the watch’s elegance and emphasis on legibility.
The unique crescent-shaped incisions on the dial indicate the Chinese lunisolar months and days, as well as the moon phases, using gold round-tipped retrograde hands. At noon, a triangular window reveals the Chinese year and its associated zodiac animal. Just below the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, you’ll find the Gregorian date window.
H. Moser & Cie. has recently acquired a minority stake in Agenhor SA, the Geneva-based complication maker founded by master watchmaker Jean-Marc Widerrecht. The base movement of the Endeavour Chinese Calendar is Moser’s HMC 200 automatic, enhanced with the Agenhor module. The HMC 210 calibre operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, featuring a solid 18k gold oscillating weight, an original Straumann hairspring, and a 3-day power reserve, totaling 72 hours.
The Endeavour Chinese Calendar is a limited edition of only 100 pieces and comes with a brown hand-stitched alligator leather strap along with a red gold folding clasp. The price for this horological masterpiece is CHF 68,000 or EUR 78,200, including taxes.
