Philippe Dufour Unplugged, page 3

The assembly workflow

The workflow for finishing and assembly of the Simplicity is in accordance to the atelier style, meaning that one watchmaker is completely responsible for finishing and assembly, and adjustment necessary.

In the picture below, each compartment, an example shown in red outline, contains all the parts to make up a watch.

A view of the workshop is shown below...under the clutter, the genius works.

Philippe takes a break once in a while to enjoy his pipe...

The Movement

The movement of the Simplicity. What can I say? This is definitely one of the best designed, well finished movement in existence.

The design of the bridges follow a complex shape, which demands a level of competency from the watchmaker that few today posses. The sensuous curves of the main bridge is accentuated by two sharp horns to allow for the protrusion of the jewel of the canon wheel. Seen below, marked B and C.

Marked D in the picture above, shows the well executed inward turning point. The inward point is particularly difficult to execute, and is seen here in perfection.

Many modern movements are cut on a CNC machine is finished by machine, and are not able to achieve the sharp points illustrated in the Simplicity above.

Note also the dicourveture of the jewel framed by points B and C. This chamfering of the bridge is also well polished, and shows smooth, clean edges to allow the jewel of the canon pinion to shine.

Photograph note: this photograph was shot with available light of the sun streaming in my window. See the brilliantly polished anglage of all the bridges and cocks catching the glint of the natural light. Lens used was a Sigma 28-70mm, mounted in reverse to allow for high magnification. Shot on Canon EOS 630, with Fujicolor ISO200 film, scanned by drum scanner. Image reduced by Photoshop CS. No sharpening or levels were used.

Go to the Dufour portraits >>>

<<<  Return to page 2,   page1