At BaselWorld 2012 L’Duchen presented its new Space Collection of timepieces for men, which comprises four models, each using a self-winding Soprod A10 or A10-BV movement with a see-through crystal case-back and – on selected models – an opening on the dial that reveals the balance.

The space theme is interpreted on the dials of the watches in the form of randomly applied stars, planetary rings and galaxy shapes and the watches take space-related names such as Supernova, Saturn, Eclipse and Galaxie.

On the movement, the main plate is decorated with circular graining, while the oscillating mass features traditional côtes de Genève vertical bands. The see-through crystal back of the case reveals the bevelled and polished edges of the movement.

All the new models have stainless-steel cases with PVD coating, anti-reflective sapphire crystals and the L’Duchen logo embossed on the crown. They are available on a calfskin strap with a butterfly folding buckle with logo.

A relatively young brand, L’Duchen presented its first collection in 2004 using self-winding ETA movements in three classic case shapes. The watch collectors who had founded the brand after being inspired by a fine vintage pocket watch branded “L’Duchene&Fils” that they found in an antique store targeted their original collection at an intimate circle of collectors. Such was its success on the mass market, however, that the collection was soon expanded to include quartz versions and models for ladies.

The new Space Collection allows L’Duchen to show off its skills in hand assembly of its watches, including the application of the individual elements on the dial, which requires 30 different manual operations alone.