Clerc focused on raising the performance levels of its watches with the launch of the Odyssey S and Hydroscaph Big Date Power Reserve at BaselWorld. The first Odyssey model, released in 2008, had a mechanical self-winding C200 movement with a 120-hour power reserve. Most notable was the choice of hi-tech materials, which included black titanium, ceramics, carbon fibres and palladium. The new Odyssey S improves upon its predecessor with a self-winding C201 calibre which houses a silicon escapement. Silicon is quickly becoming the material of choice in fine watchmaking due to its antimagnetic and ultralight qualities. It is also resistant to shocks and corrosion, requires no lubrication and allows for precise machining. Brand chief executive Gerald Clerc says that considerable thought was put into deciding which aspect of the original model should be improved. 'It's important to note that it is useful complexity - and that we're not just changing things for the sake of complexity,' he says. 'We look at everything from the case to the movement.' Like the C200, the C201 is powered by two barrels, but the power reserve has been increased to 170 hours. A cut-out on the dial at 10 o'clock shows the balance wheel and the spring, while other dial features include the power reserve indication at six o'clock and a retrograde date display at two o'clock. The model is water-resistant to a depth of 100 metres and the rotating inner bezel ring serves as a countdown function. The Odyssey S comes with a 44mm case available in either grade 5 titanium, grade 5 titanium topped with rose gold or grade 5 titanium with diamond-like carbon coating for increased hardness and thermal stability. Clerc says Hongkongers are 'really starting to recognise our products and understand our identity'. The Hydroscaph Big Date Power Reserve gives the popular diving watch a facelift. Equipped with a C602 calibre, the watch has a 45-hour power reserve and the indicator is displayed on the dial at six o'clock against Cote de Geneve d?cor. The dial also showcases a large jumping date window at 12 o'clock, with the rotating disks partially visible. Hydroscaph fans will be happy to know that the novelty retains the line's signature crown-activated rotating bezel and the adaptable lugs that allow the watch to fit on smaller wrists, which Clerc says is an important selling point in Hong Kong. 'It shouldn't just be designed just for the sake of standing out. People should feel the passion and know that it has been passed down through generations just by looking at the watch,' Clerc says. 'Maybe it's an old-fashioned idea, but I think that a watch should be beautiful.'
