At this year’s Baselworld, Christophe Claret will unveil its new X-Trem-1 Sting HD watch, an update of its dynamic X-TREM-1 timepiece debuted in 2012 which defies conventional watch-world thinking by incorporating magnetism. The new piece is made in collaboration with StingHD, a high-end American jewellery brand that specialises in making leather bracelets and occasionally other accessories, also known for their use of the skull motif. It is a mechanical “memento mori” – which translates from Latin as “remember that you have to die” – and is limited to just eight pieces.
Christophe Claret X-TREM-1 StingHD
The watch keeps the key components that made the original X-TRME-1 so special. There’s an inclined flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock, which also displays the running seconds, and the retrograde hour and minutes displays are still shown using a series of belts, magnets, and two small steel balls. What has changed, however, are the overall aesthetics of the watch.
Christophe Claret X-TREM-1 StingHD
Christophe Claret X-TREM-1 StingHD comes in a PVD-treated Grade 5 titanium case that measures 40.8mm across, 56.8mm tall, and rated water-resistant to 30m. Across the large sapphire crystal that covers much of the face of the watch is the brand’s name emblazoned in bright red. On the sides of the case, the hour and minute indicators are inscribed with red lacquer and feature red Super-LumiNova lines underneath to provide some nighttime legibility.
Christophe Claret X-TREM-1 StingHD
The two sapphire crystal tubes for the metal spheres displaying the time are held in place by stainless steel rings – also given a black PVD treatment. Continuing this all-black theme are the hollowed, also PVD-treated metal spheres within the two sapphire tubes.
Christophe Claret X-TREM-1 StingHD
This model comes with two straps designed by StingHD: one in black stingray leather, and the other which can be personalized by its owner. In addition, the presentation box also includes a matching, handcrafted bracelet adorned with a black diamond encrusted skull with ruby eyes. This is an elegant way of reminding the wearer of this watch that time is ticking and that one must remain firmly attached to life. If you want to grab one of eight watches, be ready to splash out 278,000 CHF.
