A fitting location was found for the first official presentation of Ferdinand Berthoud in Japan by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, since the marine chronometer inspired wristwatches were presented at an exhibition space that appeared to be floating on water, just like the ships that carried Ferdinand Berthoud's marine chronometer. The "T-LOTUS M" was designed by renowned architect KengoKuma and floats on the Tennoz Canal in Tokyo.
Presenting Ferdinand Berthoud to a Japanese audience for the first time, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele said: “We are honoured to be presenting our Ferdinand Berthoud watches to Japanese collectors and media guests. Japan is a very important market for Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud. In Japan, clients pay a lot of attention to details and exceptional craftsmanship. They have a very strong watchmaking culture and perfectly understand our products.”
The brand presented its new Chronomètre FB 1R - Edition 1785, which comprises five unique interpretations of the FB 1R chronometer. They all have bronze cases with a different interpretation of the patina that is characteristic of aged bronze and honour the most important expedition in French naval history, involving the Astrolabe and Boussole frigates. Commanded by the Count of Lapérouse, these vessels sailed with five marine chronometers on board, made by Ferdinand Berthoud, clockmaker and mechanic by appointment to the French King and Navy. During the expedition, the two frigates came close to the coast of Japan and made important discoveries and topographical surveys of the area.
