Herbelin Newport Carbon Titanium Skeleton
True to its heritage of horological precision and innovation, Maison Herbelin has just unveiled a spectacular limited-edition model: the Newport Carbone Titane Squelette. Inspired by the world of extreme sports, this watch—limited to 500 pieces—is a genuine concentration of technology and craftsmanship. It was developed in collaboration with the brand’s ambassador, Aurélien Ducroz, two-time freeride skiing world champion and winner of the 2022 Route du Rhum. The Newport Carbone Titane Squelette embodies watchmaking excellence in a decidedly sporty, modern design, while remaining faithful to the DNA of the Newport collection.
A design built for adventure
The Newport Carbone Titane Squelette immediately draws the eye with an aesthetic inspired by racing yachts. At first glance, the central strap attachments, the porthole-shaped bezel and the screws reminiscent of sailboat winches echo the nautical references so dear to the Newport collection. But beyond these signature details, it is the skeleton design that truly sets this watch apart.
This aesthetic and technical choice makes it possible to admire the entire watch mechanism. The watch has been stripped of anything superfluous, spotlighting a Swiss automatic calibre, the Sellita SW400-1, renowned for its precision and robustness. This visible movement is housed in a 43 mm case crafted from forged carbon and DLC-treated titanium (Diamond Like Carbon), two materials prized for their lightness and strength. This combination, inspired by aeronautical manufacturing methods, delivers not only exceptional lightness but also impressive resistance to shocks and corrosion.
High-performance materials
Forged carbon, used for the bezel and case, stands out for its ability to withstand thermal and mechanical stress. This material is complemented by a titanium container, ensuring an optimal balance between weight and durability. Together, these elements guarantee a watch ready to take on the challenges of extreme environments while maintaining standout elegance.
This technical architecture is reinforced by water resistance to 200 metres, allowing the Newport Carbone Titane Squelette to accompany its owner in the toughest conditions—whether on a deep-sea dive or during a sailing competition.
The art of skeletonisation: mechanics on display
One of the most fascinating aspects of this watch is undoubtedly its skeletonised mechanism, offering a plunging view into the timepiece’s inner workings. The movement’s skeletonisation, inspired by the stylised shape of a ship’s wheel, is a direct tribute to the nautical world and the Newport collection. Finished in anthracite ruthenium, it highlights the gear train of the Swiss calibre while ensuring optimal legibility.
This Sellita SW400-1 automatic calibre features 26 jewels, beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 41-hour power reserve. The mechanics are visible not only through the dial but also via the transparent caseback, allowing watch enthusiasts to admire every detail of this complex movement.
The faceted baton hands, coated with a white luminescent material, enhance legibility even in the darkest conditions. As for the central seconds hand, painted in bright yellow, it adds a sporty touch to the model while echoing the colours of Aurélien Ducroz’s boat.
A high-performance, ergonomic strap
Designed to be worn in action, this watch comes with a high-performance FKM elastomer strap. This material is particularly valued for its resistance to chemical attack and temperature fluctuations, ensuring exceptional durability. The strap comes in a Pantone 809C yellow, an energetic, dynamic shade that perfectly matches the watch’s sporty aesthetic. It is also fitted with a titanium folding clasp with a safety lock, ensuring a secure fit on the wrist even in the most demanding situations.
For those who prefer a more understated look, Herbelin also offers a version with a black FKM strap, providing a more discreet yet equally capable alternative.
A Made in France watchmaking heritage
Each Newport Carbone Titane Squelette is engraved with its limited-edition number, guaranteeing the exclusivity of this model to just 500 pieces. But beyond its rarity, this watch embodies French watchmaking know-how passed down for more than 75 years within Maison Herbelin.
Based in Charquemont, in the Jura mountains, the family-owned brand has managed to preserve its independence while perpetuating a tradition of excellence. Drawn, designed, assembled and hand-regulated in the maison’s workshops, the Newport Carbone Titane Squelette reflects a unique watchmaking expertise, combining technological innovation with respect for tradition.
A watch for modern adventurers
In short, the Herbelin Newport Carbone Titane Squelette is far more than a simple timekeeper. It is a watch designed for modern adventurers—those who seek to push boundaries while wearing a refined, high-performance accessory. With its pared-back design, sophisticated skeleton movement and cutting-edge materials, it embodies both watchmaking tradition and technological innovation. A future collector piece that will appeal as much to extreme-sports enthusiasts as to lovers of fine mechanical watchmaking.
