Arnold & Son DSTB

Watch Concierge Services are pleased to present for sale this visually striking Arnold & Son DSTB, one of just 250 pieces produced.

Arnold & Son can trace its roots back to John Arnold, who, in 18th-century London, produced some of the finest chronometers of the time. It was after the Board of Longitude stated that John Arnold’s chronometer No 2 was ‘superior to any watch produced previously’ that Arnold & Son became the leading supplier of timepieces to the Royal Navy, aiding with voyages of exploration.

The “True Beat” seconds complication is far from a modern gimmick – it was also invented in the 18th century to improve accuracy in astronomical regulator clocks. Unlike a conventional mechanical watch, where the seconds hand sweeps around the dial, the seconds hand advances once every second. While this is more commonly associated with quartz watches, achieving it mechanically is considerably more complicated.

However, in the case of the DSTB, Arnold & Son chose to proudly display the entire complication on the front of the watch – the “Dial Side True Beat”.

A sapphire track sits suspended above the mechanism, creating a wonderful three-dimensional effect. As the open-worked seconds hand moves around the track, also “ticking” away is the true beat seconds lever at 9 o’clock, shaped in the form of a ship’s anchor as a nod to the brand’s maritime history. The hours and minutes are displayed on an off-centre sub-dial, creating an asymmetrical layout which somehow remains beautifully balanced. Underneath, the black dial has a subtle sunburst finish which just catches in the light.

The 43.5mm stainless steel case sits well on the wrist due to its short lugs, and has a slim bezel, so as not to detract from the dial.

Through an exhibition case back you can appreciate the A&S 6003 automatic movement. The 229 components are exquisitely finished, with hand-chamfered polished edges, perlage and Côtes de Genève rayonnantes.

We are pleased to present this 2020 watch in excellent condition, showing very few signs of wear to the case or alligator leather strap. It comes supplied with its original presentation box and paperwork, and is also covered by our 6-month warranty.

On a personal note, this is one of my favourite watches of all time. It perfectly captures the balance between complication and elegance, taking inspiration from the brand’s historical importance and combining it with modern technology. This special watch would make a wonderful addition to a collector who appreciates both Haute Horlogerie and considered design.

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