Ludovic Ballouard

Ludovic Ballouard, a former watchmaker at esteemed houses such as F.P. Journe and Franck Muller, decided to create his own brand amidst the financial crisis of 2009. It was during this turbulent period that he created a unique way of telling time. 

In December 2009, Ballouard unveiled his first creation, the Upside Down, a timepiece designed to highlight the importance of living in the moment. Its dial features twelve rotating hour discs, with only one displayed upright at any given time. For sixty minutes, the correct hour remains right side up, while the others appear upside down. As the minute hand reaches the fifty-ninth second of the fifty-ninth minute, the current hour disc swiftly flips upside down, and the next hour disc rotates to the correct position. A small white dot on the upright hour disc helps the wearer easily identify the current hour.

Though the Upside Down may initially appear understated, its mechanical ingenuity becomes evident when viewed through the transparent caseback, revealing the remarkable caliber B01. This caliber showcases exceptional craftsmanship and intricate details. The current example is set in a pink gold case with a silvered dial, and is offered in overall excellent condition.