Carl Suchy & Söhne - Waltz N°1 Hoffmann Edition
For a brand that built its reputation on the marriage of Viennese Modernism and Swiss precision, the line between art and engineering has always been a fluid one. With the introduction of the Waltz N°1 Hoffmann Edition, Carl Suchy & Söhne does not simply cross that line—it erases it entirely.
This latest release represents a profound evolution for the Austrian marque. While previous models were inspired by the aesthetics of the early 20th century, the Hoffmann Edition marks the first time the constructive thinking of the legendary architect and designer Josef Hoffmann has been systematically translated into the mechanics of a timepiece.
Philosophy: Architecture as a Principle
Josef Hoffmann, a founder of the Vienna Secession and the Wiener Werkstätte, was a radical proponent of the idea that function and form should be inseparable. His work rejected excessive ornamentation in favor of geometric purity and precision . The Waltz N°1 Hoffmann Edition takes this principle to heart.
Unlike watches that apply decorative motifs to a dial, the Hoffmann’s face is built upon a disciplined geometric grid of concentric lines. The cardinal numerals (12, 3, 6, and 9) are not applied elements; they emerge directly from the structure of the dial itself. This architectural clarity is further enhanced by the signature “Waltzing Disc” at six o’clock. As it rotates once per minute, the disc completes the linear composition, turning the passage of time into a constructive process rather than a mere measurement.
“With the Hoffmann, we distil our Viennese design DNA to its clearest form,” explains Robert Punkenhofer, CEO of Carl Suchy & Söhne. “We do not quote Josef Hoffmann. We think in his constructive logic. The Hoffmann translates modernist order into mechanical precision and defines time as an architectural discipline.”
Mechanics: The Logic of Construction
The philosophy of "construction as a principle" continues beneath the surface. The Hoffmann is powered by a specially adapted ultra-thin automatic calibre, the CSS-A1. Developed exclusively for Carl Suchy & Söhne in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier, this movement measures just 30mm in diameter and a mere 2.6mm in height.
Visible through the sapphire case back, the movement mirrors the dial's architectural rigor. The bridges are geometrically skeletonised and coated in anthracite NAC, creating a visual extension of the dial’s linear composition. The finishing is executed to the highest standards of Swiss artisanal tradition—featuring perlage on both sides of the mainplate, hand-bevelled edges, and diamond-polished countersinks.
Regulation is handled by a variable inertia balance with gold weights, oscillating at 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour). Winding is achieved via a gold-plated decentralized micro-rotor, allowing for the movement’s slender profile while maintaining a robust 48-hour power reserve.
Technical Specifications
Movement
Calibre: CSS-A1 ultra thin, developed in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier
Decoration: Special Carl Suchy bridge decoration
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 48 hours
Jewels: 29
Indications
Hours, minutes
Carl Suchy & Söhne "Waltzing Disc" at 6 o'clock
Case
Material: Stainless steel 316L
Diameter: 41.5 mm
Lug-to-lug: 43 mm
Height: 9.3 mm
Crown: With black lacquer
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating on both sides
Case back: Screwed
Serial number: Engraved
Water resistance: 3 ATM / 30 meters
Dial
Color: Silver/Black
Index: Black nickel
Finishing: Galvanised
Strap
Material: Genuine leather (21 mm × 20 mm)
Color: Black
Circumference: 150 mm to 190 mm
Interior: Viennese Modernism inspired pattern
Clasp
Material: 316L stainless steel deployant
Logo: Carl Suchy & Söhne
Origin
Swiss Made
Packaging
High-quality velvet box, handmade in Vienna
Leather travel case
Price: HKD $194,500