WATCH & JEWELRY /
SIHH＆BASEL
May 22, 2019
FAVRE-LEUBA Introduces the First Black Model of the "Raider Bivouac 9000"
FAVRE-LEUBA
A Mechanical Watch Capable of Measuring Altitudes of 9,000 Meters
The "Raider Bivouac 9000" Lineup Expands
Introduced in 2017 as the world's only mechanical watch capable of measuring altitudes up to 9,000 meters, the "Raider Bivouac 9000" now welcomes a black model, aligning with Favre-Leuba's 2019 color theme. Furthermore, a novel strap designed for emergencies during mountaineering will arrive this autumn.
Text by KOIZUMI Yoko
A Mechanical Watch with an Altimeter That Conquered Mount Everest
In response to Favre-Leuba's 2019 color theme of "black," numerous new black models have been added to the brand's collection. Among them is the "Raider Bivouac 9000 Black."
The "Raider Bivouac 9000" debuted in 2017 as the world's first watch capable of measuring altitudes up to 9,000 meters. The "Bivouac" itself refers to the world's first mechanical altimeter watch, released in 1962. It was the chosen companion for Junko Tabei when she became the first woman to successfully summit Mount Everest in 1975.
Fifty-five years after the debut of the original model, its name lives on in the "Raider Bivouac 9000," which, in addition to an altimeter, newly incorporates a barometer. The "Raider Bivouac 9000 Black" is the black edition of this model.
As altitude increases, so does UV radiation, and light further reflects off the snow, intensifying its glare. These conditions become more severe the closer one gets to the summit of Everest, making it arguably the most challenging place in the world to read a watch face. Some sunglass lenses are even marketed as "Everest-specific." Ensuring visibility in such an environment is a matter of life and death.
Viewed from this perspective, the "Raider Bivouac 9000 Black" offers enhanced readability for crucial information needed near the summit compared to other watches. The red hand, typically used for seconds, indicates altitude in this model. The bezel displays the altimeter scale, with each mark representing 50 meters and a full rotation covering 3,000 meters. The red hand at the 3 o'clock position indicates both altitude above sea level and barometric pressure. Meanwhile, the time is displayed in white, offering clear contrast with the dial for easy reading.
Last year, two Everest expedition teams were equipped with the "Raider Bivouac 9000" and successfully reached the summit. According to the climbers, "The precision of this model's altimeter is remarkable, sometimes proving more accurate than digital measuring devices."
Altitude is measured by the aneroid barometer housed within Caliber FL311. An aneroid barometer utilizes the expansion and contraction of a sealed capsule made of a special alloy, evacuated of air, in response to atmospheric pressure to determine altitude. This expansion and contraction are converted into rotational motion to display altitude and pressure. Maintaining high precision within this small capsule requires exceptional technical expertise. The absence of competing brands in this field serves as a testament to Favre-Leuba's unparalleled technological prowess.
Currently, the "Raider Bivouac 9000" is available with two strap options: rubber and antelope leather. However, in September 2019, a "RECCO strap" with added functionality is scheduled for release.
"RECCO" is a system for locating individuals lost in mountainous terrain. In the event a user is caught in an avalanche, a reflector receives a signal from a receiver, providing the rescuer with location information.
While various items incorporating RECCO technology have existed for winter mountain wear and ski/snowboard apparel, its integration into a watch strap represents a first for RECCO. It is fitting that the "Raider Bivouac 9000," as an expedition watch, is the model to feature this innovation.
Before the winter season begins, why not enhance the safety of your "Raider Bivouac 9000" with the RECCO strap? It is expected to be priced around 30,000 yen.
Raider Bivouac 9000 Black
Ref｜00.10105.06.46.31 (Rubber Strap), 00.10105.06.46.45 (Antelope Leather Strap)
Movement｜Manual Winding (Cal. FL311)
Functions｜65-hour power reserve (with indicator), altimeter and barometer, date display
Case Material｜Titanium (Aluminum Bezel)
Case Diameter, Thickness｜48mm, 18.7mm
Strap Material｜Rubber, Antelope Leather
Water Resistance｜30m
Price｜¥840,000 (Rubber Strap), ¥850,000 (Antelope Leather Strap) *Excluding tax