CIC 44 Observatory
The CIC 44 Observatory stands as a bridge across centuries of chronometric pursuit.
Rooted in the great tradition of precision timekeeping and inspired by figures such as Breguet and George Daniels, Bernhard Lederer advances the discipline of chronometry through his singular approach to constant-force architecture and escapement dynamics.
More than a timepiece, the CIC 44 Observatory embodies a rare continuity between historic observatory trials and contemporary independent watchmaking.
Steel 904
A rarity of distinction
In the world of independent watchmaking, true rarity is not only defined by limited numbers, but by the depth of vision, the courage of innovation, and the integrity of craftsmanship.
At LEDERER, each creation reflects decades of research, a relentless pursuit of chronometric truth, and an artistry that few can master. What sets us apart is not only what you see, but what lies within : groundbreaking mechanics, uncompromising finishing, and a philosophy rooted in making every second meaningful.
Patented Dual Detent Escapement
COSC Certified
100% Swiss Handcrafted
98% Made in house
Limited Production
My philosophy has always been to master the most complex part of watchmaking : the escapement. With deep respect for tradition and a constant drive to innovate, I strive to create timepieces where mechanical precision meets artistic vision. This, to me, is the true essence of mechanical artistry.
The CIC 44 mm represents a bridge between three centuries of horological science. Inspired by Breguet and George Daniels, Bernhard Lederer brings to life the first fully functional Dual Detent Escapement in a wristwatch. Balanced in its proportions yet uncompromising in performance, the CIC 44 mm expresses elegance externally and deep mechanical ingenuity at its core.
Bernhard Lederer has been developing for over 40 years an experimental approach to watchmaking, where each creation is based on a rigorous analysis of mechanical laws, horological history, and chrono-metric principles. He stands out through a constant commitment to reconciling historical knowledge with innovation, implementing an engineer-researcher methodology while honoring the foundations laid by master watchmakers such as Abraham-Louis Breguet and George Daniels.
At the heart of the CIC 44 mm lies Lederer’s patented Dual Detent Escapement with two remontoirs d’égalité. Composed of 212 hand-finished components, the calibre reveals its double gear trains and constant-force mechanisms through the open caseback. Each detail is polished, beveled, and decorated by hand, reflecting a pursuit of precision rarely achieved in modern watchmaking.
Entirely crafted in-house, the dial of the CIC 44 mm embodies the philosophy of LEDERER : discretion, precision, and elegance. Around the small seconds, the engraved coordinates of Geneva, Besançon, and Glashütte mark the exact places where this watch was tested and certified in observatory chronometry trials. A quiet but permanent testament to measured performance, not declared intention.
Rather than a spectrum of colors, this series is limited to eight unique pieces, each distinguished by a compass rose engraved with a different orientation. A subtle yet meaningful variation that gives every watch its own identity.
This detail is more than decorative. It forms a discreet reference to the world of marine chronometry, where direction, navigation, and precision are inseparable. Just as marine timekeepers once guided explorers across oceans, these pieces carry the symbolic language of orientation and measured course.
As part of the first generation of the CIC 44, the Observatory edition holds a foundational place in the evolution of the collection.
It preserves the original architectural spirit envisioned by Bernhard Lederer : a balance of mechanical depth, clarity of design, and chronometric purpose. Crafted in steel, its presence is defined not by ostentation but by precision, restraint, and quiet authority, echoing the character of historic scientific instruments.
Measuring 44 mm in diameter and only 10.75 mm thick, the case combines structural strength with refined proportions. Domed sapphire crystals on both sides, treated with double anti-reflective coating, create a seamless visual continuity between exterior form and mechanical interior, inviting the eye to explore the watch as a complete architectural composition.
Sleek, comfortable, and versatile, the CIC 44 mm case not only safeguards its groundbreaking movement, but also ensures timeless wearability, embodying LEDERER’s philosophy of elegance in every detail.
Craftmanship
Each Lederer timepiece is a work of human excellence, crafted for those who know that what they wear ontheir wrist is far more than a watch.
Rooted in horological heritage, Manufacture LEDERER has, for over 20 years, embodied the brand’s innovation and independence. Located in the heart of Switzerland’s watchmaking valley, it unites deep respect for tradition with freedom of creativity.
Here, ideas are born, mechanisms reinvented, and every component hand-finished with uncompromising dedication. The Manufacture is not only where watches are made, it is where Bernhard Lederer’s vision becomes timeless mechanical artistry.
We stand for progress in Haute Horlogerie, led by integrity, driven by ingenuity, and built for collectors who seek substance over spectacle.
Our timepieces are a symbol of what horological mastery can achieve. But above all, we challenge ourselves.
Relentlessly driven, we push the limits of our craft.
For us, progress is not a goal; it’s a constant mindset.