A daring reinterpretation of the double‑balance concept, DC12 MaveriK evokes the mountain ridges and valleys of the Valley de Joux with its unique structure.
When David Candaux first whispered the name MaveriK in his workshop at Le Solliat, he was not merely naming a watch, but declaring a manifesto. Inspired by the Texas rancher who refused to brand his cattle, the “K” seals a kinetic promise: a movement that refuses to be shackled by tradition, instead carving its own path through the very physics of timekeeping.
Design: Geometry Meets Poetry
Following the spirit of his previous models, the 39.5mm titanium case is a study in asymmetry and balance. Its top‑loading construction, curved side lugs, and satin‑brushed versus polished surfaces create a tactile contrast that mirrors the dual nature of the movement inside. The “chip‑shaped” dial, crafted from nickel‑silver, unfurls like a leaf caught in a mountain breeze. Its white‑opal central hour disc is encircled by diamond‑polished rings.
Indexes, milled from titanium, stick out boldly from the elevating outer white track just like rocks from a steep mountainside. The flame‑blued hands catch the light with a quiet intensity.
As a visual reminder that time here is not merely counted but breathed, the three‑dimensional differential hovers at 12 o’clock.
A Double Balance Reborn
The double‑balance has haunted horologists since the 1930s, when the École Technique de la Vallée de Joux experimented with twin regulators linked by a differential. Philippe Dufour later revived the idea with his Duality and in the DC12 MaveriK, Candaux works on the concept further. Two balances operate independently, each with its own escapement, while a centrally‑mounted flying‑satellite planetary sits on a hairspring shock absorber at the heart of the seconds’ train. The satellite cushions, absorbs, and continuously recalibrates the equilibrium between the balances.
The double-balance mechanism takes the center stage in the C30 calibre. The volume defined by the 29.5mm diameter and the mere 6.9mm thickness, incorporates 258 components, and a trio of patents. The flying satellite planetary gear acts as a kinetic buffer that translates micro‑variations into a harmonious motion. The dual-click secured winding system with a back‑flow‑blocking mechanism ensures that winding energy travels only forward, protecting the delicate differential from sudden torque spikes. Thirdly, the signature inclined, coaxial crown engages either the twin mainsprings or the time‑setting function independently. This allows the wearer to wind or set the watch without compromising the integrity of the double‑balance system. The two coaxial, series‑coupled fast‑rotating barrels store energy for 58 hours continuous precise operation. Energy is released at a pace of 3 Hz.
Embossed with the iconic Bear Head logo, Candaux’s “magic crown” has a highly ergonomic design. The the curved case combined with a handmade rubber strap featuring a velcro clasp ensure perfect comfort on the wrist, ready for the adventurous soul who prefers to chart his own course.
The DC12 MaveriK is a bold reimagining of what a mechanical watch can be. It is responsive, adaptable, and unmistakably Candaux’s own. For collectors who value both avant‑garde engineering and poetic storytelling, the MaveriK stands as a beacon of what happens when freedom truly meets precision.
Photo credits: David Candaux.
All registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.
All rights reserved.
