BLANCPAIN 18k YG Jumping Hour Big Rectangular 1932s

In 1905, Léon Hatot established his own workshop in Besançon, France.

Initially specializing in the engraving and production of precious metal watch cases, he relocated to Paris in 1911 and acquired the renowned watchmaker Bredillard. From there, he became an important supplier of watches and fine jewelry to the prestigious maisons surrounding Place Vendôme.

His talents, however, extended far beyond case making.

During the 1920s, Hatot partnered with engineer Marius Lavet to establish the battery-powered clock brand ATO. Their innovative electric clocks, many housed in glass cases designed by René Lalique, received the Grand Prix at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris and became internationally recognized as icons of Art Deco design.

Then, in 1930, Hatot introduced another groundbreaking invention.

He patented the Rolls sliding automatic winding system.

French Patent No. 704,910.

Unlike conventional automatic mechanisms, the movement itself travels along two rails inside the case. Supported by miniature bearings, it slides vertically with the motion of the wrist, generating the energy required to wind the mainspring.

Hatot granted Blancpain the exclusive manufacturing and commercial rights to this invention, and during the 1930s it was introduced to the market as the Blancpain Rolls.

Production, however, was limited exclusively to ladies’ watches.

Blancpain later commissioned Léon Hatot to develop a men’s version. Although a prototype was completed, it was never released commercially.

The watch presented here is that very timepiece.

Manufactured in 1930 and crafted by Léon Hatot himself in his French workshop, it combines a solid 18k gold and metal case construction, bearing the appropriate French 18k gold hallmarks.

The watch has since undergone a complete service at Blancpain’s manufacture and is accompanied by an official archive confirming its authenticity.

A remarkable timepiece whose historical significance, rarity, and provenance make it an exceptional survivor from one of the most innovative chapters in early automatic watchmaking.

- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -