HM3 Poison Dart Frog

HM3 Poison Dart Frog is a limited edition of 10 pieces inspired by the spectacular yellow-banded poison dart frog.

The deadly potential of the poison dart frog is camouflaged in the tropical rainforest by this amphibian’s exotically-patterned black and yellow skin. Similarly, the high-tech zirconium case of Poison Dart Frog is disguised by a sleek, black layer of PVD. The black case contrasts spectacularly with the animated rotor – framed by an over-sized date wheel – on top of the Jean-Marc Wiederrecht-designed complication.

The protruding eyes of real-life, amphibious frogs enable them to see in many directions without having to turn their head. The bulbous hour and minute domes of Poison Dart Frog create a similar effect, though in this case it means the wearer can easily read the time from a variety of angles without having to turn his or her wrist.

Courtesy of MB&F

The hour and minute domes had to be meticulously machined from solid aluminium, chosen for its optimal strength to weight ratio – the domes weigh just over 0.5g. First, they are milled from the outside and then the inside to arrive at a paper-thin wall thickness of just 0.28mm, ensuring their energy requirements are kept to an absolute minimum. 

Protecting the hour and minute domes are two semi-spherical sapphire crystal domes that had to be shaped and polished with utmost precision as the slightest imperfection in the sapphire could produce a disconcerting magnification effect.

Courtesy of MB&F

HM3 Poison Dart Frog may portray the time and date playfully, but there is nothing but serious attention to detail regarding the fine hand-finishing of the highly-tuned engine that purrs away inside.

This limited edition is available exclusively at The Hour Glass.