H4 metropolis by HYT defies gravity by displaying time using fluorescent liquids

H4 metropolis by HYT defies gravity by displaying time using fluorescent liquids
all images courtesy of HYT watches

HYT have become specialists in mixing mechanics and liquid within a wristwatch. the ‘H4 metropolis’ uses two adjustable reservoirs with a capillary attached at each end – a colored aqueous liquid and the other a viscous transparent one. keeping them apart is the repulsion force of the molecules in each fluid. two bellows made from strong electro-deposited alloy are moved by a piston.

the hours are indicated by the colored fluorescent aqueous liquid released from a flexible reservoir compressed by a piston. the system ends up push the liquids back and forth in what is referred to as a retrograde manner.  ‘starting with a blank sheet is what we know. that’s how all our models have been created,’ describes vincent perriard, CEO of HYT watches. ‘but here, with the light complication, a new challenge was set: we had to start using our own existing calibre as a complete, functional basis. we basically had to add a piece to a puzzle which was already finished.’

the titanium bezel 

the ‘H4 metropolis’ titanium black bezel is also equipped with a light source. under the six o’clock, HYT has concealed two LEDs. once activated, they flood the entire dial with blue light. at night, the green fluid is energized by it, becoming completely visible. at the same time, the wash of light flows into every detail of the calibre, showcasing the skeleton architecture to life. 
the LED lightsource

the pistons inside the caliber  

the mechanics of the ‘H4’