HYT T1

HYT brought back a horological idea that seemed to have died off millennia ago, but in 2012, they managed to develop a way to bring back the concept of hydra clocks used by the ancient Egyptians and put it in wristwatch form.

Since 2012, HYT has developed their novel fluid-based time telling display into a full collection of timepieces. The most recent addition to their lineup is the HYT T1 collection of watches.

About HYT T1 Watches

The HYT T1 collection of watches is an update to the original HYT concept of a timepiece that uses fluid to tell the time. The centrally mounted hand displays the minutes, while the tube ring on the outer edge of the dial displays the hours.

As time passes, the tube fills with liquid. As the liquid reaches the numerals on the outside of the dial, that is used to tell the hours. The dial also features a power reserve indicator, allowing the user to see how much power is left and when it is required to wind the mechanical movement before the main spring runs out.

While the case is large at 45.3mm wide, the lug-to-lug is more compact at 46.3mm, making it much more wearable than the dimensions may suggest.

The case remains thick as well, at 17.2mm, but is again reworked compared to previous HYT watches to make it more wearable. The HYT T1 line of watches is still large but much more wearable, making them great additions to watch collectors for enthusiasts looking for something truly unique.

HYT T1 History

Utilizing the idea of fluid passing from one container to the next via a pipette to measure the passing of time, HYT wanted to develop a modern mechanical wristwatch that would display the passing of time using fluid and still be usable as a modern wristwatch.

In 2012, the brand developed their fluidic module, achieving their goal of developing a way to present that time using fluid, but powered by a mechanical movement. The brand's first watch, the H1, was released the same year and won the GPHG award for Innovative Watchmaking.

The brand has continued to develop this time-telling concept, and develop a number of new models. Their latest collection, the T1, was released earlier in 2024. The original HYT models were very large, and were very unique in their design.

While this garnered a great deal of attention to the brand, it made these novel timepieces difficult for many collectors to wear. The T1 line aims to make the HYT fluid time-telling system more wearable for a wider audience.

A more compact lug-to-lug, thinner case, and more subdued design transitions the HYT design language from a true novelty to something that can be worn more on a daily basis.

How Much Do HYT T1 Watches Cost?

HYT is an independent brand that produces avant-garde timepieces, utilizing a unique technology that the brand has developed to display the time. Additionally, they are doing so and holding their products to the standard of the best Swiss watch brands.

That means that the materials and finishing of the watches is befitting of a top-tier Swiss luxury brand. The prices of the HYT T1 line of watches start at $54,000 USD, and extend to $72,000 USD, depending on the case materials used.

What’s Unique About HYT T1 Watches?

When it comes to HYT watches, the only thing conventional about them is that they display the time. Everything else about them is quite unique to the brand. The fluid mechanical system is proprietary to the brand and was designed in collaboration with Audemars Piguet Renaud et Papi.

While the system uses a somewhat conventional mechanical drive train, the movement powers a bellow system that moves the fluid around the dial. This unique time-telling system makes the HYT line of watches instantly recognizable to anyone who is aware of the brand.

The T1 line of HYT watches brings this design into a contemporary integrated design, with the strap seamlessly fitting into the case. The angular titanium case reads as very contemporary but also familiar to those who are fans of design-oriented watchmaking.

The T1 design also makes it feel at home for those used to sporty timepieces, making it a familiar but extremely unique addition to those with a collection of contemporary sporty timepieces.

HYT T1 Movements

The HYT T1 line of watches uses the hand-wound 501-CM movement manufactured by HYT. This movement uses a combination of traditional mechanical movement architecture to drive the watch and display the minutes, but it also drives the bellow system that moves the fluid across the dial to display the hours. The 501-CM movement also includes a power reserve indicator.

The 501-CM consists of 352 parts, beats at 28,800 bph, and has a 72-hour power reserve.

HYT T1 Watch Colors

For the case, the HYT T1 is available in titanium and a mixed 5N rose gold and titanium case. The standard production models are available with a slate gray, salmon, blue, and silver dial. There are limited production models available with chocolate, purple, and green dials. From conservative to whimsical, there are dial variations available to suit a variety of tastes.

HYT T1 Watch Materials

HYT uses premium materials in the T1 collection, fitting for a premium Swiss brand. The cases are made of either titanium or a mix of titanium and 5N rose gold. The straps are made of rubber and come with a black-coated titanium clasp. The front and back crystals are made of sapphire.

HYT T1 Watch Complications

While not a complication in the traditional sense, the time display is a complication in itself, making it a true display of creative watchmaking. In addition to the fluid time display, the T1 collection features a power reserve indicator on the dial.

Buying HYT T1 Watches

HYT Watches are available directly through the HYT website or through authorized retailers. Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized dealer for HYT watches, and we’d be happy to assist you in purchasing your next HYT timepiece, whether it is online, over the phone, or at our showroom in Naples, Florida.

Caring for Your HYT T1 Watch

Exquisite Timepieces, as an authorized HYT retailer, is able to assist in the care and servicing procedures for your HYT watch and ensure it remains in top condition. Should a problem arise with your HYT watch, Exquisite Timepieces will ensure it is properly repaired, either by our in-house repair team or by returning the watch to HYT for any necessary repairs.

HYT T1 FAQ

How do HYT T1 watches work?

HYT T1 watches utilize a mechanical hand-wound movement to power the time-telling portion of the watch. The movement drives the gear train, which powers a bellow system, allowing for the fluid to move, which is responsible for the hour display on the dial. The setting and operation of the watch function much the same as a traditional mechanical watch.

How much is a HYT T1 watch?

HYT T1 watches start at $54,000 USD in titanium, and $72,000 USD in rose gold and titanium.

When was the HYT T1 released?

The new HYT T1 collection was released in the Spring of 2024.

Find your new HYT T1 watch with Exquisite Timepieces

Whether it is your first purchase or adding to an existing collection, Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized retailer for HYT, both in our store in Naples, Florida, and online.

As an authorized dealer, all our new HYT timepieces come with their full manufacturer warranties and will be shipped free of charge and fully insured. Should you have any questions, please reach out and contact us, and an Exquisite Timepieces representative will be happy to assist you.