Back to All Events

Beyond the Tick: Mastering the Art of Escapements

  • HSNY at the General Society Library 20 West 44th Street New York, NY, 10036 United States (map)

Video recordings of lectures are available immediately to HSNY members, and the general public with a two-month delay.

Bernhard Lederer, Master Watchmaker and Founder, Lederer Timepieces (Saint-Blaise,
Switzerland)

The world of escapements is absolutely captivating, as each tick and tock reveals the precision of a timepiece and the artistry of its maker. At the December 2024 lecture of the Horological Society of New York (HSNY), Bernhard Lederer, Master Watchmaker and Founder of Lederer Timepieces, will take the audience on a journey through the evolution of these mechanisms, from the origins of resting escapements to the revolutionary innovations of horological legends like Abraham-Louis Breguet and George Daniels. 

This lecture isn’t just for those with technical knowledge — it’s for anyone with a passion for horology eager to uncover the secrets behind the pulse of every mechanical watch. With modern advancements woven into centuries-old craftsmanship, you’ll gain a unique perspective on how these intricate systems transform watches into living legacies. 

*Doors open at 5:30 PM ET, lecture to begin at 6 PM ET. RSVP is required.

** The lecture video will be available to members immediately, and to the general public following a two-month delay.


About Bernhard Lederer

Bernhard Lederer’s journey into the art of watchmaking began with a spark of curiosity, ignited in his childhood by the ticking of pocket watches passed down from his grandfather. Growing up in the heart of Germany, Lederer’s fascination with timepieces soon evolved into a lifelong quest for innovation, fueled by both reverence for tradition and a desire to break boundaries. At 17, a pivotal discovery in his local library introduced him to the intricate language of escapements, laying the foundation for a future defined by relentless exploration and technical mastery.

Lederer’s work is a tribute to horological legends, yet his creations transcend tradition. One of his greatest achievements, the Central Impulse Chronometer, is a breakthrough in watchmaking. With each creation, Lederer merges classic mastery with visionary thinking, crafting timepieces that defy expectations. A guardian of tradition and an architect of tomorrow, he transforms unseen complexities into mesmerizing simplicity, inviting collectors to witness the impossible brought to life.

Lederer’s story is one of passion, precision, and pioneering spirit, a reminder that when curiosity meets dedication, it shapes creations that redefine the possible.