The Sucesos Mechanical Hand Wind in its Final Form

It is not common knowledge today that, throughout his journey overseas in the 19th century, Philippine hero Dr. Jose Rizal had a companion that allowed him to keep track of the time – a wristwatch. Yes, he did have a wrist watch.

Ibarra's founder Nico Moreno, through his keen interest in the life and works of the Philippine hero, studied and researched about the existence of the timepiece. This was a fascination that began ever since Ibarra was founded in 2015. Through Moreno's frequent involvement with the Order of the Knights of Rizal (KOR), and his friendship with some of Rizal’s descendants, he was able to see and learn about the watch.

Rizal's actual wristwatch was used as an inspiration in designing Ibarra's Sucesos Mechanical Hand Wind. The name “Sucesos” came from Dr. Rizal’s second published book – an annotated version of Antonio de Morga’s “Sucesos de Las Islas Filipinas”. This book is the first historical reference of the events in the Philippines, and made Dr. Rizal the first Filipino historian through his annotation on Morga's work.

Ibarra's Sucesos was first introduced on the 19th of June 2019 during the 158th Birth Anniversary of the Philippine hero. The public introduction was Ibarra's way of showcasing its capability to create higher caliber timepieces that resound through the brand's persona. However, due to challenges in supply and production, the brand experienced delays in the development of the timepiece. Modifications and improvements had to be made to produce and improve the Sucesos.

The timepiece is perfect for the heritage enthusiast and the old soul with its 19th century-inspired case and wire lugs. The Philippine ceramic-coating gives the timepiece an added well-aged look that is consistent with that of Rizal's watch. A special hinged double case back and a big onion crown are also featured on the watch paying homage to the aesthetics of old pocket watches. The timepiece has a low-domed sapphire glass and a clean enamel dial that is designed for quality. The Sucesos also has a water resistance of up to 5ATM or 50 meters.

The final Sucesos now carries a Swiss Sellita SW210-1 movement - keeping an accuracy of 4 Hertz (Hz) or 28,800 vibrations per hour (VPH). The Swiss manual winding movement has the standard hour, minute and central seconds hands and a Standard Power Reserve of 42 hours when fully wound. The movements are all tested, regulated and adjusted in the Philippines.

After years in the making, the Sucesos now takes it final form. If you love fine timepieces and appreciate a good story to tell, the Sucesos is the perfect piece for you.

As introduced in 2019, the production of this timepiece is still limited to 158 pieces. The Sucesos Mechanical Hand Wind is made in partnership with the Order of the Knights of Rizal for the Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines Awards Program. This development would not be possible if not for the support of the Rizal family. #IbarraOnTime #WindYourHeritage