All eyes on Tourbillon

Nov 7, 2018by Alessandro Rossi
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The term "tourbillon" comes from the French and means "whirlwind." As the specific name suggests, the watch models known by this name are something very special and have been shaking up the market for many years. This sophisticated masterpiece is a device that compensates for deviations in the accuracy of the movement, even in the finest mechanical watches. These deviations arise from the uneven action of the two compensation arms and the resulting center of gravity of the balance wheel. The balance wheel is a small wheel that creates movement, which in turn drives the hands. The more precise the balance wheel, the more accurate the watch. However, every movement causes the balance wheel to become less precise. Therefore, the escapement parts of the tourbillon are mounted in an extra-delicate frame, and the entire system rotates jerkily at high speed. This sophisticated production technology manages to neutralize the force of gravity when the timepiece gets stuck in a certain position – thus guaranteeing accuracy. Over time, numerous further developments of the classic tourbillon emerged.

The Tourbillon Evolution

The dream of the Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet was to ensure that the balance wheel always functions perfectly. He then created the first tourbillon around 1795. At that time, production took months, as each of the approximately 80 components had to be crafted by hand. Nowadays, CNC machines exist for this purpose, but manufacturing is still a challenge. Unfortunately, Breguet did not immediately succeed in turning his vision into reality. Even tourbillon technology was powerless when it came to watches that moved so frequently. In 1896, the Danish pocket watch manufacturer Bahne Bonniksen began producing so-called "carousel watches," in which the mainspring barrel acted as a rotating bearing and the movement and balance wheel were mounted on a rotating carousel.

The watch regularly performed a complete rotation to compensate for its position, making the advantages of the tourbillon available for the first time without any disadvantages. In 1920, watchmaking instructor Alfred Helwig invented the "flying tourbillon," a special development of the Breguet tourbillon that dispensed with the upper bridge supporting the cage.

This is simply mounted on the underside. Another well-known version is the "Gyro-Tourbillon" from the Swiss brand Jaeger-LeCoultre, which, however, is only able to compensate for static disturbances and not dynamic ones, which can occur, for example, due to vibration. The Gyro-Tourbillon has a complex mechanism that continuously rotates the balance wheel on three axes. However, accuracy is of secondary importance here, with technical refinement taking center stage. In 2004, Greubel Forsey even launched a double version called the "Double Tourbillon 30." This watch features an additional, smaller tourbillon built into the tourbillon frame. The tourbillon, angled at 30 degrees, further improves accuracy through the interaction of the two cages that are inclined to one another, as these cancel out the rate deviations caused by gravity - in virtually all positions. Four years later, Greubel Forsey produced this magnificent piece with even greater technical sophistication: the "Quadruple Tourbillon à différentiel" contains two double tourbillons in a single case. This timepiece also features a spherical differential linking the four tourbillon frames. This guarantees even power transmission. The development of the movement took a full five years; it contains 531 individual parts made specifically for this watch, and polishing and decorating the movement alone took 500 hours. Based on these specifications, a production of just six pieces per year is possible. Considering the enormous effort involved in manufacturing, this model is actually a bargain at a price of one million dollars. There are now enough copies on the market for just a few thousand euros, mostly from China and Russia. However, these are not necessarily of the best quality and naturally cannot deliver the special feeling that the impressive original conveys.

All-time favorite classic

Nowadays, position compensation is sometimes just a technical gimmick, but in some watches it actually still plays a role, especially in terms of aesthetics and elegance. Furthermore, new types of tourbillon are still being developed, meaning this classic is constantly being reissued. This special type of watch is still highly sought after, despite its complex and time-consuming production process making it so expensive. Demand among enthusiasts is unwavering, as this fascinating timepiece represents deluxe technical sophistication. Every collector would love to have one of these unique pieces in their collection. The intricate craftsmanship is truly exquisite – and connoisseurs appreciate it. The special charisma of the tourbillon is particularly evident in some wristwatches. More exclusive models in particular house these small, delicate gems, which justifies the usually high price. Collectors often pay six-figure sums for school watches with tourbillons. However, buyers should be wary of cheap counterfeits and, ideally, rely on a reputable, well-known dealer. Especially for a layperson, it's often difficult to determine whether a watch is a tourbillon or an open balance. Anyone who wants to purchase such a high-quality watch that's worth its price should play it safe.

The most sought-after models

The selection of tourbillon watches is vast, as this special timepiece often serves as a calling card for ambitious master watchmakers. Every reputable brand today has a model in its range as a masterful showcase. Due to its technical sophistication, the watch's dial is always opened to provide a clear view of the delicate component. Below, we present ten tourbillons that are truly special and give you a glimpse into the diversity of the market. Who knows, perhaps you'll find your very own favorite among them. A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar:

The German cult manufacturer A. Lange & Söhne also offers tourbillons. The Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar model combines a tourbillon with a perpetual calendar – an exceptional combination. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon GMT Concept: With its open design, this modern technological sensation offers a particularly

A classic that will never go out of style. The watch also delivers acoustic delight thanks to the loudest and clearest minute repeater on the market.

Blancpain Tourbillon Carrousel: Blancpain is primarily known for its carousel watches; tourbillon models are a rare sight. However, the highlight from the company is precisely for this reason the Tourbillon Carrousel, a watch that combines both technical highlights.

A true feast for the eyes. Breitling for Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon: For all fans of the traditional Swiss brand Breitling, there's also the ideal tourbillon option. The Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon is a particularly refined piece that you simply can't help but love. Here, classically elegant design meets the highest watchmaking artistry – style and technology at the highest level. Breguet Tradition Répétition Minutes Tourbillon: This timepiece is something truly special – here, the tourbillon technology truly steals the show, as the focus is on the innovatively constructed minute repeater.

The two innovatively shaped gongs are attached to the bezel and struck from the movement side – one of them even extends beyond the tourbillon escapement! Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Earth and Moon: Cartier has come up with something truly unusual for this timepiece – the tourbillon of the Rotonde de Cartier Earth and Moon is concealed to display the moon phases. When you press the pusher at 4 o'clock, the meteorite disc slides in front of the tourbillon, so that the remaining section of the rotating mechanism displays the moon phase – both crazy and ingenious.

Hublot MP 05 LaFerrari Sapphire: Another special case is this jewel from Hublot . The watch is transparent and a truly eye-catching piece, as the vertical tourbillon perfectly complements the eleven vertically arranged barrels.

Thanks to these, a remarkable power reserve of 50 days is possible! Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon: The Sky Moon Tourbillon from Patek Philippe houses an impressive array of complications, including some of the most complex. A minute repeater with a striking mechanism featuring two "cathedral" gongs, the tourbillon, and a perpetual calendar with a retrograde date indicator are just the highlights of the front. On the back, the timepiece also features a sidereal time and map, as well as displays of the moon phases and angular movements. The lugs, case, crowns, pushers, and hands are all hand-engraved. This piece is clearly one of the most breathtaking watches in the world. TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre Heuer 02 Tourbillon :

This tourbillon features a chronograph, automatic winding, and chronometer certification, but boasts an industrialized design—a particularly interesting combination. The open, symmetrical construction is also a guaranteed eye-catcher. Ulysse Nardin Grand Deck Marine Tourbillon : The tourbillon is the only classically constructed part of this watch. Ulysse has come up with something completely different for the time display.

The watch features a jumping hour with two separate discs, as well as a minute hand that is drawn from the sides over a linear scale. The pulleys that move the thread are reminiscent of the winches that tension the mast in sailing. Of course, each of these "ticking whirlwinds" comes at a price that often causes dizziness – exclusive pieces can cost up to a million euros. But one must not forget what a work of art you are holding in your hands. This makes a tourbillon a truly noble and beautiful status symbol with special significance – a worthwhile investment.

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Authors | Alessandro Rossi

Authors | Alessandro Rossi

Alessandro spent his youth in Florence, surrounded by the city's classical art and craftsmanship. His father, a watchmaker, let him help at the workbenches as a child.

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