Known for creating numerous complicated mechanisms, Jaeger-LeCoultre also demonstrates its overwhelming technical expertise and creativity in tourbillons. Here we introduce six Jaeger-LeCoultre tourbillon models, including some excellent watches that combine unique mechanisms.
The evolution of the tourbillon
The tourbillon is known as one of the three great complications, but since the 1980s, various watch manufacturers have been working hard to innovate the technology.
Let's take a look at how this mechanism, which houses the regulating escapement in a carriage and rotates it, has given rise to various derivative forms and evolved.
The main types of tourbillons
A tourbillon is a mechanism in which a carriage fixed by a bridge rotates at a fixed interval. Some models feature a second hand that takes advantage of this movement, which rotates once every 60 seconds.
A "flying tourbillon" is a mechanism that makes the carriage appear to be floating by cleverly hiding bridges and making parts transparent.
The Gyrotourbillon uses a spherical carriage that rotates in multiple directions on two or more axes. Jaeger-LeCoultre also uses the Sphérotourbillon, a multi-axis spherical tourbillon.
Practical evolution by each manufacturer
Tourbillon models are generally ultra-luxury watches priced at over 1000 million yen, but some watch brands, such as Tag Heuer, also offer models in the 100 million or 200 million yen range.
Basically, there is a trade-off between the complexity of the mechanism and vibration and shock resistance, but Richard Mille has perfected the "vibration-resistant tourbillon" by adopting a V-shaped bridge.
Technological developments are also progressing, such as miniaturizing carriages and innovative rotors, and Bulgari's Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic, known as the thinnest tourbillon watch, has a movement thickness of just 1.95mm.
Master model
The Master is the first collection to undergo the 1000-hour control test. We will introduce two sophisticated complication models equipped with a tourbillon in a classic round case.
Master Tourbillon
Automatic winding (Cal. 978B). 33 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 45 hours. 18KWG (diameter 41.5mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. 968 million yen (excluding tax).
The Master Tourbillon Dual Time (Ref. 1563480) is an elegant tourbillon model with diamonds set on the bezel and indexes.
The sunray-finished blue dial features a date index around the periphery and a hand indicating the date. A tourbillon at 6 o'clock separates the 15th and 16th, allowing the date hand to move between these two points in just under four hours.
The 24-hour display at 12 o'clock on the dial is positioned at the bottom, allowing you to tell at a glance whether it's day or night at home. This model is not only elegant in design, but also highly functional.
Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon
Automatic winding (Cal. 362). 72 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. 18KWG (diameter 41mm). Water resistant to 3 bar.
The Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon (Ref. 1313520) is an ultra-thin model equipped with a minute repeater and flying tourbillon.
The Cal. 362, which is made up of 566 parts, is 4.7mm thick and the case is just 7.8mm thick, which is incredibly thin considering the complex mechanism it contains.
The dial features a minimalist design with minimal display elements. In addition to the flying tourbillon at 6 o'clock, twelve windows around the dial allow you to quietly admire the rhythmically moving peripheral rotor.
