Tourbillon timepieces take centre stage

Audemars Piguet

Swiss luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet has introduced a new iteration of its Code 11.59 Self-winding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph, featuring a contemporary aesthetic with a rich blend of grey and black tones. The 41 mm timepiece showcases the architectural construction of the Calibre 2952 movement, whose components in various shades create subtle contrasts.

The watch’s two-tone case combines 18-carat white gold and black ceramic, echoing the colour scheme. The structured dial reveals a detailed mechanism with rhodium-toned bridges and a blackened mainplate. The flying tourbillon at six o’clock is highlighted by a golden balance wheel, while the chronograph counters at nine and three o’clock offer transparency.

Audemars Piguet’s mastery of high-tech ceramics is evident in the deep black octagonal case middle and crown, which are meticulously finished with the brand’s signature alternation of polished chamfers and satin-brushing. The 111 inner angles on the bridges and decorative elements are handcrafted by the Manufacture’s artisans.

The Calibre 2952 combines a resetting and instant restarting chronograph function, allowing for successive measurements. The sapphire crystal caseback reveals the movement’s refined decorations and the dedicated rhodium-toned 22-carat pink gold oscillating weight.

Girard-Perregaux

Girard-Perregaux has unveiled an updated Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges at Geneva Watch Days 2024, showcasing its expertise in haute horlogerie. This contemporary timepiece features a skeletonised design that accentuates the three gold bridges, which appear to float within a light-filled case, supported by openworked plinths instead of a traditional mainplate.

The 2024 model includes several enhancements, such as redesigned indexes with twin batons at noon, more curved sapphire crystals for a symmetrical look, and a larger, rounder crown for improved usability. The watch’s ergonomics have also been refined with shorter lugs and a rounder middle case, enhancing comfort for slimmer wrists.

Subtle updates include satin-finished hour and minute hands filled with more Super-LumiNova for better visibility in low light. The timepiece comes with two strap options: a new fabric-effect strap and a classic black alligator strap with a gold effect. While the design has evolved, the iconic black PVD-coated gold bridges remain unchanged, showcasing Girard-Perregaux’s commitment to craftsmanship and tradition.

Frederique Constant

Frederique Constant made a striking impression at Geneva Watch Days 2024 with the Classic Tourbillon Manufacture. Encased in white gold and adorned with a unique aventurine dial that is entirely handmade so no two are alike, this artisanal process results in a shimmering surface that evokes the beauty of the night sky.

The 39 mm white gold case houses the intricate self-winding FC-980-4 calibre, which showcases meticulous finishing touches, including hand-bevelled chamfers and a delicate mirror polish. The movement’s silicon escapement enhances its precision by protecting it from magnetic interference, a modern necessity in watchmaking.

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A distinctive feature of the Classic Tourbillon is the Heart Beat opening at six o’clock, which reveals the escapement and is engraved with the watch’s limited series number in gold. Limited to just 36 pieces, this model not only exemplifies technical excellence, but also embodies Frederique Constant’s dedication to high-quality, accessible luxury.