GREUBEL FORSEY TOURBILLON 24 SECONDES ARCHITECTURE - JULY 2022 NEWS
Over the years, Greubel Forsey have created a range of revolutionary designs in the world of watchmaking. Some of their key triumphs included the Double Tourbillon 30º, the Quadruple Tourbillon, the Double Balancier and the Mechanical Computer of the QP à Équation. While these indeed challenged traditional watch aesthetics, the Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture takes an incredible leap forward in the technical and aesthetic integration of a timepiece.
With its components suspended in space, the case showcases a spectacle of surfaces, shapes and movements within, through the large opening on the dial side. This opening is encompassed by relief-engraved Greubel Forsey values that inspired this unique creation: Architecture, Harmonie, Innovation, Technique, Bienfacture, Passion, Science, Exclusivité and Créativité.
Although the case appears perfectly round when observed from the dial side, it reveals its convex shape from other angles, along with its large synthetic sapphire crystal ring, which envelopes the entire periphery of the caseband. Since 2007, Greubel Forsey have been integrating lateral sapphire crystal apertures, however the Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture sees the first timepiece where this movement is rendered visible from every single angle.
Beyond its spectacular showcase of movement, this timepiece offers a unique architectural experience on the wrist. The case, which is not only convex but also resembles a conical frustrum in its geometry, is the product of Greubel Forsey’s truly genius design and craftmanship. The caseback diameter sits at 47.05mm, and is wider than the bezel, which sits at 45.00mm. An incredible optical illusion, the watch showcases its entire movement while also appearing smaller than it actually is. The titanium case, water-resistant to 50 metres, features three-dimensional, variable geometry lugs that flow seamlessly into a rubber strap with embossed text and a titanium folding clasp.
While the case represents a significant achievement in its own right, it doesn’t outshine this Greubel Forsey movement. The inclined escapement in many ways defies gravity. However, the Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture uses a fast rotation speed in addition to a 25º inclination to counter the issue of critical positions of the oscillator in relation to gravity. Combined, these two elements are crucial in creating excellent chronometric performance, particularly in stable positions.
The calibre’s energy source provides 90 hours of chronometric power reserve, which is indicated by a moving red triangle over a conical disk at 3 o’clock. Both hours and minutes are indicated by two large curved polished steel hands, mounted on a signature Greubel Forsey tripod bridge. This exciting new movement includes 354 parts, arranged asymmetrically yet harmoniously.
‘The Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture is a marvel of contemporary design and a physical manifestation of the Greubel Forsey Art of Invention’
Limited to only 11 pieces in 2022, and 18 pieces a year between 2023 and 2025, the Tourbillon 24 Secondes Architecture is an innovative and impressive timepiece that no watch collector wants to miss! Enquire with our team to be kept up to date with the arrival of this exciting new Greubel Forsey timepiece later this year.
