Tourbillon complication: What is the magic about?

When looking at the crème de la crème of horology, there is a term that comes up quite often. We are talking about the Tourbillon complication. When you see this word in the title or description of a watch, the price of the watch is probably way out of line then what you are willing to pay. Why are watches with the tourbillon complication so expensive? And what is a tourbillon even? We will dive deep into the world of the tourbillon complication, and we will show you some watches accordingly, most of them with a pretty hefty price tag.

Kas Klerx

Chief Content

Updated at: 14/12/2023

What is a Tourbillon complication?

The tourbillon complication has been around for a long time, dating back to 1795. Abraham Breguet, a Swiss-French watchmaker still know to this day, was looking for a solution for a very specific problem. This problem had all to do with gravity. The escapement of a watch slowly and constantly releases a little bit of energy through the movement to make the hands of the watch move. To keep time perfectly, this release of power must be regulated as best as possible. Pocket watches were, instead of the wristwatches we know now, the standard of wearing watches. Pocket watches were often worn on a chain and hanging in the same orientation all day long, with the balance wheel orientated to the ground, constantly fighting the pull of gravity. To contradict this, Breguet decided to invent something that rotates constantly, to nullify the deviation that the pull of gravity caused. He put the balance wheel and the rest of the escapement in a cage that would be constantly rotating. This is what we call the tourbillon case.

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The contradictory of the Tourbillon

Watchmakers often show off with the tourbillon complication in their watches. Most of the time they are displayed through a hole in the dial, or through a fully skeletonized dial and/or caseback. The concept of the tourbillon however, is not really very spectacular. The real skill is in how small the added gears need to be, and the durability of the materials. The tourbillon complication, as appreciated as it is, is not really necessary in today’s watches. Wristwatches are on a daily basis really orientated in the same way for a long time. That is why some argue that the tourbillon is more of a demonstration of craftsmanship and a symbol of high-end watchmaking rather than a critical improvement in accuracy. accuracy. Despite the debate, tourbillons remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their intricate and visually appealing nature. Watches with tourbillon complications are often considered pinnacle pieces of horological artistry. Let’s take a look at some of these highly sought after pieces!

Aventi A11-05 Emerald Tourbillon

Introducing the lesser-known brand Aventi with their A11-05 Pure Emerald Tourbillon. This is an opulent masterpiece that fuses exquisite craftsmanship with groundbreaking design. Crafted from rare pure emerald, this timepiece is a symbol of exclusivity and innovation. At its core, a mesmerizing tourbillon defies gravity, enhancing accuracy and adding a captivating visual spectacle. The A11-05 is a bold statement of the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking with a harmonious blend of rare materials, precision mechanics, and artistic design. Pricing wise, these Aventi Tourbillon watches can be found anywhere between €10.000 to €20.000.

Girard Perregaux Bridges Tourbillon

The brand Girard Perregaux has often shown their skill and artistry with very exquisite pieces. One of these is the Tourbillon version of their GP Bridges series. With a beautiful see through dial, you can see the 18k gold parts that house the tourbillon case in question. The symmetry of the dial is something your eyes can melt for. Luckily for you, we might have one of these online! Pricing wise, the last known retail price was more than €200.000. Nowadays, it is hard to give you an accurate pricing for these rare pieces but expect to pay anywhere between €40.000 and €50.000 for one.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon

A watch that can really be marked as the pinnacle of watchmaking as of today, is definitely the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon. They sold a 50th anniversary edition that is very sought after. The watch is extremely thin, while still housing a flying tourbillon complication in their hand-crafted in-house movement. Seeing one of this in person is really rare, not to speak of being able to own one. Pricing this watch is very difficult, but pieces of these go online for anywhere upwards of €250.000 and more.

The Enchantment of Tourbillons!

In the realm of horology's finest, the tourbillon complication emerges as a beacon of precision and craftsmanship, elevating timepieces to unparalleled heights. Originating from Abraham Breguet's visionary pursuit in 1795 to defy gravity's impact on pocket watches, the tourbillon case has become an iconic symbol of high-end watchmaking. While debates surround its necessity in contemporary wristwatches, the tourbillon's allure remains unwavering, captivating collectors with its intricate design. Join us on a journey exploring horological marvels, from the opulent Aventi A11-05 Pure Emerald Tourbillon to the exquisite Girard Perregaux Bridges Tourbillon and the pinnacle of watchmaking, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon. Each tick of these highly sought-after pieces echoes the commitment to pushing boundaries, precision mechanics, and the artistry that defines them. Embrace the magic, where time becomes an exquisite work of art!