Just over a year ago I had the privilege of reviewing the DeWitt Academia Blackstream Chronograph. I really enjoyed the experience and was really impressed with the overall quality of the timepiece. I also wrote an article about the ‘Only Watch’ auction with raises money for muscular dystrophy. One of my selections was their Twenty-8-Eight High Jewellery Skeleton Tourbillon. This opulent watch was garnished with 140 diamonds and netted €120,000 (approximately $163,091) for the charity. Interesting DeWitt was only established 11 years ago (by Jérôme de Witt) and is now widely regarded in the industry as a watchmaker of distinction. Impressively all of the company’s timepieces are designed and manufactured at a 5,000 square metre facility in Geneva.
In the world of horology brand ambassadors are big business and companies will pay millions to entice celebrities to wear their watches. In my opinion not all of the collaborations are successful or particularly exciting. Nevertheless it is a very competitive market for watchmakers and they have to stay ahead of their contemporaries. I receive numerous press releases from brands announcing these alliances and unless it is extra special I don’t tend to feature it. Personally I feel DeWitt’s Tourbillon Force Constante à Chaine Jackie Chan limited edition is certainly worth writing about.
The Tourbillon Force Constante à Chaine is part of the successful Academia collection and is one of DeWitt’s most ambitious models. This Jackie Chan special edition is unbelievably exclusive and limited to only 5 pieces worldwide. The watch measures 43mm x 12.95mm and should appeal to serious collectors. These dimensions are slightly smaller than the Academia Blackstream Chronograph (44mm x 13.35mm) and the choice of material has changed from titanium to 18-karat white gold. Nevertheless and based on past experience I would imagine this watch would feel very comfortable to wear.
Visually the watch has a magnificent and highly original appearance. The main difference between this Jackie Chan limited edition and the Tourbillon Force Constante à Chaine is the colour of the dial. In replacement of the chocolate/dark grey background, DeWitt have finished this timepiece in vibrant red. Ultimately this gives the watch a whole new and exciting dynamic. I love the large apertures displaying the constant force chain system and majestic flying tourbillon. Other noteworthy details include a stylised case, sapphire crystal exhibition back and open worked sword shape hour/minute hands. Overall the three dimensional composition is tremendous and the finishing; first rate.
To power the Tourbillon Force Constante à Chaine Jackie Chan DeWitt have developed a highly complicated in house movement. The Calibre DW8050 comprises 27-Jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. Amazingly the miniature chain system contains 192 individual components. All elements of this mechanism have been handcrafted and decorated in the company’s workshop in Geneva. Functionally the watch features hours, minutes and has a power reserve of 72 hours. It is also water resistant to a depth of 30 metres.
The Tourbillon Force Constante à Chaine Jackie Chan has a black alligator strap with matching 18-karat white gold folding clasp. For more information about this watch contact: http://www.watchuwant.com
