Over the last few years’ watchmakers have experimented with a range of new materials. In fact if a substance can be milled into a pliable shape then it is considered fair game. Some of my favourites choices are the more industrial materials like carbon or lightweight alloys. These composites are exceptionally lightweight and therefore brands are able to produce larger watches. However there are still many consumers that prefer more traditional metals. Certainly gold has a unique luxurious quality that is desired by many. Here is a beautiful selection of exclusive timepieces that perfectly illustrate this point.
Vacheron Constantin Reference 57260
Vacheron Constantin is a luxury watchmaker located in Geneva, Switzerland. Currently the company employs over 400 people and is owned by the Richemont Group. Recently the brand unveiled a masterpiece called the Reference 57260, which claims to be the world’s most complicated timepiece. This pocket watch has a gigantic 18-karat white gold case measuring 98mm x 50.55mm. What makes this timepiece so fantastic is the unbelievably detailed dial. Functionally this creation boasts 57 different complications including Hebrew, Gregorian and Astronomical calendars. Powering the watch is a 242-jewel manual winding movement containing over 2,800 individual components.
Piaget Emperador Tourbillon Skeleton
Piaget is a really exclusive watchmaker situated in the heart of Geneva, Switzerland. Although Georges Piaget originally established the company in 1874 the Richemont Group now owns it. The Emperador Tourbillon Skeleton is a sublime watch that perfectly illustrates the brands meticulous attention to detail. Dimensionally the timepiece exudes generous proportions and has an 18-karat cushion shape rose gold case measuring 46.5mm. What makes this watch so extraordinary is the superb skeleton dial with exposed tourbillon carriage and solid gold oscillating weight. Beneath the exquisite façade is a bespoke ultra-thin self-winding mechanical movement.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon
Jaeger-LeCoutre is synonymous for the production of wonderfully handcrafted luxury timepieces. Even though the company has historic roots dating back to 1833 it is now a subsidiary of the Richemont Group. The Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique à Quantième Perpétuel is an exceptionally complicated watch that was released in 2015. This timepiece has classical size 18-karat white gold diamond set case that measures 42mm x 13.1mm. What makes this model so extravagant is the sensational blue grain dial with white gold markers. Other fine details include a moon phase indication and large exposed tourbillon (positioned at 6 o’clock). At the heart of the watch is a refined Swiss made self-winding mechanical movement containing 433 components.
Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon
Patek Philippe is considered by many to be one of the world’s most prestigious watchmakers. This company was originally established in 1851 and has its headquarters in Plan-les-Ouates (Geneva) Switzerland. The Sky Moon Tourbillon is one of the brands most complicated watches to date. With an opulent 18-karat white gold engraved case measuring 42.8mm the timepiece is designed for the discerning collector. What makes this watch so desirable is the lavish blue enameled gold dial with raised gold applied numerals. Functionally the timepiece features a ‘Cathedral Gong’ minute repeater, perpetual calendar, leap year and moon phase indications. Powering the watch is a sophisticated 55-jewel hand-winding movement comprising 705 components.
