Recently my brother in law has taken delivery of his new Tesla Model S P100. This phenomenal car out performed the Porsche 911 Turbo S and bulleted from 0-60mph in an earth shattering time of 2.27 seconds. There is no doubt this vehicle is an incredible feat of engineering and reasonably priced (at around USD $150,000). However, due to the fact that it is entirely electric, drivers won’t experience the exhilarating roar of the engine normally found in other supercars. These are the kind of emotions and spirit that inspire watchmakers like Azimuth to design automotive themed timepieces.
I have just completed a book for my US publisher about luxury design featuring four chapters (Architecture, Automobiles, Horology, Lifestyle). This glossy edition includes three timepieces from Azimuth including the phenomenal Twin Turbo. When I posted some wrist shot images of this futuristic watch, I was amazed at the response. Even though the company produce relatively affordable timepieces they have the same high quality aesthetic as Avant-Garde brands like RJ Romain Jerome, MB & F, Rebellion, De-Bethune and Urwerk.
When I first saw 3D visuals of the Twin Turbo about eighteen months ago, I knew the production model would be pretty extraordinary and I certainly wasn’t disappointed by the finished result. The curvaceous lines (inspired by automobiles from the 1960’s) are very effective. As are the twin dials (powered by two independent vintage Swiss ETA 2512-2 mechanical movements) that replicate the speedometers of a vintage dashboard and the aluminium bonnet like cover that conceals the crowns. Although this watch has a massive 54mm x 50mm 316L stainless case, it feels surprisingly comfortable to wear.
The Twin Turbo is available in four colours (yellow, red, anthracite and silver),and are limited to 88 pieces of each. Prices range from CHF 6,000 – CHF 6,300.
