While sports may be today’s sign of the times, Jaquet Droz has been setting trends since its founding, leaving its impassioned mark on its timekeeping creations. In 2011, Jaquet Droz surprised the watchmaking world by bringing together the Tourbillon – the complication that protects the watch mechanism from the effects of gravity – and the Grande Seconde, a signature model whose dial evokes the Manufacture’s favorite number: the figure eight. Now, Jaquet Droz is reinventing this fusion by marrying the same complication with its sports line for the very first time.
Inserted into the upper part of the dial, the Tourbillon reveals the extraordinary complexity of the mechanism. The upper bridge has been changed to take on the function of the seconds hand. Opposite, the hours and minutes counter suggests classic codes with roman numerals. The latter are modernized – along with the hands – by a white Super-LumiNova coating that stands out against the black of the rubber-treated dial. Affixed horizontally, the plates are meticulously screwed in to highlight the perfect visual balance and chromatic harmony of the Tourbillon. This technological feast for the eyes is displayed in a generous 45 mm case whose powerful character, showcased by the gleam of precious red gold, is underscored by the finesse of the bezel’s flutes. The black alligator leather strap – a first for the line – adds a unique luster to this exceptional timepiece.
A warmed up stage, a drum kit, a few guitars and a harmonica: “It’s only rock’n’roll!” Today, Jaquet Droz unveils the first out of the 23 unique timepieces to retrace the world of the Rolling Stones through motion. Beside the arm of a record player that hovers over a platinum album replica (the power reserve), a scene depicts their signature instruments in miniature paintings and gold thread. The external disc rotates up to 8 consecutive times for 30 seconds and is adorned with the albums that the collector will choose for his unique timepiece. At 9 o'clock, the iconic tongue beats rhythmically, from left to right and from top to bottom. “And I like it!”
After three years of work, Jaquet Droz and John Howe have developed an Art Watch dedicated to emotion, wonder and fantasy. Draped in gold and rare stones, their dragon has a record 9 distinct animations. Inside a 43 mm case, the piece is entirely handmade and can be customized almost without limit by the client. Thanks to a Studio in the heart of the Jaquet Droz head quarter, clients will be offered an immersive phygital experience that will allow them to witness the live creation of their timepieces. There is no series to be announced, only unique pieces.
The “Effinger” clock dated from 1783 and signed Jaquet-Droz, has been sold at CHF 256,000.-, which is more than three times the starting bid of CHF 70,000.-, during the Koller auction on March the 31st 2022.