- Breguet Classique “Grande Complication” Double Tourbillon 5349PT – $780,000
The next very special timepiece we checked out was the Breguet Classique “Grande Complication” Double Tourbillon 5349. This impressive model, as its name indicates, has two rotating tourbillons affixed by a bridge to a center plate, allowing consistent rotation around the dial every 12 hours. The watch is also produced in a solid, 50-mm platinum case, uses 107 baguette-cut diamonds on its bezel, lugs, and case sides, and features another 310 diamonds on its center rotating dial. Between the double tourbillon movement, platinum case, and excess of gems, Breguet prices this rare timepiece at $780,000.
To put into perspective the caliber of wealth needed to wear this watch, it was recently spotted on the wrist of renowned soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo, who was seen wearing the model in an ad campaign last month.
- Bovet Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter One – $318,000
The third watch on our list is the incredibly interesting Bovet Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter One. This was a model we knew we would see going into the show, but it was nonetheless one of the most intriguing pieces on display. The intrigue comes from the combination of a sapphire version of Bovet’s famed “writing desk” sloped case, alongside an array of complications including Bovet’s patented, double-face flying tourbillon.
Together— between the sloped shape of the case and the matching design of the movement— developing this piece presents Bovet watchmakers with some unique challenges. We had the opportunity to speak with one at length on the model, and in his own words, “To produce this movement, it is a nightmare. … To produce this sapphire, it is a nightmare.” For this incredibly difficult effort, the 60-piece limited edition also carries a massive price tag of $318,000.
Our final wallet-buster watch is independent watchmaker Romain Gauthier ‘s Logical One Baguette-Set Unique Piece. The original Logical One was first released by the brand in 2013, and went on to win the Men’s Complication prize at that year’s GPHG. Since that point, the Logical One has been a favorite in haute horlogerie circles, and so for this year’s WatchTime New York, Gauthier released a unique, white gold, diamond-set model of the watch. Though made unique and significantly more expensive by its use of 92 baguette-cut diamonds and a precious metal, the actual movement of the Logical One is quite interesting also, featuring a clever push-button winding system, with an ergonomic pusher set into the side of the 43-mm case at 9 o’clock. This one-of-a-kind watch is priced at $285,000.
Did you have an opportunity to attend this year’s amazing WatchTime New York, and if so did you see any of these super-expensive models? Are there any we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
Why do the Swiss persist in making irrelevant watches for the super rich made of Platinum or complete sapphire crystal with diamonds inside them and double tourbillons ?
Whilst I’m not a fan of smart watches I can see their relevance for most people.
Do the Swiss not realise they will fast become irrelevant if they don’t change their direction ?