A tourbillon (French for "whirlwind") is a type of mechanical clock escapement invented in 1795 by Abraham-Louis Breguet that is designed to counter the effects of gravity and other forces affect the accuracy of a chronometer. This is accomplished by mounting the escapement in a rotating frame, so that the effect of gravity cancels out when the escapement is rotated 180°. The effects of gravity were particularly problematic when pocket watches were carried in the same pocketed position for most of the day. In a tourbillon, the entire escapement assembly rotates, including balance wheel, escapement wheel and pallet fork. The rate of rotation varies per design but would typically be around one revolution per minute.The tourbillon is considered to be the most complex of watch complications and is valued for its engineering and design principles. In modern watch designs a tourbillon is not required to produce a highly accurate timepiece. Nevertheless, the tourbillon is one of the most valued complications of collector's watches and premium timepieces.
Estimated Retail price by market value: $50,000 - $1,000,000+
Quick Facts About Abraham-Louis Breguet:
Abraham-Louis Breguet or Bréguet (01.10.1747 – 09.17.1823), born in Switzerland, made many innovations in the course of a career in watchmaking in France. He studied watchmaking in France and in England and invented different escapement methods and re-winding mechanisms, including the tourbillon.
Tiffany Mark Tourbillon:Launched in 2002, the Tiffany Mark Tourbillon reintroduced the world to the rich watchmaking heritage of Tiffany & Co. and boy does it. Features the following Models offered in 18K yellow gold or platinum, Strap is hand stitched, farmed alligator, synthetic sapphire crystal, Water resistant to 3 atmospheres, Case is 39 mm in diameter, 20 synthetic ruby jewel movement, 75 hour power reserve and a 5-year warranty.
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