In Depth Perrelet Introduces The Turbine Chrono In Light blue

In the world of horology, certain timepieces captivate with their unique designs and innovative mechanisms. One such collection that has consistently drawn watch enthusiasts is Perrelet's Turbine Chrono. Launched in 2013, this collection combines artistry and engineering in a way that sets it apart in the watchmaking industry. Perrelet contributes to the Only Watch charity auction with a one-of-a-kind timepiece from the "Turbine Chrono" collection in elegant light blue, aligning with one of the auction's official color themes, and crafted exclusively for this event, the Perrelet “Turbine Chrono Only Watch”

Let's journey back in time, nearly 250 years ago, when Perrelet, the visionary behind the self-winding watch, embarked on a journey that has since been upheld with dedication. The brand has consistently nurtured its pioneering spirit and demonstrated a series of innovations. Perrelet tirelessly advances a singular vision, paying homage to the horological legacy of its iconic founder, Abraham-Louis Perrelet, and his grandson, Louis Frédéric Perrelet.

In 1777, Abraham-Louis Perrelet achieved a breakthrough with his pioneering invention, the self-winding or automatic movement. Even today, no one has surpassed his innovation in breathing life into mechanical calibers, and his creation remains an indelible hallmark in the annals of horological history.

Louis-Frédéric Perrelet fascination with astronomy, physics, and science fueled the design of what are now known as "intelligent" watches. Notably, in 1815, he created an astronomical clock, which he showcased at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1823. This achievement ultimately elevated him to the esteemed position of watchmaker-mechanic to three French kings.

Four years later, at the Exhibition of French Industrial Products, he unveiled an exceptional creation, a chronograph counter designed for the fields of physics and astronomy, featuring a flyback hand mechanism. This model was officially granted a patent in March 1828, a testament to its ingenuity, and it garnered Louis-Frédéric Perrelet a prestigious medal from the Académie des Sciences in 1830.

In 1995, the brand released the "double rotor" caliber, a one-of-a-kind system that links the automatic winding weight to a rotor on the dial side.This innovative system incorporates two rotors, one on the back that winds the mainspring, and a second one on the dial side that serves as an animated decoration, perfectly synchronized to power the watch's going barrel. This design ensures a continuous and amplified energy source, enhancing the timepiece's efficiency, and providing a unique visual element to the timepiece.

This journey, filled with inventions that have left a significant mark on both the brand and the horological world, has brought us to a pivotal moment. Drawing inspiration from the "double rotor" movement and the concept of airplane propellers, the brand unveiled the Turbine collection in 2009. The oscillating weight on the dial has been reimagined as a propeller, resulting in a one-of-a-kind spectacle with its rotational speed. This design not only sets the Turbine apart from the rest but also acts as a gateway to a world of artistic and horological creations . Notably, the brand is known for its larger watch diameters. However, during the Geneva Watch Days 2023, they introduced a smaller 41mm version of the collection for the first time.

In 2013, Perrelet took the Turbine collection to new heights by introducing a combination of the distinctive aesthetics of the Turbine model with the functionality of a chronograph. Rather than the conventional layout of multiple chrono counters, the Turbine Chrono features a single, centrally positioned counter. This counter takes the form of a rotating sapphire crystal disc, facilitating precise measurement of minutes. When activated by the pusher at 2 o'clock, the central chrono seconds hand traces the time along the dial's scale. After 60 seconds, a red arrow pointer marks the elapsed minute on the central graduated rotating disc, and when pressing the push-button at 4 o'clock the chronograph resets to zero.

In the latest release, Perrelet unveiled a fresh iteration of the Turbine Chrono in a captivating light blue shade for the Only Watch auction. The watch comes in a grade 2 satin brushed titanium case, striking a harmonious balance between durability and comfort, with a 45mm diameter and 16.04mm thickness, including a vertically satin-finished triple lugs, and a grooved crown, with a black PVD treatment that enhances the tachymetric flat bezel and rectangular pushers. 

The lower dial is a striking visual display, featuring alternating bright light blue and anthracite gray turbine blades that showcase the cutting-edge Turbine technology. The Turbine itself boasts 12 crafted black anodized aluminum blades, each are counterbalanced by 5 tungsten weights for precise movement. Adding to its functionality, a 60-minute chrono counter takes the form of a sapphire crystal rotating disc, complete with a prominent red arrow pointer at 9 o'clock to record elapsed times, with a date window positioned at 6 o'clock. Luminescent hands, indices, and arabic numerals, enhance readability in low-light conditions. Completing the design, a bright light blue second hand adds a vibrant touch to the ensemble.

Under the sapphire caseback, beats the caliber P-361, an automatic movement that operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), and comprises 41 jewels and 175 components. When fully wound, it offers 42 hours of power reserve. The movement is not just technically advanced but also finely crafted. The mainplate features a circular grained texture and is rhodium-plated, while the bridges are also rhodium-plated with a circular-graining finish. An open-worked oscillating weight, mounted on ball bearings, takes center stage in the design that is also rhodium-plated and displays the Perrelet logo.

The timepiece is paired with a black fabric strap with rubber lining and light blue stitching, secured by a steel IP gun plated folding buckle with Perrelet logo, and an additional light blue rubber strap and a fastening tool. It comes in a matching blue tactical box with Perrelet and Only Watch logos.

For more information please visit  Perrelet or Only watch auction websites.