Summary Waqt Selects 3 of the Best Tourbillon Watches for 2024

For some, what makes a watch truly special is the distinctive shape of the case, and for others, it's the creativity of the dial, where intricate designs, colors, and textures transform a functional element into a canvas of beauty. Yet, while these elements may capture attention, the real magic often lies deeper.

Creating a precise mechanical watch is no small feat. Challenges such as magnetic fields, which we’ve talked about before, and even the effects of gravity can disrupt accuracy. To counteract gravitational forces, the legendary Abraham-Louis Breguet invented the tourbillon over two centuries ago. This groundbreaking mechanism not only enhances precision but also elevates the aesthetics of a timepiece. 

As 2024, a year filled with thrilling releases and bold innovations, draws to a close, we at Waqt have selected three standout tourbillon watches that we saw capture the attention of watch enthusiasts. These extraordinary pieces remind us why the tourbillon remains one of the most revered achievements in watchmaking history.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duoface has a rich legacy dating back to 1994, renowned for its two contrasting dials that display different time zones, all powered by a single movement. This iconic design evolves with the Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon, which we saw this year in steel. What makes this collection special is its tourbillon mechanism, visible on both dials. Maintaining the same dimensions as previous releases, the steel case measures 45.5 x 27.4 mm and houses an impressive array of functions. The front dial displays hours and minutes alongside the tourbillon, while the reverse showcases a second time zone, a day-night indicator, and the tourbillon in all its glory.

At the heart of this timepiece lies the ultra-slim Calibre 847, a marvel of watchmaking that offers a 42-hour power reserve, and displays the one minute tourbillon at the 6 o'clock position. Despite its intricate mechanics, the movement measures just 3.9 mm thick, and the entire watch maintains an elegant profile at 9.15 mm. The Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon in steel is priced at AED 426,000. 

Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Chronograph Tourbillon

We all know how Vacheron Constantin has the ability to elevate the aesthetic of a watch, and the Traditionnelle Chronograph Tourbillon we saw this year is a prime example of this. This complex timepiece flawlessly combines the tourbillon and chronograph complications, which are showcased to perfection within a 950 platinum case. The watch features the brand's signature stepped case design with a fluted caseback, measuring 42.5 mm in diameter and 11.7 mm in thickness. The platinum dial is beautifully crafted, with the "Pt950" hallmark subtly placed between four and five o'clock to signify its platinum composition. What stands out is the careful asymmetry between the size of the one-minute tourbillon at 12 o’clock, the placement of the dial text, and the visual balance of the two subdials at 3 & 6 o'clocks.

The watch is powered by the manual-winding Caliber 3200 which offers an impressive 65-hour power reserve and bears the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva certification. The Traditionnelle Chronograph Tourbillon is limited to just 50 pieces, and priced at AED 995,000.

Daniel Roth Tourbillon Souscription

Daniel Roth is a brand rooted in the late 1980s, and has always championed high complications and traditional craftsmanship. This year it experienced a much-anticipated revival. As the brand announced its return with the Souscription Tourbillon, a modern reimagining of Roth’s inaugural 1989 release, the C187.

The watch features a stunning yellow gold case with the signature elliptical shape, sized at 38.6 mm by 35.5 mm and a sleek thickness of 9.2 mm. The dial is also crafted from gold, and has a one minute tourbillon that completes one revolution per minute and doubles as a seconds indicator. Ingeniously, the tourbillon cage incorporates a three-armed seconds hand, with each arm of varying length, pointing to distinct sectors on the seconds scale.

The timepiece is powered by the hand-wound Caliber DR001, which boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The Souscription Tourbillon is limited to just 20 pieces, and is priced at approximately AED 596,000 

Tourbillon watches continue to fascinate watch enthusiasts and collectors, and our selection of these three tourbillon timepieces offers just a glimpse into the amazing achievements of watchmaking. Of course, these choices are based on personal taste, as many other brands have released stunning creations this year, each with its own unique style.

2024 leaves behind a chapter full of creativity and craftsmanship, heightening our excitement for what lies ahead. We look forward to 2025 and all it has in store for us in terms of releases, collaborations, and surprises. In the coming days, the Waqt platform will witness new innovations, redesigned versions of classics, and amazing designs that the near future will reveal.