Henri Grandjean & Cie. Introduces The Magician, a Triple-Axis Tourbillon Enigma

An extraordinary display of speed, precision, and concealed mechanics.

Do we believe we have witnessed all the capabilities of a tourbillon? Reconsider. Following decades of seclusion, a renowned name reemerges in the realm of horology. Henri Grandjean has returned with a brand designed to remind aficionados that certain brands retain their allure indefinitely. It returns with an innovative twist - a mechanical mechanism that advances the tourbillon into unprecedented realms. Introducing the Henri Grandjean Magician, an enchanting and enigmatic triple-axis tourbillon that appears to levitate, devoid of any discernible attachment to the watch mechanism.

Henri Grandjean (1803-1879) was a distinguished Swiss horologist from Le Locle, renowned for his exceptionally accurate chronometers and elaborate pocket watches. He was instrumental in the advancement of maritime chronometry and made substantial contributions to the establishment of the Neuchâtel Observatory, aiding in its recognition as a hub of precise timekeeping. His timepieces are housed in esteemed collections, including as the Musée d’Horlogerie du Locle - Chateau des Monts (with a special Grandjean archive), the MIH, and the Patek Philippe Museum. Currently, his intricate works continue to be coveted by collectors, with certain pieces commanding six-figure prices at auction. Renowned for its complexities, chronometers, and significant contributions to horology, the name has been resurrected to perpetuate its legacy, with a brand focused on merging classic workmanship with modern quality.

MECHANICAL MAGIC

The inaugural timepiece of the brand's resurgence is designated the Magician, in homage to one of its past models. As implied by its name, it possesses an unexpected element. The captivating triple-axis tourbillon appears to levitate, seemingly disconnected from the watch mechanism. A magician seldom discloses his methods… yet we shall share a small secret with you.

The illusion arises from the tourbillon being activated (and thus regulating the movement) via a pair of overlaid transparent discs. One transfers motion from the gear train, while the other features fixed toothing. The stationary ring gear engages with a pinion on the spinning tourbillon cage to initiate its motion. As the cage spins, it traverses the stationary gear, maintaining a regulated rotation rate.

ABRACADABRA, RAPID AXES IN MOTION

The cage appears to hover in mid-air, displaying the tourbillon's revolution, therefore rendering its complex motion immediately apparent and easily appreciable. Never before has the intricate movement of a tourbillon been showcased with such clarity and visual prominence.

The triple-axis tourbillon revolves around three distinct axes, producing perpetual, intricate three-dimensional motion. The observation of the cages rotating at varying velocities is captivating, since each element operates in a meticulous, interconnected sequence. The spectacle is heightened by the rapid rotation of its cages, occurring at intervals of 10, 18, and 60 seconds along various axes.

MAINTAINING A LIGHT-HEARTED TONE

Accomplishing such rapid rotations for the triple-axis tourbillon is a significant challenge, necessitating exceptional micro-engineering skills. The weight of a 3D tourbillon is crucial for its movement, requiring the utilisation of sophisticated lightweight materials to guarantee smooth and precise functionality. Magnesium is utilised in the first cage and the balancing bridge, representing an unusual instance in horology. Magnesium is robust and lightweight, yet exceedingly challenging to manipulate. The escapement bridge and the second cage are composed of titanium. The outside cage comprises an equal distribution of titanium and steel for optimal balance.

CALIBRE 1831

The hand-wound calibre 1831, housed within the Magician, has been developed and produced internally at the brand's facility in Noiraigue, Val de Travers, near Neuchâtel. Their many CNC machines enable in-house production of most components, except traditional exceptions such as the hairspring, barrel spring, and gems.

This extensive 17-line movement is coated in rose gold and showcases meticulously crafted classical embellishments, like Geneva stripes. The balancing wheel operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, and two barrels provide approximately 40 hours of power reserve.

The design of the movement prominently features the tourbillon, with the hours and minutes positioned off-centre at 3 o’clock. The dial features a date indicator organised concentrically within its black onyx ring, along with a day–night indicator positioned on the outside perimeter between 11 and 12 o’clock. The date is displayed via a white index positioned on one of the spokes of the 31-tooth date wheel.

The Henri Grandjean Magician features a 45mm x 16mm rose gold casing. It is available in six distinct versions, two of which we photographed—one being elaborately adorned and etched with flower designs, reminiscent of Fleurisanne, the signature floral décor distinctive of the Val-de-Travers.

The timepiece is affixed to the wrist via an alligator leather strap and fastened with a folding buckle. The watch is available for CHF 350,000 in titanium, CHF 380,000 in plain gold, and CHF 480,000 in engraved gold. Visit www.henri-grandjean.com for more information.