“Histoire de Tourbillon” is the name of a unique new collection of rare timepieces featuring five distinct timepiece exploring the function and the form of the tourbillon. Each unique design will be a limited edition of 20 timepieces.
The first in the series, Histoire de Tourbillon 1, will be launched at Baselworld. The Histoire de Tourbillon 1 envisions a modern interpretation of the tourbillon, through innovative materials and a highly sophisticated mechanism. Its 48mm case is constructed of white gold and Zalium, an ultra-light alloy exclusive to Harry Winston made from zirconium and allium lily, known for its low density, high-thermal resistance, and high durability. It features two 25° inclined single axis tourbillons with rapid 36-second rotations, which work together to neutralize any effects of gravity. This high rotational speed minimizes prolonged exposure of the regulator to natural gravity. Comprised of 88 components, each ultra-light system weighs a mere 0.46 grams, allowing the cages to effectively perform the rapid 36-second rotations. Hours and minutes are displayed on the front rotating disc; the back features additional display of hours, minutes and seconds for an exact reading of the time.


Source: Europa Star February-March 2009 Magazine Issue