For the first time in history, Blancpain has introduced a wristwatch combining two regulators aimed at reducing gravity-related effects on the running of the movement: the tourbillon and the carrousel.
This is truly a technical feat achieved by the Swiss watch manufacture, combining two of the its emblematic complications.
The Tourbillion Carrousel from the Le Brassus collection is equipped with a flying tourbillon at 12 o'clock, a flying carrousel at 6 o'clock, and a date display at 3 o'clock.
Truly an eye-catching juxtaposition, the two independent carriages are linked by a differential gear system, which transmits the average rate of both regulators to the time display.
These two systems pursue the same purpose, but differ in terms of their construction. In the case of the tourbillon, the carriage is linked to the barrel via a single gear train, which means that if this mechanical connection is interrupted, the tourbillon also stops rotating. The difference between the two systems thus consists in a more elaborate construction involving more components for the carrousel, but ensuring the smooth cohabitation of both devices is a true challenge and a world first achieved by the Blancpain watchmakers.
An external winding crown enables both barrels to be wound simultaneously while guaranteeing their equal winding, thereby endowing this timepiece with impressive precision along with a comfortable seven-day power reserve.
Through the sapphire crystal case-back, a fascinating view of this ingenious mechanism as well as of the power-reserve indication.
The dial is open-worked to provide glimpses of the moving parts in action, featuring a flinqué decoration that is echoed on the bridge side to create an harmonious overall effect. The wheels echo the design of the brand's signature bevelled wheel rim-style gears. A grand feu enamel chapter ring bearing 5N gold Roman numerals, tops off the showcase of workmanship.
Inside, the complication is equipped with the new hand-wound Calibre 2322 measuring 35.3 mm in diameter and 5.85 mm thick, composed of 379 parts including two new silicon balance-springs.
An elegant slender design measuring just 11.94 mm thick makes the 44.60 mm diameter case extremely wearable. An alligator leather strap with alzavel lining is fitted with a triple-blade folding clasp, completes the offering for the technical masterpiece.
