Arnold & Son unveils the TES Tourbillon, new member of the Royal Collection which combines classic styling with leading-edge technology. With the hand-finished A&S8100 calibre with sapphire barrel bridge, this timepiece has the traditional English wave-form but is made out of sapphire to allow a maximum view on the open-worked barrel and wheels. The tourbillon and motion-work bridges are classically triangular but are skeletonised. The combination of sapphire and open-worked bridges gives an incredible depth and three-dimensional effect to the watch and thus a modern look.
The unique Arnold & Son design is also reflected by the three-spoke wheels. This same three-spoke design can also be found in the tourbillon cage and the openings in the main plate. The decoration of the main plate is a reminiscence of an oldguilloché pattern found on the cases of antique Arnold & Son pocket watches. The main plate is also skeletonised around the barrel and the tourbillon carriage allowing to look through the movement and therefore through the watch itself.
The tourbillon movement, one of the most elegant complications in the world of horology, has played a crucial role in Arnold & Son’s history. An exceptional watchmaker, John Arnold was an active participant in one of the most extraordinary partnerships in the world of innovative horology. Indeed, both he and A.-L. Breguet worked closely, sharing both their knowledge and passion. Evidence of their partnership is A.-L. Breguet’s first ever tourbillon mounted in John Arnold’s No. 11 movement, a watch that can be found today in London’s British Museum.
This unique timepiece is a limited edition of 28 pieces, in a 44 mm 18-carat red gold case which is individually numbered and engraved.