Whirlwind is the English translation for the french word, ‘tourbillon’. It was named tourbillon because it literally spins on itself and is constantly in a state of motion. However, it’s not what you’re thinking. A tourbillon is not just another superfluous complication designed out of vanity.
Patented by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1801, a tourbillon is a marvelous expression of fine watchmaking that defies conventional classification. Gravity is a force that can upset the accuracy of a timepiece when in certain positions leading to less accuracy and precision.
The tourbillon was thus designed to counter the effect of gravity on the regulating organ so that the watch can remain highly accurate no matter its position.
The fact that tourbillon watches are rare (and challenging to produce) confers a notable degree of scarcity in them, making them highly sought after by connoisseurs of exquisite timepieces. They are even considered the ‘Holy Grail’ of Haute Horologerie and are fashioned by the most talented and highly skilled watchmakers.
From the most affordable to the most luxurious and exquisite watches, read on to discover the best tourbillon watches with peerless complexity and craftsmanship!
About The Tourbillon
The escapement of a timepiece is often in a fixed position in each mechanical watch. This escapement includes a hairspring that is mounted on a balance wheel that rotates back and forth, and this is where the problem lies.
Since the balance wheel has some heavier spots due to its design, the gravitational effects on these areas affect the watch’s accuracy whenever it is positioned differently.
Abraham-Louis Breguet realized that the only way to solve this problem was to house the entire escapement in a rotating cage. If the balance wheel and hairspring are in constant motion, then no matter what position the watch is in, the variations in timing will be annulled.
Consequently, the tourbillon was developed by Abraham-Louis Breguet in the year 1795 and patented in 1801. The next important evolution of the tourbillon took place in 1902 when a flying tourbillon was developed by Alfred Helwig and his students. The so-called ‘flying’ tourbillon was designed to improve the stability and visual appeal of the standard tourbillon.
Unlike its predecessor, it was cantilevered. This means it was only supported on one side, rendering an unhinged view into the classical escapement.
After this innovative creation, the double-axis tourbillon followed in the 1980s and featured a design that could rotate the tourbillon cage in two axes. Today, inventions like gyro tourbillons and triple-axis tourbillons proudly display the aesthetic prowess of high-end watch brands.
What Is The Purpose of Tourbillon Watches?
The initial purpose of a tourbillon was to check the effects of gravity on the movement of pocket watches. Pocket watches were typically worn in a vertical position. They could stay in this position all day except for the minor instances in which the wearer moved them to find out the time.
This sort of positioning when in use and flat storage when not in use meant the movements of pocket watches were subject to unequal pressures upsetting their accuracy.
By rotating the escapement and balance wheel through all the probable vertical positions, the tourbillon could cancel out the pressure on the movement and improve the accuracy and longevity of the timepiece.
This invention was of great advantage, and tourbillons invaded the Horological world as soon as they arrived. However, with the advent of wristwatches around the time of World War 1, the relevance of the tourbillon waned.
The movements of wristwatches are not susceptible to the same pressure as pocket watches since they are worn on the wrist and often moved by the wearer, creating a sort of ‘tourbillon’.
In modern times, the tourbillon has evolved from a practical complication to a piece of engineering that demonstrates watchmakers’ craftsmanship, creativity, and aesthetic prowess.
35 Best Tourbillon Watches From Affordable To Luxury
1. Lenvino Tour Collection 02
With a price tag of fewer than $1,000, you’re not going to purchase the world’s most elaborate tourbillon. But the fact that you will get a distinguished timepiece with a real flying tourbillon movement is astonishing.
Lenvino is a Hong Kong watch brand known for creating authentic watches with premium materials. With its stainless steel circular case measuring 43mm in diameter and strap width of 20mm x 18mm, the Lenvino Tour Collection 02 is remarkably comfortable and suitable for most consumers.
The dial is ‘stripped’, drawing exclusive attention to the beautiful Flying Tourbillon relying on a cantilevered single support. The rotation is certainly a pleasure to behold when viewed from above, and the high quality is astonishing. The dial also has a grained texture and is adorned with printed Arabic numerals and skeleton alpha hands.
The Seagull TY800 real flying tourbillon movement vibrates at 21,600 beats per hour and provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $900
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Founded by Michael Galarza in 2018, ERA Timepieces is respected for keeping its promise. The young brand made a grand promise of offering ultra-rare and high-end haute horology complications in price tags that are accessible to all.
Whether the Prometheus Tourbillon lives up to the hype of delivering quality and craftsmanship worth a million dollars in a package just a little above $1,000 is up to the wearer. However, the timepiece is breathtaking.
The Prometheus Tourbillon is a big watch with a stainless case measuring 44mm across, a thickness of 12.7mm, and a lug-to-lug distance of 51mm. The skeletonized dial features a pretty clever design with an exposed tourbillon carriage at 6 o’clock.
The embellished dial has been painstakingly created to dazzle the eye and pay tribute to Haute Horology. Oscillating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour is the Caliber HZ3360A. It is a Chinese tourbillon hand-wound movement with impressive accuracy and a power reserve of approximately 32 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $1,500.
3. Stührling Viceroy Tourbillon 296D
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Stührling is another watch brand that offers aesthetically pleasing timepieces at very affordable rates. At a diameter of 42 mm, the size is just ideal for showing off the details of the dial flawlessly.
The Chinese-made timepiece may not feature a flawless tourbillon escapement, but if you want to sport a watch with this complication and are under budget, you can begin from here.
The dial is highly legible with a guilloché-like pattern adorned with skeletonized alpha-styled hands and an exposed tourbillon movement. Applied Roman numerals juxtaposed with stick-style hour markers provide a nice contrast against the silver-plated dial.
The tourbillon mechanism is positioned at the lower end of the dial giving the watch an attractive and luxurious feel. It is water resistant only to a depth of 50 meters despite having a screw-down crown and features scratch-resistant Sapphire crystals in front and behind.
The watch is priced at $2,250.
4. Swatch Diaphane One Tourbillon (ref. SVAK1001)
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Known for revolutionary ideas, Swatch is a watch brand famous for high-quality and stylish timepieces that defy the principles of quintessential Swiss watchmaking. The Ref. SVAK1001 is one such creative model with a joyful design that surprised Swatch fans when it was released in 2001.
Limited to 2222 pieces, the Diaphane One line contains Swatch’s most complicated watches. The 42mm case is made of plastic and aluminum (only the bezel material). The watch is classified as a Carrousel Tourbillion because it uses two different power sources—one for the escapement and another to regulate the rotation of the enclosure.
The whole faceplate rotates once every 30 minutes, so you have two rotations per hour. The magnificent open-worked dial is adorned with Lancette hands in addition to stamped Arabic numerals and stick hour markers.
Visible through the sapphire crystal case back is a skeletonized manual winding movement; the ETA 93.001 has been refined with several decorations. It provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $4,000.
5. TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon (ref. CAR5A8W.FT6071)
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TAG Heuer is a solid brand famous for utilizing avant-garde engineering in the production of its watches.
The Chronograph Tourbillon is presented in a large case that measures 45mm in diameter. The generous proportions are compensated for with a lightweight black PVD titanium case and carbon bezel.
The skeleton dial is nothing short of impressive, and including a tourbillon complication makes it more enthralling. The captivating flying tourbillon complication is housed in an aperture at the base of the dial.
Three rotating arms hold it in position, and a generous application of SuperLuminova on the balance wheel means the escapement will be legible even in low light. The dial is multiple layers adding impressive depth and beauty.
A 12-hour chronograph register resides at 9 o’clock, while a 30-minute chronograph register sits at 3 o’clock. Both registers are open-worked, revealing a vertically brushed surface underneath.
The in-house caliber HEUER02T COSC keeps the timepiece highly accurate and provides a power reserve of approximately 65 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $15,000.
6. Frederique Constant Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Manufacture (ref. FC-975MC4H4)
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The Frederique Constant Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Manufacture is presented in a 42mm rose gold-plated case that has been polished to the highest sheen. At the center of the brilliant silver dial, you will find a clous de Paris guilloché decoration and three sub-registers with crisp markings in black.
At 12 o’clock is the indicator for month and leap year, while the date is at 3 o’clock, and the day of the week is at 9 o’clock. The 60-minute tourbillon is located at the base of the dial in a large aperture that offers us a superb view of the tourbillon cage, balance wheel, and silicium escapement.
Slender hand-polished leaf-shaped hour and minute hands eloquently mark the large printed Roman numerals in black. Hyper-expensive movements are neglected for this piece, and a reliable and affordable one has been used here.
A pane of sapphire crystal across the case-back offers a breathtaking view of the FC-975 Manufacture caliber. It beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph and has a power reserve of 38 hours. The Frederique Constant Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Manufacture comes mounted on a quality alligator strap fitted with a deployant.
The watch is priced at approximately $18,000.
7. Montblanc Star Legacy Exo Tourbillon (ref. MB126469)
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Inspired by the spirit of Haute Horologerie, the Star Legacy Exo Tourbillon is cleverly constructed with an unmatched presentation. The 18k rose gold case measures 42 mm in diameter and has been polished to the highest gleam. The slim height gives the watch a perfect wrist presence making it a choice dress watch.
The extremely detailed dial is exquisitely finished, and the breathtaking suspended Exo Tourbillon mechanism sits at the base of the dial. Exo is derived from a Greek word that means external.
As such, an impressively large balance wheel is elevated outside the tourbillon’s cage. Not only is this move aesthetically pleasing, but it also makes rotation seamless, thus increasing the efficiency of the movement. The main plate and bridges are entirely open-worked and visible via the timepiece’s front and back.
Underneath a domed crystal, the Ivory-coloured dial is adorned with 18k rose gold leaf-shaped hands, a minute track, and rose gold-coated Arabic numerals. Elaborately decorated with 188 hand-finished components is the MB M18.69 movement, capable of a power reserve of 50 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $40,000.
8. Breitling Premier B21 Chronograph Tourbillon (ref. RB21201A1L1P1)
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Coming in a limited edition of 25 pieces, the Premier Chronograph Tourbillon is a heritage-inspired powerhouse that embodies Breitling’s most innovative legacy.
The timepiece is a reinterpretation of the original Breitling Premier watch from the 1940s and comes in a 42 mm 18k red gold case with a non-screw-locked crown and rectangular chronograph pushers.
The enchanting dial in British racing green has a distinguished two-tone finish and sets the stage for the exquisite tourbillon. The Star of the show takes center stage at 12 o’clock. An open sapphire crystal case back offers a gratifying view of the B21 movement where the reverse side of the tourbillon and the oscillating weight can be appreciated.
Other iconic details like grooves on the sides of the case, Arabic numerals, and vintage-inspired hands add elegance to the timepiece. It is water resistant to a depth of 100 meters and matched with a gold-brown alligator strap.
The watch is priced at approximately $50,000.
9. Ulysse Nardin Torpilleur Tourbillon (ref. 1282-310LE-2AE-175/1A)
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Ulysse Nardin is a Swiss luxury watchmaker famous for manufacturing complex and highly accurate marine chronometers. The Ulysse Nardin Torpilleur Tourbillon is a charming illustration of the Brand’s Haute Horlogerie prowess and its deep respect for heritage.
The watch is complicated yet stunningly beautiful and is presented in an 18K rose gold case. The black enamel dial from Donzé Cadrans is nicely executed, and features rose gold ‘poires Roskopf’ hands that contrast against bold silver Roman numerals.
A power reserve indicator is at the upper half of the dial, presented in a subtle recessed sub-dial with “BAS” and “HAUT”, meaning full and empty in golden print. At the base of the dial is the elegant flying tourbillon with an underlying anchor offering a clear view of the tourbillon cage.
The watch is COSC-certified, and the tourbillon is fitted with an escapement fashioned completely in silicon. Since silicon is high performing, the operation is smooth with little exertion and lubrication.
The watch is powered by the in-house Caliber UN-128, an automatic movement with 208 components that provides a power reserve of approximately 60 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $60,000.
10. Zenith Defy Double Tourbillon (ref. 10.9000.9020/79.R918)
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The Zenith Defy Double Tourbillon is an avant-garde piece with high-tech features that is both fascinating and rare. The carbon case measures 46mm across and has been constructed with ruggedness and durability in mind.
Two tourbillons proudly occupy the entire left side of the dial. Both of them have been suspended from the PVD-coated open-worked bridges with chamfers highlighted in rose gold.
The tourbillon, which has taken over the 7 and 8 o’clock index, acts as the escapement for the watch. On the other hand, the tourbillon at 10 o’clock acts as an escapement for the chronograph and beats at an impressive 50Hz (or 360,000 VpH). This means it completes a rotation every five seconds! Mind-blowing!
The open-worked dial features large silver-plated hands, a chronograph power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, and hour markers filled with Super-LumiNova for enhanced readability.
Zenith’s high-frequency El Primero automatic movement with 311 components provides a power reserve of 50 hours. It is water resistant to a depth of 100 meters and comes equipped with a black rubber strap with a blue “Cordura effect”.
The watch is priced at approximately $90,000.
11. Bell & Ross BR 01 Tourbillon
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Bell & Ross might not be a very popular luxury watch brand, but its creation of quality timepieces for professional users such as divers and pilots has earned it reverence in the watch world.
The BR01 collection was launched in 2005 and has a lineup of mesmerizing watches with a design that resembles the classical style of cockpit clocks. The Bell & Ross BR 01 Tourbillon is a state-of-the-art timepiece with a large titanium case and black rubber bracelet.
The watch is rather bulky but is paired with a very light case and comes with a relatively small crown that will not dig into the wrist. The timepiece is functional and incorporates four complications. A regulator and a five-day power reserve have been positioned at 9 o’clock, while a sub-dial for the small hours counter is located at 12 o’clock.
At 3 o’clock is the optimum accuracy indicator, while the tourbillon with a black gold finish is positioned at 6 o’clock. Vivid red and yellow accents enliven the dial and add energy to the somber watch.
The design is particularly bold, and large lumed applied hands and indices on the black dial keep the watch extremely legible and lively. The striking contrast of white on black means the time can be easily read at a glance anytime, anywhere. It is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters and is powered by a manual winding movement.
The watch is priced at approximately $100,000.
12. Panerai Radiomir Tourbillon GMT Ceramica (ref. PAM00350)
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Initially designed as a prototype at the request of the Royal Italian Navy in 1936, the Radiomir was the first special luminous timepiece for divers from Panerai.
The Tourbillon GMT Ceramica pays tribute to Galileo Galilei for his significant contributions to the fields of astronomy and science. “Lo Scienziato” means the scientist, and this timepiece is nothing short of what you’d expect from a reputable watch brand like Panerai.
The watch is truly unique and comes in a 48mm wide imposing dark monochrome case that has been made from zirconium oxide. The case size means the watch is really large and solid, with a notable wrist presence.
The refined skeleton structure of the dial is highly legible, unlike many open-worked dials. Lumed Arabic numerals have been used for 12, 3, 6, and 9, while bar markers are used for the others.
The tourbillon is elegantly positioned between 9 and 12 o’clock and is astonishing with its unusual axis and fast spin of 30 seconds per revolution.
A small seconds sub-dial is at 9 o’clock, while a timezone day/night indicator is positioned at 3 o’clock. It is water resistant to a depth of 100 meters and is powered by a skeleton hand-wound mechanical movement; the Panerai P.2005/Scalibere.
The watch is priced at approximately $150,000.
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The Vulcain Tourbillon Ref. 620565Q18.BGK101 is presented in a 42mm rose gold case with a thickness of 12.50mm which gives it an ideal weight and wrist presence. Vulcain is a Swiss watch brand with over 150 years of producing quality timepieces. Though not popular, the marque’s haute horlogerie prowess can be seen in this exquisite timepiece.
The tourbillon, which is highly polished and presented with sharp external angles, takes the spotlight between 8 and 10 o’clock. The semi-skeleton dial is satin-like and features a circular charcoal grey texture enlivened by gold Arabic numerals juxtaposed with rectangular markers.
The dial’s symmetry is harmonious, with a black and gold tone-on-tone layout that adds profound elegance and style to the timepiece. Among other stand-out features, the watch is powered by the mechanical hand-wound Vulcain Tourbillon V- 62 caliber. It is a robust movement with an impressive power reserve of 120 hours.
The Vulcain Tourbillon is worn on a hand-sewn black Louisiana alligator strap which is secured to the wrist by a folding clasp buckle made of pink gold.
The watch is priced at approximately $100,000.
14. Breguet Marine “Grande Complication” Tourbillon (ref. 5887BR/G2/9WV)
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The Breguet Marine “Grande Complication” Tourbillon is a true classic, with an extra touch of first-class sophistication.
Breguet is renowned for manufacturing complex timepieces, and this one is an ode to the ingenuity of the Haute Horologerie brand. The state-of-the-art watch is termed a “Grande Complication” because it features a perpetual calendar, an equation of time, and the latest tourbillon.
Introduced at Baselworld in 2017, the timepiece pays homage to the appointment of Abraham-Louis as the official watchmaker of the French Navy. It was in 1815 that Louis XVIII, the King of France, appointed him “Horloger de la Marine Royale”. This timepiece preserves traditional techniques and reinstates Marque’s unparalleled patrimony in the sphere of uber-complicated watches.
The striking guilloche-peaked wave motif underscores the connection between the Marine line and the sea. It is adorned with rose gold moon-tipped hands with luminescent material and applied Roman numerals. The perpetual calendar is paired with the equation of time display. In a window between seven and nine o’clock, you will find a power reserve indicator.
A mechanical self-winding movement, the caliber 581DPE with 57 jewels and 563 components provides a power reserve of 80 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $180,000.
15. Blancpain Villeret Tourbillon Squelette 8 Jours Red Gold (ref. 6025AS-3630-55)
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The Blancpain Villeret Tourbillon Squelette 8 Jours Red Gold is presented in a 38mm 18kt red gold case with a classical Swiss design. The watch’s size might be a bit diminutive by modern standards, but the lugs are slightly rounded, ensuring a comfortable fit.
Blancpain is a brand that is famous for its daring pieces in the horological arena, and the Squelette 8 Jours takes us right into the future. There is almost no dial, and the movement is what appears as the backdrop for the slenderred-goldd hands.
Inside the bezel of the contemporary-shaped case, a bold ring in black has red gold Roman numerals to ease time telling. The tourbillon is elegantly positioned at 12 o’clock, drawing deserved attention to the dial upon each glance.
The power reserve indicator can be found at 5 and 7 o’clock, while at 9 o’clock is the rotary date indicator which is a very helpful feature for the modern man. The watch is splendid, easy to use, and houses the manually wound Calibre 1333SQ, a skeletonized movement with a power reserve of 8 whole days.
The watch is priced at approximately $170,000.
16. Glashütte Original Senator Tourbillon (ref. 1-94-03-05-04-30)
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Released in a limited edition of just 25 pieces worldwide, the Glashütte Original Senator Tourbillon Ref. 1-94-03-05-04-30 is a classic timepiece in the purest sense of the word.
The watch comes in a white gold case, measures 42 mm across and is perfect for a comfortable fit. The case features satin-brushed and polished surfaces with soldered lugs, faceted with polished edges. The varnish silver-grainé dial features a fine matte finish with blued steel hands.
A large date window at 12 o’clock reveals the date with the help of two discs of the same height that are separated from each other only with a faint arcing line. The date window is stepped and feels subtly abstract, adding a bit of depth to the dial.
The tourbillon is positioned at the base of the dial, and its rotating cage is framed by a clean track denoting the seconds. An automatic movement, the Calibre 94-03, is visible through the sapphire case back of the watch.
It is mounted on a dark blue Louisiana alligator leather strap, equipped with a foldover clasp in white gold.
The watch is priced at approximately $100,000.
17. Omega De Ville Tourbillon Numbered Edition (ref. 529.53.43.22.01.001)
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The 43mm case of the Omega De Ville Tourbillon Numbered Edition is crafted from polished 18k Sedna gold and brims with notable grace and poise. The central part of the case has been brushed with 18k Canopus gold. Sedna gold is Omega’s proprietary pink gold, while Canopus gold is the brand’s proprietary white gold alloy.
The black dial is quite discreet, with a radial brushed pattern exquisitely executed with multiple layers that enliven the watch and give it profound depth. The design is luxurious yet modest, focusing on the tourbillon at the central part of the watch. The tourbillon is impressive, with a modernized cage made of black ceramic titanium and hand-polished bevels.
It is encircled by a fluted gold ring, which functions as a decoration and a small seconds track. Applied gold indexes and small faceted gold hands adorn the dark dial. It is powered by the robust in-house – hand-wound movement, the Omega caliber 2640. Being a Master Chronometer, the timepiece is highly accurate, durable, and resistant to shocks. It comes with a 5-year warranty.
The watch is priced at approximately $200,000.
18. Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon (ref. SLGT003)
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The Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon is a complex watch with an aggressive design that just puts it in a league of its own.
The watch is the first complicated mechanical timepiece from Grand Seiko in its six decades of uninterrupted production and is nothing short of impressive. For the brand, it is its first mechanical tourbillon, skeletonized timepiece, and first constant-force mechanism watch.
It is arrayed with a sophisticated skeletonized, and delicately finished movement flaunting a tourbillon and a one-second remontoir on the same axis.
The case of the watch is constructed from 950 platinum and the Marque’s Brilliant Hard Titanium and measures a fitting 43.8 mm x 12.9 mm. The watch’s overall design is far from the familiar Grand Seiko layout and aesthetic but still enchanting and elegant.
The soul of the watch is the tourbillon and constant-force mechanism located at the base (6 o’clock). The rare mechanical complication combined on a single axis improves chronometry. The Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon is driven by the Calibre 9ST1, the first open-worked movement from GS from an aesthetic viewpoint with components that gleam in the light. It provides a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $350,000.
19. IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Mystère Rétrograde (ref. IW504601)
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The IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Mystère Rétrograde is an incredible watch with a strikingly attractive design that is not loud or messy but contains a lot of information. The platinum case measures 44.2 mm in diameter and features a polished, beveled bezel with sloping lugs.
The refined appearance of the silver-plated dial is fashioned to maximize the interplay of light and is pretty much unadorned. The cleanness of the dial draws attention to the tourbillon at first glance, which is located at 12 o’clock.
The beautiful floating tourbillon is mounted on one side only against a dense background, allowing us to view the escapement and its mechanical sections below. As expected, the finishing of the highest standard with a decoration fits the movement’s geometric style perfectly.
The see-through sapphire crystal case back offers a generous view of the in-house 51900 caliber, a mechanical movement with 44 jewels, and an outstanding power reserve of 7 days (168 hours).
The watch is priced at approximately $130,000.
20. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Chronograph (ref. 103295)
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The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Chronograph is a distinguished watch that features a tourbillon, an ultra-thin BVL 388 skeleton movement, and a chronograph.
It is the world’s thinnest tourbillon chronograph and is presented in an octagonal sandblasted grade 5 titanium case with many facets. The look of the watch is spectacular and aggressively angular with a round bezel.
Bvlgari reasserts its dominance in ultra-thin watchmaking with this unconventionally slim timepiece that is only 7.4 mm in height.
The watch has a monochromatic look with a truly superb skeletonized matte grey dial, as sections of it have been done away with to reveal the tourbillon escapement and the mainspring.
There are no hour markers that might hinder legibility, but there’s a perfect amount of symmetry and organization in the way the dial has been laid out.
The running seconds’ indicator is at 9 o’clock while the chronograph minutes is at 3 o’clock. The hands are skeletonized, and the tourbillon sits at 6 o’clock. Driving the watch is the Calibre BVL 388, operating at a rate of 21600 VpH with a power reserve of 52 hours when fully wound.
The watch is priced at approximately $170,000.
21. Chopard L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon (ref. 161929-5001)
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The Chopard L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon is a wonderfully constructed timepiece with three certificates. The name is derived from the COSC (a timing certificate), Geneva Seal ( this is issued by the Canton of Geneva for timepieces manufactured there), and Fleurier Quality Foundation label.
This last certification is one of the most stringent quality tests in the watch-making industry. For a timepiece to be FQF certified, it must have surpassed the reliability, timing, and technical criteria.
The watch is presented in a contemporary-sized 43 mm platinum case with alternative polished and satin-brushed surfaces. The 8-day power reserve indicator sits at 12 o’clock while the tourbillon is at the base of the dial.
Black rail-track minute markers frame the dial, and it is adorned with applied Roman numerals. Thanks to two sets of double barrels, the calibre L.U.C 02.13-L, made entirely of 18-carat gold, provides an impressive nine-day power reserve when fully wound.
The watch is priced at approximately $150,000.
22. Vincent Deprez Tourbillon Classique Souscription Edition
Vincent Deprez is a French watchmaker known for making discreet yet beautifully executed timepieces in the most traditional way possible. The Tourbillon Classique Souscription Edition is an ode to the relatively young brand and reflects the goal of using mostly traditional tools and techniques.
The watch is made by hand using traditional tools and is finely executed with overall coherence and a lot of attention to each detail. The watch measures a wearable 39 mm and features an open dial with a 60-second tourbillon.
A large sub-dial for the hours and minutes features a grand feu enamel that has been fired by Vincent himself. The tourbillon is somewhat large at 12.6mm in diameter and is framed with a second chapter ring at 8 o’clock. The proportions are classical; the visible main plate has a traditional frosted finish resembling historic high-end watches.
Oscillating at a rate of 18,000 vibrations/hour is an in-house hand-wound movement with 15 jewels and a power reserve of 52 hours. Nothing is ostentatious, but the overall design is elegant and clean.
The watch is priced at approximately $100,000.
23. Carl F. Bucherer Manero Tourbillon Double Peripheral (ref. 00.10920.03.13.01)
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Famous for avant-garde complications and breathtaking designs, Carl F Bucherer is an independent Swiss watch brand with a rich tradition that dates back to the 1880s. The luxury watch brand has made its mark in the world of Horology and this unique timepiece showcases the brand’s signature complication.
The Double Peripheral Tourbillon is a complication that features a winding mechanism that does not rotate on the top of the movement. Rather than that, it rotates around the movement without obscuring the view.
Carl F. Bucherer has made the watch sophisticated and enchanting in that the tourbillon can easily be termed a super-flying tourbillon. The silver-colored dial of the 43 mm 18K red gold case is adorned with gold-plated indices and lancet-shaped hands.
The tourbillon is elegantly positioned at 12 o’clock and has a hand that acts as the seconds display. The cage has no visible bridges holding the device in place, but the weight is supported by three ceramic ball bearings that ensure a stable connection and smooth run.
The pallet and escape wheel of the escapement are made with the anti-magnetic silicium allowing an increased power reserve of 65 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $70,000.
24. Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Flying Tourbillon (ref. PFH921-2020001-200182)
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Parmigiani seems to be aggressively invading the hyper-competitive realm of sophisticated watches. From the Tonda PF collection that debuted in 2021 to this flying tourbillon released in 2022, the brand continues to surprise us with heavenly delights.
The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Flying Tourbillon is an unconventional timepiece equipped with a flying tourbillon in a somber platinum dial that bestows undivided attention to the tourbillon.
The 42mm platinum case has a thin profile of 8.6mm with teardrop-shaped lugs and a screw-down crown that ensures 100 meters of water resistance. The flying tourbillon is positioned between 6 and 8 o’clock and is the star of the show, mesmerizing viewers with its mirror-polished screws that dazzle in the light.
The 18-carat gold delta-shaped hour and minute hands are open-worked and rhodium-plated. The indexes are short and are also crafted out of 18-carat gold and rhodium-plated. Encircling the main dial is a slightly recessed minute track denoted by short black lines. The watch is powered by Parmigiani’s ultra-thin automatic PF517 movement.
The watch is priced at approximately $160,000.
25. Cartier Drive de Cartier Flying Tourbillon (ref. CRW4100013)
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The Cartier Drive de Cartier Flying Tourbillon is an exquisite watch with a retro touch that bolsters its refined look. The 47mm case is impeccably polished and compelling, with a shape that is neither round nor square but looks like a turtle shell.
The dial is an exquisite display of intricate guilloche finishing on a satin-brushed surface. The outer section of the dial is open-worked with black transferred Roman numerals that look like they are about to burst through the case.
Underneath the hour markers, a white galvanized surface beams with a sunray effect. Pared down to the bare essentials, blued-steel sword-shaped hour and minute hands adorn the stark dial while the tourbillon occupies the base.
The flying tourbillon complication and C-shaped tourbillon carriage double as a small seconds indicator. Oscillating at 21,600 vibrations/hour is the caliber 9452 MC, a manual winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.
It is water resistant to a depth of 100 meters and is certified “Poinçon de Genève”. This seal is a guarantee of authentication awarded only to watches with outstanding finishing and quality materials.
The watch is priced at approximately $85,000.
26. Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Tourbillon (ref. Q1682410)
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The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Tourbillon is an elegant and discreet watch that is presented in a refined 40 mm 18K pink gold case. The pink gold case is entirely polished with a thickness of 11.3 mm, which is decent for an automatic tourbillon.
The mechanically complex timepiece is charming, refined, and compelling. The beautiful dial is presented in an “eggshell shade” with a slightly grained texture. The hands are half polished and half brushed, while the hour markers are gilded and facetted.
At the base of the dial is the tourbillon. It is encircled by a small seconds track and showcases Jaeger-LeCoultre’s exceptional watchmaking savoir-faire. The bridge of the tourbillon is a rounded mirror-polished arm that crosses over the tourbillon cage, giving viewers a breathtaking view of the tourbillon’s ballet.
Visible through the sapphire crystal case back is the in-house Caliber 979G with 33 jewels and a power reserve of 45 hours. The watch is fitted with a brown alligator strap with a pin buckle.
The watch is priced at approximately $90,000.
27. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Tourbillon (ref. 99105-41-232-BB6A)
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The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Tourbillon is a masterpiece offering a supreme vision of elegance. The 45mm case is crafted from titanium and 18kt white gold, and the look of the watch isn’t one you see every day.
The dial is skillfully crafted with a matted gray of the same color as the case and an octagonal bezel is inserted within a circle.
The flying tourbillon, positioned at the base of the dial is the prima donna, enchanting the wearer with her outstanding performance. A lone bridge made of titanium sits across both sides of the cage, breaking up the congruous symmetry of the Clous de Paris pattern. The bridge resembles a double-headed arrow and supports the rotating tourbillon cage.
The watch is highly legible despite the tone-on-tone hands and indexes. Visible via the exhibition case back is the Calibre GP 09510-0002. It contains 33 jewels and provides a power reserve of 48 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $110,000.
28. H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Tourbillon (ref. 3804-1205)
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H. Moser & Cie. is an exemplar of haute horlogerie with a reputation for crafting exquisite timepieces with complications of the highest standard.
The H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Tourbillon is a highly desirable watch in a stainless steel case measuring 42.8 mm across. The case is without flaws and features alternating polished and brushed surfaces. It also has a screw-down crown that bears witness to the 120 meters water-resistant capacity of the watch.
The gradient or fume dial is a beauty to behold, and the coloration is altered according to the light reflecting on it. It is decorated with clean, hand-applied multi-faceted indexes. At 6 o’clock is a large tourbillon which makes a full rotation every 60 seconds. An opening on the dial offers a first-row view of its beating heart.
Nothing is on the dial apart from the hands, indexes, and of course tourbillon. The H. Moser & Cie calligraphic logo finishes it off with elegance and style. It is powered by the in-house caliber HMC 804. This movement is fitted with a double flat hairspring and powers the watch for up to 3 days.
The watch is priced at approximately $50,000.
29. F.P.Journe Tourbillon Souverain Calibre 1403
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Coming as a tribute to François-Paul’s earliest watches, the Tourbillon Souverain Calibre is a magnificent watch with an unconventional design. The timepiece draws inspiration from the brand’s first clocks and pocket watches and brings all the distinctive elements into one design.
One thing that is glaring when you take a look at this watch is how it dispenses with extreme care the tourbillon at 9 o’clock. Time is indicated on an off-centered dial that is positioned at 3 o’clock while the tourbillon sits in an aperture that has a complete mirror polished rim with a beaming countenance.
The platinum case measures a fitting dimension of 40 mm across and features a fully polished finish, a domed bezel, and a flat crown. The background, which is noticeable on glancing at the watch, is the base plate of the movement as the watch has no dial.
The base plate is finished with a Clous de Paris guilloché pattern. In addition to the tourbillon and off-centered dial, it houses a power reserve at the top and a deadbeat seconds at the base.
The timepiece is exquisite, smart, crisp, and eminently practical.
The watch is priced at approximately $180,000.
30. Piaget Polo Emperador Tourbillon (ref. G0A38041)
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Piaget is a brand with over 100 years of extensive expertise in fine horology. The Emperador Tourbillon is one of the brand’s most enthralling creations that shows the Marque’s ingeniousness in terms of technology.
This timepiece pushes the boundaries of creativity with an ultra-thin movement that plunges us into the magical world of Piaget’s mechanics.
The watch comes in an 18K white gold case that measures 46.5 mm across — it is a really large watch — with a thickness of 10.4 mm. The flying tourbillon movement sits in an aperture with a wide mirror polished rim at one o’clock. It has been conscientiously decorated and polished to the highest level.
Something fascinating about this timepiece is the off-centered oscillating weight turned around to exhibit the micro-rotor in white gold. Piaget distribution of mirthful moving parts in the watch’s dial creates the shape of a Lucky 8 since the P-shaped tourbillon cage is opposite the micro-rotor.
The watch is priced at approximately $100,000.
31. Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon (ref. 6000V/110A-B544)
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The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon Ref. 6000V/110A-B544 is presented in a stainless steel case that measures 42.5mm in diameter. Its height of 10.39 mm, coupled with inward sloping case flanks, keeps the large watch snugly fitted on the wrist.
The case is exquisitely finished with a brushed finish on the top surface and a mirror finish on the edges. The beautiful Laiton Générique CuZn dial features hands and hour markers crafted from 18k white gold.
Both hands and hour markers are coated with luminescent material to ensure legibility during the day and night. The tourbillon at 6 o’clock has a cage inspired by the Maltese cross and performs one revolution per minute. It also serves as a small seconds display.
Visible through the open-worked case back is the Caliber 2160, an aesthetically pleasing movement with 188 parts that provides a power reserve of approximately 80 hours. Thanks to a peripheral rotor in use and not the ubiquitous central rotor, the self-winding movement is just 5.65mm high.
The watch features a quick-release mechanism at the lugs and is delivered with straps in steel bracelet, crocodile, or rubber.
The watch is priced at approximately $140,000.
32. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon (ref.26730BC.GG.1320BC.01)
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The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon comes in an 18-carat white gold case that measures a fitting 41 mm x 10.6 mm. The case and bracelet are finely brushed and polished while the bezel is finished with a new “frosted” technique.
The distinctive feature of the watch is found in the dial. The blue Grande Tapisserie dial has a breathtaking dimpled texture with a circular brushing that offers it profound depth and a unique interplay of light.
The flying tourbillon is visible at 6 o’clock through a round aperture on the dial. Since it has been secured only on its lower point, it does not have a bridge. As such, the tourbillon cage can be relished with no hindrance. The hour markers and hands are in white gold with a luminescent coating.
The watch is powered by the in-house Calibre 2950, an automatic movement with 270 components and 27 jewels. Its running time is approximately 65 hours when fully wound.
The watch is priced at approximately $350,000.
33. Patek Philippe Grand Complications Platinum Tourbillon (ref. 5316P-001)
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Patek Philippe’s inventions are always state-of-the-art pieces. They always come with an understated elegance that bespeaks confidence and exclusivity.
The Grand Complications Platinum Tourbillon is a beautiful watch demonstrating the Marque’s superlative watchmaking prowess. Everything is spectacular and refined, from the design to the construction and finishing.
The timepiece is termed a grand complication because it is equipped with a tourbillon, a minute repeater, and an instantaneous perpetual calendar. The calendar is termed “instantaneous” because registers on the dial for the month, day of the week, and date all turnover in unison as soon as it strikes midnight.
The platinum case is 40.2 mm in diameter and just a little over 13 mm in height. The black enamel dial is adorned with gold-applied hour markers and faceted dauphine-style hands. At 6 o’clock, you’ll find the moon phase and sub-seconds with an arched date display right above.
At 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock, you will find the day and month apertures. Unlike other brands that proudly flaunt their tourbillons, Patek Philippe has kept the tourbillon under the dial, concealing the wealth of the wearer.
The watch is priced at approximately $900,000.
34. A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Tourbillon (ref. 730.079)
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The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Tourbillon Ref. 730.079 is presented in a 39.5 mm polished platinum case with a brushed case band. The glossy white dial is a pure interpretation of classical pocket watches from the 19th century and is dressed with blue steel hands.
The red 12 index is a feature found on ancient pocket watches of the brand, and it adds a notable degree of gracefulness to the timepiece. The sword-shaped hour and minute hands reach out towards Arabic numerals, which have been fired and printed neatly with great diligence.
Positioned just beyond the hour markers, a minute track with short black lines encircles the main dial. The one-minute-tourbillon straddles the lower portion of the dial and its presence animates the entire face of the watch.
The watch features a Zero-Reset mechanism which allows time adjustment to the nearest second and a stop-seconds mechanism for the tourbillon. As such, the seconds’ hands can be reset to the zero position when the crown is being pulled.
A glance through the sapphire crystal case back reveals an excellently finished and decorated movement; the L102.1. It is a hand-wound with a power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
The watch is priced at approximately $200,000.
35. Richard Mille RM 47 Tourbillon
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Richard Mille is an exclusive brand that focuses on the production of ultra-luxury Haute Horlogerie timepieces. Nicknamed the “Billionaire’s Handshake”, the watches from the Swiss watchmaker are famous for housing technically complicated mechanisms.
The RM 47 Tourbillon was released in a limited edition of just 75 pieces after 4 years of intense work by some of the best horologists and craftsmen. Inspired by the philosophy of Bushido and paying tribute to the ancient samurai culture, this timepiece emphasizes extraordinary aesthetics and unmatched technicalities.
The watch is presented in a black PRP ceramic tonneau-shaped case with a 3N yellow gold case band and a black TZP ceramic bezel and case back. A single glance plunges us into Richard’s magical world of mechanics. A samurai armor at the central part of the watch has been crafted out of solid gold with artistic details painstakingly designed by the famous hand engraver Pierre-Alain Lozeron.
Among other stand-out features, a crossed pair of falcon feathers lies at six o’clock to immortalize the Asano clan’s heraldic Kamon. Overall, the design is luxurious, excellently executed, and enchanting, as you would expect from such a brand.
The watch is priced at approximately $1,000,000.
CONCLUSION
The tourbillon has evolved from a functional architectural device to a romantic emblem today, but it will forever remain a classic expression of high watchmaking.
It’s been over 200 years since its invention, yet only a handful of established watch brands have mastered the art of tricking gravity by use of a tourbillon. Less than that amount dare to provide a fitting tribute to this splendid expression of high watchmaking because of the complexity and high-end craftsmanship required.
As a result, these watches are always very expensive. Expect to spend from $15,000 to price tags that break the six-figure barrier for a Swiss-made tourbillon watch.
