Jacob & Co. x Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon
There are countless car-themed watches, entire watch brands built around the connection between motorsport and timekeeping, and the most recognizable names in the horology world can be seen as sponsors of motorsport and motorsports events around the world. But while some watchmakers will simply add stripes to the dial or rally strap of a decades-old coronameter Bugatti, Jacob & Co. takes “automotive inspiration” to the next level.
The watch’s marketing materials talk about recreating the visceral feel of the Bugatti W16 in a timepiece, but the problem is that traditional watch movements can’t capture the energy and power of such a high-performance car. So instead of creating a movement that represents Bugatti’s elegance and engineering, they decided to produce what may be the most complicated car brand watch ever built, a functional replica of Bugatti’s 16-cylinder engine, complete with working pistons and a rotating mechanism. Turbocharger.
Push the right-hand crown of the clock and the engine kicks in—the crankshaft turns and the pistons pump up and down, just like a real internal combustion engine. When the engine is running, two “turbochargers” (four in an actual Chiron engine) on the sides of the engine block spin. Consisting of 578 components, the movement is a complication of the highest level for the development team.Jacob & Co Bugatti Chiron
Aside from the animation inside, the case is designed to capture the shape of the Chiron, including the iconic Bugatti grille and side scoops, and the movement is even suspended by micro coil springs. The watch itself is rather flashy, but once you see it in motion, the beauty of the engineering shines through.
Specification:
Dimensions: 54mm x 44mm
Case Material: Black Titanium; Sapphire Front and Back
Water resistance: 30 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Rubber with titanium folding clasp
Caliber: Jacob & Co. Manufacturer. Manual winding JCAM37
Dimensions: 41.70mm x 36mm
Thickness: 15.60mm power reserve
: 60-hour winding
: Manual
Frequency: 21,600 vph
Gems: 51