zelin0802 / November 4, 2024

Greubel Forsey Nano-Foudroyante EWT watch is here, a small watch with a big idea

Greubel Forsey’s latest watch combines a completely new type of foudroyante with GF’s first flying tourbillon, housed in a case that is classically styled and sized.

Greubel Forsey replica has been renowned for many reasons since the brand was founded in 2004, including the extremely meticulous hand-finishing of its movements, the delicate and almost microscopic construction of those movements, and perhaps most importantly the seemingly inexhaustible creativity that founders Stephen Forsey and Robert Greubel have brought to the creation of complications. The company has created many highly complicated watches, but is best known for its tourbillons, which over the years have included multi-axis, double and quadruple tourbillons, and high-speed tourbillons. In recent years, GF has also experimented with less complex but equally well-made watches in the Balancier collection, but lest it appear that GF is no longer in the supertourbillon business, they introduced the Tourbillon Cardan in 2023, which embeds a tilted tourbillon within a double-ring oscillating system. Today, GF announced the launch of its latest EWT, or “Experimental Watch Technology” invention, released in limited quantities – the Nano Foudroyante EWT – to celebrate the brand’s 20th anniversary since its founding in 2004.

The nomenclature of Greubel Forsey inventions is a little confusing; the company announced this as its 10th foundational invention, though it announced an earlier version of the Nano Foudroyante in 2017 as its third EWT invention, distinct from its other “foundational inventions” – the other two EWT inventions at the time were the Synthetic Diamond Binomial Escapement in 2009 and the Différentiel d’Egalité (Spherical Differential Constant Force Device, patented in 2006), the latter of which went into production watches in 2018; I don’t think the Diamond Binomial Escapement was actually ever produced. The original version of the Nano-Foudroyante was really more of a technology demonstrator, though, as you’d expect, it was pretty impressive.

The lightning-seconds hand (sometimes called the diablotine or “little devil”) rotates once per second, usually jumping in a different pattern corresponding to each unlocking of the escape wheel. Since the lightning-seconds hand is usually driven by a wheel mounted on the escape wheel axle, whatever gearing is used must be as light and low-inertia as possible so that the escapement can lock and unlock properly. (A more complex example of a lightning-seconds hand is the Centigraphe by FP Journe, which adds complexity by engaging and disengaging the lightning-seconds hand as the chronograph is turned on and off, incorporating a reset mechanism and a method of braking the lightning-seconds hand between jumps). Bugatti Chiron replica watches

The 2017 prototype introduced a new approach, using a tiny gear on the escape wheel axle that is actually much smaller in diameter than the escape wheel itself. This LIGA-made gear drives the crown wheel (also very small) on the tourbillon hand axle, and since this axle rotates at right angles to the plane of rotation of the go-wheel train, the actual tourbillon hand and dial are built into the watch’s caseband.

This time, however, GF has opted for something more complicated, but also more practical and creative.

If you are familiar with Greubel Forsey, the first thing you will notice and be surprised by is the size of the watch. Usually, GF watches are large, partly for practical reasons and partly for aesthetic reasons; for example, the Quadruple Tilted Tourbillon has many advantages, but it probably won’t prompt anyone to write or say “surprisingly wearable” (for example, the Quadruple Tourbillon GMT measures 46.5mm x 17,45mm, although in addition to the two double tourbillons, it also has a rotating miniature globe). On the other hand, the Nano Foudroyante measures only 37.9mm x 10.49mm in a white gold (case center) and tantalum (bezel, caseback) case, which is smaller than some fake Grand Seiko time and date watches.

The second thing you will notice are the two pushers at 2:00 and 3:00 on the side of the case. The watch is a column-wheel-controlled flyback chronograph with a central chronograph seconds hand and a 60-minute counter at 9:00. The running seconds hand is visible at 8:30 on the dial. So far, so good, and relatively conventional too, save for the slightly unusual sub-dial layout and the use of a mix of white gold and tantalum.

The main attraction, however, is the tourbillon, which is positioned slightly asymmetrically and visible through an aperture between 4:00 and 7:00. This is a first for GF in several ways. Arguably the first first is that this is a flying tourbillon, and despite GF having created so many tourbillon variations, it has never done a traditional flying tourbillon before (the closest thing is probably a gimbal, although technically the upper bridge is actually part of the innermost rotating ring). But what really catches your eye is the foudroyante dial that sits on top of the tourbillon.

The basics are the same as the non-tourbillon 2017 version, but obviously the earlier model did not have the foudroyante hand and dial on the tourbillon itself. Since the escape wheel is on the tourbillon cage (as all tourbillons are), in principle it’s just a matter of figuring out how to move the foudroyante hand off the escape wheel, but – and this is a big but – there’s little room for the drive gears unless you can scale them down small enough to make the whole thing possible. Tourbillons with foudroyante have been made before, but never on the tourbillon itself. The foudroyante dial is a satellite – that is, it’s geared so that its vertical axis never changes; the 6 is always at the top of the dial, no matter where the one-minute flying tourbillon is in its orbit. Those interested in balance will notice that the weights on the tourbillon cage are quite asymmetrical, due to the foudroyante mechanism; GF compensates for this with a platinum counterweight (hidden on the bottom of the cage). luxury cheap Watches

The actual nano-drive system is in a housing beneath the tourbillon dial – I presume it’s directly above the escape wheel – while the satellite gears needed to keep the system’s vertical axis upright appear to be located below the “GF” on the central axis of the tourbillon itself. The energy required to drive the tourbillon is very small – and I quote GF: “Compared to a conventional tourbillon that consumes 30μJ (microjoules) per jump, the nanotourbillon consumes only 16nJ (nanojoules) per jump, reducing energy consumption by a factor of 1,800. As a result, the device is 90% smaller.” (A joule is an SI unit roughly equivalent to the energy required to lift a medium-sized tomato one meter off the ground. If you’re a Newton fan, use an apple). The 2017 system consumed a bit less energy – GF told us at the time that it consumed 5 nanojoules per jump – but this is still in the order of 16nJ, and is very reasonable given the adaptability of the drive system to the tourbillon.

If you want to quibble about terminology, “nanotechnology” usually refers to mechanisms on a scale of 1 to 100 nanometers (billionths of a meter), that is, the size of individual atoms and molecules, but I think we can forgive GF a little exaggeration on this point. By comparison, 160 nanojoules is the energy of a flying mosquito. It’s fascinating watchmaking, and it’s fascinating engineering.

Of course, there’s more to the story than nanojoule engineering. First, if you’re interested in this watch (and I hope you are by now) and in GF in general, you’d hope that they didn’t give up anything in terms of movement finishing, and that seems to be the case.

The movement is extremely compact; just 31mm in diameter (if that number makes your eyes light up, there’s a reason, it’s the smallest movement GF has ever made). The movement has a uniform upper bridge (GF hasn’t provided a caliber name yet, but there’s absolutely no reason to think you wouldn’t recognize this movement immediately), and as far as I can tell, there’s not a single internal corner that isn’t as sharp as a sashimi knife, which is nice. GF has a habit of engraving text on the dials and movements of some of its watches that expresses its design philosophy, and here we see a bit of that, but in keeping with GF’s 37mm high quality cheap watches, the scale is modest and understated, only on the central chronograph seconds wheel.

If you want to know how much effort any brand or watchmaker puts into perfecting its movement, two good places to look are the stabilizing pins and screws; the stabilizing pins visible on the movement are domed and black/mirror polished; the screws have beveled slots and heads, and every visible surface (including the slot, the slot bevel, and the bottom of the slot itself) is black polished. And of course, the beveled countersunk holes.

Greubel Forsey is one of three contemporary independent watch brands that I wish I had collected from the beginning – the other two are MING and MB&F, and all three have some personal reasons (I say that, but when it comes to watches, I guess all reasons are personal). One of the most memorable moments I’ve had as a journalist and collector was sitting next to Stephen Forsey at a dinner in New York in the early 2000s, just as the brand was launching in the US, and I listened to him speak for an hour about the theory and practice of the tourbillon and the principles of the multi-axis tourbillon, and I remember at the end, when I asked him if all these complications really offered any real chronometric advantage, he said: “It’s always a struggle to gain more than you lose.” It’s great to see that GF is still pushing the boundaries of mechanical timepieces, and surprisingly, they’re doing so in a 37.9mm watch; putting the Nano Foudroyante in a large case would defeat the purpose of the whole exercise.

I hope to see it one day – limited to 11 pieces, price on request. I don’t quite like the odds, but as a decades-long watch enthusiast, I don’t ask why, but why not? I’m glad it exists.

Greubel Forsey Nano Foudroyante EWT: Case, 37.9mm x 10.49mm, white gold case, tantalum bezel and caseback; water-resistant to 30m. Rhodium-plated gold dial, engraved and black lacquered hour-markers and tourbillon minute ring opening; gold small seconds and chronograph minute counter. Movement, Nano Foudroyante mounted on a one-minute flying tourbillon, monopusher flyback chronograph; manual winding at 3Hz, power reserve 24 hours with chronograph on. White gold pin buckle, hand-engraved GF logo.

zelin0802 / May 23, 2024

How the Rolex Milgauss ticks all the boxes

Ever wonder why the Rolex Milgauss has a cult following among watch enthusiasts and collectors? That’s because this watch is no ordinary luxury replica watch. With its unique functionality, scientific roots and rich history, the Rolex Milgauss meets all the needs of those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Rolex Milgauss: A watch with a story
Every Rolex watch has a story, and the Milgauss is no exception. When first released in 1956, it was one of the few watches capable of withstanding magnetic fields of up to 1,000 Gauss. This was a major breakthrough at the time, especially for professionals working in fields where magnetic field interference could affect watch performance.

Although initially overlooked, the Rolex Milgauss has become a symbol of Rolex’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations. Its story reminds us that sometimes, true genius takes time to be recognized and appreciated.

What’s so special about the Rolex Milgauss?
The Rolex Milgauss is a timepiece that combines functionality with style, making it a unique standout in the world of replica luxury watches. Rooted in scientific precision and designed with attention to detail, this watch is truly something special. Here’s why:

  1. Antimagnetic performance
    The Rolex Milgauss is designed to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 Gauss. This feature was developed specifically for professionals working in high electromagnetic field environments, such as power plants, research laboratories and medical facilities, where watch mechanisms may be subject to interference. The name “Milgauss” itself is a nod to this feature, combining “mille” (Latin for “thousand”) and “gauss” (a unit of measurement for magnetic fields).
  2. Unique design
    In addition to its anti-magnetic properties, the Rolex Milgauss watch also has a unique design. It features a lightning seconds hand, a playful touch that sets it apart from other Rolex models and pays homage to its scientific origins.
  3. Comfort and style
    There’s more to Milgauss than meets the eye. It also provides a comfortable fit. With its 40mm Oystersteel case and smooth bezel, the watch feels good on your wrist without compromising on style. The black or white dial features luminous hour markers to ensure readability, while a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial.
  4. Complex technology
    The elegant appearance of the Rolex Milgauss hides complex technology. It is powered by Rolex’s proprietary Caliber 3131 self-winding mechanical movement. The 3131 movement includes features such as a perpetual rotor for self-winding and a Parachrom hairspring for increased precision.
  5. Magnetic shielding
    What’s truly unique about the Milgauss is its magnetic shielding. Made of a ferromagnetic alloy, this shield protects the movement from magnetic interference, allowing the watch to maintain accuracy even in high electromagnetic field environments.
  6. Fashion statement
    The Rolex Milgauss is also a fashion statement. With its clean lines, distinctive lightning seconds hand, and vibrant Z blue dial, the Milgauss is a standout in any high quality watches replica collection. Its subtle elegance makes it suitable for formal occasions, while its unique design elements add a whimsical feel that can spice up casual looks.

If you are a scientist studying electromagnetic fields, a watch collector looking for a unique piece for your collection, or simply an individual who appreciates the finer things in life, a Rolex Milgauss watch will satisfy all your needs.

Is the Rolex Milgauss rare?
The Rolex Milgauss may not be as ubiquitous as other Rolex models, but it has its own charm that makes it highly sought after. Although the Milgauss was first launched in 1956 as a tool watch for the scientific community, it was not an immediate hit due to its niche target market and unique design elements.

It wasn’t until the 2000s, when Rolex reintroduced the Milgauss, that the model began to gain recognition. Today, Milgauss are considered collectibles, especially early models and those with rare “Z-Blue” dials.

Why did Rolex discontinue the Milgauss?
Milgauss production ceased in the 1980s, mainly due to low initial demand. This watch was ahead of its time and many people didn’t understand or appreciate its unique features. However, its discontinuation only adds to its appeal.

When Rolex reintroduced the Milgauss in 2007, it generated a lot of attention. Newer models retain the unique features of the original models while incorporating modern enhancements such as improved movement and better magnetic resistance. Despite being discontinued long ago, the Milgauss continues to prove Rolex’s ability to blend function and form in luxury timepieces. high quality replica watches

collector’s dream
For watch collectors, the Rolex Milgauss is a dream addition to their collection. Its rich history, unique design elements and technical excellence make it a conversation starter. Early models, especially those from the 1950s and 1960s, are highly sought after for their rarity and vintage appeal. Meanwhile, newer models are admired for their modern interpretations of classics, with updated features and bold colors.

The Rolex Milgauss is truly a piece of history. From its birth in the science laboratory in the 1950s to its resurgence in the 21st century, Milgauss carries a story of resilience, innovation and timeless elegance. This is a timepiece that continues to inspire and fascinate, proving that true quality stands the test of time.

At first glance, the Rolex Milgauss looks like just a watch; But look closer and it’s a work of art, a scientific marvel and a piece of history. This is a watch that meets all the needs of best replica watch lovers and collectors. Its unique features coupled with a rich backstory make it a standout in the Rolex collection.

zelin0802 / February 28, 2024

Jacob & Co. launches Mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon watch

Jacob & Co. launches Mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon watch

For seven years, Jacob & Co. has continuously launched dragon-themed watches. 2024 is the Year of the Dragon in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, and on this occasion, Jacob & Co. has created a unique new piece that demonstrates its attachment to this magnificent creature. This new work called “Mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon” is majestic, exquisite in craftsmanship, extraordinary and unique.

2024 is the Year of the Dragon, and Jacob & Co. celebrates this year by launching a new series of watches designed with this theme. For many people, celebrating the Chinese New Year is important. For Jacob & Co, it was an opportunity to show more creativity. This is an opportunity to push the limits of themes that the brand constantly pursues, especially today through the mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon. best replica watch site

eternal hunt
The Mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon watch perfectly combines advanced watchmaking technology with artistic masters. Featuring a unique movement, this unique piece is the only flying tourbillon with a central, bi- and triple-axes side by side and contains two miniature dragon sculptures. Entirely hand-painted, these rose gold dragons surround the large tourbillon sphere and surround each other. Both fly among stylized clouds, their heads forever chasing pearls of wisdom. Both pearls consist of a pair of significant white diamonds with 288 facets Jacob’s cut. One acts as an hour hand and the other acts as a minute hand. The rose gold case with a diameter of 50 mm is invisiblely set with 192 white diamonds (12 carats).

craft biology

Jacob & Co. presents a collection dedicated to unique creations that incorporate these dragons that demonstrate craftsmanship. Over the past seven years, Jacob & Co. have created over 41 dragon-themed works in the Astronomia Art Collection. Each piece is unique, well made and exceptionally refined. Prices start at $3,500,000, with some reaching seven figures. The Astronomia’s case is made from rose gold micro-sculptures that are polished and painted by hand. Through the sapphire crystal, the dragon’s body intertwines with the watch movement, allowing you to admire the entire spectacle. All of these pieces, such as Astronomia Art White Dragon, Astronomia Art Red Dragon Baguette or Astronomia Art Black Dragon, have a strong focus on uniqueness. The combination of fine watchmaking, fine craftsmanship, fine jewelry and the most mysterious of creatures puts the Astronomia Dragon collection into a unique category, defining Jacob & Co. as the “House of the Dragon.” replica watches for sale

Mysterious Tourbillon Double Dragon
move :

Caliber: JCAM32

Winding: Manual

Dimensions: 42.80 mm

Height: 15mm

Components: 430

Power reserve: 60 hours

Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)

Function:

Mysterious hour and minute chimes

Central tourbillon, steering wheel, dual and triple axis with differential

First axis: 60 seconds rotation

Second axis: 120 seconds rotation

Third axis: 120 seconds rotation

housing:

Dimensions: 50mm

Height: 25mm

Material: 18k rose gold

Mirror: Hyperboloid anti-reflective sapphire crystal

Case back: 18 carat rose gold

Water resistance: 30 m (3 atm)

crimping:

Case: Invisibly set with 192 baguette- and hexagon-cut white diamonds (12.41 carats)

Index: 12 baguette-cut white diamonds (1.49 ct)

dial:

Dial: 2 rotating rings decorated with 2 hand-painted rose gold dragon sculptures

Hands: 2 white diamonds, 288 facets, Jacob’s cut

Bracelet and buckle:

Strap: red crocodile leather

Clasp: 18K rose gold folding clasp

zelin0802 / September 7, 2022

Zenith Pilot: Our Top 7 Adventurers Picks

Founded by George Favre-Jacot in Le Locle, Switzerland in 1865, Zenith combines a rich watchmaking tradition with avant-garde innovation.

One of Zenith’s most iconic watches is the Zenith Aviator, introduced in 1909. In fact, when the famous French aviator Louis Bleriot became the first person to fly across the English Channel, he wore a Zenith pilot’s watch. This marks Zenith’s long and rich history as one of the best pilot watch manufacturers in the world.

The first Zenith Pilot cheap watch owned by Blériot had a chrome case. It features a black enamel dial with large Arabic numerals and fixed lugs.

Today, Zenith continues to offer a range of pilot watches for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re flying through the air or racing on land, the Zenith Pilot watch has everything the avid adventurer needs in a watch.

Here are seven of the most coveted, rugged Zenith pilot watches on the market today.

Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special
The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is Zenith’s ode to retro aviation. Its 45mm silver case features a metal welded style dial with a “bolt” design. Other features include white hour, minute and second luminous hands. Meanwhile, the Arabic numeral markers appear large and proud on the silver dial.

This watch is powered by the Zenith Elite 679 self-winding movement with a power reserve of 50 hours. Its onion-shaped silver crown complements the silver case, and the brown calfskin strap with sterling silver clasp adds brilliance to its opulent design.

Zenith Pilot 20 Chronograph Special Edition
The Zenith Pilot 20 Chronograph Extra Special is 45mm in diameter and features a bronze case, matte black dial and green leather strap. Built for adventurers, this rugged and handsome watch is the epitome of the spirit of the outdoors.

The watch is powered by the El Primero 4069 automatic movement with a 50-hour power reserve and chronograph. Two subdials show the 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and the small seconds at 9 o’clock. Large hour, minute and second hands as well as Arabic numeral markers are perfectly integrated with the sub-dial.

Water resistant to 100 meters, this watch is perfect for weekend adventures. So you can indulge in white water rafting or hiking in the woods!

Zenith Pilot Cronometro CP-2 Flyback Bronze
Equipped with a flyback chronograph function, the Zenith Pilot Cronometro CP-2 Flyback features a 43mm bronze case and brown oily nubuck leather strap, making every inch a gentleman’s watch. The slate brown-green grained dial displays the sub-dial for the chronograph functions. Other than that, the bronze crown and pushers match perfectly with the bezel and case.

The powerful Zenith El Primero 405B movement beats at the heart of this watch, giving the chronograph a 50-hour power reserve. This watch is water resistant up to 100 meters and is very safe while jet skiing or water skiing.

Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Chronograph Bronze
With a 45mm bronze case and blue oily nubuck leather strap, the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special Chronograph will amaze you at first glance. Take a closer look and prefer its mechanics.

This watch is equipped with the El Primero 4069 automatic movement with a chronograph function and a 50-hour power reserve. It also features SuperLuminova hands and indexes and 100-meter water resistance. Featuring two chronograph sub-dials and large Arabic numerals, the matte blue dial complements the blue leather strap perfectly.

Zenith Pilot Model 20 Ultra Special Aged Stainless Steel
Taking inspiration from the iconic Zenith Aviation watch, this Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special charm features a 40mm aged stainless steel case. Its SuperLuminova Arabic numerals and hands are clearly visible on the slate grey grained dial.

The Zenith Elite Calibre 679 automatic movement drives this sports watch with a power reserve of 50 hours. Its mustard oily nubuck leather strap also complements the vintage case and bezel. Give it a try while you’re doing your favorite water sports. After all, it’s water resistant to 100 meters.

Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback Aged Stainless Steel
The Zenith Pilot Cronometro Tipo CP-2 Flyback watch is dignified in an all-black design with a 43mm aged stainless steel case, black bezel, slate black grained dial and black oily nubuck leather strap.

The black dial has two subdials with a 30-minute chronograph at 3 o’clock and a small seconds at 9 o’clock. In addition, the Zenith El Primero 405B movement powers this flyback chronograph. What’s more, it has a power reserve of 50 hours and is water resistant up to 100 meters.

Zenith Pilot Cronometro TipoCP-2
The Zenith Pilot Cronometro TipoCP-2 features a 43mm stainless steel case, black dial, black calfskin strap with rubber lining, and a Zenith folding clasp. The black dial includes SuperLuminova hands and Arabic numerals, as well as two subdials for chronograph functions. Additionally, the black bezel complements the dial and strap for a sophisticated all-black set.

At the heart of this copy men watch is the Zenith El Primero 4069 movement, which provides a powerful 50-hour power reserve. An ode to the Zenith Cairelli chronograph, this watch showcases the brand’s expertise in modern technology and retro aesthetics.