The stars have aligned in the horological cosmos. A harmonious blend of Swiss precision and Dutch artistry brings forth the Tourbillon Planetarium Only Watch 2023. It’s not just a watch; it’s an ode to the timeless dance of the celestial bodies. This masterpiece, a brainchild of Frederique Constant and Christiaan van der Klaauw, tells the tale of human craftsmanship and cosmic wonder.
It’s the harmonious fusion of Frederique Constant‘s immaculate tourbillon and Christiaan van der Klaauw‘s famed planetarium, a testament to the brands’ 25-year friendship and unparalleled craftsmanship. Enshrined in a sleek 42mm platinum case, this watch sports the world’s smallest wristwatch planetarium, adding to its allure.
Frederique Constant has been a beacon of luxury Swiss Made watchmaking, boasting three and a half decades of excellence. Founded by the visionary duo Aletta and Peter Stas, the house champions the perfect blend of luxury and affordability. Spearheading this vision was Niels Eggerding, whose rise from Head of Sales to the CEO of Frederique Constant Group illuminated the brand’s global presence.
Then there’s Pim Koeslag, the technical genius, the alchemist who infused life into over 30 Manufacture calibers since 2004. Transitioning to Christiaan van der Klaauw, he carries the torch of horological excellence from Geneva to the Netherlands, reinforcing the bond of time-tested friendship between these two nations.
The common thread connecting these brands is their shared commitment to the Only Watch auction, an initiative that dates back to 2003. Under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, the auction channels its proceeds to the Only Fondation, championing research against muscular dystrophy. A cause Frederique Constant has passionately supported since 2005.
But let’s delve into the marvel that is the Tourbillon Planetarium Only Watch 2023.
This exceptional piece isn’t just a watch; it’s a symphony of firsts. Its aventurine dial reflects the cosmos, housing both Frederique Constant’s Manufacture Tourbillon and Christiaan van der Klaauw’s iconic planetarium. This is the first time a watch from either brand showcased these features in such a harmonious blend. In total, the timepiece boasts five unparalleled firsts. And here’s the clincher – only one of these masterpieces will ever see the light of day.
Christiaan van der Klaauw’s planetarium, taking pride of place at 12 o’clock, has a legacy stretching back to 1982. As pioneers in astronomical timepieces, this brand’s intricate heliocentric system showcases six moving discs, representing planets that orbit the sun in real-time. To animate this cosmic ballet, a mechanism with 700 hand-milled teeth was crafted in Dutch workshops. It’s not just about precision; it’s about capturing the ethereal essence of the cosmos.
Frederique Constant’s contribution is equally majestic. The Manufacture Tourbillon, nestled at 6 o’clock, showcases the brand’s unparalleled craftsmanship. Weeks of dedication, with artisans employing traditional tools, culminate in this exceptional timepiece. From hand-polishing screws that shimmer differently under varying light to intricate hand engraving, the attention to detail is awe-inspiring.
Completing the dial, two symmetrical counters grace either side. While the left hosts the day/month pair, the right shines with the emblems of Frederique Constant and Christiaan van der Klaauw, enveloped by the inscription “Only Watch Pièce Unique.” The bond of collaboration resonates with the statement “Frederique Constant X Christiaan van der Klaauw.”
Click on this link to read this article in French version
