ReviewDance Of The Double Tourbillion: Louis Moinet Astronef

The term ‘superwatch’ is applicable to mechanical timepieces like the Louis Moinet Astronef; a limited edition of only eight pieces. This superwatch stands out for its a superlight 43.5mm case, multi-level dials, and double tourbillon that is balanced by oscillating weights rotating at 60 seconds in opposite directions. Admire this mechanism come to life under its domed sapphire crystal. 

The Sunken Effect

It took over three years of extensive research to develop this technical marvel. The 0.6mm thick dial is hollowed out by 0.2mm to deepen the focus on the rhodium-coated numerals placed on a contrasting black DLC rack. The contrasting two-tone plate conceals the hand-wound LM 105 calibre that orchestrates the double tourbillon. With a power reserve of 48 hours, the mechanism made up of 471 parts takes a month to assemble.

The Astronef dial features a captivating animation of six distinct elements: two rotating satellite tourbillons around the dial, as well as their two cages and two counterweights

The 18-karat gold counterweights weigh 0.4 grams each balancing out geometrically shaped tourbillon cages that measure 0.25 grams each

Power Of Two

Occurring once every 3 minutes and 20 seconds or 18 times per hour is the captivating animation of six distinct elements—two satellite tourbillons, their two cages and two counterweights. Despite the watch’s complex design, one can tell time from all possible angles. Each tourbillon is independently powered by two mainspring barrels and centred by a differential mechanism to average out their respective rates and increase accuracy of telling time. The 18-karat gold counterweights weigh 0.4 gm each balancing out the 0.25 gm tourbillon cages.

The watch is presented in a specially customisable straw marquetry motif box

The watch is finished with a black alligator strap and a 18-karat rose gold folding clasp

Back And Beyond

The sapphire case mounted on an 18-karat gold frame with open work lugs, a sapphire dome and inner bezel ring, offers clarity in viewing time. The equally arresting back reveals the movement finished with Geneva stripes and openworked barrels. The crown has only one position and cannot be pulled out. But the smart selector on the back of the watch lets you switch between winding and time-setting modes. The Louis Moinet Astronef comes with a black alligator strap and a 18-karat rose gold folding clasp. The watch is offered in a specially customisable straw marquetry motif box.