As far as complications go, the tourbillon is one that often sits high up on any collector’s list. And for good reason. Its story is deeply entrenched within the history of watchmaking and more importantly it is fantastically theatrical to look at. In 2021, Franck Muller decided that it was time to let the tourbillon shine, putting it right smack in the centre of a brand new Curvex CX case making it the first ever central tourbillon in a tonneau shape.
On paper, it sounds like a simple thing to do: moving the tourbillon which is normally found at the 6 o’clock position to the centre of the dial. But, in reality, it took them over a year of research and development to finally be able to displace what was originally in the middle of a movement without disrupting the watch’s ability to indicate time.
When it was first launched, the Grand Central Tourbillon was designed with traditional aesthetics that included a beautiful guilloche dial. For their latest update to this collection, however, the new Grand Central Tourbillon Flash explores a more edgy and vibrant perspective by taking on an aesthetic that seems light-years ahead of its predecessor.
In keeping with the aesthetics of the watch, the movement is housed in a futuristic carbon case, with a bezel of blackened titanium while the 36mm case size makes it extremely wearable regardless of gender. The micro-blasted matte black dial of the watch is nicely contrasted by bright, neon indices in a choice of blazing orange, neon green or electric blue. This pop of colour also extends to the cage of the 60-second central tourbillon so as the minute ticks by, the striking neon arrow orbits around the centre, almost like the nucleus of an electron.
The extra curved profile of the new Curvex CX case draws further attention to the central tourbillon by affording greater visibility to the complication and the surrounding indices which are also elevated above the dial. Compounding this effect is the curved sapphire crystal which extends all the way to the lugs and was only possible after perfecting a special technique of fixing the glass at 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock.
The calibre MVT FM CX 36T-CTR movement powering the watch offers a sunray-brushed micro-rotor and a 4-day power reserve. The watch will be paired with a nylon strap that has a calf leather underside.
The Franck Muller Grand Central Tourbillon Flash is priced at MYR MYR 572,900.
