When Stealth Does Not Go Unnoticed…

At a price likely to be north of $500,000, the new DualTow NightEagle from Christophe Claret is not for the faint of heart – nor the “light of pocket”.   The subtly translucent face of the watch gives the wearer (and curious onlookers) a most exceptional and fascinating look into the exceptional mechanism that is the heart and soul of the watch.  Presented in an all-black version and in black with white accents, its stealth-style shape, angular lugs and tinted sapphire bridges the watch reminds me of the B2 Stealth Bomber.  More pics/video/details about this phenomenal watch after the jump….

Similar to previous DualTow models, the DualTow NightEagle is a single-pusher planetary-gear chronograph with striking mechanism and tourbillon.  The movement is manual winding, with an astonishing 582 parts, 73 jewels and a 50-hour power reserve.  The dimensions of the watch are 42.75mm wide x 48.2mm tall (lugs excluded).  The most fundamental aspect of this watch is the way it keeps time – via a “belt drive” system.  As you can see in the pictures, there are two rubber belts with embossed numbers that run vertically on either side of the case – one tells the hours, the other tells the minutes.

A slight resemblance, perhaps?

The B2 Stealth Bomber

Or perhaps this one?

The F-117 Nighthawk

The DualTow is a gem of horological complexity – launched in 2009 to mark the company’s 20^th anniversary, it captivated watch owners, collectors and enthusiasts around the world with its “drive belts” and powerful combination of aesthetics and technical inventiveness that Mr. Chrisophe Claret has become known for.  Claret’s plan has and remains to to produce in just 68 total DualTow watches over the next few years.  If you would like to get a better understanding of this watch, check out this video:

Did You Know?

For over 20 years, the Manufacture Chrisophe Claret has consistently devised some of the world’s most complicated new calibres.  Few brands admit to outsourcing in creating their most complex models, which explains why, beyond a select circle of connoisseurs, the name of Christophe Claret is little known to the public at large. Nonetheless, from the minute repeater – the first complication developed by this watchmaker – to the orbital tourbillon and the roller-display perpetual calendar, the Manufacture is easily one of the most innovative companies in the watch industry.

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