Baselworld 2012: Wow! This watch must be something to look on the display at Basel. Just do not stare at it for too long in the sunlight. Seriously, though, it is marvelous!
For this unique piece, it was clear the intention was not to define this creation as a watch or jewellery. Rather, we chose to combine the two skills on which we have built our reputation.
The breathtaking gem-setting work is a masterful demonstration of jewellery-making skills, while the L.U.C 02-14-L movement – entirely designed, developed and crafted by hand – is equipped with a tourbillon, one of the finest complications of watchmaking. The overall result is a blend of Haute Joaillerie and Haute Horlogerie that truly sets a new standard for complicated feminine watches.
Bearing the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, the chronometer-certified tourbillon calibre of the IMPERIALE Tourbillon Full Set is housed within an 18-carat case and dial entirely set with diamonds and demonstrating almost the entire range of our artisans’ commanding gem-setting techniques.
The snow setting technique requires combining in the center dial brilliant-cut diamonds of a variety of diameters. In addition, the crown is adorned with baguette- and briolette-cut diamonds and a power-reserve indicator set an amethysts array, while oval-cut cabochons and baguette-cut diamonds grace the bezel, lugs and bracelet.
Finally, at 6 o’clock, surrounded by amethysts set amid white lights, the tourbillon bridge reflects the distinctive motif of the IMPERIALE collection and is held in place by four amethyst-set screws.
The hand-wound L.U.C 02.14-L calibre is equipped with four stacked and series-coupled barrels. This patented Quattro® technology ensures over nine 9 days of operating autonomy as well as a constant regularity of rate. In addition, this unique model meets all the standards required to earn the chronometer certificate awarded by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
