For L.Leroy, references to the past are not made for stylistic effect. Named after one of the most prestigious watchmakers in history, they regularly pay tribute to this inspirational figure. This results in watches with an appearance reflecting the classic conventions of various historical eras, along with highly innovative executions. The Art Deco Skeleton Automatic Tourbillon Regulator, the major new model presented by the brand this year, fully obeys these two golden rules.
On the historical side, the Art Deco Skeleton Automatic Tourbillon Regulator explores the first third of the 20th century. In 2013, the inspiration was the 1900s; and in 2014, it has thus moved on to the Art Deco period. The movement is entirely hand-engraved and skeletonised, including the oscillating weight – as too is the dial, which is adorned with a fan-shaped motif picked up on the side of the pink gold case. Its rounded yet rigorous shape perfectly epitomises the spirit of the most geometrical 20th century artistic movement. The concern for details is taken to extremes, right the way through to the delicate graining of the deepest parts of the case middle, a decoration that accentuates the polishing of the upper parts. Eight pink gold watches and the same number in white gold will be produced by the brand, which is entirely Swiss-based now that its Besançon workshops have been relocated to Switzerland.
Calibre LL512 drives a regulator-type display, with offset hours at 6 o’clock and central minutes reminiscent of the large workshop clocks that were used as a reference for the ‘timers’ or rate adjusters. It is also equipped with a one-minute flying tourbillon regulator. The escapement is the main technical focus and the double balance-spring comprises two springs coiled in opposite directions that compensate for their intrinsic centring errors, in addition to the effect of the tourbillon. Its pallet fork and escape wheel are made of synthetic diamond and feature a StruTech structure, a term used to describe a lattice-type construction. This self-lubricating escapement presents both excellent shock resistance and almost unbeatable lightness, thereby guaranteeing high-performance operation. It is certified by the Besançon Observatory, the historical home of L.Leroy.
The self-centering rotation of this skeleton tourbillon is highlighted by the distinctive shape of the mainplate of Calibre LL512. Its upper part is smooth, like a boiled egg with its top cut off. All that remains is to savour the interior, which also happens to be perfectly yellow…
