The new limited series BALL for BMW TMT is equipped with the automatic caliber BALL 9018 and includes a mechanical thermometer module.
This is not the first time BALL has incorporated a mechanical thermometer into one of its watches. The world’s first mechanical thermometer module (“TMT”) was developed and patented by BALL, and is able to measure the outside temperature between -40°C and 50°C / -40°F and 122°F with an accuracy of 97%; the thermometer readings are given in the half-moon shaped window at six o’clock on the dial.
The most difficult technical challenge BALL technicians faced when working on the mechanical thermometer watch project was limiting the height of the entire movement module to within 5.1mm. This design obstacle involved delicately fitting the bi-metallic spring within the height of the milling of the main plate and bridge. BALL invented a unique system of fine regulation that does not block the bi-metallic blade and filed a patent for the fine regulating screw.
The patented screw regulator system is the crucial part in achieving high accuracy in temperature measurement. It stabilizes the position of the bi-metallic coil but allows it to adjust with changes in temperature.
Along with these modifications, BALL also had to protect the movement against shocks. Chronometer certified, the movement is protected with the patented anti-shock concept: Amortiser® that absorbs lateral impacts and so protects the mechanical movement whenever it is on the wrist.
Designed by Magali Métrailler, probably one of the most renowned Swiss watchmaking designers - the BALL for BMW TMT is crafted from stainless steel and sapphire, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic case of 44mm.
Each detail has been the focus of particular attention and the decorative components based on the famous German car brand. The black dial of the TMT is adorned with a grille-type motif and the diamond-cut metal indexes have been precisely made to house 3H Technology. Swiss micro-tubes of 3H gas, requiring no external source of light or energy and 100 times more effective than conventional luminescent paint, ensure perfect legibility in the dark. A hint of Inka orange, BMW’s iconic color, has been added to the second and thermometer hands.
An anti-reflective sapphire crystal shields the dial. The case back is also protected by a sapphire crystal fixed with screws.
The black color of the BALL for BMW TMT case is not simply a matter of style. The Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) of the case provides several benefits. Metals coated with DLC exhibit impressive hardness, low friction, high resistance to wear, and even electrical insulation. Research shows that DLC dramatically improves the performance and life of any material.
The BALL for BMW TMT has been produced in a limited edition of 1,000 pieces and is secured to the wrist on a sporty black rubberized leather strap with pin buckle.
