Since 1988, in the Vallée de Joux in L’Abbaye, the independent brand has forged its identity through original production, characterized by airy compositions born of highly specialized expertise: the art of skeletonization. Born at the heart of the historic cradle of Swiss watchmaking, the Tortue Lady thus embodies an elegant and distinctive vision—Claude Meylan’s own.
To fully grasp the current women’s watch collection, one must nevertheless trace the course of history. In the 18th century, Samuel Olivier and Abraham-Samuel Meylan trained in watchmaking. The former devoted himself to creating pocket watches equipped with musical box mechanisms. This passion was passed down from generation to generation, all the way to Claude Meylan, a graduate watchmaker and repairer.
From form arises a project. From its very first creations, the Maison has sought to reveal the beauty of mechanical structures. The absence of a dial highlights the full delicacy of the calibre, transforming the object into a true kinetic sculpture. The tonneau-shaped cases—rare in a global production dominated by round forms—fully contribute to these pared-down, airy compositions.
Their curved silhouette adds further depth to the transparency and invites rays of light to caress every component, every finish. Tortue Lady is part of this philosophy, conceived to magnify the architecture of the movement within a feminine universe.
Within this approach, openworked bridges, carefully chamfered gear trains, and polished or sandblasted surfaces compose a watchmaking landscape in perpetual transformation. Claude Meylan turns the calibre into a true stage set, revealing the intimate pulse of the mechanics, punctuated by the rhythm of the escapement. This desire to make time visible, rather than merely readable, is one of the pillars of the Maison’s identity.
A true heir to this spirit, Tortue Lady offers a softer interpretation, designed for the feminine wrist without ever compromising technical rigor. At its heart beats a skeletonized and engraved automatic movement, conceived as a miniature work of art.
Three distinctive hallmarks
A case refined by nature
With its sensual, well-balanced curves, the tortue shape has enabled Claude Meylan to assert an immediately recognizable identity. First explored in a masculine expression, it is presented here in a version designed for feminine wrists seeking elegance and character. The entire collection is distinguished by a 31 mm case with an 11 mm thickness, crafted in 316L stainless steel.
More than a calibre
A true centerpiece, the automatic movement beats at 28,000 vibrations per hour. Its ball-bearing winding system ensures optimal efficiency and exceptional smoothness in use. Inspired by the regulating organs of the ETA 2671, it retains their reliability while asserting a distinctive aesthetic of its own. It precisely governs the motion of the hour, minute, and seconds hands, offering a power reserve of 38 hours. The decorations, specific to each iteration, complete the ensemble and reinforce the identity of each model.
In Praise of emptiness
The absence of a dial frees the mechanics and transforms the reading of time into a singular, harmonious visual experience. This choice brings the movement’s components into the spotlight, revealing the gear train in motion. The finishes are fully expressed, enhanced by rare depth and lightness. This transparency further strengthens the link between aesthetics and technical mastery, affirming the contemporary and bold character of Tortue Lady.
Tortue Lady thus perpetuates this family tradition of gentle innovation, where artisanal craftsmanship enters into dialogue with a keen sense of mechanical poetry. It bears witness to a singular way of inhabiting time.
One watch, multiple expressions
Reference 6080-DIA
This version is distinguished by a diamond-set rotor totaling 0.30 carats. A blue floral motif, painted on the hour ring and the bridge—both white with softened lines—lends the ensemble a precious and unexpected elegance. A demonstration of creative freedom, where every detail contributes to harmony.
Reference 6080-NDN
Decidedly graphic, this variation plays with a checkerboard motif adorning the hour ring, the bridge, and the oscillating weight. Red and white Roman numerals, paired with a black PVD coating, assert a contemporary, almost architectural aesthetic.
Reference 6080-PNB
Marked by great femininity, this interpretation features a rose gold PVD case. White mother-of-pearl, used on the hour ring, the bridge, and the oscillating weight, brings a luminous softness to the whole. An immaculate technological satin strap completes this composition with refined elegance.
To learn more and discover the world of Tortue Lady, click here.
