A peek inside mechanisms

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A peek inside mechanisms - Skeleton watches
2 minutes read
There are the discreet watches that reveal nothing of the fabulous mechanical wealth inside; and then there are the exhibitions prepared to open their heart to anyone who takes an interest.
Above and beyond the aesthetic edge that openworking (aka skeleton-working) brings to timepieces, it also provides a perfect field for the kind of technical experimentation on which watchmakers thrive.
Removing material to the point of retaining only absolute essentials; engraving metal to reveal its finesse, unveiling the mechanical mysteries of a timepiece… Openworking is an art that only the finest artisans can claim to master. This delicate and authentic skill results in beautifully sculpted masterpieces striking the difficult yet perfect balance between absolute strength and extreme vulnerability. 
 
Armin Strom - Blue Chip Skeleton Automatic
 
This model pays tribute to transparency and to the art of fine engraving by revealing the secrets of its mechanical heart through a beautifully refined aesthetic. The entirely hand-engraved and openworked self-winding movement powering the three hands stages a magnificent show framed by an elegantly understated 46.5 mm-diameter steel case. The epitome of tradition revisited with a blend of respect and expertise.


Armin Strom - Blue Chip Skeleton Automatic

Why we like it: whether admired from the dial side or through its sapphire case-back, the Blue Chip Automatic will impress any observer with the incredible quality of its finishing. One cannot fail to be dazzled by the virtuoso dexterity shown by the engraver.

Cvstos – Jet Liner


Lightness is the ultimate goal with this timepiece enabling Cvstos to rise to the challenge of paring matter down to the absolute minimum. To achieve this, the movement has been entirely laser-openworked – the ultimate technology in the field of cutting. Sixty parts of the movement had to be redesigned for this purpose. With the same objective in mind, the tonneau-shaped Challenge case has been entirely redesigned and hollowed out – a true master stroke in that this meticulous work in no way undermines the sporting nature of the watch.

Cvstos – Jet Liner

Why we like it: Because openworking provides a guarantee of peerless comfort on the wrist by combining elegance, transparency and lightness in a model that is equally suited to daily wear as to special occasions.


L. Leroy – Osmior Skeleton Tourbillon Regulator "Grandes Heures Scientifiques"


Neoclassical style and mechanical performance meet and mingle in this exceptional model that gives pride of place to the principle of finesse. As if suspended within the pink gold case, the tourbillon placed in an original spot at 12 o’clock is given a contemporary interpretation, since L. Leroy has fitted it with a full-diamond escapement (lever and wheel) that makes the entire mechanism both lighter and harder.

L. Leroy – Osmior Tourbillon Régulateur Automatique Squelette

Why we like it: for the aesthetic sophistication of the highly original dial. As if peering through a moucharaby wooden lattice, the gaze plunges into the meandering intricacies of the mechanism through slender gold cut-out shapes adorning this model that is masterpiece in every sense of the term.

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