« Le Duel Perpetuel Tourbillon » from L'Epée
The 2 cross swords are the signature and emblem of the l'Epée brand. Therefore in Le Duel collection, the presented complications are resolved at the tip of the sword.
In fencing, the symbolism of swords that cross is highlighted by the "En garde” high position at the beginning of the fight and the “Surrender” bottom position at the end of the duel.
The power-reserve indicator
The Power-Reserve Indicator can be seen below 6 o'clock. It is at its peak when the two swords cross to form the logo of the brand. When they separate, the angle between the swords opens gradually and after 40 days of autonomy, it is time to surrender ! The logo has been reversed and the 2 swords are pointing down.
The Double Retrograde Second
At 12 o'clock is the animation of the Double Retrograde Second. The 2 swords keep pace with the seconds: they cross swords and depart over a period of 20 seconds to bounce back to the "En garde" position.
The Perpetual Calendar
The in line Perpetual Calendar indicates the Day, Date, Month and Year. The display of the calendar is done through jumping discs.
The energy is accumulated by a mechanical system throughout the day and then this energy is released at midnight allowing discs to jump from one indication to another instantly. When the clock is stopped for some reason, setting the calendar is done at the same time as the time setting. The calendar is therefore leaping forward.
If it is necessary to go back, there is no need to stop the clock. The adjustment in reverse is possible and the discs are sliding backwards. The system Day, Date, Month and Year does not get out of sync even when going into reverse from January 1 to December 31 or in leap years. This is particularly rare and unusual for this type of complication.
Tourbillon
In addition to these three complications, this timepiece is also equipped with a tourbillon escapement. The balance and the escapement are mounted in a small mobile cage which revolves once a minute and by doing so, compensates for rate errors. The spectacular "two swords" bridge reminds us of the great history of L'Epée.
That masterpiece with its limited edition of 88 numbered pieces, is the living proof that l'Epée has been pursuing since 1839 its long tradition of horological innovations.
The prestigious brand l'Epée is part of the Swiza SA Manufacture that produces and distributes also the clocks' brands Matthew Norman and Swiza.
Technical Data – « Le Duel Perpetuel Tourbillon »
* Reference : 50.6593/201
* Movement: Exclusive mechanical movement with 40 days power reserve, 70-jewel, Swiss Made
* Tourbillon device: Visible at the top of the clock under a “two swords” bridge
* Caliber : 2010T
* Functions: Hour- Minutes, Double Retrograde Second, Power-Reserve Indicator, Perpetual Calendar and Tourbillon
* Decoration : « Côtes de Genève » decor
* Cabinet : Aluminium base with a « soft touch » black varnish, mineral glass cap with metal frame
* Rewinding : Manual with a modern design key
* Dimensions : 220 x 276 x 110 mm- 8 5/8” x 10 7/8” x 4 3/8”
* Edition : Limited Edition of 88 numbered pieces
* Public price : 125 000 Swiss Francs
