While Tourbillon watches have existed since the tail-end of the 1700s, it wasn’t until 1920 that watchmaker Alfred Helwig introduced the horological world to the “Flying Tourbillon” — which sported a cantilevered configuration only supported on one side, as opposed to the traditionally balance cock- or bridge-supported movements. With 2020 marking the 100th anniversary of Helwig’s groundbreaking movement, elite German watch brand, Glashütte has opted to celebrate the Polish-born horologist’s illustrious achievement via the release of an ultra-exclusive, limited-edition Tourbillon.
Limited to only 25 units worldwide, the Glashütte Alfred Helwig Tourbillon 1920 is built around an elegant 40mm solid rosegold case that’s paired with an equally-upscale Louisiana alligator leather strap with a matching rosegold pin-buckle, and matching knurled rosegold crown. The dial is comprised of a silver-plated-by-friction face with a railroad chapter ring and rosegold appliques. At the heart of the watch is Glashütte’s Calibre 54-01 movement, which boasts a 100-hour power reserve, a 3Hz frequency, 20 jewels, and a pair of diamonds. Every detail on this world-class timepiece is exquisitely detailed, with hand-polished screws and hardware on the outside, and blue polished screws and a stripe-finished Glashütte three-quarter plate adorning the wildly-elite movement. Available for purchase now, the Glashütte Alfred Helwig Tourbillon 1920 is priced at $121,800.
