The watch world is a fascinating realm where tradition and innovation constantly collide. While some brands cling to the time-honored practices of the past, others boldly venture into uncharted territories, pushing the boundaries of horological artistry. ArtyA, the independent Geneva-based brand, has consistently demonstrated its penchant for the latter, captivating collectors with its daring designs and unconventional approach to watchmaking. With the introduction of the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire,
ArtyA once again asserts its position as a pioneer in contemporary haute horlogerie.
This isn't just another tourbillon watch. It's a trilogy of unique timepieces that seamlessly blend technical prowess with an artistic flair, resulting in a mesmerizing spectacle that's as captivating to the eye as it is impressive in its mechanical complexity. The Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire collection, comprising three distinct models with green, blue, and red dials, marks a significant evolution in ArtyA's Purity lineage. While previous Purity models showcased skeletonized movements with an off-center tourbillon, this new series takes a bold leap forward, placing a dramatically oversized tourbillon at the very heart of the dial.
Courtesy of ArtyA
Imagine holding this watch in your hand. The first thing that strikes you is the sheer transparency of the domed sapphire crystal case. It's like a window into another world, a miniature universe of intricate mechanics and vibrant colors. The sapphire case, expertly crafted to provide an unobstructed 360-degree view, allows the mesmerizing dance of the central tourbillon to take center stage. The eye is immediately drawn to the vibrant hues of the sapphire dial, available in a striking salmon red, a deep emerald green, or a regal royal blue. Each dial is a unique work of art, crafted from genuine colored sapphire crystal and featuring an engraved hour track that subtly glows with Super-LumiNova®.
But the true magic of the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire lies in its movement. This isn't just any tourbillon; it's ArtyA's first automatic central tourbillon movement, a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation. The tourbillon, a marvel of micro-engineering, has been expanded to a commanding 20mm diameter, dominating the dial and captivating the viewer with its rhythmic oscillations. This increased size not only enhances the visual impact but also improves the precision and stability of the timekeeping mechanism.
ArtyA's watchmakers have achieved a rare feat by driving this large tourbillon at a frequency of 4 Hz, a rate typically seen in simpler movements but uncommon for tourbillons, which usually operate at 2 or 3 Hz. This higher frequency, made possible by the use of twin barrels working in tandem, ensures exceptional accuracy while also contributing to the visual spectacle. The tourbillon appears to spin with a captivating energy, its intricate components moving in perfect harmony.
In a departure from traditional watch design, ArtyA has opted to forgo central hands, allowing the tourbillon to reign supreme. The hours and minutes are instead indicated by two peripheral markers that discreetly track the passage of time, adding to the watch's minimalist aesthetic. This unconventional approach to time display further emphasizes the central tourbillon, making it the undisputed star of the show.
Courtesy of ArtyA
The Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is more than just a technical marvel; it's a testament to ArtyA's artistic vision. The brand has masterfully combined cutting-edge technology with refined aesthetics, creating a timepiece that is both visually stunning and mechanically impressive. The use of colored sapphire dials adds a touch of vibrancy and individuality, ensuring that each watch is a unique expression of ArtyA's creative spirit.
The development of this new movement marks a significant milestone for ArtyA. It's a testament to the brand's ability to push the boundaries of horological innovation while staying true to its core values of creativity and craftsmanship. The Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is a watch that will undoubtedly appeal to collectors who appreciate the art of watchmaking and seek timepieces that are as unique as they are.
At the heart of this exceptional watch beats the Purity Central Tourbillon caliber, a movement entirely conceived, developed, and manufactured in-house by ArtyA. This mechanical marvel represents a significant leap forward in the brand's pursuit of horological excellence.
The first thing that sets this caliber apart is its architecture. Unlike traditional tourbillon movements, where the tourbillon is often relegated to a subsidiary position, the Purity Central Tourbillon places this intricate mechanism front and center. The tourbillon, measuring a remarkable 20mm in diameter, dominates the dial, its captivating rotations drawing the eye and showcasing the pinnacle of watchmaking artistry.
Courtesy of ArtyA
But the impressive size of the tourbillon is just one aspect of its technical prowess. ArtyA's watchmakers have achieved a rare feat by driving this large tourbillon at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour). This high frequency, unusual for a tourbillon of this size, ensures exceptional accuracy and stability. It's a testament to the meticulous engineering and craftsmanship that went into the development of this caliber.
To achieve this high frequency, the movement is equipped with two barrels arranged in parallel. This configuration provides the necessary torque to drive the large tourbillon while ensuring a respectable 60-hour power reserve. The twin barrels also contribute to the visual appeal of the movement, their intricate mechanics visible through the transparent sapphire caseback.
The case of the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is a work of art in itself. Crafted from a single block of sapphire crystal, it provides an unobstructed view of the mesmerizing movement within. Sapphire, known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, is notoriously difficult to machine. It requires specialized tools and techniques to achieve the desired shape and finish.
ArtyA's expertise in working with sapphire is evident in the flawlessly executed domed case. The dome shape not only enhances the watch's aesthetic appeal but also serves a functional purpose. It provides ample space for the large central tourbillon while maintaining a relatively slim profile on the wrist. The case measures 43mm in diameter and 18mm in thickness at its apex, making it a comfortable and wearable timepiece despite its complex mechanics.
Courtesy of ArtyA
The transparent sapphire caseback further enhances the visual experience, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate details of the movement from all angles. The caseback is also engraved with the watch's unique number, highlighting its exclusivity as a one-of-a-kind creation.
The dial of the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is another testament to ArtyA's commitment to innovation and artistry. Crafted from genuine colored sapphire crystal, the dial is available in three vibrant hues: salmon red, emerald green, and royal blue. Each color variant is a unique piece, adding a touch of individuality and personality to the watch.
The dial features an engraved hour track that is subtly illuminated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring legibility in low-light conditions. The peripheral hour and minute markers, crafted in a contrasting color, discreetly track the passage of time without detracting from the central tourbillon.
The ArtyA Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is a watch that will appeal to discerning collectors who appreciate the art of watchmaking and seek timepieces that are as unique as they are. With its innovative movement, transparent sapphire case, and vibrant colored dials, this watch is a true testament to ArtyA's creative spirit and technical prowess.
Priced at 130,000 CHF (approximately 138,000 EUR or 154,000 USD), the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is an investment in horological excellence. It's a watch that will undoubtedly become a treasured possession, passed down through generations as a symbol of ArtyA's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
The ArtyA Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire has been nominated for the prestigious Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) in the "Men's Complication" category. This nomination is a testament to the watch's exceptional design, technical innovation, and craftsmanship. It's a recognition of ArtyA's growing influence in the world of haute horlogerie and its ability to create timepieces that capture the imagination of collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Courtesy of ArtyA
The GPHG, often referred to as the "Oscars of watchmaking," is the most prestigious award in the industry. The nomination of the Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is a significant achievement for ArtyA, further solidifying its position as a leading force in contemporary watchmaking.
The Purity Central Tourbillon Sapphire is the latest chapter in ArtyA's ongoing story of horological innovation. It's a watch that embodies the brand's core values of creativity, craftsmanship, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With this exceptional timepiece, ArtyA has once again demonstrated its ability to surprise and delight watch enthusiasts around the world.