blu MT3
This truly majestic timepiece is an impressive demonstration of
three-dimensional, almost architectural horology.
Invented
by Bernhard Lederer and entirely constructed and manufactured
in the BLU workshops, the innovative planetary tourbillion incorporates
itself perfectly into the flagship blu Planet model from the BLU
collection.
blu
MT3 rotates on three separate axes. Two of the three axes are
ingeniously mounted in a linear arrangement, maintaining the system
on the same plane.
Fitted
with three normal revolution speeds, blu MT3 is a unique Tourbillon
indicating time: hours, minutes and seconds. This is made possible
thanks to the flying 12-hour tourbillon containing the flying
one-hour tourbillon (formed into the shape of a minutes hand)
along with its concentrically embedded half-flying one-minute
tourbillon.
The
three tourbillons not only have time display functions but are
also perfectly synchronized to their correct optic speed.
A clever differential guarantees that the minute hand embracing
the balance is always correctly positioned in relation to the
longitudinal axis; the 12 is always up.
The
mechanism appears to float in a transparent case within a 12-pillared
rotunda, resembling the colonnades of the Greek Parthenon. The
visible columns have an hour index function. The innovative
case design slants down from 12 o’clock to 6 o’clock, requiring
exceptional manufacturing precision of the sapphire crystal.
Although everything is visible, the winding stem connecting the
crown to the movement has mysteriously vanished.
The
superb finish of the tourbillon 12-hour main plate was carefully
executed on the CNC machine. The guilloche surface called for
highly skilled craftsmanship and ultimate precision tools as the
slightest imperfection would have immediately become visible.
To obtain a logical and organic rotational speed to enable the
human eye to register its movement, the escapement in the semi-flying
tourbillion beats at a rate of 14,400 vibrations per hour or 2
Hertz. The rather huge balance wheel (diameter: 12.7mm) swings
considerably slower than most contemporary movements allowing
at every turning point, a glimpse of the delicately shaped mechanical
marvel. “Only servants rush,” muses Bernhard Lederer, “a
king can take his time.”
The extra energy needed to move such a complex mechanism with
extreme precision is delivered by twin going barrels hidden under
the base plate: a space which in conventional movements is occupied
by the gear cascades. In the case of the blu Majesty Tourbillon
MT3, there is no need for separate gears, as both the going train
and the dial train are incorporated in the ballet of tourbillons
displayed on the watch face.
Limited to 50 individually numbered pieces, each tourbillon is
hand-finished in the pride of craftsmanship of the Master of Watchmaking,
Bernhard Lederer, and his team. Unique versions can be made on
request.