If you work for a magazine or are sponsored by a brand then most work related expenses are covered. However for a freelance journalist/blogger an event like Baselworld can be a very costly affair indeed (especially if you are based in Australia). For that reason it is imperative that the time spent at the fair is maximised. Don’t get me wrong I really profited from my time in Switzerland and got access to watches I previously could only dream of. Over the last few weeks I have published several in depth reviews of these marvellous timepiece and have enjoyed every minute of it. A brilliant example is the sensational Tri-Axial Tourbillon by Girard Perregaux.
The last time I featured Girard Perregaux on Total Watch Reviews, I published an in depth article about their sensational Three Bridge Tourbillon. This magnificent piece is the epitome of Haute Horlogerie and pays homage to a vintage timepiece that was originally manufactured in 1860. In my editorial I tried my best to describe the aesthetic of this watch and how I imagined it to feel on the wrist. Fortunately I got the opportunity to try on this phenomenal timepiece at Baselworld and can honestly say it is exceptionally comfortable to wear.
Prior to attending Baselworld my primary contact at Girard Perregaux had always been with dynamic marketing director Xavier Markl. For that reason I was really excited about meeting him in person. In the interim period he left the company (I am still unsure why) and so I was assisted by one of his colleagues. Fortunately I still got the opportunity to try on a range of exquisite timepieces including the extraordinary Tri-Axial Tourbillon. With a case measuring 48mm x 16.83mm (excluding the crown) this is definitely one of the brands largest watches to date. I love these mammoth proportions and feel they will certainly appeal to more adventurous collectors. Generally the timepiece sat comfortably on my wrist and for the short time I actually wore it, I didn’t experience any chaffing. Ultimately this is down to the ergonomic round case design and choice of luxurious 18-karat white gold in production.
Visually the Tri-Axial Tourbillon is mesmerising and is designed to make a bold statement. The multi-layered façade is a revelation and superbly planned out. I absolutely love features like the retrograde power reserve indication and off set sub dial displaying hours/minutes. This characteristic is perfectly complimented by a grill style open worked dial, which exposes elements of the mechanical movement. However the star of the show is the majestic tourbillion (located at 9 o’clock) that is encapsulated in dome sapphire. Overall the composition is a work of art and the finishing is first rate.
At the heart of the watch is a highly sophisticated Swiss made manual winding tourbillon movement. The Calibre GPE09300-0002 comprises 34-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz). Each of the mechanical components have been skillfully decorated, engraved and assembled in the company’s workshops in La Chaux de Fonds. Functionally the Tri-Axial Tourbillon features hours and minutes. The timepiece also is also water resistant to a depth of 30-metres and has a power reserve of 60-hours.
The Tri-Axial Tourbillon is limited to only 10 pieces and has a hand stitched black alligator strap with matching 18-karat white gold buckle. Priced for the connoisseur at: CHF 465,000 (approximately $492,388).
For more information about Girard Perregaux visit the company’s website: http://www.girard-perregaux.com
