VISUAL EMOTION

Prepare to be blown away when expertise, daring and creativity set the scene for a limitless watchmaking playground!

There’s usually just one step separating architecture and art but the success of a project depends on its ability to enhance a design. Jaeger-LeCoultre has certainly pulled it off with the Hybris Artistica Mystérieuse. The first thing that blows you away when you see the timepiece is the dial’s glittering aventurine disc delicately covered by an openwork mother-of-pearl rosette. A majestic flying tourbillon appears to be the only thing alive on this incredible composition. Where have the hands gone? The Sentier manufacture’s watchmakers have really showcased their ingenuity here! The dial is actually made up of two rotating discs and the one in the centre houses the tourbillon with the position of the complication providing the hours. The second disc on the chapter ring has an understated gilded triangle tracking the minutes.

This impressive layout is fuelled by a self-winding movement containing 441 parts. The in-house 941 calibre provides a 50-hour power reserve from inside the 42mm case. Just like the dial, delicate rose gold embroidery wraps around the semi-precious stone on its sides and lugs. The sapphire back unveils a rotor that has been openworked by hand following countless painstaking operations.

The Hybris Artistica Mystérieuse is ultra-limited edition with just 5 available. It comes with a black leather strap and rose gold deployment clasp.

Price: €384,000 www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

By Dan Diaconu