Vanguard Revolution 3 Skeleton
Cortina Watch 50th Anniversary Special Editions
Long an embodiment of contemporary haute horlogerie, Franck Muller has distinguished itself with its fiercely independent spirit and well-honed expertise in creating complications that dazzle and delight. On the occasion of Cortina Watch’s 50th anniversary, the manufacture has unveiled a set of five unique timepieces based on the Vanguard Revolution 3 timepiece. The new watches update the ground-breaking Revolution 3 with bold pops of colour set against the sparkle of different precious gemstones, and offer new perspectives on a beloved classic.
Like its predecessors, the heart of the special editions of the Vanguard Revolution 3 is the oversized triaxial tourbillon regulator dominating the lower half of the dial. This was, in fact, the first triaxial tourbillon in the world when Franck Muller unveiled the Revolution 3 in 2004. Unlike typical tourbillons that rotate the balance about a single axis, Franck Muller’s take here does so on three axes instead, which completely negates the effects of gravity whatever the watch’s orientation.
The complexity of developing and producing such a marvel is exponentially greater than a regular tourbillon. For a start, the triaxial tourbillon requires much more precision in component production and assembly. This is because three tourbillon carriages – one for each rotational axis – must be poised relative to one another, and any irregularity will affect the entire system. What’s more, a triaxial tourbillon entails additional mass that must be driven by the mainspring, which in turn affects the movement’s isochronism and power reserve.
Franck Muller has, unsurprisingly, gone well beyond overcoming these technical hurdles. In the Vanguard Revolution 3, the three tourbillon carriages rotate at different speeds with periods of one, eight, and 60 minutes respectively. These varying rates create a spectacle on the dial through constant motion, while also ensuring that the balance never appears to be in the same position. What’s more, two retrograde indicators flanking the tourbillon also track the progress of the oneminute and eight-minute tourbillon carriages. As for energy management, the timepiece boasts a 10-day power reserve for unparalleled convenience. This can be read off the display at 12 o’clock.
Technical mastery aside, the Vanguard Revolution 3 Cortina Watch 50th Anniversary Special Editions also impress with their design language, which melds contemporary and neoclassical influences. Note how the domed element on the sapphire crystal magnifies the triaxial tourbillon to create an open airiness, with the effect extending to the rest of the watch given the skeletonised movement.
Against this canvas, Franck Muller has applied various treatments to the watches. From the riot of colours in one to the stark monochromatic look for another, each of the four references offer a different interpretation of the Vanguard Revolution 3’s aesthetic codes. The timepieces are then finished off with a touch of bling in the form of baguette-cut diamonds, rubies, and emeralds – depending on the specific reference – for a suitably luxurious overall package. These modern design elements are in turn tempered by classic ones, with the most notable being the traditional movement decorations that have been applied. The overall effect is one that celebrates contrasts, while perfectly capturing Franck Muller’s unique approach to watchmaking.
Franck Muller has unveiled five versions of the Vanguard Revolution 3 Skeleton Cortina Watch 50th Anniversary Special Edition watches, with just one of each being produced, making them one-of-a kind pièces unique to mark an equally outstanding occasion. This limited edition is exclusive to South East Asia.