Omega has long been known as masters of luxury watchmaking. But the brand just upped the game with their newest release. The De Ville Tourbillon Co-Axial Master Chronometer Numbered Edition is the company's first Master Chronometer certified manual-wind tourbillon.
What does that mean? And why is it so special? Well, the central tourbillon compensates for the effects of gravity that can lead to errors in timekeeping. While this is no longer necessary for calculating time precisely, it has become a sought-after detail for watch collectors. But, that's not all that makes this piece so special. It is also certified as a Master Chronometer. That means it was tested under extreme circumstances and received approval from the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).
What's more, is this is the first time a one-minute tourbillon cage—aka the tourbillon rotates once every minute—works even when exposed to a magnetic field of 15,000 gausses. So, you could go through an MRI scan with no effect. The seconds hand also continues with precision.
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The technical uniqueness also lends to a visually stunning timepiece. Since the tourbillon escapement is placed in the center, the gold hands protrude from there rather than the center of the dial. The piece is also striking with 18-karat Sedna gold that emanates a reddish-gold hue. The crown is also polished in the gold and features the brand's symbol set in 18K Canopus gold.
"Presented on a black leather strap with polished 18K Sedna gold buckle, this exceptional example of the watchmaker's art looks sensational from all angles, as the sapphire crystal case back allows a view of the 18K Sedna gold movement: OMEGA's Master Co-Axial Chronometer Calibre 2640," read the website description.
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Each piece takes a month to make and is numbered to prove its certification. The cost of the horological masterpiece? The price tag is a whopping $168,000.
