Bianchet Flying Tourbillon Grande Date B1.618 Sapphire

Bianchet is introducing a new chapter in transparent watchmaking with the B 1.618 Grande Date Sapphire Edition. Known for their expertise in tourbillon timepieces, Bianchet has taken the essence of their award-winning Flying Tourbillon Grande Date B1.618 and reimagined it in a case that combines the clarity of sapphire crystal with the resilience of rubber. The watch, which debuted at the Geneva Watch Days, is a window into an innovative horological technique where design, material, and technology come together seamlessly.

This model marks a breakthrough in watchmaking as it uniquely blends sapphire crystal and rubber—two materials that are notoriously difficult to work with. Sapphire, almost as hard as diamond, is challenging to shape, but Bianchet has integrated rubber accents into the design with precision, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation. The clear case design makes the intricate inner workings of the in-house calibre visible, bringing the movement to the forefront of the timepiece.

The flowing curves of the tonneau-shaped case and the transparent surfaces allow light to play across the finely crafted components, which are arranged according to the Fibonacci spiral and the golden ratio of 1.618. The interplay of light and shadow across the polished surfaces and satin-brushed finishes highlights the elegance and complexity of the watch.

At the heart of this creation lies the Flying Tourbillon movement, designed in titanium to appear weightless as it floats within the case. Supported by a unique ball-bearing mechanism, the tourbillon’s precision and elegance embody the highest standards of Swiss horology.

Continuing its legacy of daring material combinations, Bianchet has previously introduced innovations like carbon composites infused with titanium dust and hybrids of solid gold and carbon fibre.

The watch comes with a white vulcanized rubber strap and titanium folding clasp that perfectly complements its futuristic aesthetic. The transparent case back provides a view of the movement, highlighting its architecture, which is based on the golden ratio. This design ensures a cohesive tactile experience, where the transitions between different materials are both fluid and visually harmonious. Limited to just 21 pieces, each watch in the Grande Date Sapphire Edition is hand-finished and meticulously assembled at Bianchet’s atelier in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.