Jacob & Co. Oil Pump 44mm Watch

Imagine a watch that tells the time and celebrates the very source of immense fortunes—oil. The new Jacob & Co. Oil Pump watch, revealed at Geneva Watch Days 2024, is a more refined version of the original Oil Pump watch, which continues to captivate those with a taste for luxurious and unconventional wristwear.

The original Oil Pump watch, with its imposing 49.5mm case, was a bold declaration of wealth and excess. However, recognizing the need for a more wearable option, Jacob & Co. has reduced the case size in this new generation to 44mm. This significant reduction in size makes the watch more ergonomic and comfortable on the wrist, while still retaining the boldness that the brand is known for. The height of the watch has also been decreased by 20%, from 20mm to 18mm, further enhancing its wearability without compromising on its striking presence.

Crafted from 18k rose gold and sapphire, the case of the new Oil Pump watch is still substantial, but the reduction in proportions marks a step towards a more refined aesthetic. Despite its size, the watch remains a large and luxurious statement piece, designed to attract attention. To maintain a sleek profile, the watch features two fold-out crowns on the caseback—one for winding and the other for setting the time. Additionally, a button on the side of the case at the 2 o’clock position activates the watch’s signature feature: the drilling oil derrick automation. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, which provides protection against incidental contact with water, though it’s clear that this watch is intended for the boardroom or gala, rather than the pool.

The most significant update to the Oil Pump watch comes in the form of its movement. The new Jacob & Co. Oil Pump is powered by the Caliber JCAM53, a manual-wind movement that has been redesigned to fit the more compact case. The movement is a feat of engineering, comprising 450 individual components and operating at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). It offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, ensuring that the watch remains functional even after several days of wear. One of the standout features of the Caliber JCAM53 is its 60-second flying tourbillon, which has been relocated to a more central position on the dial. Unlike the original model, where the tourbillon was positioned within an aperture at the 6 o’clock location, the updated version places it directly above the time-telling hands, enhancing the visual impact of the dial.

Another key feature of the Caliber JCAM53 is the Oil Pump’s automation, which is activated by pressing the pusher on the side of the case. When activated, the pair of oil derricks depicted on the dial begins to “drill,” with the mechanical animation lasting approximately 35 seconds.

The dial of the new Oil Pump watch is a three-dimensional marvel, showcasing Jacob & Co.’s dedication to intricate design. It features tiny rose gold sculptures that depict an oil extraction scene, complete with oil tanks, pipelines, and the drilling derricks. The updated movement has necessitated a reorganization of the dial layout, but it still retains many of the elements that made the original Oil Pump so distinctive. The pressure gauge-inspired power reserve indicator is a particularly striking feature, adding a touch of industrial charm to the otherwise luxurious design. The dial’s most notable update, however, is the repositioned flying tourbillon, which now takes centre stage above the time-telling hands.

To complete the package, the new Jacob & Co. Oil Pump watch comes fitted with a black alligator leather strap, which is paired with a deployant clasp made from titanium and 18k rose gold. The skeletonized lugs add an extra touch of modernity to the watch’s overall design, ensuring that it stands out from the crowd.

The timepiece is limited to just 88 pieces, making it a coveted collector’s item for those who appreciate its bold design and thematic resonance.