Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
The Astronomia Tourbillon by Jacob & Co, priced at Rs 3.5 crore, is a timepiece that draws its inspiration from space exploration and celestial bodies. Launched in 2014, the watch showcases a miniature planetary system in constant motion, blending astrophysics and horology.
The watch case is designed to resemble an observatory, featuring a sapphire dome and transparent panels. The aventurine base plate mimics a starlit sky, while a blue-lacquered Earth and a diamond-crafted moon are incorporated into the design, symbolizing the cosmos.
The watch is powered by the Caliber JCAM10, one of Jacob & Co.’s most complex movements. With 365 components, the movement operates with a triple-axis flying tourbillon, a rotating Earth, a diamond moon, and an orbital dial, each rotating on their respective axes.
At the heart of the Astronomia Tourbillon is a triple-axis flying tourbillon. This mechanism rotates on two axes — once every 60 seconds and every 5 minutes — while the entire structure revolves on a third axis, completing a full rotation every 20 minutes.
The watch features an orbital dial that stays upright and readable despite the movement’s constant rotation. A patented differential system ensures the hour and minute dial spins in the opposite direction of the platform, maintaining its position for accurate time-telling.
The Astronomia Tourbillon includes a hand-lacquered blue Earth made of magnesium, rotating on its axis every 60 seconds. It also features a 1-carat white diamond moon, crafted with 288 facets, spinning in sync with the Earth.
The watch’s rotating platform is its standout feature, revolving on its axis every 20 minutes. This platform drives the movement’s functions and adds to the visual appeal, creating a constantly moving representation of a miniature solar system on the wrist.
Designed to stand out, the Astronomia Tourbillon is both a technical marvel and a luxury statement. It combines high-level watchmaking expertise with striking aesthetics, making it a signature piece in Jacob & Co.’s catalog of creative and intricate timepieces.