Cabestan

It began with the image of a capstan. A mechanical device comprised of a large drum on the vertical axis, hand-operated by the winch, wrapping around the drum with a rope or chain.

From this action a force is derived to move other mechanisms. From this simple idea the Cabestan Winch Tourbillon Vertical was born. Cabestan is the French word for capstan. Capstans are used for winding the movement and setting the time. The movement was developed by the visionary watchmakers Jean-François Ruchonnet and Vianney Halter, whose signature rivets can be seen on the brushed titanium case. A miniature fusée and chain (comprised of no fewer than 450 steel links and 150 rivets) transmits the energy. A vertical tourbillon regulates the movement. Drums display the time. And a small winch handle concealed in the deployant buckle activates the mechanisms. All perfectly and stunningly visible under twin sapphire crystals that provide a spectacular 180° view of the movement.

The current watch is presented in exceptional condition and complete with its original box and papers.