The Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch

The Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch is an exquisite creation of high horology that shows off the world's thinnest shaped flying tourbillon movement. The tourbillon, invented at the turn of the 19th century, was intended to counteract the negative effects of gravity upon the escapement of pocket watches. However, this brilliant device also quickly became a symbol of watchmaking virtuosity, and only a handful of skilled watchmakers have proven themselves to have the requisite skill to construct the delicate mechanics of a fine tourbillon.

The Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch is animated by the manually wound 600P Caliber, a movement manufactured by Piaget Watches. This remarkable movement which is shaped to fit the elegant case of the Emperador Toubillon watch, boasts the thinnest tourbillon in the world, at a scant 3.2mm. The tourbillon cage, composed of 42 miniscule and extremely precise pieces weighs just 0.2 grams; affixed to the bridge on only a single side this tourbillon represents the beautiful cantilevered (or "flying") tourbillon construction, widely considered to be the most difficult variation of this celebrated complication. Each minute, the tourbillon cage of this prestigious Piaget Emperador timepiece completes a single rotation, as its balance wheel oscillates at a pace of 21,600 vibrations per hour. A cutout in the dial allows the tourbillon to be proudly viewed at the unusual 12 o'clock position. The 600P caliber is extensively decorated by the master watchmakers of Piaget, and every bridge and screw is embellished with refined detail. The case that houses this ticking marvel is no less impressive.

The Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch is presented exclusively in 18K rose gold or white gold, and the intricate rectangular case with flared corners demonstrates the investment of skilled hand labor. Each case's complex contours shows off a mesmerizing contrast between brushed and polished surfaces that is a delight to both the eye and the touch. The dial too, offers incredibly luxurious detail, boasting a wonderful interplay between surfaces with guilloche and satin textures. The Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch is offered in two basic technical variants, one of which features a power-reserve indicator, and the other which displays the classic moonphase complication. Both complications suit the Piaget Emperador Tourbillon watch perfectly, and provide an ideal counterbalance to the tourbillon complication at the top of the dial. Piaget offers the Emperador Tourbillon watch in both 18K rose and white gold, both metals being shown with a crocodile strap that features an 18K gold deployant clasp.