Badollet Observatoire 1872 Minute Repeater Watch

The Badollet Observatoire 1872 Minute Repeater watch is an impressive creation of haute horlogerie, which combines two of the most coveted complications--the minute repeater and the tourbillon. A statement of Badollet's rich history in the 19th and early 20th century, as well as an exciting summation of the brand's current direction, this watch offers collectors a creation of true excellence.

Crafted from palladium-plated 18K white gold, the 44mm case of the Badollet Observatoire 1872 Minute Repeater watch features sapphire crystals on both sides. Pleasingly smooth contours, and mobile strap lugs emphasize elegance and comfort in equal measure. The opaline silver dial features two large apertures, which expose the intricate mechanical structures of the flying one-minute tourbillon, and the minute repeater. A slide piece at 9 o'clock enables the wearer to activate the minute repeater upon demand, at which time the watch will sound the hour with a low chime, the quarter hours with a high-low paired chime, and the individual minutes with single high notes.

The Badollet Observatoire 1872 Minute Repeater watch utilizes the manually wound BAD1655 caliber movement, which has a power reserve of 80 hours. The sapphire back allows a fine view of the decorative refinements; bridges show off fine Cotes de Geneve patterns and carefully beveled edges, while the plate shimmers with a circular-graining pattern. Also richly polished are the hammers of the repeater, whose motions of striking the gongs can be observed each time the minute repeater function is activated.

A luxurious hand-sewn strap in alligator leather completes the Badollet Observatoire 1872 Minute Repeater watch. Depending upon customer preference, the 18K white gold buckle can be of either a traditional tang style, or a deployant type.