Aston Martin and Girard-Perregaux have released their first watch to the world in light of their recent partnership in February. Combining the unrivalled performance and style of the British carmaker and the horological expertise of the Swiss watchmaker, the Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges- Aston Martin Edition is the latest addition to the world of luxury timepieces.
The watch is a masterclass in collaboration. When the partnership between the two companies was announced it made immediate sense and now, seeing the first results of the deal, it only solidifies the ingenuity of the pairing. As Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Girard-Perregaux, said in a statement, “rarely do we work with others to reinterpret the Three Bridges, however, on this occasion, we have made an exception, mindful of Aston Martin’s prowess for design.”
The result is a stealthy timepiece decked out in black with the three bridges across its face designed to resemble the spokes on Aston Martin rims. Cased in sapphire glass on the front and back, the Swiss movement appears to be suspended in mid-air.
A detail of the Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges- Aston Martin Edition that brings the two brands together is its titanium case. William Gregor first discovered titanium in Great Britain, where Aston Martin originated. Coincidentally, the year Gregor discovered the element was 1791, the same year Girard-Perregaux was established.
Formed of Grade 5 titanium, the material was selected by Aston Martin for its robust, hypoallergenic and lightweight properties. The timepiece’s case is saturated with black DLX, which gives the model its sleek and stealthy appearance.
While movement components are often kept out of sight, the Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges is crafted with a sapphire crystal ‘box’ and pared-back movement. This gives the watch’s movement a levitating effect within the case, fitting to its ‘Flying Bridges’ moniker.
The characteristic lyre-shaped cage, utilised by Girard-Perregaux on all tourbillon models since the 19th century, is positioned in the lower portion of the dial. Measuring just 10mm in diameter, the cage is designed to minimalise energy consumption, with all 79 components collectively weighing only 0.25 grams.
Filled with a white luminescent treatment, the model’s Aston Martin signature on the vertical flank of the micro-rotor is designed to emit a blue glow under dim light. This effect is continued through the indexes and hands, filled with the same white luminescent treatment.
Sticking with both brand’s mentality of quality over quantity, this timepiece is highly exclusive, with only 18 pieces available. Priced at 146,000 Swiss francs or $210,000, the Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges- Aston Martin Edition is available at authorised Girard-Perregaux retailers worldwide.