When Manufacture Royale’s 1770 model debuted last year, its design all but overshadowed the relatively conventional tourbillon movement it encased. And although the brand’s new 1770 Voltige (starting at $33,000) is not as complicated as a tourbillon, its mechanics quite literally rise to a new level. Thanks to a set of elongated pinions, the entire escapement—including balance, anchor, and escape wheel—are set above the movement and dial. The arrangement makes for a captivating mechanical exhibit that stands as an intriguing counterpoint to the open-works displays that are now commonly seen. It is also an illustration of mechanics serving design: The 3 Hz balance had to be carefully crafted to achieve the right inertia and such perfectly pleasing dimensions.
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