February 6, 2012
New for 2012, Franck Muller unveils the new version of the “Giga Tourbillon”, a breathtaking timepiece that received widespread attention in 2011, most notably from yours truly. Unlike last year’s tonneau-shaped case with black PVD treatment, this piece is in a round, white gold case — a much better look. The watch is fitted with an enormous tourbillon — it measures 20 mm in diameter and the tourbillon cage is shaped into the letters “FM”. The symmetrical skeletonization and finishing of the dial and movement (note the hand-chamfering i.e. beveled edges) completes the look by allowing for full visibility of the dial-side movement (yes, the movement has been reversed). Speaking of which, the movement delivers a 10-day power reserve via four 16mm barrels (4 mm wider than traditional ones), and the hour-setting and winding section located on the case-back side and the hours hand positioned on top of the minutes hand. A truly amazing piece!
words by Kyle Stults