Invention Piece 3

To pay homage to their third invention, the Tourbillon 24 Secondes Incliné, Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey have taken on the challenge of housing a watch mechanism, combining complex and innovative techniques within an unprecedented architectural setting. Invention Piece 3 redefines the frontiers of technical accomplishment and is yet another testament to Greubel Forsey’s determination to discover and develop new 21st century micromechanical inventions. An approach that has made Greubel Forsey synonymous with prestige and innovation ; a status earned through the mechanisms they invent and the architecture through which they interpret them. 

The third invention consists of a single tourbillon cage inclined at a 25° angle and performing a rapid rotation in 24 seconds. This utterly original mechanism guarantees the watch maximum efficiency and optimal performance on the wrist. Invention Piece 3 features a totally unconventional display with the plates themselves serving as the base for the timekeeping indicators. The four gold plates are engraved with a portion of a personal message from Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey providing an insight into the complex process involved in creating the extraordinary mechanism of this third invention. 

In a league of its own, Invention Piece 3 shows the time on a large 24-hour display taking up most of the space on the dial side. The minute display is concentric to the hour dial, with the hours distinguished by a red indicator and the minutes by a blue one. The power reserve, offset at 2 o’clock, is visually balanced by the tourbillon at 8 o’clock and provides linear reading of the indications. A sub-seconds dial at 5 o’clock ensures the overall equilibrium of the timepiece. Turning the watch over, the tourbillon, supported by a distinctive arrow-shaped bridge, provides an aesthetical link between the front and back of the watch and it can also be admired via the lateral convex sapphire crystal on the side of the case. 

A personal message from Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey is engraved on a gold crescent- shaped plate visible through the caseback and provides further evidence of sublime craftsmanship. The very exclusive nature of Invention Piece 3 is ensured by a unique series of 11 pieces in white gold, 11 pieces in red gold and 11 pieces in platinum. This exceptional and exquisitely balanced timepiece expresses a rare degree of innovation and technical mastery that is enhanced by its exceptional hand finishing. When observed through a magnifying glass, the engraved message reveals the true nature of the extreme dedication to horology embodied in its numerous technical and aesthetic details. Invention Piece 3 is clearly designed to build powerful and lasting links between its owner and the inventor watchmakers, Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey.