This is the very first time we are featuring Manufacture Royale on our website. While in the past we didn't feel compelled to do so because we felt their watches were sort of kitsch and tacky, the brand has gone through an interesting evolution and we now feel that Manufacture Royale is offering some great horological stuff. Especially, after reviewing their novelties presented during Baselworld 2016 last week. The new Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas comes with a groundbreaking double flying tourbillon rotating at two different speeds, successfully combining the height of horological technology with the Voltairean philosophical tale from which it takes its name, the 1770 Micromegas has the pleasure and the ambition to inspire.
A philosopher of great intelligence, Micromegas is the mythical hero of a short story by Voltaire, the founder of Manufacture Royale in 1770. In this tale, the 120,000 feet tall giant sets out to explore space after being expelled from his own planet, Sirius, as punishment for his dissenting ideas. After visiting Earth, and having observed the arrogance and ignorance of its inhabitants, Micromegas concludes that dialogue and tolerance are the keys to living in harmony. He points out that our views are only relative and that we must be willing to change our perspective on things. Voltaire's story gave Manufacture Royale, a provocative and inspired brand, the idea for a two-speed double flying tourbillon; a first in fine watchmaking.
Fitted with a titanium and 18K white gold case measuring 45 mm in diameter and 11.8 mm in thickness, the new Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas is fitted with a striking titanium rubber-effect lacquered blue dial with superluminova and Titalyte with two unobstructed flying tourbillons. While the tourbillon cage on the left makes a full rotation every 6 seconds, the one on the right does a full rotation in 60 seconds. Below you can see how fast the left one is going as captured during our live photo shoot. The sight of the two tourbillons spinning at contrasting yet regular speeds inspires a strange and hypnotic sensation as to the notion of passing time. This impression is further accentuated by the watch's design, and the prominence given to the two tourbillon cages.
The case construction reflects the identity of Manufacture Royale, and the aesthetic and
technical attributes of its 1770 collection, with two brancards that hug the central section
then extend to form the lugs. The case satin brushed finished and polished by hand, features a thick titanium notched bezel also satin brushed finished and hexagonal screws on the case band. The crown, engraved with the Manufacture Royale logo rises in all glory further enhancing the extremely masculine and virile look of the case. Assembled from multiple elements, it confirms a powerful, technical dimension taken from the automotive world. Angles and straight edges blend with curves while satin and polished finishes intersect at complex angles in a demonstration of technical mastery and attention to detail.
While other brands have already created watches with multiple tourbillons, no one before has paired them rotating at two different speeds, until now. The two tourbillons on the new Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas are connected by a torque stabilizer which receives energy from the barrel. The regulating organs are therefore in direct contact with the source of power. The 1770 Micromegas double tourbillon achieves a feat that no watchmaker has ever attempted before. The result exactly embodies the meaning of its name, an oxymoron comprising micro meaning small and megas meaning large. In addition to its Haute Horlogerie finishes, the MR04 calibre is given NAC surface treatment. Conventional jewels are replaced by ceramic ball bearings. Such new, innovative and unexpected characteristics reflect Manufacture Royale's uniquely enlightened approach to watchmaking. The movement provides a power reserve of 40 hours while the micro beats at a frequency of 4Hz —28,800 vph— the mega beats at a frequency of 3Hz —21,600 vph.
Fitted with a dark blue hand-stitched alligator strap with light brown alligator lining, the strap is equipped with a titanium and white gold folding clasp with the MR logo on it. The strap completed the sporty and somewhat industrial look of the new Manufacture Royale 1770 Micromegas.
On the wrist, the watch wears true to its size and with captivating wrist presence. Once you strap this watch on your wrist, prepare yourself to be hypnotized by its double flying tourbillons rotating at variable speeds. This is one of those watches from Baselworld 2016 that will for sure be a crazy conversation piece when spotted on someone's wrist.
Sticker Price $137,500 USD. For more info on Manufacture Royale click here.
