A timepiece is capable of embodying the quintessence of an idea and appearing first and foremost as a means of artistic expression. The Art of Invention: this expression testifies to a forward-looking philosophy that has long been a driving force for Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey, both in the field of scientific research as applied to fine watchmaking, and in that of aesthetic innovation. This art of invention is particularly present when it comes to the stunning
Art Piece series. The new Greubel Forsey Art Piece 2 – Edition 2 pushes back the boundaries of creativity even further. In this first Art Piece produced without an optical system —and therefore without a microsculpture or nanoengraving— the Double Tourbillon 30° appears to be a moving sculpture. Cased in a generous 44 mm white gold case its movement is composed 412 parts with 130 parts for the two tourbillon cages and 35 jewels. The movement provides a power reserve of 72 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 21,600 vph.

Here, the indication of time is secondary: a push-piece that controls a bistable mechanism needs to be activated in order to obtain an indication of the hours and minutes. The power reserve takes precedence over all other information with the aim of altering our relationship with temporality: it is not the current time that we contemplate, but the time remaining. This subtle metaphysical shift is naturally reminiscent of memento mori. This timepiece, signed by Robert Greubel and Stephen Forsey, will be realized in a limited edition of only a few pieces per year. Another one of those watches we can't wait to see in the metal next Monday January 16th, 2017 as soon as the doors of the SIHH 2017 open up. Stay tuned for our hands-on live pictures and our review.

Sticker Price TBC. For more info on Greubel Forsey click here.