The Tourbillon Powerhouse: Defying Gravity
The Arbutus Tourbillon “Wall Street” Skeleton (AR-TB-13SWS) is a remarkable achievement in modern horology. For centuries, the tourbillon has been the ultimate symbol of a watchmaker’s skill, originally designed by Abraham-Louis Breguet to counter the effects of gravity on a watch’s accuracy. Arbutus has taken this elite complication and re-engineered it for the contemporary collector. This model is part of a boutique series that prioritises mechanical transparency. Unlike a standard “open heart” watch that merely shows a balance wheel, the AR-TB-13SWS features a rotating cage that houses the entire escapement, making one full revolution every sixty seconds. This visual spectacle serves as both a functional chronometric enhancement and a mesmerising piece of kinetic art, designed for those who view timekeeping as a mechanical narrative rather than just a utility.
Visual Audit: Mechanical Transparency and Contrast
Our visual audit confirms a design language defined by clarity and depth. The White dial provides a clean, architectural backdrop that allows the metallic components of the movement to stand out. The Open-Heart aperture is positioned at the lower half of the dial, framed by polished steel to draw the eye toward the rotating tourbillon. The hour markers are applied steel indexes, treated with a high-performance luminous coating for visibility in low-light environments. The hands are faceted and polished, featuring a classic baton shape that complements the watch’s professional “Wall Street” aesthetic. The case is finished with a mixture of brushed and polished surfaces, providing a multi-dimensional look that reflects the light elegantly, whether you are in a boardroom in Sandton or a coastal evening in Umhlanga.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Manual-Wind Mechanical Tourbillon |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 40 Hours |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel (Medical Grade) |
| Case Diameter | 41.00 mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.00 mm |
| Crystal | High-Grade Sapphire Crystal |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM / 50 Metres |
| Band Material | Stainless Steel Multi-Link Bracelet |
| Case Back | Screwed-in Exhibition Sapphire Caseback |
Mechanical Functionality: The Ritual of Winding
The Arbutus AR-TB-13SWS is powered by a Manual-Wind Mechanical Tourbillon movement. Unlike automatic watches that rely on a rotor, this timepiece requires the user to engage in the daily ritual of winding the crown. This connection between the wearer and the machine is a hallmark of traditional horology. When fully wound, the mainspring provides approximately 40 hours of power reserve. The tourbillon carriage itself serves as the seconds indicator, rotating steadily to maintain timing precision by averaging out positional errors. The movement is visible from both the front and the back; the Exhibition Caseback reveals the bridges and gears, many of which are finished with traditional perlage and Geneva stripes, demonstrating a level of care usually found only in much more expensive Swiss counterparts.
Material Integrity for the Discerning Lifestyle
Durability meets luxury in the construction of the AR-TB-13SWS. The 316L Stainless Steel used for the case and bracelet is chosen for its superior corrosion resistance and ability to hold a high-mirror polish. This is particularly important for the South African climate, where coastal air can be harsh on lesser metals. The dial is protected by a Sapphire Crystal, the second hardest material after diamond, ensuring that the watch remains scratch-free even after years of daily wear. The bracelet features a multi-link design that conforms comfortably to the wrist, secured with a deployment clasp that offers both security and ease of use. With a water resistance rating of 50 metres, this watch is perfectly equipped to handle the rain or accidental splashes of an active lifestyle, although its natural habitat remains the refined world of luxury fashion.
Key Benefits of the Arbutus Tourbillon AR-TB-13SWS
- Elite Tourbillon Complication: Own one of the most prestigious mechanical feats in watchmaking.
- Sapphire Crystal Protection: Ultimate scratch resistance for a crystal-clear view of the dial.
- Mechanical Transparency: Open-heart and exhibition caseback designs for a 360-degree view of the movement.
- Surgical Steel Construction: Hypoallergenic 316L stainless steel for longevity and comfort.
- Luminous Functionality: Luminous hands and markers ensure legibility in all lighting conditions.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Accessible Luxury
The Arbutus Tourbillon “Wall Street” Skeleton (AR-TB-13SWS) is the definitive statement piece for the modern watch enthusiast. It bridges the gap between affordable fashion watches and the unattainable world of ultra-luxury horology. By providing a true mechanical tourbillon in a package that is both robust and elegantly designed, Arbutus has created a watch that commands respect in any company. It is a celebration of the mechanical arts, designed for those who appreciate the complexity of the gears and the steady pulse of a hand-wound movement. Delivered in an official Arbutus presentation box with a 2-year international warranty, the AR-TB-13SWS is an investment in style, tradition, and technical excellence that will serve as a cornerstone of any South African watch collection.
