Artya Presents 3 Unique Executions of the Minute Repeater Tourbillon

With ArtyA, founder Yvan Arpa has formed a truly unique vision of watchmaking. ArtyA watches are undoubtedly spectacular pieces that boldly venture beyond the mainstream. The independent watchmaking brand now unveils 3 different and original takes on a rare, haute horlogerie classic. Its elaborate movement unites two “grandes complications” in one calibre: a minute repeater chiming function and a tourbillon regulator. Visiting the brand’s studio in Geneva allowed us to experience these three unique pieces firsthand.

The Chorus Minute Repeater Tourbillon is a direct descendant of the most complex watch ever created by ArtyA, the three-gong Minute Repeater Biaxial Tourbillon. Like its predecessor, its intricate movement is showcased in an original rectangular case – a rare shape for repeater watches – crafted from titanium, gold, and sapphire. Yvan Arpa notes that its design “was inspired by habitats designed for living on the ocean floor.” With dimensions of 44.20mm x 42.30mm x 16.14mm, its sapphire panes offer captivating views from multiple angles. The dial stands out with a skeletonised chapter ring that hovers above the pulsating tourbillon.

The Skeleton Minute Repeater Tourbillon comes in a more traditional round shape, similar to the brand’s “Lion’s Head” and “Death Is Calling” unique pieces. The 42mm cases combine sandblasted grey or black DLC-titanium, chosen for optimal acoustics, with gold for the slide and crown. Two versions are available, featuring movements in either gold or black colour.

The movements of these three timepieces were crafted by watchmakers from the team that worked with the late Pierre Favre, who founded the high-end movement designer and manufacturer MHC – Manufacture de Hautes Complications in Geneva. These movements combine a minute repeater and a flying tourbillon, uniting two of the most prestigious complications in one calibre. Comprising 317 components, the intricate mechanism runs at 3Hz and boasts a power reserve of 90 hours.

While photographing the watches, we had the opportunity to listen to the chime of one of the skeleton minute repeaters. The sound was loud, clear, and harmonious, with little background noise. Its skeletonised design reveals the striking train and flying tourbillon on the dial side, showcasing a captivating choreography when the repeater is activated. The finishing techniques include polishing, anglage, perlage, traits tirés, and more, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship involved.

As mentioned before – and as is often the case with Artya – all three watches are unique pieces. The price is set at CHF 365,000 per watch. For more information, please visit www.artya.com.