The year 2018 marks 240 years since the creation of John Arnold’s historically significant Chronometer No. 1/36. This timepiece was the first time measuring instrument to be called a “chronometer” for its unprecedented precision. To mark the historical milestone and following the release of the Arnold & Son Tourbillon Chronometer No. 36 from last year —which you can see here—, Arnold & Son has released two tribute editions honoring the Tourbillon Chronometer No.36 at Baselworld 2018 a few weeks ago.
While its predecessor from 2017 featured a more traditional English frosted gilt finish on the movement, the two new models for the 240th anniversary Tribute Edition of the Tourbillon Chronometer No.36 are available in a non-limited production series in 18K red gold and stainless steel with a movement mainplate finished in NAC grey for the first one and black DLC for the latter.
Things to Know About the Watch
Inspired by the John Arnold pocket chronometer No. 1/36 with a tourbillon prominently positioned on the dial side to take the center stage. The tourbillon, a central element of this watch is highlighted by a skeletonized and mirror-polished top bridge with the one-minute tourbillon featuring the traditional Arnold & Son three-spoke design. With a fully skeletonized dial, the small seconds indicator between 7 and 8 o'clock are the second most prominent element on this dial adding to the symmetric design and exquisite layout.
A COSC certified chronometer; the dial side offers a view of the mainplate of the movement with its satin brush finished bridges with chamfered and polished edges. The main plate and bridges are treated with NAC grey for the red gold model and black DLC for the stainless steel one. The upper part of the dial features the double barrels laser-engraved with "Arnold & Son Tourbillon" and "Certified Chronometer". Rounded out by mirror polished hands, the new Arnold & Son Tourbillon Chronometer No. 36 is as elegant as it is impressive from a movement architecture standpoint.
The Case & Strap
Available in 5N 18K red gold or stainless steel the Tribute Editions of the Arnold & Son Tourbillon Chronometer No. 36 are equipped with a case measuring 46 mm in diameter and fitted with a cambered sapphire with anti-reflective coating on both sides. Both watches are equipped with a chocolate brown alligator strap and with pin buckle matching the metal of the case.
The Movement
At the heart of the watch is the fully designed and developed in-house manual wound movement calibre A&S8600. This COSC movement with 33 jewels and double barrel, provides a power reserve of 90 hours when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph. Exquisitely finished, these new Tribute Editions are much nicer than their 28-piece limited edition predecessors.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the new Arnold & Son Tourbillon Chronometer No. 36 Tribute Editions wear true to their size and with stunning wrist presence. An homage to one of the most iconic chronometers from John Arnold and a great addition to the regular production lines from the brand. If we had to pick one, we would definitely go with the stainless steel model. A lot of 'haute horlogerie' for the money.
Sticker Price $55,400 USD for 5N 18K red gold and $37,400 for stainless steel. For more info on Arnold & Son click here.
