The Reason
The Tortue de Joux shows how a simple calibre can be taken and changed into a watch which takes on a new life, being transformed in shape and form.
The example below is based on an UT6497 calibre, the form of the movement is altered to a tourneau shape and skeletonized. The vibrations per hour of the balance is 18000, which associates with early calibers predominantly pre- 1950's.
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Movement bridge side
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Dial side
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Ratchet wheel
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Upper crown wheel
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Hour wheel
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Plan view barrel
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Inclined view barrel
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Ratchet click
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Setting lever spring plate
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Setting lever and screw
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Winding stem
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Winding pinion & sliding clutch
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Train wheels
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Centre wheel
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3rd wheel
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4th wheel
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Canon pinion
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Escape wheel, anchor(pallets) and pallet bride
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Branding printed on sapphire, underside
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Upper side of balance bridge assembly
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Underside of balance bridge
Inclined view of bridge side of movement, the frequency of the balance is 18000 vibrations per hour.
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Setting mechanism
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Beveled sapphire glass
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Black lacquered hands
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17 jewels in total
All of the jewels are pushed (friction fitted) in the bridges.
Diverse views of the piece
To learn more click on www.claudemeylan.ch