Latest news with #tourbillon
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Seagull Watch Announces Premium Line Launch and Signals Shift Toward Global High-End Market
GENEVA, June 1, 2025 -- At global luxury watch fairs like Baselworld and Watches & Wonders, Swiss and German brands dominate the spotlight with six-figure timepieces boasting intricate complications. Yet conspicuously absent are Chinese mechanical watches—despite their ability to deliver comparable technical feats at a fraction of the cost. The reason? A stark contrast in pricing strategies, rooted in manufacturing efficiency and market positioning, has created an invisible barrier for brands like Tianjin Seagull, China's leading mechanical watchmaker. The Price Paradox: When Affordability Becomes a Liability Take the tourbillon, a mechanism invented in 1801 to counteract gravity's effects on pocket watches. Swiss brands like Patek Philippe and Breguet price their tourbillons from $100,000 to over $1 million, framing them as symbols of exclusivity. By contrast, Seagull's tourbillon watches start at just $1,400 (RMB 10,000) and cap at $35,000 for limited-edition models like the 18K rose gold 'Double Axis' tourbillon. Similarly, Seagull's split-seconds chronograph—a complication requiring over 300 components—retails for $3,400 (RMB 23,800), while Swiss equivalents from brands like Patek Philippe or Lange & Söhne command prices exceeding $200,000. This pricing disparity stems from China's industrial ecosystem. Seagull leverages decades of vertical integration, producing everything from hairsprings to escapements in-house. For instance, its ST19 chronograph movement—a derivative of the Swiss Venus 175—has been manufactured domestically since the 1960s, slashing production costs. Additionally, labor costs in Tianjin, Seagull's home base, are significantly lower than in Switzerland's Jura region, where luxury brands face stringent labor regulations and high wages. Technical Breakthroughs vs. Brand Legacy Seagull's engineering prowess is undeniable. The ST1961 split-seconds chronograph movement, for example, features a column wheel and horizontal clutch—a design philosophy shared with Patek Philippe's $2 million Ref. 5370. While Swiss brands emphasize hand-finishing and decorative techniques like anglage, Seagull prioritizes functional precision. Its tourbillons, such as the ST8030 calibre, achieve a 72-hour power reserve and a 28,800 vph frequency, rivaling Swiss counterparts in performance. Yet technical parity hasn't translated to global recognition. At the 2024 Geneva Watch Exhibition, Seagull's $598,000 'Double Axis' tourbillon—a masterpiece with two rotating cages—was overshadowed by Swiss novelties. Industry insiders attribute this to entrenched perceptions. 'Luxury watches are about heritage and storytelling,' notes a veteran horologist. 'Seagull's 70-year history pales against Switzerland's 300-year dominance, making it harder to justify premium positioning'. Market Dynamics: The Luxury Sector's Catch-22 Swiss giants like Swatch Group and Richemont have long cultivated an image of scarcity. Limited editions, artisanal marketing, and controlled distribution sustain high margins. Seagull, meanwhile, targets accessibility. Its $4,980 '1963' chronograph—a reissue of China's first aviation watch—sells tens of thousands of units annually, appealing to enthusiasts seeking value. However, this volume-driven approach clashes with the luxury sector's exclusivity ethos. The result is a paradox: Seagull's affordability undermines its prestige. While Swiss brands profit from aspirational pricing, Seagull's $3,400 split-seconds chronograph—though mechanically superior to many $50,000 Swiss models—struggles to penetrate high-end retailers. Compounding this, geopolitical tensions and tariffs further complicate Western market entry. A Path Forward: Bridging the Perception Gap Seagull's recent forays into hybrid designs hint at a strategy shift. The 2025 'Dragon's Echo' model, combining a tourbillon, perpetual calendar, and minute repeater, targets collectors at $150,000—a bold step toward premium positioning. Collaborations with independent Swiss watchmakers could also enhance credibility. Moreover, younger consumers increasingly prioritize value over legacy. As noted in Swatch Group's 2024 earnings report, mid-tier Swiss brands like Tissot are gaining traction in China, while ultra-luxury sales slump. Seagull's challenge lies in balancing its mass-market roots with aspirational storytelling—perhaps by highlighting innovations like its patented (weight-adjustable balance wheel) or its role in China's space program. Conclusion: The Silent Disruption China's watchmaking revolution is unfolding quietly. While Seagull's absence from global exhibitions reflects today's market realities, its technical achievements and disruptive pricing signal a broader shift. As one collector remarked, 'Why pay for a Swiss logo when Seagull offers the same mechanics at 5% of the cost?' The answer, for now, lies in the intangible allure of tradition—but the tides may yet turn. For further details on Seagull's innovations, visit Website: AliExpress: Amazon: Contact Info: Name: Lynne Lin Email: Send Email Organization: Beijing Ttime Network Co.,Ltd Website: Release ID: 89161325 If there are any errors, inconsistencies, or queries arising from the content contained within this press release that require attention or if you need assistance with a press release takedown, we kindly request that you inform us immediately by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our reliable team will be available to promptly respond within 8 hours, taking proactive measures to rectify any identified issues or providing guidance on the removal process. Ensuring accurate and dependable information is our top priority.
Forbes
26-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Hublot Introduces The Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve
Square Bang Tourbillon Hublot isn't shy about pushing geometry where most brands tend to settle for tried and true designs. The brand's newest release, the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve, marks the first time a tourbillon has appeared in its square-shaped Big Bang line, and this isn't just a matter of fitting an existing movement into a new silhouette. The entire architecture has been redesigned from the ground up, with bridges, layout, and components structured to match the case's square proportions. Skeletonized movement The new model runs on the manually wound MHUB6023, a fully skeletonized in-house movement developed specifically for this release. All 174 components are arranged in clean, right-angled symmetry, with square and rectangular bridges finished in a mix of matte and satin surfaces to emphasize depth. At 6 o'clock, the flying tourbillon beats away with a silicon escapement for added resistance to magnetic fields and temperature swings. The large mainspring barrel at 12 o'clock delivers a 96-hour power reserve, tracked by a linear indicator at 9. Rather than making minor tweaks to existing designs, Hublot has committed entirely to this brand new experimental restructuring. Every primary function is distributed across the watch in unique fashion: winding on the right, power reserve on the left, barrel up top, tourbillon below. The effect is balanced and striking, with each corner contributing visually and mechanically to the watch's function. Macro view The 42mm case is made entirely from 3D carbon, a composite material with a vertical and horizontal weave pattern. The strap itself is integrated with Hublot's 'One-Click' quick-release system and finished with a ceramic and titanium deployant clasp. Case thickness comes in at 13.2mm, and water resistance is rated to 30 meters. The dial is openworked sapphire, offering a full view of the movement suspended within the case. Like the rest of the watch, the design is minimal but sharp, clearly prioritizing architectural impact over dial furniture. For a time-only tourbillon watch, there's a lot to look at.
CNN
23-05-2025
- Business
- CNN
This is the world's thinnest tourbillon watch. It's yours for $678,000
This is the world's thinnest tourbillon watch. It's yours for $678,000 CNN's Anna Stewart sees up close just how less really is more when it comes to the world's thinnest tourbillon watch. Weighing 43 grams and one of only 10 in the world, Bvlgari's Octo Finissimo Ultra squeezes the intricate mechanisms of a high-end tourbillon watch into a timepiece 1.85mm thick. 01:27 - Source: CNN Vertical Top News 16 videos This is the world's thinnest tourbillon watch. It's yours for $678,000 CNN's Anna Stewart sees up close just how less really is more when it comes to the world's thinnest tourbillon watch. Weighing 43 grams and one of only 10 in the world, Bvlgari's Octo Finissimo Ultra squeezes the intricate mechanisms of a high-end tourbillon watch into a timepiece 1.85mm thick. 01:27 - Source: CNN Body language expert offers her advice on how to approach Trump In the wake of the White House's Oval Office ambush of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, body language expert Susan Constantine tells CNN's Max Foster that being an active listener is key for any future leader's meeting with President Donald Trump. 01:36 - Source: CNN New government report echoes RFK Jr beliefs around chronic disease First MAHA health report under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sheds light on the Trump Administration's plans to overhaul government policy to "Make America Healthy Again." CNN's Meg Tirrell explains. 01:11 - Source: CNN Inside the GOP negotiations to pass Trump's agenda bill CNN's Manu Raju breaks down how President Trump and House Republican leadership managed to win the support of a key bloc of conservative hardliners to pass Trump's agenda bill, and looks ahead to the obstacles the bill may face in the Senate. 02:26 - Source: CNN Republican warns of increasing debt hours before Trump's bill passes House Republicans passed President Donald Trump's sweeping tax and spending cuts package early this morning. During a House floor debate in the early hours of Thursday morning, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) strongly criticized the bill. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that Trump's bill will add $3.8 trillion to US debt. 00:49 - Source: CNN See moment House Republicans passed a major part of Trump's agenda House Republicans passed President Donald Trump's sweeping tax and spending cuts package, marking a stunning victory for both Johnson and Trump after the bill appeared doomed just days earlier 00:52 - Source: CNN Dem says Trump admin cuts in blue states are 'distasteful' The Trump administration has made cuts to funding for flood prevention projects in blue states, whereas new water construction opportunities have taken course in red states, according to a data analysis. CNN's Annie Grayer reports. 02:33 - Source: CNN Dior to pay $2M to help labor abuse victims Dior has agreed a number of remedies to settle an Italian competition authority investigation into whether the luxury brand and two of its units misled consumers with their statements about working conditions at its suppliers. CNN's Max Foster reports. 01:36 - Source: CNN See "Cheers" star George Wendt's most memorable moments Actor and comedian George Wendt, beloved for his performance as Norm Peterson on the long-running comedy series "Cheers" has died aged 76. Wendt's career spanned more than four decades, and included six consecutive Emmy nominations. CNN looks back at some of his best moments. 00:57 - Source: CNN Kermit the Frog's advice for 2025 graduates and what he learned from 'the school of life' The University of Maryland's 2025 commencement speaker Kermit the Frog shares his advice for graduates with CNN's Sara Sidner. 01:14 - Source: CNN Have federal cuts left U.S. unprepared for natural disasters? Sometime between tomorrow and 200 years from now, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake will rock the United States. Scientists say we're not ready for it. And with the federal employees who have left or been fired under the Trump administration, that's only getting worse. CNN's Ella Nilsen spoke to scientists and former federal workers about how these cuts leave the US unprepared for natural disasters. 02:03 - Source: CNN Climber rescued by helicopter after 30-foot fall in California A helicopter rescue crew hoisted a climber to safety after they fell roughly 30 feet while scaling Lily Rock in Idyllwild, California. The climber was left clinging to the cliffside with a limb injury. 00:49 - Source: CNN Columbia students chant, 'Free Mahmoud' at commencement Videos show Columbia University students booing the acting university president, Claire Shipman, during her commencement speech. Some students at the school have been on edge since Mahmoud Khalil was detained by ICE for participating in campus protests. 01:07 - Source: CNN Cassie Ventura's mom feared for daughter's safety with 'Diddy' Cassie Ventura's mother Regina Ventura took the stand at Sean 'Diddy' Combs' trial in New York, where Ventura testified about incidents she witnessed during her daughter's relationship with Combs that left her 'scared for my daughter's safety.' 02:57 - Source: CNN FDA tightens requirements for Covid-19 vaccine The FDA is changing how it approves Covid-19 vaccines, which may restrict updated shots to the elderly and people with underlying health conditions who are at higher risk for severe disease. 01:10 - Source: CNN
South China Morning Post
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Style Edit: Richard Mille's RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire is an ocean-inspired masterpiece, with a case carved from crystal and a skeletonised movement for maximum drama
The Richard Mille RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire isn't just another high-concept watch – it's a deep dive into materials science, movement architecture and the beauty of transparent mechanics. Inspired by the ocean and shaped by architectural precision, this timepiece brings together the technical drama of gothic cathedrals and the fluidity of water in a case that is actually carved from crystal. The case of Richard Mille's RM 75-01 behaves like a lens. Photo: Handout Unsurprisingly, that's the first thing that hits you. Crafted from synthetic sapphire – one of the hardest materials after diamond – it offers complete transparency without compromising durability. To make a single case, Richard Mille starts with a massive block of sapphire and spends over 1,000 hours machining, grinding and polishing it. Advertisement The process includes 40 days of round-the-clock work, just to achieve the right curves and clarity. The result: a case that behaves like a lens, subtly tinting and highlighting the movement inside depending on the angle of the light. Richard Mille's RM 75-01 is crafted from synthetic sapphire. Photo: Handout The RM75-01 calibre is skeletonised to take full advantage. With no upper bridges holding the tourbillon or barrel in place, the components appear suspended in mid-air – a design choice that also makes the movement more resistant to shocks. The titanium baseplate acts like scaffolding: lightweight yet ultra-strong, and is given a micro-blasted satin finish to bring texture and contrast. 'We approached each element as a piece of architectural art,' says Cécile Guenat, Richard Mille's director of creation and development. 'The harmony of depths and the meticulous selection of materials create a dynamic and captivating view of the movement.' Richard Mille's RM 75-01 is seen by its creators as a piece of architectural art. Photo: Handout Each reference in the series plays with colour to evoke a particular landscape. The clear sapphire case is paired with a sea green strap – a quiet nod to tropical waters. One version features a lilac pink caseback, reminiscent of late-evening light over the ocean. Another comes in sapphire blue, suggesting deeper, darker waters. These are not just aesthetic choices – coloured sapphire is notoriously hard to produce, requiring extreme control over temperature and mineral content during growth to avoid uneven hues or visible flaws. This is a watch that doesn't hide how it works. Every bridge, gear and angle is out in the open – not for decoration, but because transparency is the point. The RM 75-01 has been inspired by water, an allusion to its true focus – clarity of structure, purpose and craft.
