The Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica à Grande Sonnerie, with a staggering retail price of $1,474,070, stands as a pinnacle of horological artistry.
Comprising an astonishing 1,300 intricately crafted parts, this remarkable timepiece possesses the extraordinary ability to replicate the entire majestic chiming sequence of Big Ben. Introduced in 2009 as an integral part of the esteemed Hybris Mechanica 55 trilogy, a collection of exceptionally opulent watches boasting a total of 55 intricate complications.
In a harmonious union of time and music, this masterpiece grants a resplendent experience to the discerning ear. As the hands of the watch traverse, they momentarily suspend their flight, enabling the listener to revel in the enchanting symphony of the watchmaker’s art. The Hybris Mechanica à Grande Sonnerie, rendered in elegant white gold, has enraptured the hearts of many, who hold it dear with fervent passion and unyielding admiration.
A truly extraordinary timepiece, this unique watch stands out by playing one of the most extended melodies ever recreated by a Grande Sonnerie. Embodying the essence of elegance, it showcases a resplendent Westminster chime that meticulously reproduces the iconic sound of Big Ben. The mastery of its craftsmanship is evident through the inclusion of four trebuchet hammers and crystal gongs, resulting in a sound of unparalleled richness and complexity.
This exceptional watch is endowed with a range of striking features, including the grande sonnerie, petite sonnerie, minute repeater, and silent modes, offering an array of auditory pleasures for its fortunate owner. A testament to artistic finesse, the flying tourbillon elegantly suspends from a single bridge, artfully revealed behind the transparent sapphire crystal case back, much like a delightful variation on a cherished musical theme.
Striving for pure minimalism, its titanium carriage gracefully embodies simplicity, allowing the regulating organ to be prominently displayed and pivoting effortlessly on ball bearings. The perfect symphony of mechanical ingenuity and aesthetic grace culminates in this exceptional horological masterpiece.
An enchanting feature reminiscent of a musical reprise, the “retrograde” calendar gracefully concludes each cycle with a leap, as the jumping hand and hour-markers on the date, month, and day indicators elegantly reset their positions. This ingenious mechanism artfully accounts for leap years, ensuring flawless progression without the need for manual correction until the remarkable year 2100. The seamless integration of precision and innovation makes this timekeeping marvel a testament to the mastery of horological craftsmanship.
