Astronef Doub Tourbillon Gade

Press Kit

Unique Properties

ASTRONEF is a limited edition mechanical masterpiece presented by Ateliers Louis Moinet. Its character combines adrenaline and contemporary art. This creation unveils a complex dial, a super-light case and reveals a powerful mechanism: two tourbillons rotating in opposite directions at high speed.

Dimensions & Packaging

The dial is made from a plate measuring a total 0.6mm thick, from which 0.2 mm is then hollowed out to reveal the numerals and a rack, in order to create a depth effect facilitating readings. The
ensuing deep black DLC treatment creates a striking contrast with the rhodium plating and endows it with a two-tone hue. Finally, a circular satin-brushed finish is applied to instil it with undeniable strength of character. The curved crystal of ASTRONEF reveals the powerful mechanism and its power is accentuated by the lightness of its gold frame and sapphire container. This maximum transparency enables
observers to admire a unique sight. The technical construction of the case is unusual:
➢ a sapphire container mounted on an 18K gold frame
➢ openworked lugs and case middle
➢ a sapphire dome and its applied inner bezel ring

Tags

Tourbillon, Double Tourbillon, Space Tourbillon, ASTRONEF, Rotating Tourbillons

Production Technology

The mechanism devised by Jean-Marie Schaller is entirely original. Initially deemed impossible, its development required more than three years of research. Given the complexity of the technology
involved, the possibility of a successful outcome was even called into doubt after a year's research. Today, this construction is one of the most sophisticated in the field and requires the best possible
care devoted by a handful of exceptional watchmakers.

Design Challenge

The ASTRONEF mechanism required more than three years of research. Given its totally innovative character, its development was even considered impossible at various stages of research and almost discontinued. The fact that ASTRONEF was finally able to see the light of day was due to the concerted efforts of the finest watchmakers and engineers. The tourbillon cages are geometrically shaped. The weight of a cage is only 0.25 grams, in order to guarantee the correct speed through fine poising.
Each cage rotates in 60 seconds and requires perfect poising, which also relies on an 18K gold counterweight weighing 0.4 grams.

Inspiration

"Produce an excellent and curious effect": this maxim upheld by Louis Moinet (1848) was our starting point for designing ASTRONEF. The idea is to push back known limits, just as Louis Moinet did in his time – notably by inventing the chronograph in 1816. ASTRONEF propels us into the exclusive world of uncompromising modern watchmaking. It is heir to both ancestral know-how and an unyielding desire to create the design of tomorrow. Its character combines adrenaline and contemporary art. ASTRONEF adopts the technology developed for SPACE REVOLUTION, yet only the tourbillon specifically recalls their kinship

Project Duration

The ASTRONEF mechanism required more than three years of research.

Operation Flow

ASTRONEF showcases recently introduced technology involving two tourbillons rotating in opposite directions at high speed. They cross paths 18 times per hour (every 3 minutes and 20
seconds) and are built on two different levels.
This gives life to a captivating animation, which unfolds before the wondering gaze. In all, six distinct elements are in motion: two satellite tourbillons rotating around the dial, as well as their
two cages and their two counterweights.
ASTRONEF has been designed to instil a sense of movement, whatever the angle from which it is viewed. Fluid on the outside, original on the inside, it features an absolutely unique and distinctive
aesthetic.