Horology & Jewels
The Tourbillon, 1801: How Breguet's Whirlwind Went From Necessity to Luxury
Invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1801, the tourbillon is a rotating cage designed to counteract gravity's effects on a mechanical watch's escapement and balance wheel. Originally a functional necessity for pocket watches, it has evolved into a symbol of horological artistry and luxury in modern wristwatches.
Eleanor Vance·June 25, 2026