News: Corum Bubble Tourbillon
The original Bubble watch was released by Corum in 2000 as a fun, contemporary watch, that would ultimately give rise to a number of colourful limited editions. With its distinctive domed crystal and rounded case shape, it proved a popular watch for Corum, but was unfortunately eventually discontinued—until 2015. That year’s Baselworld heralded the triumphant return of the Bubble, and since then, Corum has released a number of exciting, modern editions of this quirky timepiece. For 2016, we’re being treated to two limited edition tourbillon watches—the most complicated Bubble timepieces created by the brand so far.
The Bubble Tourbillon GMT is powered by the in-house automatic calibre CO397, and features a second timezone display at 6 o’clock, complemented by a day and night indicator to its left. The Tourbillon Chronograph, meanwhile, makes use of the self-winding CO398, with a column wheel chronograph that is operated via the two pushers on the case. The two movements are hand-finished using traditional techniques, such as chamfering and straight graining.
Both watches feature the signature domed sapphire crystal that the series is known for, and are enclosed within a 47mm by 21mm rose gold case. The dials are decorated with an intricate geometric grey and white pattern that enhances the effect of the domed sapphire, while the openworked hands are styled in an elegant obelisk shape. A beautiful tourbillon cage is visible in the top half of both dials at 10 o’clock, and has been crafted to resemble the key shape of the Corum logo.
As special editions, the watches are available in only five pieces each, and are wonderful examples of Corum’s ability to blend modern design with the traditional skills of haute horlogerie.
