Azimuth is a watchmaker based in Singapore, a location that normally isn’t associated with the world of fine horology.
Presently the company is owned by the charismatic Alvin Lye and Christopher Long. Essentially their objective is to produce a highly original range of watches fusing traditional Swiss craftsmanship with cutting edge designs.
I have been an admirer of their idiosyncratic designs for quite a few years especially the innovative SP-1 range. The beautifully sculpted Twin Barrel Tourbillon symbolises the company’s foray into haute horlogerie. This model is by far the most luxurious timepiece the company have ever produced and in my opinion probably the most striking. Recently I’ve had numerous telephone conversations with Alvin about the ideology behind the brand. Fundamentally their main aim is to devise a range of high quality timepieces with long lasting appeal.
All of Azimuth’s creations are incredibly distinctive and the Twin Barrel Tourbillon is no exception. This watch measures a colossal 50mm x 45mm x 20mm excluding the cleverly positioned top mounted crown. The robust case is constructed from lightweight titanium with structural carbon fiber inserts. These high quality materials should make the watch comfortable to wear for most occasions. Realistically the radical futuristic styling will only appeal to a small minority of buyers. I personally love the eclectic silhouette and hope the company continues designing watches in this vein.
The dial of the Twin Barrel Tourbillon is three dimensional architecture at its finest. The face is composed of multiple layers that are all integral to the success of the design. I love so many elements of the composition including the twin disc jumping hour system and the retrograde minute display. All these features are fantastic but the real star of the show has to be the magnificent tourbillon visible through a large aperture located at 6 o’clock.
Even though Azimuth’s headquarters are based in Singapore all production including the movements takes place in Bienne, Switzerland. Underneath the watchs’ robust exterior lies an intricate manual winding tourbillon mechanism. This superb calibre is equipped with a phenomenal twin barrel five-day power reserve. Every component of this objet d’art is fastidiously assembled and modified in the company’s own factory under the strictest possible conditions.
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