Moritz Grossmann welcomes Martin Tillman as its new brand ambassador and honors the Swiss cellist and composer with a special edition timepiece. The Tillman Electric Cello in stainless steel delights with a perspective that focuses on the aesthetics of the mechanics. In doing so, it also shines a light on the fascinating qualities of a classic musical instrument.
While the details of the movement can be seen in all their beauty via an openwork dial, the fine decoration on the components can be admired through the exhibition case back. There, the exceptional cellist’s electric cello is showcased as a decorative motif, with the silhouette of the instrument carved out.
The body and space between the strings give rise to a velvety texture, which is created by tremblage, a rare handcraft that is cultivated in the workshops of the independent watchmaker. The engraver creates an expressive matte surface using their burin to etch small, almost trembling movements in the metal.
The striking dial view is made possible by a special construction by Moritz Grossmann, the mirrored caliber 107.0. The hand-wound movement is almost inverted, requiring numerous additional constructions, such as changing the direction of rotation of the mainspring barrel and the entire movement. The wheel train runs in the right direction thanks to the mirrored escapement and the mirrored oscillation system – also including the balance spring coiling direction.
This design enables an exceptionally large dial aperture that showcases the sophisticated details of the movement, such as the Grossmann balance, the hand-engraved balance cock, and the ratchet wheel with three-band snailing.
The luxurious look of the Moritz Grossmann Tillman Electric Cello, which is limited to four pieces only, is completed by a supple brown Kudu leather strap. Pricing is marked at $42,190.
To learn more, visit Moritz Grossmann, here.