First appearing in the German watchmaker’s collection in 2013, the Glashütte Original PanoLunarTourbillon was a showcase for some of the finest craftsmanship from the brand up to that point. For 2020, the nameplate has been revived for an exclusive limited edition, elevating the original model even further with the addition of extensively hand-applied, filigree engravings from the marque’s own in-house engraving department on both the front and back of the watch. The new Glashütte Original PanoLunarTourbillon Limited Edition offers an objectively stunning display of both the brand’s movement making and finishing capabilities.
The 40mm wide platinum case of the new Glashütte Original PanoLunarTourbillon is wisely kept simple to avoid distracting from the intricate finishing work of both the dial and movement. While the overall shape may be clean, the mix of brushed and polished surfaces still allows the brilliance of the metal to shine through well. Platinum is famously difficult to machine and finish — incomparably more challenging than soft 18ct gold — which explains why it’s reserved to the most exclusive pieces of every brand out there. A broad sapphire display back is provided as well, for a comprehensive view of the movement finishing.
The engravers work without a pattern, using a burin to inscribe the design freehand, trusting their trained eye and hand to create a naturally flowing and unique pattern on the solid gold blank of each dial.
Glashütte Original says a full day, if not more, is required to finish a dial. Therefore, a limited run of just 25 pieces like this will amount to a craftsperson’s entire month of work dedicated fully to this run and nothing else. The overall form of the PanoLunarTourbillon’s dial follows the same Glashütte hallmark asymmetrical style as the original but expands far beyond its predecessor with its filigree patterns. While these engravers are usually relegated to smaller accented pieces on the brand’s more standard models, the free rein these artisans are given over this dial undoubtedly plays visual dividends. Looking beyond the engraved surface, the flying tourbillon remains a stunning visual centerpiece with diamond end-stone traditionally reserved as a mark of the finest pocket and wristwatches. A small blued tip on its three-spoke cage aids its use as a running seconds indicator. The handset is a new skeletonized pair of blued alpha hands, coupled with a matching set of applied rectangular indices. Both the big date window and the moonphase indicator have been redesigned to follow this new blue on silver color palette, as well.
Like the dial, the manufacture Calibre 93-12 automatic flying tourbillon movement inside the new Glashütte Original PanoLunarTourbillon takes the components of its 2013 predecessor and adds a wealth of new decorations. The movement plates, bridges, and even the skeletonized rotor are adorned with complex hand-engraved designs, and are further embellished with exposed blued screws. Beyond the titular flying tourbillon, the Calibre 93-12 offers a 48 hour power reserve and a 21,600 bph beat rate. Glashütte Original pairs the new PanoLunarTourbillon with a Louisiana alligator leather strap in a deep, handsome midnight blue. The tone here plays well off the blue accents of the dial for a coherent whole, and is finished with a platinum deployant clasp.
With this return to the PanoLunarTourbillon, Glashütte Original has flexed its muscles in both the horological and decorative departments for a truly stunning showcase. Produced in 25 individually numbered iterations, the Glashütte Original PanoLunarTourbillon Limited Edition is priced at €126,720 and will be made available through brand boutiques and select retailers in late August 2020. For more information, please visit the brand’s website.
