Faithful to its longstanding tradition of innovation, the Manufacture in Le Brassus presents a revolutionary water-tight case for its Minute Repeater.
A wealth of know-how and ingenuity have been poured into devising a mechanism that strikes the hours, quarters and minutes on request – and all the while ensuring it is water resistant to a depth of 100 metres and that not even a single drop of water will disturb the complex operation of the world’s thinnest and smallest-diameter minute repeater movement. A patent has naturally been filed for this innovation.
Thanks to Blancpain’s ingenuity and innovative spirit, the proud owner of a Minute Repeater watch will now be able to splash around with a watch on his wrist.
On a “classic” minute repeater watch, the external repeater slide that actuates the striking mechanism is directly linked to the winding lever. When it is pushed home, the slide reveals an opening along the side of the case, thereby exposing the movement to the inevitable infiltration of any surrounding liquids.
Blancpain has remedied the situation by developing an ingenious gear system that connects the repeater slide to the repeater actuating lever via two racks and a transmission shaft, itself composed of two intermediate wheels and fitted with two “O-Ring” gaskets that ensure the system is water-tight. This innovation has naturally been protected by filing a patent.
A rare and precious object, the Minute Repeater mechanism holds a place of its own in the field of horological complications. Creating each minute repeater model represents a daunting challenge for the master-watchmakers, since each of the tiny components that he assembles with infinite precision calls for numerous adjustments. Above and beyond the technical innovation and mechanical complexity they involve, such movements also draw upon a thorough knowledge of alloys and acoustics.
Only by combining several types of expertise can such a fine-toned and eminently audible mechanism be accommodated within such a small space, thanks to the magic touch of two small hammers striking the so-called “cathedral” gong. The latter boasts a sound that is remarkable both for its richness and its length. In harmony with the noblest watchmaking traditions, Blancpain has risen to these amazing challenges and has fully mastered the making of Minute Repeater wristwatches that represent a blend of complex mechanical engineering, technical innovation and exceptional acoustics.
The new water-tight Léman Aqua Lung Minute Repeater (ref. 2835) combines fascinating auditory pleasures with inventive technical solutions.
Topped by a sapphire crystal that is glare-proofed on either side, its 40mm-diameter case comes in titanium or 5N red gold – both materials featuring exceptional acoustic properties. It houses Calibre 351, a self-winding movement comprising 360 parts entirely decorated and adjusted by hand.
Radiating the understated elegance of true refinement, the matt black dial displays the hours, minutes and this prestigious signature: “Blancpain Répétition Minutes” – “Pièce unique”. Truly unique by definition, the new Léman Aqua Lung Minute Repeater is fitted with a solid case-back that may be customised according to the owner’s wishes.
The hand-sewn crocodile leather strap lined with alzavel is fitted with a new folding clasp system composed of two folding blades.
When open, the latter reveal Blancpain’s engraved “JB” logo. Guided with unfailing accuracy by a built-in spring, they look every bit like a traditional pin buckle when they are closed.
Technical details
Model: Blancpain Leman Minute Repeater Aqua Lung
Versions
Ref. 2835-3630-55B: Brushed red gold version with black dial
Ref. 2835-1230-55B: Titanium version with black dial
Case
Material: Brushed red gold or Titanium
Case thickness: 10.84 mm
Case diameter: 40 mm
Water resistance: 100 m
Between horns: 22 mm
Patented water-resistance system
Case-back engraving that may be personalized
Movement
Self-winding Calibre 351
Calibre thickness: 4.85 mm
Calibre diameter: 23.90 mm
Power reserve: 40 hours
Jewels: 39
Components: 360
Functions
Hour and minutes
Minute repeater with Cathedral gong
Dial
Black dial “Aqua Lung”
Bracelet
Crocodile strap
Limited edition
Unique Pieces
