The Bugatti Calandre Table Clock elevates horological art. It is a remarkable collaboration between Jacob & Co., Bugatti, and Lalique. Following the 2024 release of the Jacob & Co. Bugatti Tourbillon timepiece, these esteemed brands unite again. They take their partnership to new heights. This exquisite table clock represents a new format in high watchmaking. The Bugatti Calandre seamlessly blends historic features, intricate mechanics, and delicate artistry. This rare piece of craftsmanship emerged from a three-year research and development process. It brilliantly brings together Bugatti’s rich history with Jacob & Co.’s innovation in high watchmaking.
A Fusion of Craftsmanship
This extraordinary timepiece is a testament to collaborative artistry. Jacob & Co., Bugatti, and Lalique brought their distinct expertise to the project. The result is an object of unparalleled beauty and complexity. The three-year research and development process ensured meticulous detail. Each brand contributed its unique strengths. Jacob & Co. provided horological innovation. Bugatti offered its iconic design legacy. Lalique delivered its renowned crystal craftsmanship. This fusion created a truly exceptional work of art. It stands as a symbol of luxury and precision.
Design Legacy and Homage
The Bugatti Calandre profoundly reflects iconic design cues from Bugatti’s century-long history. It also showcases Jacob & Co.’s ability to translate this heritage into an intricate timepiece. A Lalique-crafted crystal case forms its timeless design. The Bugatti Calandre pays homage to past generations of Bugatti artistry. It seamlessly integrates this heritage with the visionary future of the iconic automotive marque. Jacob & Co. first references the legendary Bugatti Type 41 Royale. It features two intricately sculpted Dancing Elephants. These graceful creatures are leaning symmetrically toward each other. This artistic tribute honors Rembrandt Bugatti. He was the renowned sculptor and brother of Ettore Bugatti. This style also defined numerous Lalique clock designs.
The product name, Calandre, nods to Bugatti’s French roots. It translates to “radiator grille.” This celebrates the iconic horseshoe grille found on Bugatti vehicles. Above the grille details sits the Bugatti brand logo. It is known as the Bugatti Macaron. Its deep red color is recognized by car lovers and collectors worldwide. Lastly, behind the horseshoe grille, Jacob & Co. fitted a clock caliber. This caliber features a vertical flying tourbillon. This references Bugatti’s newly released Bugatti Tourbillon hyper sports car. It also doubles as a nod to the tourbillon’s original purpose. It increases accuracy in vertically positioned timepieces.
Horological Masterpiece: The Caliber JCAM58
Jacob & Co. developed a dedicated movement for the Bugatti Calandre. This exclusive caliber, JCAM58, is designed around a vertical flying tourbillon. Historically, this complex complication was created to enhance accuracy. It served clocks and watches remaining in a fixed, vertical position. In the Bugatti Calandre, the tourbillon serves its original purpose. It counteracts gravity’s effect on timekeeping. It also showcases Jacob & Co.’s technical prowess. The table clock comes with an impressive eight-day power reserve. This is achieved through its manually wound caliber JCAM58. To maintain its aesthetic, time setting and winding are performed discreetly. A special key inserts into the clock’s caseback.
Lalique’s Crystal Artistry
The crystal case of the Bugatti Calandre is a work of art. It is meticulously handcrafted in Lalique’s workshops. These are located in Wingen-sur-Moder, eastern France. Founded in 1922, Lalique is home to techniques refined over decades. These techniques achieve unmatched clarity and brilliance. Molten crystal pours into an engineered steel mold. There, it cools and solidifies into the sculpture. The clarity, purity, and inner light of the crystal are paramount. They ensure every detail is accentuated when light passes through. Once cast, skilled artisans spend months refining every surface. They sharpen edges and enhance textures. They also frost and polish finishes. This process ensures the highest standards of quality. The intricate frosted and polished surfaces enhance depth. They bring the sculpted elephants to life through light and shadow.
Exclusivity and Jacob-Cut Gemstone
The Bugatti Calandre adds a final layer of exclusivity. It pays tribute to Jacob & Co.’s high jewelry expertise. The clock is topped by a magnificent 30 mm red gemstone. Its vibrant color hints at the Bugatti Macaron’s main hue. Its substantial heft is made even more special by its unique cut. Jacob & Co. utilized their signature, patented Jacob Cut. This renders the gem unique. It boasts 288 facets and a nearly round shape. This detail exemplifies the blend of fine jewelry and horology. It also signifies the clock’s elite status.
Shared Vision and Heritage
The collaboration highlights common ground among the three partners. René Lalique began his career as a jeweler. He crafted precious pieces, similar to Jacob Arabo. Mr. Lalique later became a glassmaker. He invented several innovative manufacturing processes. These are still in use today. He famously manufactured numerous hood ornaments and clocks. One Lalique clock style featured two figurines. They symmetrically leaned towards each other. This framed the dial with gracious lines.
René Lalique and Ettore Bugatti also shared numerous traits. Both were born outside Alsace. This is France’s easternmost region. They both chose to establish their workshops in this area. Their locations were only 45 kilometers apart. Both entrepreneurs found unique skills in Alsace. Their industrial roots belong to this region. Furthermore, René Lalique and Ettore Bugatti were business partners. They collaborated on the ‘Clos Sainte Odile.’ This was an exclusive venue established over 100 years ago. It later became a renowned two-star restaurant.
Technical Details and Presentation
The Bugatti Calandre features impressive technical specifications. The JCAM58 caliber is hand-wound. It measures 114 mm in size. The height is 25 mm. It comprises 189 components. It boasts an 8-day power reserve. The frequency is 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz). Its functions include a one-minute flying tourbillon, hours, and minutes. The case size is 264 x 196 mm. It is crafted from Lalique molded crystal. The centerpiece is a 30 mm, 288-facet, Jacob-cut red gem. The dial features polished steel and open-worked aluminum. Hands are open-worked and rhodium-finished.
This exceptional piece is a limited edition. Only 99 pieces will ever be created. The price for this exquisite timepiece is 240,000 USD. More than just a collector’s piece, the Jacob & Co. Bugatti Calandre makes a bold statement. It showcases the brands’ dedication to merging haute horology and artistic craftsmanship. The Calandre table clock comes encased in a bespoke tan leather trunk. This trunk mirrors Bugatti’s luxury interiors. It truly embodies the fusion of luxury, design, and innovation that defines both brands.
Summary
The Bugatti Calandre table clock is an exquisite collaboration between Jacob & Co., Bugatti, and Lalique. It blends Bugatti’s iconic design, including Dancing Elephants and the horseshoe grille, with high watchmaking, featuring a vertical flying tourbillon and an 8-day power reserve. Housed in a handcrafted Lalique crystal case and topped with a Jacob-cut red gem, this limited edition of 99 pieces embodies luxury artistry and shared heritage.
Disclaimer: Product specifications and features can vary. Always consult official manufacturer documentation for the most accurate and current information.
Source: Bugatti
AI Assistance: Gemini
