High complications are completed in a separate area. Each complicated watch, the Tortue perpetual calendar or Astrotourbillon for example, is completed by one watchmaker.
Below: A watchmaker working on several Astrotourbillon watches which are complete save for the straps and buckles
Generally, all the parts that comprise the watch, case, dial, hands and movement components, are placed inside a plastic kit box for the watchmaker to assemble. There are exceptions of course, like the Tortue Perpetual Calendar. The base for that is the 1904 MC which is assembled in the mechanical movement assembly area, after which the calendar plate is added and the watch is cased in the high complications area.
Below: Perpetual calendar plate parts for the Tortue Perpetual
Below: The completed movement and kit for casing
If the movement is outsourced, from Renaud & Papi for instance, it is delivered in completed condition to the watchmaker.
Below: Monopusher chronograph with tourbillion, movement from Renaud & Papi
Ultra-high complications, like the monopusher chronograph with tourbillon and perpetual calendar, as well as bespoke or custom watches, are assembled in a separate department that is also responsible for restoration for vintage watches.
click here for Part IX.
This message has been edited by SJX on 2010-07-08 07:50:00