L.Leroy Vox Temporis: A Modern Single-Hand Tourbillon Minute Repeater Inspired by a 19th-Century Tact Watch

L.Leroy Vox Temporis: The Voice of Time

L.Leroy, a name steeped in horological history, has once again captured the essence of timekeeping with its latest creation, the Vox Temporis. This new model draws direct inspiration from a unique piece unveiled at the 2023 Only Watch auction, which itself paid homage to a tact watch crafted in 1810 for Prince Emil of Hesse. That original timepiece, now housed in the Patek Philippe Museum, allowed the wearer to read the time in darkness through touch, using diamonds and pearls arranged around the case.

The Vox Temporis translates to "voice of time" in Latin, a fitting name for a watch that communicates the minutes through chimes rather than a conventional hand. It retains the single-hand display concept but presents it in a more refined, less ornamental manner than its predecessor. The rotating dial, adorned with a flinqué soleil pattern and available in blue, anthracite grey, or steel grey, works with a fixed, hand-engraved arrow-shaped hour hand to indicate the time.

Design and Case

The watch features a 43mm drum-shaped case, offered in 18k red gold, 950 platinum, or grade 5 titanium. Its sapphire crystals, front and back, are treated with anti-reflective coating. The fluted crown bears the brand's double "L" logo, and a slide at 9 o'clock activates the minute repeater. A push-button at 4 o'clock releases the hinged officer-style caseback, revealing the intricate movement within. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters (3 ATM), suitable for everyday wear.

Movement and Mechanics

At the heart of the Vox Temporis beats the proprietary calibre L601SQR, manufactured by Régence Production SA in Geneva. This manual-winding movement combines a flying one-minute tourbillon with a minute repeater, striking hours, quarters, and minutes on demand. Comprising 321 components and 29 jewels, it operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and offers a substantial 90-hour power reserve from a single barrel. The tourbillon cage, measuring 13.6mm and containing 76 parts, rotates once per minute, adding to the visual spectacle.

Availability and Pricing

The L.Leroy Vox Temporis is a limited edition of 15 pieces across all three versions. Pricing is set at CHF 265,000 for the titanium model, CHF 290,000 for the red gold version, and CHF 320,000 for the platinum edition. Each watch comes on a black alligator leather strap with large scales on top and small scales inside, secured by a folding clasp featuring the double-L logo.

For enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of historical significance and modern haute horlogerie, the Vox Temporis stands out as a remarkable addition to any collection. Its single-hand display and repeater function offer a distinct interaction with time, echoing the elegance of a bygone era while embracing contemporary craftsmanship.