For many watch brands, a new dial colour or case design is enough to create a "new model." At HORAGE, we see things a little differently…... As an engineering heavy organisation our starting point is always the heart of the watch: our K series movements. Sometimes a new release is built upon a small change, such as adding a new complication. Other times it could be a paradigm shift: a completely new way of understanding and visualizing timepieces. 

Our latest creation, the Autark Tourbillon Bubbles fits squarely into this second camp.

It was a forgone conclusion that after releasing a micro rotor calibre and a hand-wound tourbillon that we couldn’t resist the temptation to combine them. Back in 2023, the resulting mechanical engine: the K-TMR was a new milestone for our brand. The Autark Tourbillon was a logical next step in the HORAGE story and became an instant classic in the product range whilst simultaneously cementing our reputation as a pioneer in building tourbillon watches.

What we never previously told the community until now is that the watch we originally hoped to release back in 2023 is the Autark Tourbillon Bubbles. What appears to be a simple visual/design concept: turning the movement upside down—required four years of intensive engineering to become reality.

How did we get here and what did we learn along the way?

Firstly, as soon as we realised that this piece would take longer, our focus switched to delivering the Autark Tourbillon in the ‘conventional’ layout. ‘Bubbles’ as it became known within the company was developed and engineered in tandem but with an undefined, future release date. 

Secondly, when you flip one part over, a significant number of other elements must change too. A micro rotor at the front of the calibre rewinds the mainspring in the other direction! So, the ratchet and complete winding mechanism need to be adapted.

In a normal construction the 3 ‘core’ elements of micro rotor, tourbillon and mainspring are distributed over 2 different sides of the bridge plate. Fit them on one side and….well, no surprise they don’t fit! The diameter of the whole movement must be increased, which changes almost everything. In a normal movement key fastening locations are obscured by the dial: in ‘Bubbles’ they would be visible and therefore also needed to be relocated.  

Thirdly: there is a difference between creating a construction which works perfectly in OnShape, our favourite 3D modelling software and one which is manufacturable using the available machines in our factory! The production team had to apply out of the box thinking to physically cut the calibre main-plates and bridges to the required tolerances using CNC cutting tools just 0.5mm thick. This is close to the limit of current reductive manufacturing capabilities. 

You learn by trying things out, making mistakes and then implementing your new knowledge, right? Suffice to say, our team learnt a whole lot during this project.  

Like every watch brand we also depend on  specialist external suppliers. A good example for our ‘Bubbles’ baby is the translucent glass ‘dial’ made locally by GB Microfab. It supports the uninterrupted view to the K-TMR 2 calibre, which features open worked sections in and around the three ‘bubbles.’ The metal frame surrounding each bubble was a further manufacturing challenge. It is made using the LIGA galvanic growth process (eagle eyed readers will remember we also use LIGA tech to make certain geartrain parts). 

The overall result is much more than just a different display. It is a completely new interpretation of how a watch is worn, shared and experienced. The three "bubbles" are not just design choices: they symbolize HORAGE's vision that the tourbillon is no longer merely a mechanism created to counteract gravity—it transcends it. Three interlinking windows, the flying tourbillon, mainspring barrel, and platinum micro-rotor float above the dial, creating an illusion of weightlessness.

Watching these mesmerizing elements brings rational, watch-loving adults the same joy as a child experiences watching soap bubbles drift effortlessly into the sky. This is our Happy Bubble.

Would you like to join it?

How do you like this radical new design? Tell us in the comments

Want more info on ‘Bubbles’? 

Website: HORAGE Autark Tourbillon Bubbles 

Check our YouTube channel here: Autark Tourbillon Bubbles: Unconcerned by Gravity 

Until end Aug 2026, the special-pre-order price of 17,990 CHF is available, after which the price reverts to 19,990 CHF 

 WebStore: The Official HORAGE store

Or check out our YouTube channel here: Autark Tourbillon Bubbles: Unconcerned by Gravity 

Until 31.08.2026 the very special-pre-order price of 17,990 CHF is available, after which the price reverts to 19,990 CHF 

 WebStore: The Official HORAGE store