The overall design of the Osmior Tourbillon Regulateur Automatique collection is very much old-world Parisian. The French roots of the brand come out nicely in a design theme that borders on Belle Epoque – more so of course in the skeletonized version. This pre-Art Deco aesthetic can be difficult to render in a timepiece, but I think the L. Leroy designers did a nice job. Regulator style watches of course have separate dials for the display of the hours (lower sub dial), minutes (main dial), and seconds (tourbillon).
With a case size of 41mm, the Osmior Tourbillon is medium in size but wears decently with its long lugs. There are at least six versions of the watch that includes different dial designs and case materials – though it is only offered in either 18k white or pink gold. A neat model is the “tuxedo” version that has an 18k white gold case with a black and white dial. The fully 18k rose gold case with matching dial and blue-steel hands isn’t bad either and offers a slick old-world feel to it.
The allure of the Osmior Skeleton Tourbillon is apparent when looking at the rear of the watch. The dial, movement, and automatic rotor are all skeletonized and decorated. The dial I believe is laser-cut, while the skeletonization of the movement begins with machine cutting and is finished by hand. According to L. Leroy, the movements are produced via a sister company called MHVJ in the Valley du Joux in Switzerland, but skeletonized elsewhere by Chistophe Shaffo.
You may have noticed that the watches however do not indicate “Swiss Made.” That is because the final assembly and regulation takes place at the L. Leroy HQ which is located in Besancon, France. while many watchmakers are French and a lot of brands have French executive teams, very few watch brands are actually located in France.
The open view to the tourbillon is always appreciated and the movements look very well-designed. What I appreciate more however is the modern conception of the movements. Yes, I like automatics and yes, I like accurate watches. Though it is hard to find those two things matched with tourbillons. The Osmior Tourbillon balance wheel operates at 28,800 bph (4Hz) which is faster than most tourbillons out there. So if you want a classic looking, uniquely featured tourbillon that nevertheless has a modern movement, this is one of the limited choices you have.
L. Leroy Osmior Tourbillon Regulator Automatic watches come in both limited and non-limited versions and were originally released in about 2011. The non-skeleton models (which are non-limited) retail for 105,900 Euros, while the skeleton versions are limited to 7 pieces each and retail for 158,900 Euros. It goes without saying that the diamond version is much more. montres-leroy.com
