The boys in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania have done us Americans proud. However, I found it ironic that I needed to see this American-made watch in Switzerland. This is the RGM Pennsylvania Tourbillon MM 2 watch. Almost all of it is made in American, including the case and much of the movement. Certain parts, like the balance spring, really make no sense to try to manufacture yourself. Designed after classic American pocket watches, the Pennsylvania Tourbillon is a handsome timepiece for discerning collectors and you don’t have to be American to like it.

I previously wrote about the RGM Pennsylvania Tourbillon MM 2 watch here. There you will learn more about RGM, the technical specs, and other facts that I don’t feel like repeating here. This is about my hands-on experience with the first-ever American made tourbillon watch. A while back, the US made a lot of watches. We bested Switzerland and brands like IWC were actually created when the US decided to outsource its watch-making to Switzerland – no joke.

Since those golden days, and the quartz crisis/revolution, the US has all but stopped making watches in any mass amount. While there are a number of small US watch brands, few do anything with movements. RGM, based in one of the watch hotspots of the US, made their first movement (the caliber 801) a few years ago. They have since followed up with the Pennsylvania Tourbillon. The movement is manually wound with a slow beat, large diameter tourbillon opposite an off-centered watch dial. The face of the watch is all about appreciating the movement – with its German silver engraved dial and exposed mechanics. A traditional movement throughout, it has a unique American flavor and design.

Finishing is impressive, and I like the high polish and design of the case. There is a small sapphire window in the side of the case for another view of the movement. The case is 43mm wide and comes in steel, gold, or platinum. While traditional, the movement and case do not feel boring. This is certainly a cool looking piece with a lot of inherent value and an air of quality. It isn’t cheap either.

The price for the watch in steel is $75,000. Steep, sure, but this watch is hand-made and they don’t make very many. The price goes up to $125,000 for the platinum case. RGM explained to me that most of their clients are Americans who feel a strong connection to the American brand and enjoy the craftsmanship. Of course, not everyone who buys one of these is American. RGM further explained to me that their business is going to be more focused on watches like this moving forward. Meaning more in-house made, classic designs that focus on beauty and artisanal work.

Overall, while pricey, the watch is well done. I love the style of it and it really does feels good on the wrist. The design is unique enough to be recognizable and I think RGM has a bright future ahead of them with pieces like this. Nice work all around. Next up, an automatic tourbillon. I hope.