If you want more proof that the microbrand scene is perhaps the most creative corner of the watch industry, then look no further than the Grandeur Lumillion, the world’s first luminescent tourbillon. Coming from the young microbrand Grandeur, it’s already sold out after a run of just 100 pieces, but given the brand’s track record with their breakout hit Strange, an affordable version of Franck Muller’s crazy-hours model, it’s likely another variation will surface sooner or later.
On the wrist, the Lumillion doesn’t wear like a piece of high horology, instead feeling much more like a daily wear sports watch because of how comfortable it is. The case is made from ultra-light TC4 titanium (essentially the Chinese name for Grade 5 titanium) which keeps it feather-light at just 75g including the strap. At 42mm wide and 11.3mm thick, it sits nicely on the wrist, especially on the supple FKM rubber strap. It feels like the kind of watch you could wear daily despite the spectacle on the dial.
That dial is made from Damascus aluminium, each individual watch carrying its own unique pattern, tucked beneath a tall sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. In good light, it catches the eye, though in dimmer conditions the pattern can fade a little. The time display itself is a playful if somewhat secondary affair. Using a clever setup reminiscent of the M.A.D pieces, hours and minutes are read around the edge of the dial via a black disc with numerals, a red pointer, and bright orange lume. Of course, the real showstopper is at the centre, the luminescent tourbillon, glowing with BGW9 blue lume and turning what could be a purely technical feature into a piece of kinetic art.
Powering it all is a modified Hangzhou 37Z0E, a manual-wind movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The signed crown has good grip and is easy to wind, however if you let the reserve run dry, resetting the time can take some time. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does add a bit of extra ritual to ownership.
For all that, the Grandeur Lumillion delivers exactly what a limited-run showpiece should: it’s wearable, striking, and fun. It manages to be technical without feeling clinical, and stylish without being dull. At around £1,600 it’s frankly insanely well priced, although until another drop happens, you’ll have to watch from the sidelines.
Price and Specs:
More details at Grandeur.
