Trilobe continues its enchantment of time through its original, eccentric designs where time does not just pass, but is also anticipated. The exclusive X-Centric³ caliber conceived by Gautier Massonneau, founder of Trilobe, has been elevated to the third power to give life to the new Une Folle Journée — which translates to “a crazy day”, quite the fitting name.

The new piece presents an open dial — a first for the brand — that reveals the secrets of the Swiss caliber without diminishing the impact of the rings that show the hours, minutes and seconds. What’s more, the rings are not only means of display, but are part of the X-Centric movement. The result is an almost spatial aesthetic where time orbits above the refined mechanics of its 196 components. Trilobe set the structure around layered bridges and plates to make this remarkable design possible. In light of the improved visibility, the parts’ finishing was detailed even further, mostly with fine polishing and micro-graining.

The three rings “fly” 10.2mm above the caliber, supported by nine pillars. A hollow, polished titanium cornice supports an internally curved satin-brushed ring made of titanium. According to the brand, the light titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy used in the rings is quite complex to work with, and it has to be flamed during its machining process, then polished and detailed. In addition to its appearance, its lightness is the key feature that allows driving in the air the three eccentric rings that float under the sapphire dome that’s crafted in Japan using flame fusion, then polished in Switzerland. Another detail to consider: given the curvature of the rings, the printing of the crisp numerals is a genuine feat.

Une Folle Journée is presented in a grade 5 titanium case, constructed with lugs brought around a case-middle that alternates polished and satin finishings. Une Folle Journée indicates a water resistance of 50 meters on its caseback via a duck instead of a fish. Now that’s what I call having fun in watchmaking.

Tech Specs

Trilobe Une Folle Journée Ref. UFJ0NA (black), UNJ0BA (blue)

Movement: Self-winding caliber X-Centric³ with micro-rotor; 48-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds by floating titanium alloy rings (patented design)
Case: 40.5mm x 17.8mm; grade 5 titanium; domed bezel with sapphire dome crystal; sapphire caseback, 50m water resistance
Dial: Open-worked, with eccentric floating time rings
Strap: Leather with pin buckle
Price: USD 24,100 (both references)