Romain Jerome Moon Orbiter Speed Metal (Flying Tourbillon) Luxury Watch Review

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The Romain Jerome Moon Orbiter Speed Metal is a 25 piece limited edition flying tourbillon for iconoclastic watch collectors with a taste for the exotic and a penchant for science fiction.

As the 2014 successor to 2013's equally limited Moon Orbiter, the Speed Metal variant adds a PVD blackened stainless steel case for the ideal "post re-entry" patina. The highlight of the original - an automatic flying tourbillon movement with power reserve indicator - returns in glory for a second "close encounter."

All elements of the Romain Jerome Moon Orbiter Speed Metal are evocative of high horology and fantastical cosmic imagery. The intriguing juxtaposition of these unlikely bedfellows works surprisingly well. A flying tourbillon carriage designed to resemble the starship Enterprise sits atop bridges of immaculate finish; the lunar crater motif of the movement base plate flanks golden brass train wheels and mirror-polished screws. All movement design and finish is executed by high horology maestros La Joux Perret, and all zany Buck Rogers imagery arrives courtesy of Romain Jerome; each is a specialist in its chosen discipline.

As part of Romain Jerome's "Moon DNA" collection, the Moon Orbiter incorporates actual Moon dust within the metallic surface of its laser-etched dial. Moreover, the complex prism-like case of the Moon Orbiter features actual Apollo 11 salvage steel in its structure. Those components not manufactured from defunct spaceships are crafted from sapphire in order to allow all-aspect views of the spectacular hand-wound movement. A power reserve indicator beneath the window at "six o'clock" conveys the state of the 42-hour mainspring autonomy.

With a massive 45mm tall, 48mm wide, and 20mm thick case, the Moon Orbiter relies on NASA-proven technology to fit smaller wrists with security. Lugs designed with springs and pivots emulate the impact suspension struts of the lunar landers of Apollo Program fame. This unique appropriation of space-age tech provides an adaptable fit for the Moon Orbiter Speed Metal's battlecruiser-sized hull.

See the exotic, esoteric, and escapist Romain Jerome Moon Orbiter Speed Metal in high-resolution images on www.thewatchbox.com.

Video and content by Tim Mosso