L’Epée 1839 TIME FLIES – Mechanical Airplane Clock

The TIME FLIES by L’Epée 1839 is an exceptional mechanical timepiece that combines aviation-inspired design, precision engineering, and fine craftsmanship. Designed in the shape of a vintage airplane, this remarkable creation showcases the artistry of traditional Swiss mechanical clockmaking through its spectacular openworked movement and distinctive architectural structure.

Design and Display

The hours and minutes are displayed on large-diameter stainless-steel discs featuring black PVD coating, a circular-brushed satin finish, and stamped numerals for excellent legibility. Beneath this minimalist display lies a fascinating skeletonized movement, allowing the intricate mechanical components to be admired in detail.

The airplane-inspired design extends throughout the clock, with a fully openworked winding crown at the front, reminiscent of an aircraft engine’s cooling radiators positioned behind the propeller. The freely rotating propeller adds an engaging, playful element to the overall design.

Movement and Performance

Developed and manufactured in-house by L’Epée 1839, the movement features a distinctive multi-level horizontal architecture inspired by the structure of a real airplane. Comprising 370 components, it incorporates a precision regulator positioned horizontally within the cockpit, just above the wings.

The constantly oscillating balance wheel is a captivating focal point, protected by a series of small panels that form the cockpit’s protective cage. The regulator’s prominent position highlights the engineering excellence and mechanical precision at the heart of TIME FLIES.

The manually wound movement operates at a frequency of 2.5 Hz, equivalent to 18,000 vibrations per hour, and incorporates an Incabloc shock-protection system. When fully wound, the clock offers an impressive eight-day power reserve, ensuring extended operation between winding intervals.

Construction and Finishing

Despite its openworked appearance, TIME FLIES has a substantial weight of approximately 3 kg, supported by a stable three-wheel landing gear. Its dimensions are 354.3 mm in length, 442 mm in width, and 137.5 mm in height.

The clock is crafted using palladium- or gold-finished brass, stainless steel, or aged and stabilized bronze-colored finishes. Each piece is meticulously finished by hand, incorporating polishing, microblasting, and satin-finishing techniques that emphasize the quality of its materials and craftsmanship.

For an enhanced presentation, L’Epée 1839 has designed a dedicated display stand that allows TIME FLIES to be showcased in an elegant take-off position. An innovative locking mechanism beneath the movement secures the clock firmly to the stand, making it suitable for display on a desk, in a study, or within a library.

Exclusive Limited Edition

The TIME FLIES collection comprises four distinct versions, each produced in a limited edition of 99 pieces. Available finishes include Silver, Silver & Blue, Gold, and Bronze.

Combining imaginative aviation-inspired aesthetics with sophisticated mechanical engineering, the L’Epée 1839 TIME FLIES is more than a clock. It is a statement of horological artistry, designed for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, mechanical innovation, and distinctive design.