Introducing the Jacob & Co. Casino Tourbillon

Now, the same roulette module has been integrated into a minimalist movement that is technically time-only, with the roulette automaton taking centre stage. This allows the watch’s owner to easily enjoy the game by activating it, or admire the colourful dial when the watch is not in use. The dial itself is indeed eye-catching due to its multi-level construction, which is required to accommodate the movement of the ceramic ball (which is prevented from interfering with the time-telling dial by a clear disc above the wheelhead).

While the random spinning of the wheelhead is intriguing, the underlying principle is simple, which highlights the cleverness of the concept. Based on assembly footage of the Astronomia Casino, the roulette complication works even when the mainspring barrel of the watch isn’t installed, indicating that it has its own power source, presumably a small, secondary barrel. The same is likely to be the case in the Casino Tourbillon since both models share the same module.

Notably, the Casino Tourbillon uses back-winding crowns just like the Astronomia, which reduces the fuss around the case and gives it a more rounded look. However, the roulette automaton still requires a pusher to activate, which explains the button at eight o’clock. Nonetheless, the pusher is accompanied by a crescent-shaped crown guard to create a smooth transition from the case to the button, a smart design that adds flair to the case.