Karrusel (translated as "Carousel") was originally invented by Bahne Bonniksen, a Danish watchmaker from London, in 1892 and patented (Patent No. 21421). It is a rotating framework structure.
For horology, improving timekeeping accuracy has always been a never-ending topic. Much like the marine chronometer, the movement must always maintain the same orientation to ensure precision, as gravity directly influences the balance wheel and hairspring’s movement. This influence led to the invention of the tourbillon by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1795, which was patented in 1801. The tourbillon counters the effects of gravity on timekeeping by rotating the escapement mechanism and its frame. Although the construction of a chronometer tourbillon was difficult at the time, making them scarce over the past two centuries, it remains a pinnacle of horological achievement.
In 1892, Bahne Bonniksen simplified this concept and invented the Karrusel, also obtaining a patent. Similar to the tourbillon, the Karrusel reduces the impact of gravity on timekeeping by rotating its framework. However, unlike the tourbillon, the Karrusel rotates much more slowly, usually completing one revolution every 34 to 52.5 minutes. Though the Karrusel sacrifices some accuracy, its simplified structure made it a more practical and accessible solution compared to the tourbillon at the time.
Unlike the tourbillon, the rotating frame of the Karrusel is not driven by the seconds hand, but rather by an independent gear system. This design distinguishes the Karrusel from the tourbillon in terms of operation. The tourbillon’s frame usually rotates with the seconds hand, completing one revolution every minute, while the Karrusel’s frame rotates much more slowly, typically completing a full rotation in 34 to 52 minutes. The Karrusel's design reduces power consumption and features a simpler structure than the tourbillon, which led to it being nicknamed the "poor man's tourbillon." However, despite its simpler construction, the Karrusel still requires exceptional manufacturing precision, especially in the design and assembly of its gears and transmission system.
The working principle of the Karrusel is similar to a differential planetary gear system. In the Karrusel movement, the escapement system is fixed to the rotating frame, and the frame’s rotation is driven by a set of independent gears. Specifically, the rotating frame engages with the escapement wheel through a series of gears and axles, which then drives the movement of the balance wheel. The motion of these gears allows the balance wheel to rotate eccentrically, rather than co-axially with the frame as in a tourbillon, thus reducing the effect of gravity on timekeeping.
The advantage of this design is that the Karrusel operates without consuming as much energy as the tourbillon. Additionally, its simplified structure makes it more feasible to produce. However, due to its longer rotation cycle, the Karrusel is less effective in compensating for positional errors compared to the tourbillon. In cases where extreme precision is required, the tourbillon still holds an advantage.
The technical discussion surrounding the tourbillon and the Karrusel has long been a topic of debate among horology enthusiasts. Recently, with the release of the Ulysse Nardin Freak and Blancpain's Karrusel watches, the debate has resurfaced. Some argue that the tourbillon's frame usually rotates faster than the Karrusel’s, and that the Karrusel’s balance wheel is typically off-center relative to its frame. Moreover, while both mechanisms use a rotating frame to resist the effects of gravity on the escapement system, the fundamental difference lies in the power transmission: the tourbillon’s frame and escapement share the same gear system, whereas the Karrusel uses an independent gear system to separate these two functions. Therefore, each has its unique technical advantages and challenges.
Currently, there are few watch brands that feature Karrusel movements, so they are typically priced higher. In addition to Ulysse Nardin and Blancpain, Chinese brand HAOFA has recently introduced a 60-minute Karrusel movement. This Karrusel watch features a 60-minute rotation cycle, with dial designs incorporating motifs such as koi, the starry sky, and flying dragons. It boasts exquisite craftsmanship, an 80-hour power reserve, and case finishing that aligns with its price range. This model offers more horology enthusiasts the opportunity to experience and appreciate the Karrusel movement firsthand.
Model:K001
Movement Model:8080
Drive:Single spring
Winding method:Manual winding
Power reserve:42(hours)
Vibration frequency:28800(times/hour)
Movement: Super T3 Carrousel Movement
Movement model: CAL.125.02K
Drive: double clockwork drive
Power reserve: 80 (hours)
Vibration frequency: 2160O (times/hour)
Winding method: manual winding
Gem bearing: 21
Movement : CARROUSEL
Movement Model : CAL.125.03K
Diver : Double clockwork diver
Power Reserve ：80（hours）
Vibration Frequency : 21600(times/hours)
Winding Method : Manual Winding
Gem Bearing : Twenty one