Introduction
Founded in 1992 by Franck Muller and Vartan Sirmakes and known as the "Master of Complications," Franck Muller, the brand, has grown to become synonymous with complex microengineering, original whacky designs, and incredible attention to detail. While tonneau-shaped cases and colorful dials dominate Franck Muller's modern aesthetic, their earlier watches were more traditional round timepieces that featured somewhat classic design motifs, much like this Franck Muller Tourbillon Imperial ref. 7000T, which draws inspiration from those earlier years of the brand and the vintage era of watchmaking as a whole with its traditional black dial. Complete with applied Breguet hour markers and a massive tourbillon aperture at 6 o’clock that showcases the tourbillon cage’s hand engraving, which is just a taste of which is behind its exhibition caseback with the entirety of its manual-wind cal. 2001-2 being hand-engraved too, this 18kt white gold timepiece is a stunning reinterpretation of the watches of old that blend a luxurious construction with a technically impressive piece of horological engineering into what is effectively a rather compact case.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers, Hang Tag
Est. value range
$10,000 – $20,000
The Details
Brand
Franck Muller
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Tourbillon Imperial
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 2001-2
Reference
7000T
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2000
Condition
Near mint
Material
18kt white gold
Included
Watch, box, open papers, and hang tag
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a jet-black dial with enlarged 12-3-9 Breguet numerals, the ref. 7000T's display is wonderfully elegant and sophisticated, with its massive tourbillon aperture dominating its southern half.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Sized at the sweet spot of 39mm across in diameter, the 7000T's circular 18kt white gold case wears well and provides for a comfortable fit on the wrist with its supple leather strap.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The watch is in near-mint condition. The white gold case shows light signs of very careful wear. The display case back is very clean, with crisp engravings on the edge, and the case retains fully legible hallmarks. The dial and hands are near-mint. It is fitted with a black Franck Muller alligator strap and a white gold pin buckle, both in excellent condition. The watch is accompanied by its inner and outer boxes, warranty certificate, wallet, and hangtag.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
An exciting reminder of Franck Muller's early days as a maverick within the independent watchmaking scene, it is examples like this Tourbillon Imperial ref. 7000T that piques the interest of those seeking the legendary brand's original designs while still clenching a thirst for modern creature comforts.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
