FRANCK MULLER PRESENTS THE VANGUARD AERO REVOLUTION 3 SKELETON

Rooted in the Maison’s most technical lineage, the Vanguard Aero Revolution 3 Skeleton offers a new interpretation of high watchmaking complications through an open vision of the tri-axial tourbillon, a complication first pioneered by Franck Muller. Developed in tandem, the case and movement are engineered to maximise visibility of the mechanism, with a fully openworked 18K rose gold case measuring 43.90 mm by 52.10 mm. Opened on all four sides, the construction has been refined to the strict minimum, allowing unobstructed views of the movement from multiple angles while preserving structural integrity. This achievement is further elevated by the Vanguard’s emblematic tonneau shape, whose curved contours demand exceptional precision in both machining and assembly.

Rooted in the Maison’s most technical lineage, the Vanguard Aero Revolution 3 Skeleton offers a new interpretation of high watchmaking complications through an open vision of the tri-axial tourbillon, a complication first pioneered by Franck Muller. Developed in tandem, the case and movement are engineered to maximise visibility of the mechanism, with a fully openworked 18K rose gold case measuring 43.90 mm by 52.10 mm. Opened on all four sides, the construction has been refined to the strict minimum, allowing unobstructed views of the movement from multiple angles while preserving structural integrity. This achievement is further elevated by the Vanguard’s emblematic tonneau shape, whose curved contours demand exceptional precision in both machining and assembly.

At the heart of the timepiece is the new MVT FM 2031-VS movement, developed over two years and assembled in-house from 280 components. Designed specifically for this open architecture with an abundance of space and “air” (contributing to its name “Aero”) around it, the skeletonised calibre highlights the essential mechanical elements in a refined and contemporary composition. As the height of the movement is taller than the height of the ordinary Vanguard case, the seethrough case back features a convex dome which accommodates, and further highlights the magnificence of the movement within.

In an unprecedented configuration for the Maison, the movement is mounted directly onto the caseback, requiring a complete rethinking of the bridges, barrels, and gear train to ensure both stability and visual openness. With open side cases, the construction of the movement is made on different levels, creating “layers” in its profile view, allowing for increased visibility of the inner workings of the in-house movement. This architecture is also designed to emphasise the Revolution 3 tourbillon, serving as a direct nod to the world premiere of the original tri-axis tourbillon

This innovative construction extends to the crown system, which has been entirely re-engineered to integrate seamlessly within the openworked case. Ensuring water resistance while maintaining the purity of the design, the crown mechanism is fixed via a tube, which is secured to the sapphire glass using a watertight locking system, ensuring both stability and water resistance. A corrector discreetly integrated into the caseback crystal allows for functional adjustment, preserving the uninterrupted transparency of the case

Animating the Vanguard Aero Revolution 3 Skeleton is the titular tri-axial tourbillon, composed of three concentric cages rotating on different axes. The inner cage completes a rotation every sixty seconds, the intermediate cage every eight minutes, and the outer cage every hour. By multiplying the positions of the balance wheel in space, this complex system compensates for the effects of gravity in all positions, enhancing chronometric precision. Powered by two barrels, the movement delivers an exceptional 10-day power reserve while sustaining the continuous motion of the three axes.

True to the Vanguard identity, the tonneau-shaped case embodies a harmonious balance of boldness and refinement and is available in a rose gold, blackened titanium or stainless steel case. The integrated strap, secured seamlessly with unseen screws, enhances both aesthetics and wearability, completing the timepiece with a refined and contemporary finish.

With the Vanguard Aero Revolution 3 Skeleton, Franck Muller brings together open architecture, mechanical innovation, and three-dimensional complexity in a creation where form and function are intrinsically linked. Beyond its technical prowess, the timepiece offers an immersive visual experience that reflects the Maison’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in haute horlogerie