The story behind this Claude Meylan Tortue Rainbow
Nestled in the heart of the Vallée de Joux, Maison Claude Meylan cultivates the art of skeletonisation with recognised technical mastery. The Tortue Rainbow model continues this tradition by offering a way of telling the time that eschews the usual markers. The watchmakers have chosen to remove the traditional hour markers, retaining only a striking number 7 at 7 o’clock. This aesthetic and asymmetrical design echoes the seven days of the week or the seven colours of the rainbow, thus presenting the movement in a range of hues. This approach transforms the internal mechanics into a kinetic architecture, offering the eye a sense of depth whilst remaining true to the codes of independent haute horlogerie.
Case, calibre and strap of this Tortue Rainbow
The case of this timepiece is characterised by a tonneau-shaped case measuring 40 mm in diameter. Crafted from stainless steel, it features a black PVD coating with a micro-beadblasted finish, giving it a discreet, matt appearance. This contrast highlights the open dial, where bevelled bridges in anthracite grey and light blue interweave. The sword-shaped hands are filled with a blue material that matches the structure. The visible movement is a hand-wound calibre based on a robust architecture, entirely reworked and decorated in the brand’s workshops. It beats at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour and guarantees a power reserve of approximately 42 hours, supported by 17 jewels. The whole is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 30 metres. The textured black rubber strap integrates with the short lugs and fastens with a black PVD-coated steel pin buckle.
Why choose this Claude Meylan watch
Acquiring this timepiece offers an opportunity to enter the world of independent Swiss watchmaking with a striking and unconventional design. The contrast between the case’s dark, matt finish and the brilliance of the blue skeletonised movement stands out without being ostentatious. This specific model remains a limited-edition piece aimed at enthusiasts of visible mechanical movements seeking an alternative to traditional timepieces. Its list price is approximately 4,900 CHF and can be viewed on the brand’s website via this link. On the second-hand market, this model offers an excellent balance between exclusivity and the joy of watchmaking.
Contents and condition
This timepiece comes with its complete original presentation set, comprising the white outer box, the luxurious blue box and its warranty card dated November 2024. The watch is in very good overall condition, having been worn with great care. The matt black case shows no significant signs of wear, and the rubber strap retains all its original suppleness, indicating very occasional use. The entire mechanism operates with precision, delivering a performance true to the manufacturer’s high standards.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this timepiece. We offer a 24-month warranty to give you complete peace of mind. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – watch has been worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
