Featuring a tonneau case shape and signature models including the XP1 Tourbillon and P-ONE, known for sporty, all-black aesthetics and accessible luxury positioning, we reveal everything you need to know about Blackout Watches

 

In Brief

• Having taken over the brand in 2022 from Fabrice Letellier, young horological visionaries Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau are the brains behind Blackout Watches.
• Nestled in Geneva, home to the most expensive watch brands in the world, their melange of Swiss assembly and Asian components is steadily setting them apart in the independent scene.
• Turning economic conventions on its head, their technical lead, David (ex Patek Philippe tourbillon assembler) puts every timepiece through their paces with more than a dozen strenuous tests, ranging from amplitude to power reserve.
• Beauty, precision and the art of perfection collide that has resulted in the XP1 Tourbillon in forged carbon and grade 5 titanium with Luminova powder, as well as the P-ONE that’s tried and tested in Switzerland.
• Blackout Watches deliver experimentalism and accessibility, which is integral to their concept while not compromising on quality and precision at a budget friendly price.
• Utilising forged carbon on their flagship model, the XP1, they have managed to incorporate not only a Richard Mille (esque) butterfly clasp and vulcanised rubber straps but a tourbillon into a sub £3,000 model.

The only manufacturer to merge Asian components alongside Swiss engineering, they may not have reinvented the wheel, but this brand has grabbed the horological bull by its horns.

Located in Geneva, this has resulted in breaking the mould to serve up aesthetic and macro-economic norms that the industry dare not think about. And the result?

Blackout Watches

 

History Time

Initially founded in 2007 by Fabrice Letellier, an automotive enthusiast with a passion for blacked‑out luxury watches, the initial focus was on customising well-known brands such as Audemars Piguet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega and Rolex with DLC or PVD matte-black coatings. 

PEOPLE READING: The Best Rolex Watches To Buy In 2025

 

Fast forward a decade and a half, and by 2022, entrepreneurs Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau took over the brand, shifting from customization to producing their own original timepieces under the name Blackout Watches.

Their models are now assembled in Geneva by David, a certified master watchmaker with experience at top luxury Swiss watch brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe.

And with more strenuous checks than a Formula 1 engine, the brand endeavours to source the finest Asian movements and components which undergo rigorous testing and tweaking before production.

READ MORE: Eight Formula 1 Watches To Inspire Race Fans

As a result, their ethos of first rate finishing together with dashing George Clooney looks emanating from the tonneau case shape results in affordable entry-level luxury that’s certainly more than wrist worthy 

 

What Are Blackout Watches Flagship Models?

“The best part is that for Blackout it’s just the start. We have so many ideas, international expansion projects, new impactful collabs coming…Our main goal is that in 10-20 years time, we’re still as strong as ever. By exceeding expectations from clients, sharp financial management, innovative ideas and infinite determination, you can shake a sector as exclusive and traditional as the watchmaking industry.” 

Etienne Rousseau, Co-Founder of Blackout Watches, talking exclusively to Chrono Hunter

 

Their motto since the dawn of time (well the last few years!) is that the unthinkable becomes possible. 

And with the renaissance of the brand under the horological helm of Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau, they are steering the brand into a new era, focusing on value for money, blending Asian components and the finest Swiss engineering. 

But what exactly makes them tick? What about the finishing techniques and are Blackout Watches good? Like a well-oiled Ferrari engine, they take a leaf out of Tony Montana’s book from the 1983 hit film Scarface, and Push It To The Limit.

It’s about time we found out more, as we give you a brief overview of their main models. 

XP1

“With Blackout and the XP1, the whole idea was to come with something new. Transforming foreign tourbillon in Switzerland to obtain great reliability at a small price is actually so hard, but managing to do so is bringing something completely new to the table…We know the XP1 isn’t for everyone — and that’s fine. It’s meant to be polarizing, because we’re bringing something completely new to the table. For us, it’s a strategic piece."

Etienne Rousseau, Co-Founder Blackout Watches 

 

From the sold out XP1 Tourbillon LT Red to the XP1 Tourbillon Orange Racing, this is a complication with more attitude than the Andrew Tate watch collection.

 

With the majority of these executions manufactured in a 50 piece limited edition run which have all been numbered, you can be a part of an exclusive club (more on that later)

 

On the one hand, when you buy a watch with a tourbillon inside, especially from major brands like the holy grail Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Tourbillon with green dial, you’ll likely be shedding in excess of £15,000.

READ MORE: 9 Grail Watches You Should Start Collecting Today

As gorgeous as Naomi Campbell at London Fashion Week? Yes. Accessible to the majority of enthusiasts?

A resounding No.

But what they have done is incorporate a flying tourbillon from the Far East that’s been put through more of its pace than a Tyson Fury workout.

 

And they have delivered a timekeeping knockout, resulting in a hybrid model that brings together premium Swiss craftsmanship and rigorously checked Asian parts. 

 

This is carefully overseen by their head of watchmaking David who has decades of tourbillon assembly expertise from some of the world’s best luxury watch brands that hold value with reliability top of the agenda. 

 

Thousands of Asian tourbillons have been tested and modified in the pursuit of accuracy as well as to avoid any technical deficiencies. Look, these complications have taken more hits in their Geneva workshops than Jackie Chan! 

 

To avoid damage, no stone is left unturned on the XP1 Tourbillon before every hand-wound flying tourbillon is directly installed into their forged carbon cases.

But wait, we haven’t finished. How can you undo the strap?

DISCOVER MORE: Question Time: How Do I Undo Or Replace My Rolex Strap?

They have this area covered too thanks to their simple “quick-release” attachment system. Swap out bracelets effortlessly for easy on the fly adjustment and step out of the boardroom and into the beach bar in a matter of moments.

 

Together with luminescent forged carbon to resonate a bright glow in dark conditions, choice of UAC carbon folding buckle or UAC carbon pin buckle and half a dozen strap colours, wearability and practicality marry together perfectly.

 

Official Specs - XP1 Tourbillon

Case Diameter	44mm
Case Thickness	14.8mm
Case Material	UAC forged carbon (Luminova white in the dark)
Glass Construction	Sapphire (on front and back)
Power Reserve	72 hours
Water Resistance	10 ATM / 100 metres / 10 Bar
Movement Base Country of Origin	Hong Kong
Weight	110 grams

 

Did You Know…

They have already scored on and off the horological pitch with a limited edition execution, produced in association with former Newcastle United winger, Allan Saint-Maximin

The XP1 Tourbillon Allan Saint-Maximin-Blackout is a 50 piece model, featuring signature colours of the Toon Army found on the dial, indices and markers, namely black and white. Sadly, you are out of time on this one, as it is sold out at the time of writing.

 

P-ONE

As sporty as a Richard Mille Bubba Watson RM55, minus the price tag, the P-ONE from Blackout Watches is another model from the stable of Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau.

Their entry-level barrel shaped timepiece is packed with more of a punch than Lou Ferrigno sporting a Rolex Hulk. 

 

FIND OUT MORE: Review: The Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV

Whether strolling down the fairway or enjoying a pot of strawberries and cream at Wimbledon, it might serve up a serve, volley and smash for those looking to buy a watch with good looks, wearability at a fraction of the price. 

Released in 2023, there’s 316L stainless steel and 50 metres of water resistance to kick things off, This ensures you can flex it around the pool, for athletics as well as a light paddle in crystal clear Caribbean waters.

However, it is advisable not to flaunt this while indulging in a spot of snorkelling or scuba diving. 

With a PVD treatment and at 44mm x 16mm thick, for size comparison, the P-ONE is 1mm less than Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph in titanium but 1mm more in height than an IWC Top Gun in Ceratanium (IW395505)

DISCOVER MORE: Top IWC Watches To Buy And Invest In 2025

Let’s put it this way. It is not for the faint of wrists, so slimmer wearers beware. This is not a slinky number, but if you are looking for edgy, sporty and with enough rugged looks to match George Clooney, it might sway you. 

Anyone for sporty casual? There is a fixed bezel which is carefully integrated into the case that stands out due to its imposing aesthetics. 

Presented on a fluora rubber bracelet, there are small details which they have incorporated into the model like a signed branded crown, PVD plating and excellent openworked black dial, stamping their authority this is from the house of Blackout Watches. 

Could this be one of the best skeleton watches under £5,000? That’s for you to decide, dear reader. Flip this over for a second, and you will find etched onto the caseback;

• Blackout
• 316L Stainless Steel
• Automatic Miyota 82S0
• Water Resistant 5ATM

On the face of it (pardon the pun) for the price point, you are enjoying quite a bit.

There is good quality visibility coming from the dial and sapphire glass, with small red ruby rose dots elevating it to give some personality and contrast. Not quite one to add to our best rainbow watches list, but you get the picture.

FIND OUT MORE: The 18 Best Rainbow Watches Fit For The Horological Trendsetter

 

Official Specs - P-ONE

Case Size	44mm x 53mm
Case Material	316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance	50 metres / 5ATM / 5 Bar
Glass	Sapphire
Strap	Fluora Rubber

 

Miyota 82S0 Movement

The beating heart of the P-ONE is the Japanese Miyota 82S0.

This is a mechanical chronograph movement produced by Miyota, a well-known Japanese movement manufacturer and subsidiary of Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. It's part of Miyota's 8 Series, which is known for its robustness, affordability, and reliability in mechanical watch applications.

The Miyota 8S20 is commonly found in affordable to mid-range mechanical chronograph watches, especially in microbrands or entry-level automatic chronograph models. 

Its value proposition lies in providing mechanical chronograph complexity without the premium pricing of Swiss calibers like the ETA/Valjoux 7750. The Miyota 8S20 is a solid, workhorse mechanical chronograph movement ideal for brands and collectors seeking functionality and value. 

While it may not have the prestige or refinement of higher-end Swiss calibers, it delivers reliable performance at a significantly lower price, making it a great choice for everyday mechanical chronographs.

Delivering a skeletonised dial design, it has been implemented to fullest on this specific model. According to Miyota they are saying the 82S0 caliber has an accuracy of around -20 ~ +40 seconds daily. 

While it may leave some deflated, together with the 3Hz Vph you are receiving quite a decent bang for your buck when it comes to these types of watches. 

DISCOVER MORE: 11 Different Types Of Watches You Need To Know About - Chrono Hunter

Lest we forget, other novelties with the Miyota 8S20 include;

• Bulova 96A199
• Bulova 97A136
• Xeric Evergraph
• Festina Automatic F20535

In short, the Miyota 8S20 is a solid, entry‑level Japanese automatic movement that punches above its weight in small to mid-sized chronograph-style or mechanical novelties.

It delivers reliability, a familiar sweep, and respectable finishing—all at budget-friendly prices.

 

Official Movement Specs 

Country Of Origin	Japan
Movement Diameter	26mm
Height	5.67mm
Anti Shock System	Parashock
Rotor Direction	Uni-directional (left)
Power Reserve	42 hours
Vph	21,600 (3Hz)
Number of Jewels	21
Accuracy	-20～＋40 sec per day

 

What Is The Blackout Watches Club?

Hotter than an Emmys after party (well, almost), their membership puts its timekeeping stamp on those who believe in what the brand is aspiring to do.

The ‘Blackout Watches Club’ is described as a union of watchmaking aficionados who share the same commitment and values while being open, dedicated and transparent to the brand’s clientele.

This particular scheme has been set up with the intention of demonstrating how vital their customers are and features;

• Special discounts on timepieces
• Regular newsletter
• Discussions about shaping the future of the company.

**There are three levels, Gold, Platinum and Black. Prices start from 2000CHF.**

Their benefits are laid out in this handy table below;

Gold	Platinum	Black
3% reduction on free strap	6% discount on future orders	13% discount on future orders
Entry into taking part in a host of physical events	Private call from one of the owners after next order is placed	Private call from one of the owners after next order is placed
Personal call from one of the Co-Founders after placing your next order	Invitation to next club membership events	Personal invite to next private event
	Consultation on certain products or brand-related issues that may arise	Discussion on specific timepieces or brand related items that may occur
		Extended 12 month warranty

Further information can be found here

 

Where Can You Buy Blackout Watches?

You’ve heard of the phrase “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine”

Well for owners Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau, this doesn’t seem to be the case. How so? Wait right there for a second and we’ll explain.

Handpicked resellers are the essential ingredients into why they are drawn to the brand who approach them…rather than the other way around. In this way, this means every dealer they align with satisfies their unwavering approach to customer value not to mention the brand’s overall philosophy. 

Like Chrono Hunter, it is all to do with exacting standards and attention to detail from beginning to the end of the transaction. 

Aside from Swiss Collectors Network which boasts more than 40 stores, selected retailers where you can purchase the XP1 Tourbillon and P-One include;

• Temps et Passions, 31 Boulevard des Moulins, 98000, Monaco
• Bijouterie Kreiter, 12 Rue Gutenberg, 67000, Strasbourg
• Luxtore, 8 Rue Emmanuel Arène, 20000 Ajaccio
• Daniel Gerard Luxembourg, 6 Rue Aldringen, 1118 Ville-Haute, Luxembourg
• Chronocash Munich, Hochbrückenstraße 8, 80331 München

 

What’s Our View?

Look, the tonneau case has been done ten to the dozen. 

There’s Franck Muller, currently headed up by CEO, Nicholas Rudaz. In particular the Cintree Curvex and Vanguard models, Tsar Bomba and of course Richard Mille spring to mind. 

LEARN MORE: 5 Reasons Why Richard Mille is Adored by Watch Collectors

But hang on a second. 

But what makes Blackout Watches so special? In the first instance, we have to give props, or should that be a big chapeau bas (translated from French as hat’s off) to Daniel, their master technician.

This timekeeping whizz counts Vacheron Constantin among more than 20+ luxury brands he is certified by. But wait, there’s more. 

While it’s not as space age as the ATOWAK MANTA-X, the fact they can put a complication like a tourbillon for less than £5,000 with Swiss craftsmanship is no mean feat. In fact, they appear on the surface anyway that they are making more waves than an Omega Seamaster Diver 300M. 

They have managed to modify and test each component to the nth degree to bring 72 hours of power reserve and forged carbon in the XP1 Tourbillon at a shockingly good price that’s attractive to many enthusiasts. 

If you are in the market to buy a watch and want to stand out from the crowd aside from the usual suspects at this price point such as the Tudor Black Bay Pro, it might be time to do a Ciara…

Paint It Black

 

Conclusion

So are Blackout Watches good? Whether Karl Lagerfeld started the trend of blacked out watches or not is neither here nor there to determine the answer.

Nevertheless, fair play to les gars. 

Performance and durability comes as standard and they do go the extra mile to work on the quality of their products…and further for their clientele. And it shows.

Customer demand is satisfied, while they are looking to exceed expectations, even more so than Mr. Kipling himself. But are they exceedingly good? 

Only time will tell.

However, in a short period after their rebirth under the helm of Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau they seem to be making more moves than Jagger himself. 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking to buy a watch with a complication such as a tourbillon? Want to sell a Rolex and level up your collection? Then look no further than Chrono Hunter. Catering to every type of consumer, collector and enthusiast, contact us here to find out how we are revolutionising the industry. 

Enjoy not one but multiple offers via our network of esteemed luxury watch retailers, quick turnaround and unparalleled service. We know the industry like no other and cover all major brands including Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, IWC, Cartier, Omega, Breitling and many more.

Download our dedicated app today or simply enter the details of the timepiece via our simple online form. With an extensive array of five star reviews on Trustpilot, we are your ultimate destination when you decide to buy or sell a watch.

Discover, hunt, buy, sell

 

 

Images: 

(Unless otherwise stated) Blackout Watches

Further Reading: 

Link back to the site if relevant to the article or brand.

 

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