Delivering accessibility to a flying tourbillon is no mean feat. But Blackout Watches have pulled it off. With the majority of Swiss components embedded within, it’s time to review the XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made
Summary
- Unifying Swiss craftsmanship and Asian components, the brand’s main focus is on producing premium timepieces at accessible prices.
- Founded initially in 2006 by former European car driver (and horological enthusiast) Fabrice Letellier, the brand was taken over in 2022 by Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau.
- Taking two years to create, this new timepiece incorporates more than 80% of Swiss components. It is the cornerstone of their collection, giving birth to the most price-conscious Swiss made tourbillon worldwide.
- Technical manufacturing and precision comes as standard thanks to David, their master watchmaker has been certified by many top Swiss luxury watch brands including Rolex and Patek Philippe.
- Limited to 50 pieces, development and assembly has been conducted from every detail in their Geneva workshops, featuring a highly skeletonized, hand-painted dial, grade 2 titanium crown and UAC forged carbon case.
Quick question…where is the cradle of watchmaking?
You might have answered La Chaux-de-Fonds. Perhaps Biel, Bienne where Omega are positioned. Or maybe Le Brassus, home to Audemars Piguet.
But what about Geneva?
No, we’re not talking about the Canton of Neuchâtel, but an independent brand that’s taking the tourbillon to new heights…at an affordable price. So who are we talking about?
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Blackout Watches
In particular, their latest limited edition model which benefits from more than 80% of components made in the land of chocolate, Gruyere and apres-ski.
But this is a sweet moment, as they have introduced the XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made, a pivotal moment in the brand’s history.
Kinda similar to the Atelier Wen Inflection series, which was a new direction for this brand with its all tantalum appearance and Grand Feu enamel dials.
It’s time to find out more…
Blackout Watches - Everything You Need To Know
Since taking over the helm nearly half a decade ago, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts Étienne Rousseaux and Tymothy Plubeau have transformed the brand with attention to detail on value for money complications, fine Swiss engineering and an inclusive ethos that’s at its core.
While components and movements are sourced from Asia, every part undergoes meticulous inspection and, when needed, refinement in their Swiss workshops before final assembly.
This process ensures each timepiece emerges as an exceptional creation, offering remarkable perceived value that’s not only attainable but a level of finish that is almost unparalleled in its price category.
With a philosophy based on performance, priority and honesty, the experience is at the heart of what they do. Right down to their resellers, who, like Chrono Hunter’s approved network, are handpicked, based on the most stringent criteria.
As a result, the brand can merge their own beliefs with those of others to enhance the customer experience. On top of this, reducing intermediaries gives them the opportunity to pass on exceptional quality and affordability.
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The original XP1 incorporates a melange of Swiss and Asian components
They have had notable success by way of collaborations with renowned names such as;
- Mike James: The Euroleague all time leading points scorer, released the XP1 Tourbillon “The Natural” alongside the P-One.Debuted in 2024, both were limited to 20 and 35 pieces.
- Allan Saint Maximin: The former Newcastle United winger joined forces with Blackout Watches for a special limited edition. Entitled the XP1 Allan Saint‑Maximin, there were only 50 pieces produced.
- Romain Monti: The XP1 Tourbillon Romain Monti edition was designed with input from the professional racing driver, referencing his automotive universe, such as a highlighted “10” index (a nod to his race number) and bespoke graphics on the hands and dial
If that’s not enough, you can familiarise yourself with our review of the original XP1 Tourbillon
Personality Of The XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made
“The XP1 Swiss Made is, without a doubt, our greatest achievement to date. From day one, our ambition has been to make the tourbillon more accessible. This piece is the extension of that vision”
Etienne Rousseau, Co-Founder, talking exclusively to Chrono Hunter
Maybe we have been here all too often.
Look, to many enthusiasts we know the prowess of tonneau case-shapes, from brands like Franck Muller, and of course Richard Mille. Yet to the vast majority of folks, it’s akin to getting on the Patek Philippe waitlist. Unobtainable.
PEOPLE ALSO READ: All Waiting List Times For Patek Philippe - Nautilus, Aquanaut, Calatrava
Until now.
This outfit has gone all Swiss with an integrated bracelet watch that won’t cost you an arm, leg…or putting your second home in St. Tropez up for sale, for that matter.
“This is not a statement against our existing XP1 Tourbillon with hybrid movements…quite the opposite in reality. It’s here to elevate the entire collection, showcasing the full extent of our savoir-faire. All of our watches come from the exact same ateliers, assembled by the same watchmakers. It makes our XP1 LT with hybrid movements even crazier in terms of quality vs price ratio.”
Etienne Rousseau, Co-Founder, Blackout
Measuring 44mm x 52mm the XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made is complex yet daring, ergonomic yet lightweight, visually appealing, yet as tough as the Hulk. (David Bannerman strong, rather than the Rolex Submariner 116610LV of the same nickname)
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Plus, out goes the Asian components for this execution which has been officially designated as Swiss made…at a wallet-friendly price for such a complication.
“We have had constant demand for a Swiss Made piece. For us, it wasn’t just about doing it, rather it was about doing it right, by creating the most accessible Swiss Made tourbillon on the market.”
Etienne Rousseau, Co-Founder, Blackout Watches
Utilising UAC forged carbon, this modern composite material is usually made by compressing chopped carbon fibres with resin into a mould under intense pressure and heat.
Unlike traditional carbon fibre, which utilises woven sheets, you will notice the random, marbled appearance that gives each piece a unique glow.
It is valued for its high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and design flexibility.
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The magic, though, happens by way of luminous powders which, when mixed with the resin, give a distinctive glow under ultraviolet light.
But there’s no getting away from the fact that this is a chunky number, though it does wear slightly slimmer. We aren't talking Panerai levels, but you get the picture.
PEOPLE ALSO READ: Top Panerai Watches to Buy and Invest in 2026
A la Richard Mille, you will notice visible screws on the perimeter, while we like the visual theatre that’s highlighted by the stealth-like black aesthetics and skeletonised display. This gives an opportunity to gaze into the inner workings of this timepiece.
But we are here for the flying tourbillon, right?
Situated at 6, the balance spring does its own merry dance to rival Baryshnikov, or perhaps that of 2026 US Masters Champion Rory McIlroy who has won back-back to tournaments at Augusta National.
The rotating cage is where it’s and lest we forget about the dual power barrels positioned and on display at 2 and 10. The crown winding experience is a satisfying one with the springs becoming increasingly tighter which you can view.
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There’s an integrated rubber strap and spring deployant clasp, which ensures both comfort and wearability. Thanks to their simple “quick release” attachment system, straps can be swapped in seconds without the requirement of tools.
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In addition, we like there are two types of buckle options, either pin or folding available. On the surface, you are getting lots of bang for your buck.
We’re talking forged carbon, barrel case shape and a hand-wound flying tourbillon that might send you spinning into a timekeeping frenzy.
Did You Know?
To obtain “Swiss made” status, a watch has to satisfy numerous factors from carrying a 60% minimum level of production in Switzerland to the movement, final assembly and quality control, all performed in the same country.
This standard was reinforced by the Swiss Federal Council in 2017
Official Specs - XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made
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Flying Tourbillon Manufacture DW&Co Movement
The company behind the movement is DW&Co. Now, it may not be Soprod, La Joux-Perret or even Selitta.
But who are they?
Based in the same location as Blackout, in Geneva, DW&Co are renowned for the assembly, repair and manufacture of movements.
With knowledge passed down for generations, the know-how is there as they are fully compliant with COSC certification and the official "Poinçon de Genève" label.
Mind you, the 80 hour power reserve and -0/+6 seconds daily accuracy is nothing to be sniffed at. Other elements that this company are responsible for include;
- Movement unseating
- Dial installation
- Setting of up to 8 individual hands
- Movement regulation
- Amplitude verification to enable a smooth running calibre
Where Can You Buy An XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made?
Available to preorder, with delivery at the end of July 2026, this model is priced at;
- 6,650 GBP
- 7,635 EUR
- 8,920 USD
Note that currency figures are subject to change.
Limited to 50 pieces, you can secure this with a 20% deposit in advance or by paying the amount in full. On top of this, there is an option to pay in up to 6 interest-free instalments.
Further information can be found via their official website. Alternatively, why not contact us to find out how you can acquire one
What’s Our View?
All in all, the XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made has, as they say themselves, achieved the impossible.
That is to say, manufacturing a luxury tourbillon timepiece for under £10,000.
Sure, we could wax lyrical about the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Douface Tourbillon that’s well over one hundred thousand of your British pounds.
Or for argument's sake, how about the avant-garde TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon (CBS5011.FC6566) at well over $30,000?
Nonetheless, to rock such a complication of such stature and of this nature…and with the majority of Swiss components inside is testament to what they have achieved, and how far they have come on the timekeeping journey.
As DJ Fatboy Slim declared in his smash hit single from 1998;
“We've come a long, long way together
Through the hard times and the good
I have to celebrate you, baby
I have to praise you like I should”
Combining bold, unconventional design with renowned Swiss precision, Blackout Watches is reshaping the contemporary sphere, bringing luxury timepieces within reach of a wider audience.
Conclusion
Nowadays, Swiss made gets banded about all too often.
Whether its microbrands delving into this specific realm, or others looking for the next big horological breakthrough, tourbillon novelties remain very much en vogue.
Ever since Abraham-Louis Breguet invented the tourbillon in 1795, they combine technical mastery, rarity, and visual drama in a way few other features can match.
Take, for example, the brand’s mesmerising Wormhole execution, utilising Mousou black, the blackest shade in the world, highlighting this complication in all its epic glory.
And the XP1 Tourbillon Swiss Made has ticked mostly all the boxes. Ok, the tonneau case shape, associated with the likes of Franck Muller et al may not, in our humble view, be for everyone.
Yes, it may be nearly two and half times the price of a standard XP1. But remember two words.
Swiss made.
One cannot deny the status and prestige a tourbillon carries, signalling a deep appreciation for fine watchmaking. Valued not for necessity, but for what it represents, it is the pinnacle of mechanical artistry and luxury.
Considered one of the most important innovations, Blackout Watches have ensured, like the Wicked franchise, they continue to “Defy Gravity” with their affordable tourbillon novelties and forged carbon case, appealing to true connoisseurs.
Looking to level up your collection with a tourbillon? Want to buy an Audemars Piguet, or is now the time to sell my Vacheron Constantin? Get in touch with Chrono Hunter and discover the essential platform to buy a watch or sell a watch.
We are the leading online watch broker, connecting buyers with a network of trusted dealers to find luxury timepieces at competitive prices.
Covering all major brands like Rolex, Omega, Tudor, Breitling, Cartier and more, retailers then compete to offer the best deal, giving buyers access to exclusive inventory and pricing.
With transparency, convenience, and security ingrained in our DNA, it makes it easier for enthusiasts and collectors to acquire sought-after watches without the usual hassle of traditional retail channels. With an array of outstanding reviews on Trustpilot,
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Further Reading:
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