Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Jackpot Tourbillon

Daos' recently posted article on the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Jackpot Tourbillon inspired me to search my files - I knew that some years back I had the opportunity for some quality time with exactly that watch. Finally, after 5 years, here are the results of my rendez-vous:

Before I start I'd like to discuss a bit the possible classification of the Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Jackpot Tourbillon: It is not a Grande Complication (too few 'classical' complication, I am sorry...), it is also not innovative in the sense of employing as much new materials as conceivable (a doubtful endeavour anyway, in my opinion) or breaking new (theoretical) horological grounds. 

The Jackpot combines a handwound watch with the signature G-P Tourbillon (under one golden bridge) and adds a true and functional jackpot mechanism.

As Daos aptly stated the tourbillon 'is only a supporting player on the dial'. Nevertheless, it is clearly the famous G-P mechanism with its classic and beautiful curved cage, a still outstanding marvel amongst the countless of such constructions on the market today:

It is the jackpot window at the 12 o'clock position which gives this watch its unique position in the watchmaking universe. There are three drums with five handcrafted suits each, hearts, spades, diamonds, horseshoes, and bells (this gives 125 possible combinations: 5³=125). The design of which is inspired by the first slot machine called 'liberty bell'.

Such displays without doubt call for a close examination of the innards. I shall comply. The movement looks remarkably simple for such a wealth of functions.

Daos gave a good explanation on how the slot machine is operated in her post linked above, therefore I am merely citing her words here:

" The slot machine mechanism is set into motion when the lever of this mini "one-armed bandit" is pulled. The lever is connected to a rack. Once pulled, the handle raises the rack, which slides to its highest point. At its apex, and only then (what is referred to as an "all or nothing mechanism"), the rack starts the jackpot reels spinning before slowly sliding back down. Approximately two-thirds of the way back down to the zero position, the rack activates stoppers which halt the spinning jackpot reels one by one, and simultaneously engages a striking mechanism. "

... one is immediately reminded on the vents of an oboe (image taken from the web):

This musical connotation is a pun well intended as the stop of each reel is hallmarked by a gong (think minute repeater) actuated by a hammer located on the ventral part of the movement (you can also see the mainspring barrel):

With all human-created things (and theories), they say, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. The meal starts with a determined pull of this lever:

Immediately the three reels start their dance, slowing down and stopping one after the other:

I have no words to describe the magic of this complication. If you ever have the chance to 'play' (pun well intended, again) with this watch - do it, your efforts will be greatly rewarded! What also amazes me how G-P managed to keep the overall design, particularly the dial, so simple. Art Déco is so versatile! 

This message has been edited by Ornatus-Mundi on 2012-11-05 07:23:33