The Fam Al Hut Bi-Axis Tourbillon is not just another high-end complication—it’s a clear statement that Chinese independent watchmaking is entering a new era. With its visually mesmerizing double-axis tourbillon, architectural design, and surprisingly balanced proportions, this piece challenges preconceived notions about where true horological innovation can come from.
The Rise of Fam Al Hut: A New Name to Remember
While still under the radar for many Western collectors, Fam Al Hut has been making quiet but significant strides in China’s burgeoning independent scene. Based in Xinjiang, the brand is the brainchild of a passionate enthusiast turned watchmaker who sought to blend traditional mechanical excellence with avant-garde aesthetics. With the Bi-Axis Tourbillon, Fam Al Hut moves from promising outsider to serious contender, placing itself on the map alongside the likes of Atelier Wen, Seagull’s higher-end spin-offs, and other ambitious Chinese independents. It’s not a revival of a heritage brand—it’s something entirely new, with confidence to spare.
Technical Mastery: A Tourbillon That Rotates with Purpose
At the heart of the watch lies a double-axis tourbillon developed entirely in-house. The first cage rotates every 60 seconds, while the second—set perpendicularly—completes a revolution every 150 seconds. The result is a hypnotic, kinetic display that elevates the already complex tourbillon to a new dimension.
The movement, finished by hand, requiring 200 hours of labour for each piece. Powering it all is a hand-wound calibre with a 50-hour power reserve, beating at 3 Hz. All of this is housed in a 42mm x 24.3mm stainless steel case, quite slim with a height of only 12.9mm, making the watch unexpectedly light on the wrist despite its visual presence. The domed sapphire crystal, matched with a sapphire exhibition back, ensures the spectacle is visible from all angles.
What truly sets this apart, however, is not just the complexity—it’s the clarity. Despite the technical ambition, the dial remains readable, with carefully framed skeletonization that doesn’t sacrifice legibility for showmanship.
A Watch for the Collector Who’s Seen It All
This is a piece made for the seasoned collector—the one who already owns the Swiss benchmarks and is looking for something off the beaten path, genuinely original and rooted in cultural identity. The design draws from Central Asian architectural motifs, with angular bridges reminiscent of Islamic muqarnas and a layout that echoes the domes and vaults found in the region’s landmarks.
Despite its futuristic technicality, the watch wears elegantly. Thanks to its compact and lightweight case, it hugs the wrist rather than dominating it. The strap — crafted from rubber — runs through the case and completes the ensemble with somewhat of a modern restraint. It’s a high-concept watch, yes, but one that still feels wearable and personal.
Final Thoughts: A Watch That Deserves the Global Spotlight
The Fam Al Hut Bi-Axis Tourbillon is not trying to imitate Swiss haute horlogerie—it’s building a new narrative. One that combines regional craft, mechanical depth, and modern watchmaking values. For around $32,000 USD, it delivers a genuinely hand-crafted double-axis tourbillon, an aesthetic unlike anything else on the market, and a strong identity. That’s no small feat.
The watch is available now in limited numbers, distributed directly via the brand’s official channels, with future international exposure likely to follow if interest continues to build. If you’ve been waiting for proof that independent Chinese watchmaking can stand toe-to-toe with the greats, this just might be it. Otherwise, you can check out these two fantastic swiss timepieces: Amida Digitrend Amida Digitrend Open Sapphire (much more affordable) and MB&F’s SP One (even more expensive) !
