Jacob & Co. Revamps Iconic ‘Oil Pump’ Watch

A Masterpiece of Horological Art and Innovation

Jacob & Co.

In the world of luxury watches, few brands capture the imagination like Jacob & Co. Known for its extravagant designs and boundary-pushing innovation, Jacob & Co. has once again made waves with the release of a revamped version of its iconic Oil Pump watch. Originally launched five years ago, the Oil Pump quickly became a symbol of the brand’s audacity and creativity, featuring a working automaton of an oil derrick on its dial. Now, with the 2024 update, Jacob & Co. has elevated this timepiece to new heights, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.

The Oil Pump watch stands out in the crowded luxury watch market for its unique centerpiece—a miniature, fully operational oil derrick. This intricate automaton, which simulates the bobbing motion of a working oil rig, is activated by a pusher located at the 1:30 position on the watch case. With a simple press, the derrick springs to life, performing its hypnotic 35-second dance, bringing the watch to life in a way that few timepieces can match. This captivating feature is not just a showpiece; it’s a testament to Jacob & Co.’s dedication to horological artistry and engineering.

While the original Oil Pump was already a masterpiece, the 2024 version brings several enhancements that make it even more impressive. The watch is powered by the exclusive Jacob & Co. Manual-Winding JCAM53 caliber, a complex mechanism composed of 450 individual components. At the heart of this movement is a single-axis flying tourbillon, which completes a full revolution every 60 seconds. This not only adds to the visual appeal of the watch but also improves its accuracy by counteracting the effects of gravity on the movement.

One of the most notable changes in the new Oil Pump is its redesigned case. The diameter has been reduced to 44mm, and the height to 18mm, making the watch more wearable without sacrificing its commanding presence. Crafted from 18K rose gold and sapphire, the case exudes luxury, while the domed sapphire crystal, treated with an anti-reflective coating, ensures that the intricate details of the dial can be appreciated from every angle.

The dial of the Oil Pump watch is where Jacob & Co.’s commitment to craftsmanship truly shines. Every element of the oil extraction scene has been meticulously crafted and hand-finished, transforming the watch into a miniature work of art. The oil derrick, barrels, and pipelines are all plated in rose gold, creating a striking contrast against the deep black background of the dial. The hour and minute indicators are elegantly displayed with Roman numerals, adding a touch of classic refinement to the watch’s avant-garde design.

Completing the look is a black alligator leather strap, which is as luxurious as it is durable. The strap is fastened with an 18K rose gold and titanium buckle, ensuring that the watch remains secure on the wrist while adding an extra layer of sophistication.

Beyond its stunning appearance, the Oil Pump watch is packed with features that demonstrate Jacob & Co.’s dedication to innovation. The watch boasts a 72-hour power reserve, which is creatively displayed through a pressure gauge motif on the dial—a clever nod to the watch’s oil-themed design. This long power reserve means that the watch will keep ticking even if left unworn for a few days, a practical feature for such an intricate timepiece.

The watch also features an Incabloc shock protection system, which helps safeguard the delicate movement from impacts and vibrations. This is particularly important given the complexity of the JCAM53 caliber, ensuring that the watch remains reliable and accurate even in less-than-ideal conditions. Additionally, the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters, making it durable enough for everyday wear, despite its intricate design.

In keeping with Jacob & Co.’s tradition of exclusivity, the new Oil Pump watch is limited to just 88 pieces. This limited production run ensures that each watch remains a highly coveted collector’s item, a true piece of horological history. Priced at $288,000, the Oil Pump is undeniably an investment, but for those who appreciate the fusion of art, engineering, and luxury, it is worth every penny.

The revamped Oil Pump watch is more than just a timepiece; it’s a statement of Jacob & Co.’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. By modernizing the form while preserving the essence of the original, Jacob & Co. continues to lead the category of automaton watches, blending tradition with the future. This watch is a perfect example of how the brand takes inspiration from the past while constantly innovating to create something new and extraordinary.

Jacob & Co. has built its reputation on creating watches that are as much works of art as they are timekeeping devices. The Oil Pump watch is a shining example of this philosophy, combining technical excellence with a bold, unconventional design. As the brand looks to the future, it’s clear that Jacob & Co. will continue to be a driving force in the world of luxury watchmaking, creating timepieces that captivate the imagination and defy expectations.

In the world of haute horology, where tradition often reigns supreme, Jacob & Co.’s willingness to innovate and surprise sets it apart. The new Oil Pump watch is a reminder that in the right hands, a watch can be more than just a tool to tell time—it can be a work of art, a conversation piece, and a symbol of ingenuity and creativity.