Jacob & Co. | Resizing the Oil Pump

Jacob & Co. has long been renowned for its mastery of horological complications, but one of its most fascinating specialties is the automaton - a rare and highly prized mechanism in the world of luxury watches. With the Oil Pump, Jacob & Co. has reimagined the automaton in a bold new context, bringing to life a three-dimensional, animated depiction of an oil well, meticulously crafted within a resized 44mm case.

The Oil Rig Automaton

The Oil Pump is not just a watch; it's a dynamic story told through horology. At the center of this narrative is the oil rig itself, which moves up and down, mirroring the function of a real derrick. Jacob & Co. has created a miniature oil well, complete with platform, barrel, piping, and manifold — a testament to the brand's unique ability to craft meaningful stories through watchmaking.

Caliber JCAM53: The Heart of the Oil Pump

The watch is powered by the Caliber JCAM53, one of only a few automaton movements ever made for a wristwatch. Designed from scratch, this movement is a marvel of compact, vertical engineering, incorporating numerous components to create a compelling narrative. Each complication plays a role in the story told on the dial, which is a hallmark of Jacob & Co.’s innovative approach.

The movement features a unique flying tourbillon, anchored above the dial and set alongside the automaton. Activated by a pusher at 1:30 o'clock, the automaton brings two derricks, or “horse heads,” to life, mimicking the rhythmic motion of oil pumps.

A Scene in Solid Gold

The Oil Pump is a miniature scene brought to life in large format, with every element custom-crafted from solid rose gold and hand-finished to resemble real drilling gear. We are amazed by the level of detail, which is truly astounding: from the bent and straight pipes connecting functional elements, to a barrel adorned with a flammable warning sticker. A red manifold sits upstream from a pressure gauge, which doubles as the watch's power reserve indicator. This intricate 3D construction showcases Jacob & Co.'s unparalleled craftsmanship.

The Automaton in Action

Upon activation of the pusher, the two horse-heads begin their mesmerizing up-and-down motion, powered by a single hidden axis. This elaborate sequence, which lasts a minimum of 35 seconds, is a marvel of horological engineering, hidden beneath a deceptively simple exterior.

The Caliber JCAM53 not only powers the automaton but also features an innovative power reserve indicator disguised as a pressure gauge. This architectural marvel allows for 72 hours of operation before requiring the next wind, emphasizing the watch's high level of performance under “pressure.”

A Tribute to "Black Gold"

The Oil Pump is more than a luxurious timepiece; it’s a powerful depiction of the oil industry’s critical role in society. While oil may be controversial and criticized, it remains a $4.3 trillion industry symbolizing wealth and achievement. Hence, the Oil Pump is designed for those who hear "gold" when they think of "black gold" - a statement piece for those who understand the significance and complexities of this essential resource.

With only 88 pieces available, the Jacob & Co. Oil Pump is reserved for the discerning few who appreciate not just the beauty of fine watchmaking, but also the stories these timepieces tell. Each watch is a testament to Jacob & Co.'s relentless pursuit of innovation, craftsmanship, and narrative in the world of haute horlogerie.

If you're looking for a watch that embodies luxury, craftsmanship, and a compelling story, the Jacob & Co. Oil Pump is an extraordinary choice. It’s a conversation starter, a symbol of power, and a piece of mechanical art that captures the essence of a world in motion.