- Bugatti replaced the large digital display with a fully mechanical instrument cluster developed by a Swiss watch specialist.
- The screen is made from more than 650 hand-assembled components and is built to withstand automotive stress.
- It combines traditional watchmaking craftsmanship with modern vehicle electronics.
Even in the ultra-high-end luxury segment, too many automakers consider a large screen a must-have—just look at the recently updated Mercedes S-Class. Bugatti, however, proves that an analog approach can be just as exciting, as demonstrated by the incredible effort behind the Tourbillon’s cockpit.
While many of today’s hypercars rely on large displays and digital interfaces for driver information, the Bugatti Tourbillon takes the analog route. The instrument cluster was developed in collaboration with the Swiss company Concepto, a specialist in highly complex mechanical watch movements. An episode of Bugatti’s documentary series, A New Era, highlights the development and creation of this extraordinary component.
The name of the car reinforces the concept. A “tourbillon” is a watchmaking mechanism patented in 1801 to overcome deviations in timekeeping caused by gravity. Unlike previous Bugatti models which were named after racers, the Tourbillon draws on technical innovation. The choice was deliberate; the goal was to create an instrument display without a primary digital display—one that was designed to last for decades.
The instrument cluster consists of more than 650 individual parts and was assembled manually at Concepto using traditional haute horlogerie techniques. This includes complex finishing methods, precision machined components and meticulous manual assembly. However, the requirements are very different for watches. The scale is larger, and components must withstand automotive-grade stresses such as temperature fluctuations, vibration and acceleration.
Bugatti Tourbillon interior
One of the main development challenges of the Tourbillon was integrating the mechanical assembly with the electronic components. Circuit boards, sensors and LED elements had to be incorporated into an architecture that had its roots originally in pure mechanical watchmaking. Standard watchmaking equipment proved inadequate due to the large size of the components, necessitating the development of special manufacturing processes.
For visible surfaces, customers can choose decorative techniques such as Clous de Paris, guilloché patterns and Tapisserie textures—classic elements of traditional watch design. Materials include aventurine and various metal finishes. Ruby bearings reduce friction inside the mechanism, while sapphire crystal protects exposed components. The gears and other important elements are designed specifically for this application.
Customization is carried out using physical sample parts rather than relying solely on digital renderings, so clients can evaluate the visual effects and tactile qualities of materials directly.
The instrument cluster serves as the centerpiece of the interior. Supporting this layout is a steering wheel with a fixed central hub: the rim rotates around the center, ensuring the display remains visible regardless of steering angle. This design prevents spokes from obstructing the driver’s view.
Despite its mechanical emphasis, the system meets the demands of modern high-performance vehicles. It combines traditional analog display principles with contemporary electronic data capture and processing, creating a hybrid solution that combines classic craftsmanship with cutting-edge automotive technology.
The result is a driver display that deliberately avoids dominant digital displays, placing mechanical precision front and center. It functions both as an essential component of the vehicle and as a stand-alone piece of technical art in the cabin.
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Motorcycle Pickup1: In a world dominated by touchscreen technology, the Bugatti Tourbillon offers high-end luxury with real mechanical elements built to stand the test of time. This is amazing
