Corum's two new limited-edition watches get futuristic.

In a continuing quest to highlight its mechanical prowess, Corum has introduced a new family of watches, christening it the ‘Lab’ collection. Launched in Beijing last week, the first two watches come in a limited edition of 99 pieces each and bear a distinctive tonneau shape.

Named the Heritage Corum Lab 01, the models come in a black DLC case which, according to the brand, is extremely rare in modern watchmaking. And instead of a round movement housed within a tonneau case (as is commonly practiced), the Heritage Corum Lab 01 features a skeletonised movement, the CO410, which is made to measure for the case. To enhance the effect of its rotating speed, the micro-rotor is endowed with a spiral finish, visible, along with the rest of the movement, through the openwork dial.

While the tonneau shape is not entirely new to Corum—some of the brand’s earliest Golden Bridge models were in that shape—the Heritage Corum Lab 01 oozes a contemporary vibe, thanks to the black DLC treatment, charcoal grey open dial and sporty rubber strap. It also comes across younger than the more classical pieces found in the rest of the Heritage collection, and has a trendier appeal. But at just 99 pieces per model, you'll need to move fast.