Jay Leno owns a rare 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car. With the help of Williams International, the car was restored after its jet-age turbine engine seized. Jay first fell in love with the vehicle at age 14 when he saw it on display at the 1964 New York’s World's Fair. He finally purchased one of the surviving cars directly from Chrysler during their bankruptcy period. Unfortunately, due to age and miles, the experimental turbine engine seized and wore down due to metal fatigue and locked regenerators. There were no replacement parts left in existence. Sam Williams had originally developed the Chrysler turbine engine. Under the leadership of his son, Gregg Williams, a team of roughly 200 engineers, original program designers, and metal-printing experts spent four years reverse-engineering and manufacturing custom components. The fully rebuilt car made its triumphant return at the Woodward Dream Cruise.
The New Jay Leno’s Garage Turbine Watch is inspired by this unique and classic vehicle as well as the connection to Jay’s youth and the story of his first encounter to his restoration of the Turbine. Much like the car, the 316L polished and satin finish case has a classic fine knurled edge drawn from the Turbine’s signature headlight design. The single domed sapphire crystal protects the elegantly numbered textured dial. The inner ring reflects the unique color of the car with the date at the 6 as a final touch. The sapphire case back showcases the venerable 24 jewel NH35 Automatic movement. A genuine leather quick-release strap completes this unique and classic homage to Jay’s ’63 Chrysler Turbine.